Below freezing temperatures are in the forecast through Thursday night, with a chance of rain, snow and sleet Tuesday night.

Tonight, the low will be around 30 degrees.

Tuesday, there will be increasing clouds with a high near 56 and calm wind becoming north around 5 mph in the afternoon.

A slight chance of rain before 9 p.m., on Tuesday, then a slight chance of rain, snow and sleet between 9 p.m., and midnight, then a slight chance of snow after midnight.

It will be a low around 23, with wind chill values between 15 and 20.

Wednesday is expected to be mostly sunny with a high near 43 and a north wind around 10 mph.

Wednesday night is expected to be clear with a low of around 19 and a north wind of around 5 mph.

Thursday temps will increase to 47 and the low Thursday night will be around 26.

Friday will be mostly sunny with a high near 57 and a low of 39.

Saturday will be warmer with a high of 66 and low of 49.

A hard freeze warning was in effect until Wednesday morning.

“Wednesday night will be a bit colder with med-teens well inland ranging to mid- 20s at the coast,” the National Weather Service said in a Hazard Weather Statement. “A hard freeze watch may become necessary for most of the area.”

Forecasters say a wind chill advisory will likely become necessary for this portion of the area.

“Residents across the region should make preparations for cold temperatures late Tuesday into Thursday morning.”

Residents should be mindful of the colder temperatures and take necessary precautions to ensure that their pipes do not freeze.

People are encouraged to wrap their pipes with foam or another protective coating to keep them from busting. It is also recommended to keep water dripping in the faucets to prevent freezing.

With colder temperatures, the elderly, the very young, and other people who may be unable to properly care for themselves, are at a greater risk for illnesses that come with cold weather. Residents are urged to check on their loved ones to make sure they have the proper heat and means to stay warm.

 

People are also reminded to take the proper precautions when it comes to their outdoor pets. If possible, bring the pets indoors. If that’s not possible, placing a light in their doghouse or pen can keep them about 5 to 10 degrees warmer. Shredded newspapers and old blankets can also keep pets warm. However, some animals have allergies to certain fibers, so caution is urged when giving your pet a blanket to keep warm.

Bringing plants indoors during cold weather is essential to many plants survival in extreme cold. Check with your local garden center or the instructions on your plants to prevent their freezing.