Sub-freezing temperatures will pay a visit to Columbus County tonight for the first time this season.
The National Weather Service Wilmington office said temperatures will drop to the mid-20s during the overnight hours of Tuesday into Wednesday. While the growing season is largely over for the Cape Fear region, residents are still being reminded to make provisions for outside pets, exposed pipes, water pumps and any remaining plants.
Fire and emergency officials also discouraged the use of cookstoves for auxiliary heating. Electric heaters should be plugged directly into a wall outlet, not an extension cord. Unvented gas and kerosene heaters should also be avoided.
If a space heater is required, fire officials recommend a minimum three feet of safe space around the heater, with no fabric or paper within that area. Pets and children should also be kept out of the area around the heater.
Keep pumphouse heat lamps away from PVC pipes and wiring, to prevent possible melting or fire hazards. Placing a tarp or blanket over the cover of a pump[house will also provide additional insulation.
The freezing temperatures will continue into Wednesday night prior to more moderate temps Thursday ahead of the next potential rainy system for the area.
