Frost expected across the North Country overnight Saturday

Widespread frost is expected across the North Country overnight Saturday into Sunday morning, with temperatures forecast to fall to around 31 to 34 degrees. The cold may affect outdoor plants, gardens and small farms across Northern New York, including rural areas and Tug Hill.

The forecast lists overnight lows of 33 degrees in Canton, 31 in Harrisville, 31 in Lowville, 34 in Ogdensburg and 34 in Watertown. Winds are expected to be generally from the southwest to south-southwest at about 5 to 10 mph.

What the forecast shows

Clear skies are expected Saturday night, followed by a sunny and warmer Sunday with highs in the upper 50s. A separate forecast for Watertown puts the overnight low at 33 degrees, while the local forecast lists 34 degrees.

The National Weather Service office in Burlington, Vermont, says frost commonly develops when temperatures reach the mid- to upper 30s. Frost becomes more widespread below 32 degrees, and a hard freeze is possible at 28 degrees or colder.

Why it matters locally

Gardeners, small farms and outdoor plants are among those most likely to be affected. The overnight freeze from Oct. 17 into Oct. 18 is later than the typical first-freeze window for the St. Lawrence Valley, although similar timing has occurred in past years, including 2005.

The National Weather Service recommends covering vulnerable plants or bringing them indoors. Watering the soil beforehand can also help protect plants from cold temperatures.

Where to find updates

The National Weather Service has issued frost and freeze guidance for Northern New York, including information on seasonal conditions and official alerts. Updates are available through the NWS Burlington frost and freeze page and its 2026 frost and freeze guidance.

The Saturday night forecast covers Oct. 17 into the morning of Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026. Weather conditions and alerts can change, so residents should check the latest forecast before making plans or protecting plants.