Routine freeze warnings end for Charlotte region for the season: Here’s why

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CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) - The Charlotte region is expecting some of the coldest temperatures of the season this weekend, but you but you may notice something missing from the forecast: freeze warnings and frost advisories.

So, what’s going on? Does that mean the cold isn’t as serious?

Not at all! There’s actually a fascinating reason behind the lack of freeze and frost warnings.

Here’s what you need to know.

National Weather Service stops issuing freeze warnings

Every year, the National Weather Service follows what’s called the “growing season.” This is the time of year when plants and crops are actively growing, and are especially vulnerable to frost and freezing temperatures.

During that season, meteorologists issue frost advisories and freeze warnings to help gardeners, farmers and homeowners protect their sensitive vegetation.

But once the growing season ends, those routine alerts stop.

For the Charlotte area and much of the Piedmont and foothills, the growing season officially ends after Nov. 11, 2026.

In the mountains, growing season ended earlier, on Nov. 1.

So, why do those routine alerts stop as winter nears? Because, by this point in the year, freezing temperatures are becoming more typical, and many seasonal plants have already experienced their first freeze or entered dormancy.

No warning doesn’t mean no freeze

This is the most important thing to remember: Just because you don’t see a freeze warning doesn’t mean temperatures won’t fall below freezing.

In fact, the WBTV First Alert Weather team is tracking three First Alerts for the mornings of Saturday, Nov. 14 through Monday, Nov. 16. The coldest air of the season will be settling into the Carolinas.

Sunday morning currently looks to be especially cold, with temperatures potentially dipping into the 20s and lower 30s across parts of the Charlotte region.

Even without an official freeze warning, those temperatures can still damage sensitive plants and make for some very chilly mornings.

---> Forecast here: Snow in the forecast for Western North Carolina as big temp drop approaches

What should you do?

If you’ve still got flowers, potted plants or other cold-sensitive greenery outside, now is the time to give them a little extra attention.

Bring potted plants indoors when possible, cover sensitive vegetation, and make sure outdoor pets have a warm, sheltered place to stay.

And don’t forget those heavier coats! Monday morning will be especially chilly for everyone heading back to work, and for the kids waiting at the bus stop.

---> Related: How to protect your plants from frost, freezing temperatures

The bottom line

The growing season may be ending, but the cold weather is just getting started!

The National Weather Service will no longer issue routine frost advisories or freeze warnings for our area after Nov. 11, but freezing temperatures are still very much possible.

That’s why we’re keeping our three First Alert mornings in place this weekend and into Monday.

Stay warm, protect those plants and remember: No freeze warning doesn’t mean no freezing weather!

Click here for more gardening tips from First Alert meteorologist Lisa Villegas

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