What is a hard freeze?

A hard freeze occurs when temperatures drop below freezing for an extended period of time, typically several hours or overnight. This can have significant impacts on vegetation, crops, and animals, as well as on infrastructure like pipes and roads. Hard freezes can result in damage to sensitive plants, causing them to freeze and possibly die. It can also lead to icy conditions on roads and sidewalks, making travel hazardous. It is important to take precautions, such as protecting plants, covering exposed pipes, and avoiding unnecessary travel during a hard freeze to minimize the impact on both people and property.