St. Joseph area still awaiting first fall freeze

As we move into the second half of October, temperatures have been consistently running well above average across much of the central United States, including Northwest Missouri and Northeast Kansas.

Typically, by mid-October, our average high temperatures fall into the upper 60s, with nighttime lows in the low 40s. However, that hasn’t been the case this year. Much of the month has featured well above average temperatures, leaving many of us still waiting for that crisp fall air — even though the season officially began nearly a month ago.

Last year, on Oct. 16, St. Joseph recorded its first freeze when temperatures dropped to 26 degrees, tying the previous record low for that date.

According to the National Weather Service, a freeze occurs when temperatures fall to 32 degrees or lower, while a hard freeze is defined as 28 degrees or lower. On average, the first freeze in St. Joseph typically happens around Oct. 18, with the first hard freeze usually following by Oct. 28.

This year, we’re running behind schedule. Temperature trends have consistently stayed above average throughout much of October, delaying our first frost. So far, our coolest night came on Oct. 8, when lows dipped to 39 degrees — still not cold enough to hit that freezing mark.

Once the first freeze occurs, it typically signals the end of the growing season. It kills off tender vegetation and helps reduce allergens like ragweed. However, a rapid freeze after extended warmth can also dry out plants and grasses, increasing fire danger for a short time.

As we head into the weekend, conditions are expected to cool slightly and return closer to seasonal averages. Still, there’s no sign of a true frost just yet.

The latest first frost on record for St. Joseph occurred on Nov. 24, 1931. If current trends continue, this year’s first frost could be delayed until late October or even early November.

So, if you’re hoping to wake up to that chilly morning air and a layer of frost on the grass, you might have to wait just a little longer.