Take steps now to protect tender plants from the cold. To prevent freezing and possible bursting of outdoor water pipes they should be wrapped, drained, or allowed to drip slowly. Those that have in-ground sprinkler systems should drain them and cover above- ground pipes to protect them from freezing.

FREEZE WARNING IN EFFECT FROM MIDNIGHT TONIGHT TO 9 AM MST WEDNESDAY... * WHAT...Temperatures in the lower 30s expected. * WHERE...Gila Bend, Buckeye/Avondale, Deer Valley, Scottsdale/Paradise Valley, The East Valley of the Phoenix Metro Area, South Mountain/Ahwatukee and Southeast Valley/Queen Creek. * WHEN...From midnight tonight to 9 AM MST Wednesday. * IMPACTS...Frost and freeze conditions will kill crops, other sensitive vegetation and possibly damage unprotected outdoor plumbing.