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.

HARD FREEZE WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 1 AM TO 9 AM MST WEDNESDAY... * WHAT...Temperatures in the mid to upper 20s. * WHERE...Southeast Valley/Queen Creek, Superior, Northwest Pinal County, Apache Junction/Gold Canyon, Tonto Basin, San Carlos, Dripping Springs and Globe/Miami. * WHEN...From 1 AM to 9 AM MST Wednesday. * IMPACTS...Frost and freeze conditions will kill crops, other sensitive vegetation and possibly damage unprotected outdoor plumbing.