Urgent Freeze Watch Tonight: Record-Low Temps Incoming—5 Essential Steps to Protect Your Home, Pets & Plants

A sudden Arctic front sweeping into the Pacific Northwest has prompted the National Weather Service (NWS) to issue a Freeze Watch for the South-Central Oregon Coast—including Coos and Curry counties—from 1 a.m. to 9 a.m. Friday, February 20, 2026. Sub-freezing temperatures Meteorologists expect lows between 24 °F in sheltered inland valleys and 28–32 °F along the immediate shoreline. Even brief dips below 32 °F can damage early-blooming shrubs, coastal berry crops, and exposed plumbing. What a Freeze Watch means A Freeze Watch signals that atmospheric conditions are favorable for a hard freeze but timing and exact temperatures may still change. If forecast confidence increases, the NWS will upgrade to a Freeze Warning, indicating imminent and widespread sub-freezing temperatures. Preparation checklist • Move tender potted plants indoors or under heavy frost blankets. • Allow indoor faucets to drip overnight to prevent pipe bursts; insulate outdoor spigots. • Disconnect garden hoses and shut off irrigation valves. • Check antifreeze levels in vehicles and charge marine or RV batteries. • Bring outdoor pets into a dry, wind-sheltered space. Travel impacts Roadways along U.S. 101 and Oregon 42 may see patchy black ice during the pre-dawn commute as residual moisture from Thursday’s showers freezes on bridges and shaded curves. Drivers should plan extra braking distance and keep an emergency kit stocked with blankets, snacks, and a phone charger. Larger weather pattern This freeze threat marks the leading edge of a broader February cold snap extending from the Pacific Northwest into Northern California. Forecasters say the core of the Arctic air mass will settle east of the Cascades this weekend, potentially expanding Freeze Watches across interior valleys. Looking ahead Garden centers recommend delaying spring planting until soil temperatures rebound above 40 °F for three consecutive days. Another cold wave could follow next week as long-range models keep the jet stream displaced well south of Oregon. Residents are urged to monitor updated advisories through the NWS Medford office and local emergency management channels as conditions evolve.