Markham residents should be ready to protect their gardens tonight, as Environment Canada warns temperatures will fall to near the freezing mark through early Saturday morning.
The federal weather agency says the cold conditions could cause damage to plants, trees and crops across the area, and is urging people to take preventative measures before the temperature drops.
What the warning says
According to Environment Canada, temperatures are expected to hover near 0 C from tonight into the early hours of Saturday. The agency did not specify an exact overnight low in the notice.
Cold-sensitive plants, trees and crops are most at risk, the agency said. Gardeners and growers are being advised to cover up their plants, particularly in areas that are prone to frost.
Residents are also being asked to continue monitoring alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada as conditions develop.
How to report severe weather
Anyone who observes severe weather in Markham can report it to Environment Canada by email at ONstorm@ec.gc.ca, or by posting reports on social media using the hashtag #ONStorm.
The notice comes as the growing season winds down across York Region, making tender plants, late vegetables and newly planted trees especially vulnerable to a sudden cold snap.
Environment Canada's Markham forecast page, which includes the seven-day outlook, daily highs and lows, precipitation chances, humidity and wind chill, plus sunrise and sunset times, is the place to watch for updated warnings.



