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Officials with the Escambia County Emergency Management Agency are advising drivers to use extreme caution in anticipation of a hard freeze throughout the area.

David Adams, director for the county’s EMA office, said even though the rain has moved out of the area, remaining standing water could create hazards.

“The temperature is forecast to drop into the night with lows forecast to be in the twenties,” Adams said. ” The wind is forecast to be from the north near 10 mph, creating even lower wind chill temperatures.  Any areas that are holding water when the temperature drops below freezing could freeze and make driving somewhat hazardous.  If you are out tonight or early tomorrow morning, please drive with caution.”

According to the National Weather Service offices in Mobile, alerts for a hard freeze are being issued for all of Escambia County as well as areas north and south of the area.

Those expected to be impacted by the freeze in addition to Escambia County include Conecuh, Butler, Crenshaw, central Baldwin, and inland areas of Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties in Florida. Impacted cities include Brewton, Atmore, Flomaton, Evergreen, Greenville, Brantley, Luverne, Bay Minette, Daphne, Fairhope, Foley, Spanish Fort and Century, Molino, Walnut Hill, Jay and Milton in Florida.

The hard freeze warning will be in effect from 8 p.m. on Monday evening through 9 a.m. on Tuesday morning. Sub-freezing temperatures as low as 15 to 20 degrees is possible.

The National Weather Service indicated that freezing conditions will kill crops, other sensitvie vegetation and could possibly damaged unprotected outdoor plumbing.

Those who must be on the roadways late Monday into Tuesday are encouraged to be aware of weather and road conditions while driving. If possible, remain off the roadways during the warning period.