SWFL prepares for low temperatures

ALVA, Fla.- The wind made it difficult for some Southwest Florida farmers to cover their crops Thursday.

At 31 Produce, it took crews all day to get their tomatoes covered.

Produce growers take freezing and near-freezing temperatures very seriously because it could set them back thousands of dollars.

“The freeze will kill the plants,” said Paige Greenwell.

But strong, gusty winds caused a challenge, giving crews a run for their money.

“We’re hoping they can get them covered, they’re trying to cut them and piece them together,” said Greenwell.

Hours later they were able to make that happen.

Another fruit they’re worried about protecting is the strawberries. To make sure they don’t freeze, Greenwell says they will flood the fields around the strawberries.

Meanwhile, manatees are hanging out in mass in Manatee Park off Palm Beach Boulevard.

With cold weather on the way, this is a safe spot for manatees because the FPL plant nearby warms up the water.

WINK News meteorologists are predicting the coldest temperatures to be around sunrise Friday morning, anywhere from 5:30 a.m.- 7:30 a.m.

If you’re worried about any plants you may have at home, the best thing to do is bring them inside or cover them with a cloth or sheet. Don’t forget about protecting any pets or animals from the cold as well.