The National Weather Service issued a freeze warning for Flagler and inland Volusia counties from 2 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 4 a.m. to 9 a.m. Thursday, respectively, as the coldest weather of the week arrives in central and northern Florida.

The warning means that freezing temperatures of up to 30 degrees can be expected during the warning period.

People in affected areas are advised to take measures now to protect sensitive plants from the low temperatures.

To protect outdoor water pipes, it is recommended to wrap or drain pipes or allow water to drip from faucets to prevent freezing.

Volusia and Flagler are also under a cold weather advisory from 3 a.m. to 9 a.m. Thursday, meaning very cold wind temperatures of up to 25 to 30 degrees are expected.

Such wind chill levels can lead to hypothermia during prolonged exposure. Frost and freezing conditions could destroy crops and other sensitive plants and potentially damage unprotected outdoor plumbing.

Cold weather shelters have opened in Volusia and Flagler counties.

The NWS also offers the following recommendations:

• Be careful when traveling outside. Wear appropriate clothing, including a hat and gloves.

• Keep pets indoors as much as possible.

• Make sure outdoor animals have warm, dry shelter, food, and non-frozen water.

• Regularly check on older family members, friends and neighbors.

• Make sure portable heaters are used properly.

• Do not use generators or grills inside.

This article originally appeared in the Daytona Beach News-Journal: Freeze Warning for Flagler, Inland Volusia Counties, published by NWS