The frost and freeze conditions could harm or kill sensitive vegetation, including crops and outdoor plants, if left unprotected. Unprotected outdoor plumbing may also be at risk of damage due to freezing temperatures. Residents in the affected areas, including southern Illinois, southwest Indiana, western Kentucky, and southeast Missouri, should take precautions to protect plants and outdoor water systems. The hard freezes expected over the weekend are likely to bring the growing season to an end in these regions.