Freezing temperatures expected for Christmas

The central San Joaquin Valley got more rain while snow piled up in the mountains and foothills on Thursday, and a freeze is in store for Christmas Day, according to the National Weather Service in Hanford.

Starting Thursday night temperatures were forecast to drop to the mid- to low 30s as a cold low-pressure system moves through the area. Fresno received .07 of an inch of rain by 4 p.m., said meteorologist Jerald Meadows.

By 4 p.m. Thursday, snow hit several areas in the foothills and Sierra. “Coarsegold and Oakhurst received 2 to 3 inches of snow,” Meadows said. “Shaver received around double that.”

The weather service issued a hard-freeze watch for Christmas night, Saturday night and Sunday morning, said Meadows.

The public is encouraged to cover pipes and crops to help prevent weather damage.

Two Valley warming centers will open for emergency shelter if needed. When temperatures fall below 35 degrees, the Fresno Rescue Mission, 310 G St., opens its chapel, said city spokesman Mark Standriff. FAX buses will take passengers to the mission for free.

The Visalia Rescue Mission provides shelter when temperatures hit 30 degrees or lower. The mission has a men’s shelter at 322 NE First Ave. and a Shelter of Hope, 1413 N. Burke St., for women and children age 12 and younger.

The shelter also has an on-site overnight facility for men only when the temperature is expected to be 40 degrees or colder.

Tulare County residents with special needs should call 211, the Visalia Fire Department said.

On Friday, there is a slight chance of rain in Fresno, but “things will dry out throughout the day,” Meadows said.

This story was originally published December 24, 2015 at 3:00 PM with the headline "Freezing temperatures expected for Christmas."