Local temperatures are expected to dip below freezing Sunday as a cold front makes its way across South Alabama.

According the National Weather Service forecast, temperatures will fall to 29 degrees Sunday with a high of only 56, and with a north wind between 10 and 15 mph.

Monday’s low is forecasted to dip even further to 24 degrees, dropping from a high of 51.

Tuesday’s high will be near 53, with a low of 26. Wednesday will be a bit warmer during the day with a high near 55, but the low will dip to 24.

The NWS has issued a hazardous weather outlook for the next seven days.

“Another cold front will move across the region Saturday night and Sunday,” the release said. “Only a slight chance for showers and thunderstorms is expected with this frontal passage, but temperatures will cool once again, with overnight lows near freezing by early next week, with a possibility of low temperatures in the lower 20s by the middle of next week.”

When winter temperatures drop below normal, staying warm and safe can become a challenge.

Residents are reminded to take precautions to protect life and property during the winter weather, including checking on the elderly, taking care of pets and livestock, protecting plants and exposed plumbing.

The following are some tips to follow when preparing for the freezing temperatures.

• Protect people. Keep warm and stay inside if possible. If one must go out, dress in layers, wear hats, gloves and an appropriate coat.

• Observe heater safety. Never place a space heather on top of furniture or near water. Keep heat sources at least 3 feet from furniture and drapes. Never leave children unattended near a space heater.

• Protect pets. Bring pets inside, and move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas. Keep adequate food and water available.

• Protect pipes. Disconnect outdoor hoses, drain and store in protected place. Wrap exposed faucets and pipes – including those outside the house or in unheated crawl spaces, attics, garages and other areas.

• Protect plants. Bring potted plants inside or store in garage near interior wall to provide extra warmth and protection from wind.

• For cold-sensitive outdoor plants, put down extra mulch and consider covering with a cloth fabric of some kind to shield the plants from wind and frost.

• Protect from carbon monoxide poisoning. Install a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector and never use generators, grills, camp stoves or similar devices indoors.

• Prepare vehicles. It is recommended that cars be serviced and antifreeze added as needed.