SAVANNAH, Ga. — By tonight, the last of the persistent showers and thunderstorms will have cleared out, ushering in a wave of chilly air.

While it took some time for showers and storms to develop across Southwestern Georgia, they eventually erupted just ahead of the cold front we’ve been monitoring. One cluster of these storms reached the southern parts of the Coastal Empire, although the most severe weather conditions stayed further south.

Monday is set to be brisk with temperatures dipping into the 40s, and a northwesterly breeze will enhance the cold feel. Despite clear, sunny skies, temperatures will struggle to climb beyond the 50s, maintaining a chilly atmosphere throughout the day. As the sun sets, temperatures will drop further, making any evening activities quite cold.

A Freeze Warning has been issued for most of the region from Monday night into Tuesday morning, while other areas are under a Freeze Watch for the same hours. Tuesday morning is predicted to be particularly frigid, with temperatures falling into the upper 20s and lower 30s. The wind chill will make it feel like it’s in the upper teens to lower 20s.

Be sure to protect the 4 P’s: People, Pets, Plants, and Pipes.

• People: dress warm, check on others, limit time outside
• Pets: bring them inside, provide warmth in outdoor shelter, check paws
• Pipes: insulate exposed outdoor pipes
• Plants: cover up outdoor plants, bring sensitive plants inside

Winds will slowly back off through the day Tuesday, but it will still be cold with afternoon highs only reaching the 50s once again. High pressure moving over the area will lead to another cold night, with a widespread freeze expected for a second night if you’re located west of I-95. Temperatures will manage 60s for highs on Wednesday.

Temperatures moderate closer to average by the end of the week. Mornings will be in the 40s while 70s make a return for afternoon highs. Plenty of sunshine is anticipated and the workweek will be rain-free.