A major winter storm system is bringing freezing temperatures and high winds to the Southeast after record-breaking warmth. Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport recorded an 86° high on Saturday, breaking the 2018 record of 84° before a cold front swept through.

Showers and storms moved through overnight with wind gusts reaching 35-40 mph in some areas. The cold front will bring a return to wintry conditions with temperatures dropping into the 20s by Monday morning. High fire danger is expected Sunday due to dry air and winds gusting over 30 mph.

Residents should prepare for hard freezes along and west of I-95, with lows feeling like the teens to 20s. The Four P's - people, pets, pipes, and plants - need protection, especially for early-blooming vegetation. Temperatures will gradually moderate through the week with showers returning Thursday into Friday.