COVINGTON, Ga. — Much of north and middle Georgia will begin the work day Thursday under a freeze warning.

The National Weather Service has issued a freeze warning for 5 to 10 a.m. Thursday. It includes Newton and all surrounding counties and also covers Atlanta, Athens, Columbus, Macon, Milledgeville and Rome.

Temperatures are expected to fall into the upper 20s and low 30s across north and middle Georgia early Thursday. Freezing temperatures could damage early spring vegetation and pose a threat to outdoor pets.

After patchy frost in the morning, expect highs in Newton County to reach the low 60s Thursday. Highs should be into the low 70s on Friday.