MANATEE -- The National Weather Service in Tampa Bay has issued a freeze watch that includes Manatee, Sarasota, and Charlotte counties for Sunday evening through Monday morning.

Emergency Management officials are reminding residents to be prepared and use caution indoors and outside.

Pets should not be left outside during the cold weather. The lower than normal temperatures combined with strong winds could produce dangerous wind chills. Citizens who need to be outside overnight or during the early morning hours are encouraged to dress in several warm layers and limit skin exposure to the wind.

“Temperatures are projected to drop rapidly below freezing Sunday evening, particularly in inland areas. It is important that the community prepare for colder than usual conditions by taking precautions to protect their homes, families and pets,” stressed Sarasota County Emergency Management Chief Ed McCrane.