Alabamians will be waking to a chilly reception this week.

Meteorologists at the National Weather Service Office in Birmingham have issued a freeze watch for Tuesday night through Wednesday morning for most of central Alabama.

Forecasters said a high pressure system moving into Alabama likely means temperatures will fall below freezing.

A freeze watch means subfreezing temperatures are possible. The colder air mass could damage crops and other sensitive vegetation.

A lake wind advisory also is in effect until 6 p.m. Monday.