For the past two days, the weather outside has resembled spring more than winter.

Temperatures in the mid-60s during the day and 50s at night have made it seem more like Easter than Christmas.

But, according to meteorologist James Spann, the toasty conditions will not last.

“We warm up nicely in the short term, with mid 60s likely Saturday,” he said. “But, the coldest air so far this season arrives Monday and it looks like much of North Alabama won’t make it out of the 30s, with lows by early Tuesday in the 16 to 22 degree range.”

For people, when cold weather strikes quickly, protection can be as simple as a heavy coat. Unfortunately, homes and pets do not have this option.

Holley True Value manager Alden Holley said it’s important to prepare your home before cold weather hits.

“As far as pipes go, you can wrap them and let faucets drip,” he said. “It also helps to open cabinet drawers underneath the faucets.”

Other suggestions include placing a lamp with a 60-watt bulb in the area of a potential problem to warm the walls and pipes and closing and sealing all foundation vents that are near water pipes with rigid foal insulation.

Holley said people could also take precautions that will protect their homes from the cold air and their pocket books.

Many times, especially around windows, cold air can slip through the cracks. At the same time, warm air can escape leading to higher utility bills.

“You can always better insulate around doors and windows,” Holley said. “A lot of people put plastic over the windows. It adds an extra barrier. A lot of times, if you have mini blinds on a cold night, even they will help some. Anything that creates a barrier will always help.”