Start protecting those pipes and pets now, because Old Man Winter could drop the temperature to 3 degrees overnight and bring up to 2 inches of snow by this afternoon.

Temperatures are expected to be in the low 20s today with cloudy skies and a chance of snow showers, according to the National Weather Service in Pendleton.

Forecaster Jon Bonk with the National Weather Service encouraged Central Oregonians on Wednesday to make plans to protect their pipes and children and elderly relatives who could be vulnerable to the potential 30-degree drop in temperature.

”We felt it was a significant change,” Bonk said.

”It shouldn’t be that uncommon for Central Oregon. It’s more of a reminder to folks.”

Plumbers said residents should prepare for the frigid weather by unhooking their hoses, leaving the heat around 55 degrees and clearing out their irrigation systems.

”That cold air can go in there and freeze your pipes,” said Mari Beth, office manager with Firkus Plumbing. ”If it really drops, you need to do those kind of things.”

The Humane Society of Central Oregon also encouraged people to take care of their pets, keeping them inside.

If they must stay in the garage, said Community Outreach Coordinator Lynne Ouchida, at least give them an insulated bed and warm water.

Ouchida said she has seen rabbits with frostbitten ears from drinking cold water.

”This drop in temperature sometimes catches people off guard,” Ouchida said. ”If you’re not comfortable in it, your dog probably isn’t either.”

The temperature may only reach a high of 21 degrees today, followed by similar temperatures throughout the week, according to the National Weather Service.

Friday may bring a low temperature of 2 degrees and a high of 22.

The weekend looks similar, with Saturday’s temperatures ranging from 9 to 25 degrees and Sunday varying from 10 to 27 degrees.

Next week may bring slightly warmer weather, but the National Weather Service only expects a peak high temperature of 29 degrees Monday.

Insulation and generator companies also encouraged Central Oregonians to weatherize their homes, wrapping their pipes and buying a generator if necessary.

Bend’s fire department also urged residents to seal vents and openings in windows and ensure heating equipment is in proper order.

”Make sure all the pipes are properly insulated,” said Michael Payne, who owns Michael Payne Insulation. ”Make sure all the venting is closed.”

The Oregon Department of Transportation also advised people to make preparations on their cars for any wintertime travels.

It recommended that people check the antifreeze level, test all lights before driving and inspect windshield wipers, according to its Web site.

ODOT continued to issue severe weather hazard warnings for mountain passes and highways. Chains or traction tires were required.

Roadside cameras showed packed snow and flurries Wednesday afternoon on Santiam Pass and at Government Camp.

If people must travel, remember to keep that heat on at home before hitting the roads.