The tri-state area didn't reach record high temperatures Monday, but it was the hottest day so far this year.
It felt more like July than April, with temperatures soaring into the upper 80s and low 90s around the tri-state area. It reached 88 degrees in Central Park and in Newark -- not record-breaking, but close. These were the warmest temperatures the tri-state has experienced since last August.
The average high in the city for this time of year is 61 degrees, far cooler than the balmy weather expected this April Monday.
Residents in Islip saw an 80-degree high before a sea breeze cooled coastal spots by the afternoon.
Temperatures are expected to turn more bearable as the week continues, reverting back to highs in the 60s and low 70s.
Tuesday, a cold front will knock temperatures back to the upper 70 to around 80 degrees, and it will be sunny and breezy.
While the unseasonably warm temperatures may be appealing to some tri-state residents, they carry the threat of more brush fires as the area continues to suffer from drought. Forecasters say the area has currently had up to 9 inches below the normal amount of rainfall for the region at this time of year.
Rain is expected to move in for the weekend, which bodes well for the environment, even if not for New Yorkers looking to get out their bikes or go for a stroll.
Here's a brief look at the forecast:
TUESDAY: Mostly sunny, high of 77.
WEDNESDAY: Partly cloudy, cooler, high of 65.
THURSDAY: Mostly cloudy, chance of a sprinkle or shower, high of 67.
FRIDAY: Mostly sunny, high of 70.
SATURDAY: Scattered showers, especially in the afternoon, high of 68.
SUNDAY: Steady rain possible, high of 61.
As always, visit NBCNewYork.com for the latest weather information, including forecasts, severe alerts and interactive radar.
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