Warm, dry, and breezy with elevated fire risk this afternoon and Saturday on Long Island
Milder and breezy weather today and Saturday comes with an increased risk of fast-spreading fires before a big warmup next week. Less wind will mean less of a fire risk on Sunday but it will still be dry. No significant rain is expected for several days.
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This afternoon (Elevated Fire Danger): Long Island will see milder temperatures and dry weather, a welcome change from the recent chill. Expect a mix of sun and clouds, with a light breeze turning onshore this afternoon. That ocean wind will keep coastal areas a bit cooler than inland spots, but overall it will feel noticeably warmer. However, the dry air and dry vegetation will also create an elevated risk for fire spread, so use caution with anything that could start a fire. Please observe the State Burn Ban.
Tonight into Saturday: A weak weather system passes north of the area, pushing a cold front through late tonight into early Saturday. Most places will stay dry, though a brief, light shower is possible overnight. By Saturday, skies turn mostly sunny again, but it will become breezy with winds picking up from the northwest.
Saturday (Elevated Fire Danger): Conditions on Saturday will further increase the risk for fires spreading quickly across Long Island. Gusty northwest winds (around 20–25 mph), low humidity, and very dry vegetation will combine to create another day of elevated fire danger. Even if no official warnings are posted, it’s important to avoid outdoor burning and use extra caution with anything that could spark a fire.
Next Week: A significant warmup is on the way. Starting Sunday night into Monday, warmer air moves in and temperatures will climb steadily. By midweek, many inland areas could reach well into the 70s, while the coast may be slightly cooler at times due to afternoon sea breezes. Overall, Long Island will experience a stretch of much warmer, spring-like weather.
