One of the warmest days in  recent memory occurred yesterday (Thursday) with temperatures rising into the  lower to mid 60's in many areas away from the immediate shore. Why, you ask? The answer lies in the mid level ridge which built in over the area and induced a southwest flow at the surface. The warmer air will remain in place through today (Friday). It may actually be a bit warmer than Thursday if we have any peaks of sun. If cloud cover remains over the area, temperatures may end up a degree or two lower or near the high temperatures we saw on Thursday. Regardless, it's going to feel more like Spring than anything. A thermal boundary moves through the area by Saturday morning, and temperatures will be a good bit cooler throughout the weekend. For now, try to enjoy the warmer spring-like weather! By Monday we may be looking at frozen precipitation (yes, not kidding). Featured image: Latest water vapor satellite imagery courtesy of Penn State University.

Friday: Partly to mostly cloudy and warm. Highs near 61, potentially warmer inland. Southwest winds 3 to 6 miles per hour.

Friday Night: Partly cloudy to mostly clear, with a low near 36. Cooler inland. Windy, with west winds 10 to 20 miles per hour, gusting as high as 30 miles per hour.

Saturday: Partly cloudy and windy. High near 40. West winds 15 to 25 miles per hour, gusting as high as 40 miles per hour.

Article by John Homenuk. Written February 17th, 2011 at 11:54pm. Looking for a forecast? See New York Metro Weather's Long Range Forecast for the upcoming weekend , or view our Technical Forecast Discussion for the more serious weather enthusiasts. Also, check out our new Forecast Overview tab. For up to the minute details on forecasts, watches, warnings, and alerts, follow us on Twitter and Facebook.