Long Island weather: Bright Easter Sunday, blustery Monday

Long Islanders can expect a bright Easter Sunday, followed by a blustery Monday with heavy rain and possible thunderstorms, weather forecasters said.

Although Sunday will be dry and warm, with a high near 59 degrees, heavy rain with thunderstorms are expected Monday, with a high of 61 degrees.

The National Weather Service forecast sustained winds of 30 to 40 mph with gusts up to 70 mph that could potentially down trees and power lines and cause structural damage. The strongest winds are expected to begin late Monday morning and last until Monday afternoon.

The weather service also warned of possible widespread power outages, noting travel could be difficult for essential workers driving high-profile vehicles.

“Now is the time to do the preplanning and preparations before everything starts on Monday,” said Da'Vel Johnson, a meteorologist with the weather service in Upton. He advised Long Islanders to bring loose objects on the porch or in the yard inside their homes.

Following a rainy and windy Monday, Tuesday is expected to be dry and mostly sunny with a high near 56 degrees, according to the weather service in Islip.

There’s a 30% chance that showers may return Tuesday night into Wednesday. Otherwise, Wednesday will be partly sunny with highs in the mid-40s.

The rest of the week will be cooler, with highs in the lower 50s for Thursday, Friday and Saturday.