Long Island weather: Clouds, showers Friday before a sunny weekend

A child jumps between benches along the Long Beach boardwalk Thursday. Credit: Johnny Milano/JOHNNY MILANO
Before the weekend comes around — sunny and clear — Long Islanders will have to put up with a few clouds and maybe some showers, forecasters said.
Thursday night will be cloudy and there is a chance for brief rainfall. Friday will look similar with a better chance for storms in the afternoon, the National Weather Service said.
Then, the payoff — a beautiful weekend, plus a nice Monday, with clear skies, sunshine and warm temperatures ranging from the mid 70s to the low 80s on Saturday.
The only wrinkle is a high risk of rip currents for South Shore beaches right through Saturday evening, due to a low pressure system off North Carolina’s Outer Banks that could develop into a tropical depression, the National Hurricane Center said.
With Joan Gralla
Loophole in state bus law ... LI's 'ghost forests' ... Prepping for Feast of St. Rocco ... LI Works: Under pressure ... Get the latest news and more great videos at NewsdayTV
Loophole in state bus law ... LI's 'ghost forests' ... Prepping for Feast of St. Rocco ... LI Works: Under pressure ... Get the latest news and more great videos at NewsdayTV