Long Island weather: Dense fog blankets region; rain expected later, snow possible this weekend

Long Islanders awoke to dense fog Wednesday that is expected to give way to showers later in the day and evening, forecasters said.

The fog that blanketed much of the region was beginning to lift midmorning. Temperatures were expected to rise throughout the day, further melting what's left of the Island's ugly snow piles.

The National Weather Service reported that widespread dense fog will continue, mainly before 10 a.m., with highs of about 40 degrees. After the fog lifts, rain is expected to move in, mainly after 4 p.m. and continue into the evening Wednesday, forecasters said.

The fog could return overnight into Thursday, with lows around 33.Rain is also possible Thursday, which is expected to be cloudy with a high near 43.

Forecasters are monitoring possible snow for the weekend.