Sunny skies in Long Island's forecast

A building high-pressure system will hover over Long Island for the next couple of days, creating sunny, clear skies and warm temperatures, the National Weather Service said Wednesday.

Clearing that began Wednesday lasts through late Thursday, the service's Upton office said.

That means daily highs in the mid 70s Wednesday and low 70s Thursday, with west winds up to 18 mph at times.

The high-pressure system slides offshore by Thursday night, and another front moving in from the Southern plains brings a chance of rain and cooler temperatures starting Friday.

Chance of rain Friday into Saturday ranges from 30 to 40 percent, with daily highs expected in the low to mid 60s, the service said.

Sunday is likely to be cooler and drier, with daily highs in the mid 60s, the service said.

On Monday, Columbus Day, temperatures will be in the low to mid 60s with cloudy skies.