If you’ve been waiting for warm weather that sticks, this is your week.

Spring has been unpredictable so far, but temperatures across New Jersey are about to make a dramatic turn. Forecasters are calling for highs in the 70s and 80s throughout the week—running 15 to 20 degrees above normal for mid-April. 

By Wednesday, parts of the state will inch toward 90 degrees. We could see the all-time record high for April 15 of 88 degrees—set back in 1941—broken.

How the Week Shapes Up

Monday kicks things off with highs near 76 to 77 degrees across most of the state—a significant jump from the cold temperatures of last week. Tuesday will push into the low 80s. By Wednesday, Central and South Jersey could see highs approaching 86 degrees. North Jersey will remain slightly cooler. 

A cold front is expected to move through mid-week, bringing the chance of afternoon thunderstorms and eventually nudging temperatures back down. But even after the front passes, highs are expected to hold in the low-to-mid 80s through Thursday.

One Thing to Watch

The warm stretch comes with some concern. Much of the tri-state area is already dealing with abnormally dry conditions, and Sussex, Passaic, and Morris counties are currently under a Moderate Drought designation.

Year to date, the region is running more than three inches below normal for precipitation. The abnormally warm and dry week ahead won’t help it. 

April showers are still possible, but as of right now, no significant rain is in the forecast.

Summer temperatures hit early this week in New Jersey. Enjoy it—and maybe water the lawn while you’re at it.