Get outside. Olympia broke a temperature record Tuesday, and there's still some sun ahead

South Sound has gotten a taste of the sunny days ahead — but take advantage of it while you can.

For just the second time this year, temperatures rose beyond 70 degrees Tuesday in Olympia.

And, for just the second time this year, the city saw a record high on a sunny afternoon that reached 79 degrees. This temperature surpassed the record of 77 degrees, reached twice, in 1999 and 1977.

The only other record-high temperature recorded so far in 2018 was on an unusual 71-degree day midway through March.

Tuesday's record, as well as the forecast through Thursday, seem to indicate that the warm summer weather Washingtonians get to enjoy for about three or four months each year is, indeed, on the way.

The South Sound endured a chilly winter to begin the new year, with a series of record-low temperatures that dipped as low as 13 degrees on Feb. 21-22.

But, at least until Friday, Thurston County residents can shed their parkas and rain coats.

Temperatures were expected to reach 78 degrees Wednesday in Olympia, edging out the record of 77 degrees, set in 1992.

Thursday is expected to be the warmest day of the year so far, with a projected high of 84 degrees. That could set another record. The all-time high for April 26 is 82 degrees, set in 2004.

However, forecasters say the rain will be back for the weekend -- and for Olympia's Arts Walk and Procession of the Species -- with highs reaching only into the 60s and 50s, before rising again later next week.

Lacey Fire District 3 issued a reminder via Facebook on Tuesday that warm weather does not mean warm water, and the public should still proceed with caution if out on the water.

"You know what’s not funny? How cold the water temps in our lakes and rivers will be this week," the post says. "Even with forecasted temps near 80, the water will be dangerously cold.

"Do us a favor. Don’t get caught off guard. Wear your (personal floatation device) if you are out on the water."

This story was originally published April 25, 2018 at 10:04 AM with the headline "Get outside. Olympia broke a temperature record Tuesday, and there's still some sun ahead."