Cloudy skies and rough weather are in store across the region today as a strong storm system moves through. Expect periods of rain, along with a few thunderstorms. Some of the rain could be moderate to heavy at times. Gusty winds will also be a big factor today, with some wind gusts reaching up to 60 mph. The worst of the weather will occur from 5 p.m. to midnight. That combination of heavy rain and strong wind could lead to localized street flooding and a few difficult travel spots. Power outages are possible. High temperatures will climb to around 60 degrees.

Tonight will stay unsettled and windy. A wind advisory remains in effect as gusts could reach between 45 and 55 mph at times. Showers and a few thunderstorms will continue overnight while temperatures drop sharply as colder air sweeps in. Be alert for changing weather conditions. Strong winds can cause damage and power outages. By morning, lows will fall to around 35 degrees, so it will feel much colder compared to earlier in the day.

Looking ahead to St. Patrick’s Day, the weather improves, but it will feel brisk. Mostly sunny skies return on Tuesday, though it will remain breezy through much of the day. Despite the sunshine, colder air and lingering winds will keep wind chills in the 30 to 35 degree range, so if you're heading out to celebrate, make sure to bundle up.

TODAY: Cloudy skies with on-and-off rain with some scattered thunderstorms. Highs 55 to 60 degrees. Windy. Southerly winds gusting to 35 to 50 mph. You can see the future-cast loop below:

TONIGHT: Cloudy skies with on-and-off rain and scattered thunderstorms. Strong damaging winds. Wind gusts 45 to 55 mph. damaging winds and power outages are likely. A cold front passes Long Island by 4 a.m., skies will clear, and temperatures will drop to around 35 degrees. Storm rain totals 1 to 2 inches. Some isolated amounts up to 3 inches.

Tuesday: Mostly sunny. Highs near 43 degrees. Breezy. Westerly winds 15 to 30 mph.

Tuesday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 24. Northwest wind 10 to 15 mph.

Wednesday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 38.

Wednesday Night: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 27.

Thursday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 44.

Thursday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 33.

Friday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 50. Spring starts at 10:46 a.m.