Spring makes an early appearance this year with highs beginning in the 60s today, soaring to the upper 70s (maybe even 80 degrees!) on Thursday, according to the National Weather Service of Topeka. Current record high for Topeka is 77 degrees, set back in 1930. Current forecast is for 78 degrees. Other side to the heat is the very high to extreme fire danger expected Thursday and Friday as strong winds increase between 20 and 30 mph sustained. South winds initially on Thursday will shift to the west overnight into Friday, with speeds gradually diminishing in the afternoon. Any outdoor burning is not recommended as very dry conditions are present on both days.

Tonight: Not as cool. Partly cloudy. Lows in the lower 40s. South winds 5 to 15 mph. Gusts up to 25 mph after midnight.

Thursday: Breezy…warmer…sunny. Highs in the upper 70s. South winds 15 to 25 mph with gusts to around 40 mph.

Thursday Night: Breezy. Mostly clear. Lows in the upper 40s. Southwest winds 15 to 25 mph with gusts to around 35 mph.

Friday: Sunny. Highs in the upper 60s. West winds 10 to 15 mph. Gusts up to 30 mph in the morning.

Friday Night: Mostly clear. Lows in the upper 30s.

Saturday: Sunny. Highs in the upper 60s.

Saturday Night: Mostly clear. Lows in the upper 30s.

Sunday: Cooler. Mostly sunny. Highs in the upper 50s.

Sunday Night: Partly cloudy. Lows around 30.

Monday: Mostly sunny. Highs in the upper 40s.

Monday Night: Partly cloudy in the evening then becoming mostly cloudy. Slight chance of rain showers. Lows in the lower 30s.

Tuesday: Partly sunny. Highs in the upper 40s.