Leave your coat, gloves and stocking caps in the closet today — balmy, record-tying warm weather is on the way.

“Conditions are absolutely gorgeous,” said Tim Reith, 6News meteorologist.

Latest forecast

The thermometer is expected to climb to 63 by noon and reach a high of 70 by 4 p.m., which would tie the old record for this date set back in 1984, Reith said.

“The only thing that we have to worry about today is that our winds will be very gusty,” Reith said. Today’s winds are expected to be from the south at 20 to 25 mph, gusting to 35 mph, he said. The winds will be a factor with driving on the highways, he said.

Lawrence was under some heavy clouds this morning, but the clouds should push to the north and east by the afternoon, bringing some sunshine to the area, he said.

“Tomorrow it cools off ever so slightly,” Reith said.

Friday’s morning low will be 34, but the high will climb to 61 by Friday afternoon.

“What a way to end 2004,” Reith said. “On New Year’s Day we will be slightly cooler, with a chance of rain.”

Saturday’s morning low will be 41, with the high reaching 46.

We cool way down next week,” he said. Temperatures will drop to about the average for this time of year, with highs in the upper 30s Sunday through Tuesday.