LEXINGTON, Ky. (FOX 56) — After a very cold start to the day, temperatures warm nicely this afternoon thanks to abundant sunshine and a southwesterly wind. Highs today will reach the upper 40s and lower 50s.

It won’t be as cold overnight, but some sheltered areas/valleys could still dip back into the 20s.

The warming trend continues on Thursday ahead of a cold front with highs in the upper 50s and lower 60s. Clouds will thicken through the afternoon, but enjoy the warmer day because colder air is looming.

A cold front brings rain into the area late Thursday evening into Friday morning.

Don’t be deceived by the 50s that you see in the forecast for Friday. High temperatures occur just before the front pushes through then they fall into the 40s for the afternoon.

The weekend looks dry and cold with a mix of sun and clouds. Another hard freeze is likely by Sunday morning.