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Unseasonably Warm Weather Drives Manhattanites Outdoors

By Test Reporter | March 18, 2010 5:48pm | Updated on March 19, 2010 7:54am

By Tara Kyle

DNAinfo Reporter/Producer

MANHATTAN — New Yorkers bruised by three February snowstorms and last week’s torrential rains got a welcome respite on Thursday as temperatures nearly reached the 70s.

That’s well above the March average high of 48 degrees, and in Central Park locals and tourists alike took advantage.

“Two weeks ago, we were shoveling snow and ice, so it’s much more fun on a day like this,” said Jan Costa, a 62-year-old volunteer for the Central Park Conservancy. Taking a break from raking leaves near the carousel, she said, “It feels wonderful and welcome, but, yes, it’s a surprise.”

Ice-skaters still circled Wollman Rink in the unseasonably warm weather that topped off at 69 degrees, while skateboarders, bikers, and T-shirt-clad pedicab drivers filled the nearby paths. A few park-goers even engaged in the summertime tradition of napping on the lawns.

Vendors served up hot dogs to New Yorkers and tourists enjoying the heat
Vendors served up hot dogs to New Yorkers and tourists enjoying the heat
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DNAinfo/Tara Kyle

“We were happy that the weather turned,” said Susan Tuloio, 40, a tourist from Toronto who was eating lunch with her daughter near the park's southern entrance. Tuloio also planned to take advantage of the warmth and clear skies by visiting the Empire State Building’s observation deck.

Upper West Side resident Gretchen Dudois, 66, was one of many dog-walkers taking a leisurely stroll on Thursday. She said her pup, Sadie, a former show dog, was in much better spirits given the improved conditions.

“She doesn’t like to be out in the rain, so it was very short walks,” Dudois said of the recent downpours.  On days like Thursday, though, Sadie “kicks up her heels and has a great time running around.”

In the midst of the revelry, however, some locals remained cautious.

“The last couple springs have had a few teaser days like this, and then it gets wet again,” said Roger Chatfield, 63, of the Upper West Side.  “So we enjoy them while we can get them.”