Fahrenheit -- were a record high for the Island, surpassing the mark of 75 degrees set in 1983.

James Morrison of the Bermuda Weather Service told The Royal Gazette last night that a combination of two factors led to the unseasonably high temperatures.

He said firstly there was a low pressure system to the north affecting the US.

A "temporary re-intensification of the Bermuda/Azores High'' had led to periods of southerly winds bringing up warm temperatures and air from the Caribbean.

The cold air moving south has been overpowered by the warm tropical air moving northward, leading to temperatures being well above normal.

Mr. Morrison said the warm temperatures would not last long as a cold front will pass over the Island today bringing cold air behind it.

The Bermuda Weather Service has issued a warning that gale force winds could buffet the Island tomorrow bringing the chance of rain and high seas, and Harbour Radio has issued a small craft warning.

Mr. Morrison said: "For the remainder of the week temperatures will remain a little above normal, but not as hot as it has been.'' He said yesterday's high temperatures had been "a very unique situation''.