Over half of the state has settled into a blanket of clouds at mid-day. The western and southwestern parts of the state are still being bathed in sunshine. Temperatures are reflecting the cloud cover. Readings where there are clouds are holding in the 60s, while other areas have already risen into the 70s. The cloud cover is expected to break up by later this afternoon, but most areas east of a line from Osage to Waterloo to Iowa City to Muscatine will likely see the clouds linger the longest, thus keeping highs there today around 70°. The southwestern part of the state will likely see highs today in the low 80s. A slow and steady warming trend will then begin tomorrow and last through the Independence Day Weekend.