Breakfast brief: Melting begins for the South

Above-freezing temperatures and sunshine will help melt the snow that swamped the Deep South. Colder-than-average temperatures continue for many as does lake effect snow downwind of the Great Lakes. The Breakfast Brief is published daily, Monday through Friday, at 5:00 a.m. Eastern time.

The WeatherRadar shows sunshine and highs in the 40s and 50s from Houston to Jacksonville, Fla., today. These warmer temperatures and sunny skies will make quick work of the historic snowfall that fell on Monday.

While temperatures will be warmer in comparison to yesterday, another below-average day is expected across the eastern two-thirds. The TemperatureRadar shows highs in the single-digits and teens are expected in the Upper Midwest, with 20s across the lower Great Lakes. We'll see 20s and 30s across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic.

Our clipper system that brought snow to the northern Plains and Upper Midwest will move out, but lake effect snow will continue downwind of the Great Lakes.

Santa Ana winds are also expected to continue in southern California. Gusty winds and low humidity will keep critical fire conditions in place. Avoid burning or any activities that may produce sparks.

Ever wonder why 35°F can feel like 20°F or even colder? Discover how Weather & Radar’s feels like temperature gives a truer sense of the chill by factoring in wind, humidity, and cloud cover.