Breakfast brief - Record eastern warmth, snow for central US

The eastern two-thirds is on their temperature roller coaster while winter resides in the north-central U.S. Gusty winds could also cause holiday decorations to go flying today. The Breakfast Brief is published daily Monday through Friday at 5:00 a.m., eastern time.

The eastern two-thirds of the U.S., are running up to 20 degrees above normal for late December and records could tumble. As the last bit of rain scoots off the East Coast this morning, residents are being left with highs in the 50s, 60s and 70s from the Mid-Atlantic to the Southeast and Tennessee Valley with Florida staying in its usual mid-to-upper 70s.

While it doesn't sound too warm, Maine will be in the mid to upper 40s! This could break records in places like Caribou, Millinocket and Bangor.

In the southern Plains, particularly Texas, thermometers could tickle 80 degrees! Watch for it on the TemperatureRadar here.

Winter will be present in the north-central U.S. Rain and an icy mix this morning will give way to a snow event moving out of the northern Rockies and High Plains. Keep a close eye on the WeatherRadar since the rain-snow line will divide the storm vertically in South Dakota and Nebraska before the changeover happens as it shifts east-southeast.

To the south of this storm system, gusty winds will reach as high as 50 and 60 mph along the Front Range and as far east as the mid-and-lower Mississippi valleys. Do you still have your holiday decorations up? Time to make sure they are as secure as possible!

Snow will continue across the northern and central Rockies today. Washington, albeit quieter than the weekend, will continue to see rain and mountain snow. More large Pacific Northwest storms are expected through the week, however.

Heading to the slopes for the New Year. See what resorts are nearby and view their open status, snowpack and more on the app!