Breakfast Brief - Severe weather returns, new storm for PNW

Severe storms eye the Mid-South and lower Ohio Valley on Thursday as part of a larger storm system bringing heavy rain and even more snow on its northern flank. To the West, a new storm system will slowly make its way into the Pacific Northwest. The Breakfast Brief is published Monday through Friday at 5:00 a.m. Eastern Time.

Severe weather is back in the forecast for the Mid-South and lower Ohio Valley, including spots that were recently impacted just last week by a widespread flood event and tornado outbreak. Any more rain added to this area could add to rising river levels, possibly worsening flooding in localized areas. It will be important to have your weather alerts switched on and have at least three ways to receive an official weather warning.

On the northern flank of the overall storm system, heavy rainfall will impact those from the southern Appalachians and Carolinas through the lower Great Lakes and Northeast. Cold, northwesterly flow will keep a chill in the air in place for the Northeast where snow and even freezing rain are forecast to make their way in. Keep a close eye on the WeatherRadar if you are heading out on Thursday.

Scattered showers and isolated snowfall are possible for the Upper Midwest and Upper Great Lakes Thursday, but nothing an umbrella can't help. Check the local forecast if you have plans.

The central U.S., to the Rockies and to the Southwest have another quiet day in store but the mercury in the Southwest and even in the northern Rockies will still be rising. Highs will make it into the 80s and 90s as far north as Boise, Idaho, while the deserts tickle the 100-degree mark. Record temperatures could reach as far as central Idaho and southern Arizona could tie a heat record from 91 years ago.

In the Pacific Northwest, residents who were enjoying the brief quiet streak will need to check the WeatherRadar for when the next storm arrives. Rain will move in this afternoon along the coast. A wet evening commute is in store from Seattle to Crescent City, Calif.

With severe weather chances increasing during the spring season, have your knowledge toolbox ready to go by using these tips!