Millions of gallons of water over the West Coast

A big storm system will take over the West Coast, specifically for the northern half portion, while rain and mountain snow will quickly fill in for the rest of the coast. The heat continues for Southern Texas, and spring-like weather for the East. The Breakfast Brief is published daily, Monday through Friday, at 5:00 a.m., Eastern time.

A low-pressure system that has produced rain for Southern California moves inland, and now the region prepares for more intense rain and mountain snow to come Wednesday and Thursday. There is the risk for flooding as excessive rainfall, with some areas that could receive rain rates of up to 1 inch an hour, totaling 1 to 3 inches, and some isolated spots up to 4 inches.

Heavy snow will also be an issue for the mountains in Southern California, making travel difficult and perhaps impossible for some. Between Wednesday and Thursday night, the highest peaks of the San Bernardino Mountains could receive up to 24 inches of snow, the San Gabriel Mountains could receive up to 18 inches, and the San Jacinto and Santa Rosa Mountains could get up to 6 inches.

The WindRadar shows strong winds will also blow across Southern California in the afternoon. Gusts could reach 30 mph at times, and higher gusts will likely occur over the mountains. The winds are forecast to remain strong in the afternoons for much of this week, either onshore or from the northwest.

Southern Texas continues with record or near-record heat. Temperatures will likely be in the triple digits in Laredo, and although closer to the coast, temperatures will stay in the 70s; these are temperatures still above average for this time of year. The TemperatureRadar shows the high temperatures in Rio Grande will be around 102F and McAllen at 97F.

Another region with a toasty Wednesday afternoon will be the Ozarks, Midwest, through the upper Ohio Valley. Highs will be in the low to mid-70s, which are temperatures between 15 to 20 degrees above average for this time of year.

Florida will be the largest area under a cold spot. On Wednesday morning, temperatures will be cold, by Florida standards, in the 40s across the northern half of Florida and between the 50s and low 60s across South Florida. The high-pressure system will slowly move over Florida, and the winds will shift on Thursday, gradually increasing humidity and temperatures.

It is still winter season, and stormy winter weather is affecting the West. Make sure to read up on some safety tips for driving under winter conditions