Severe storms are expected across the Plains today, while parts of Texas and the Southeast remain hotter than average. The Breakfast Brief is published Monday through Friday at 5:00 a.m. Eastern Time.

Severe weather ramps up again across the Plains today. The WeatherRadar shows storms erupting from Texas to Iowa this afternoon and evening.

All modes of severe weather are possible, including damaging winds in excess of 60 mph, large hail 1 inch or greater in diameter and tornadoes. Cities at risk include Dallas, Kansas City, Oklahoma City, and Omaha, Neb.

Rain and mountain snow will also spread across the Rockies today. Umbrellas will be needed in cities like Billings, Mont., and Denver. As low pressure moves out, the Northeast will also be wet at times today. An incoming Pacific system will mean a soggy start in cities like Seattle and Portland, Ore.

The heat wave continues across Texas and the Gulf Coast. Triple-digits are forecast for south Texas, with 90s along the Gulf Coast and into Florida.

When severe weather is in your forecast, you can be prepared. Follow along with these tools to stay weather-aware.