Pattern Change Will Bring Return of Rain, Snow to California, Warmer Temperatures in Plains and South

Cascade Snow To Be Measured In Feet

This is a developing weather story. For the latest forecast for rain and mountain snow in California and the West, check out our latest article here. 

Warmer Temperatures and Storms Return to Central, Southern U.S.

The above-average temperatures recently in place over the West have now spread into parts of the Plains where record highs will be threatened into Monday.

Saturday's warmth sent the mercury to 79 degrees in Salt Lake City, which was the second-warmest March reading on record there. Phoenix set a new daily record high of 95 degrees Saturday, and Cheyenne, Wyoming, topped out at a record-breaking 76 degrees.

On Sunday, Kansas City shattered their previous record of 81 degrees by topping out at 87 degrees. This is also their warmest temperature so early in the season. Meanwhile, El Paso, Texas, reached 90 degrees on Sunday, which was the second-earliest 90-degree temperature on record there.

MORE ON WEATHER.COM: Winter Storm Stella, March 2017 (PHOTOS)