A sharp temperature gradient generates an active pattern for the Nation

Looking ahead, the 6- to 10-day outlook calls for the likelihood of below-normal temperatures throughout the northern and western U.S., while warmer-than-normal weather will be confined to the South, from Texas to the southern Atlantic Coast. 

Meanwhile, near- or above-normal precipitation across most of the country should contrast with drier-than-normal conditions from southern California and the Desert Southwest to the northern Plains and upper Midwest.

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