Chicagoans are bracing for a mixed bag of weather conditions that started today and are expected to continue through the week, with the National Weather Service issuing advisories for gusty winds, an elevated fire risk, severe thunderstorms, and potential flooding across the region. The forecast for today promises a chance of showers with mostly cloudy skies and high winds, with gusts that could reach up to 40 mph.

Tonight, the likelihood of showers skyrockets to 100% with rainfall amounts expected between a half and three-quarters of an inch, according to the National Weather Service. The southerly winds could continue to challenge umbrellas and raincoats with 20 to 25 mph wind speeds and gusts up to 35 mph. With an accumulation of precipitation, there's a limited flooding risk spotlighted in areas that are traditionally prone to such accumulation.

The National Weather Service warns of a persistent weather disruption into Tuesday, with a 70% chance of showers, possible thunderstorms, and ongoing breezy conditions. "Strong to severe thunderstorms may develop Tuesday morning and into the early afternoon mainly along and east of Interstate 55," said the National Weather Service's advisory.

The outlook doesn't improve much for boaters on Lake Michigan, as hazardous conditions are anticipated for smaller crafts starting today, escalating to possible gale-force winds and very hazardous waves by Tuesday. In an unsettling addition, there's a severe thunderstorm risk which cannot be discounted. The NWS Chicago's X update cautions "damaging winds are possible, and a few brief tornadoes can't be ruled out."

By midweek, the turbulent weather is expected to give way to clearer skies with Wednesday looking mostly sunny and a high around 44 degrees. However, the city is not clear of precipitation risks just yet, as there are chances of showers forecasted for the weekend, adding to an already soggy situation in the city.