Chicagoans should keep their raincoats handy and prepare for a series of showers and possible thunderstorms kicking off this weekend, with the possibility of severe weather following close behind. According to the National Weather Service, there is a 30 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms today, clearing up briefly in the morning to make way for patchy fog. As the winds shift from southsoutheast to northwest, gusts could peak at around 20 mph.

Residents might catch a fleeting greeting from the sun today before an overcast evening with a low of around 38 degrees rolls in. Looking to Sunday, showers are likely to start after 1 p.m., with "a 60% chance of precipitation," and new rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch possible, the National Weather forecasts indicate. Heading into Sunday night, the risk of thunderstorms mixed with showers could escalate, setting a stage where temperatures hover near the 42-degree mark accompanied by chilly northeast winds.

The Hazardous Weather Outlook issued warnings of "Limited Severe Thunderstorm and Flooding Risks" primarily along and south of US 24 for Sunday and Monday, leaving locals to wonder if spring showers might brew something more tumultuous. Though spotters are likely not to be needed today or tonight, the forecast through Friday suggests multiple days of potentially tricky conditions at sea with "hazardous conditions for small craft are likely" noted starting Sunday and stretching through to Thursday.

Amidst the predictably unpredictable Midwest weather pattern, the National Weather Service Chicago's X update cautions that, other than a brief respite on Saturday, "rounds of showers and storms will move through the area through Monday." Not stopping at the top of the week, the forecast anticipates additional showers amidst cooler conditions midweek, with Chicago's climate providing ample opportunity for umbrellas to unfurl and for residents to keep a watchful eye on the skies.