Chicago residents can expect to quickly shed their winter clothing as forecasters predict an upswing in temperatures through the end of the week. According to the National Weather Service, the city will start with a mostly sunny Wednesday, with a high near 41 degrees and winds reaching up to 25 mph. The temperatures are set to hit near 50 on Thursday, under mostly sunny skies, bringing a mild reprieve from the recent cold snap.

The night, however, won't be entirely free from weather's grip as a 20 percent chance of showers is projected for Thursday night along with partly cloudy skies and a low of around 37 degrees. Northeast winds will make their presence felt after midnight, with possible gusts reaching 10 mph. Transitioning into the weekend, Chicagoans should prepare to potentially dodge raindrops with "showers likely, and thunderstorms also possible after 1 am," as reported by the National Weather Service. The likelihood of precipitation jumps to 70% by Friday night.

Meanwhile, a Hazardous Weather Outlook has been issued for both the land and the lake. While no immediate threat looms over Wednesday's forecasts, the weekend is another story. Thunderstorms are marked as a "Limited Thunderstorm Risk" from Friday night through Monday. For those braving the waters of Lake Michigan, "hazardous conditions for small craft" are expected by Sunday and Monday, with continuous warnings of thunderstorm risks.

Despite the imminent precipitation and concerns of small craft hazards, Chicago will experience a slight, but definite warm-up. The city's temperatures will reach a high near 60 by Saturday but will dip back down into the mid-40s by Sunday. A consistent pattern of showers seems set to grace the region, as "showers likely" continue into Monday with highs hovering around 46 degrees, as per the NWS Chicago's social media update.

As Chicago transitions between the last breaths of winter and the outset of spring, residents are advised to stay informed on the frequent weather updates, especially if planning any early season outings on Lake Michigan or other outdoor activities. Particularly, small craft owners should heed the advisory and plan accordingly to avoid any unforeseen risks brought about by the changeable weather patterns this weekend.