Houstonians are gearing up for inconsistent spring weather, with forecasters predicting a mix of sunny days and potential thunderstorms over the next week. According to the National Weather Service, the city can expect partly sunny skies today with a high near 76, transforming into mostly cloudy nights as temperatures dip to the mid-60s. Winds are expected to remain gentle at 5 to 15 mph.

As we head towards midweek, Houston will see a patchy fog before the sun breaks through, ushering in temperatures that could climb to the low 80s. However, the clear skies aren't slated to last, with a 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms rolling in by Thursday afternoon, escalating to a 50 percent chance on Friday. According to Click2Houston, these stormy conditions might just put a damper on St. Patrick's Day celebrations throughout the weekend.

While the early part of the week might feel mild, the situation is set to intensify. The NWS Storm Prediction Center forecasts a "slight risk" of severe thunderstorms across the Lower Missouri Valley, mainly on Wednesday afternoon through Wednesday night, which may present large hail and a tornado or two, a weather pattern that could potentially stretch down to Houston.

The most severe dynamics for these storms are anticipated on Friday, with conditions tempering slightly into the weekend. Despite this, chances of showers and thunderstorms will persist through Monday – trailing into the first day of spring on Tuesday, which is pegged as the coolest day in the next 10 days. As of Monday morning, the severe threat levels are north of Houston, but residents are encouraged to keep an eye on updates as predictions evolve.