Chicagoans are bracing for a mixed bag of weather this week with the National Weather Service predicting everything from sunny skies to potential severe thunderstorms. Today's forecast is looking bright with a high of 77 degrees and breezy conditions, winds gusting as high as 25 mph, shifting from west southwest to east northeast later in the afternoon. Temperatures are expected to drop to a cooler 57 degrees on Monday under sunny skies, according to the National Weather Service.

However, Chicagoans should prepare to quickly shift gears as severe weather is slated to roll in. Starting Monday night, there's a 20 percent chance of showers after 1 a.m., with the real trouble beginning Tuesday. "Showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 4 p.m.", with the chance of precipitation hitting a stark 80%. It’s recommended to keep an umbrella at hand with “localized flooding being possible," the National Weather Service Chicago stated in a post. Tuesday night could get even rougher, with a 100 percent chance of showers and potentially a thunderstorm.

The wet conditions are expected to persist into mid-week, with "Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before 1pm" on Wednesday, and while it may clear up slightly, the chance of showers and thunderstorms continues after 1pm. Despite the rain, Wednesday's high is anticipated near 67 degrees. The rest of the week seems to be less tumultuous, but Chicago isn’t out of the woods yet regarding weather woes.

By Friday, the Windy City will need to gear up for "elevated Frost and Freeze Risk", proving April's volatility is far from over. "Winds may gust up to 40 mph or more from the west on Wednesday," according to the Hazardous Weather Outlook from the National Weather Service. And for those looking to navigate Lake Michigan, caution is advised as "gale force winds and or very hazardous waves are likely" come Wednesday, with hazardous conditions for small craft projected to continue through Friday.

The city is already dealing with minor river flooding, and the possibility of more severe weather conditions has not completely subsided. Residents and visitors should stay informed and be ready to take all necessary precautions to stay safe during this unpredictable spring weather week in Chicago.