Philadelphia's notoriously unpredictable spring weather strikes again, with the National Weather Service issuing a hazard outlook peppered with possibilities of minor coastal flooding and showcases of Mother Nature's whim. Clouds are hoarding the skies, and showers seem to fancy a game of now-you-see-me, now-you-don't, with a "chance of showers, mainly before noon" today, as per the National Weather Service's forecast. By tonight the chance of rain stands firm at 20%, while showers are likely to make a more assertive splash tomorrow afternoon.

In true April fashion, rainfall could meander into the evening, potentially flirting with thunderstorms after 9 p.m. Temperatures hang tight in the mid 50s to low 70s. Friday doesn't promise much respite, with "showers and possibly a thunderstorm before noon," and then again following an indecisive afternoon tease of dry weather. Come Saturday, the skies are set to clear, teasing us with a mostly sunny high near 61, and a chillier low around 47 at night.

The National Weather Service's bulletin, addressed to folks in the Philadelphia County area, warns that the upcoming days are likely to test our patience with urban and low-lying areas facing a greater threat of pooling and burgeoning streams. Their advisory, which is likely music to the ears of any aspiring local Noah, states "Several instances of flooding are possible on Thursday, especially in urban and poor-drainage areas and near particularly vulnerable small creeks and streams."

Those vigilant sky-watchers and weather amateurs, perhaps already perched by their windows with binoculars at the ready, should heed the call as "Weather spotters are encouraged to report significant weather conditions according to standard operating procedures," claimed the weather bulletin. With each report, they stitch another thread into the tapestry of community cooperation that may help give a heads up, as swift gusts and rains encroach upon their Concrete Jungle.