As the week rolls on, St. Louis residents should keep their rain gear handy, with the National Weather Service forecasting a pattern of showers and potential thunderstorms in the region. "Showers likely, with thunderstorms also possible after 1pm," is the outlook for today, with the skies remaining mostly cloudy and temperatures climbing up to a mild 71 degrees. The southeast wind will rustle at a gentle 5 to 11 mph, with possible gusts reaching 24 mph, according to NWS St. Louis, MO.

In a classic fickleness of midwest weather, residents looking forward to the weekend should expect a mixed bag, with the NWS predicting mostly sunny skies and a high near 81 degrees on Friday. But don't be fooled, as the weather can change in the blink of an eye, with a 30 percent chance of showers predicted after 1 a.m. that night and winds that may gust as high as 34 mph.

For those planning their weekend outdoor activities, Saturday might not offer the best conditions for picnics or hikes. "Showers likely before 1pm, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms between 1pm and 4pm, then a chance of showers after 4pm," states the NWS forecast. It seems the umbrellas will be necessary accessories with an anticipated high near 73 degrees and a consistent blowing from the south at 9 to 13 mph, producing gusts that could reach 23 mph.

Moving into Saturday night, the stochastic dance of raindrops will continue, creating a 60 percent likelihood of precipitation, encompassing showers and potential thunderstorms. Across the area, a mostly cloudy night with a temperate low around 61 degrees is expected, reminding that weather is no one's minion and it comes rolling in on its own terms.

The beginning of next week promises a brief respite with partly sunny conditions on Monday and a temperate high near 53 degrees. By Tuesday, the sun will make a stronger appearance, offering a mostly sunny skies and a slightly warmer high near 62. However, by Tuesday night, the chance of showers creeps back into the forecast with a 60 percent likelihood of rain.

The outlook from Wednesday spells another round of precipitation, with the Hazardous Weather Outlook warning of "Showers and thunderstorms likely." The temperature, though, should be pleasant with a high near 76 degrees, according to the NWS.

Although official spotter activation is not expected at this time, the Hazardous Weather Outlook encourages residents to stay alert for potential thunderstorms today and tonight and additional storms forecast Saturday through Wednesday.