Residents in the St. Louis area should be prepared for a mix of isolated showers and thunderstorms later today, with the National Weather Service issuing a forecast for partly sunny skies but a notable 20 percent chance of precipitation. The NWS predicts highs to potentially reach a sweltering 92 degrees, while gusty conditions with southwest winds are expected to reach up to 24 mph. Taking heed of the forecast, locals might want to keep an umbrella handy, especially if they plan to be outdoors after 4pm.

As the week advances, so does the risk of severe weather. The NWS detailed forecast indicates that Friday will bring more pronounced conditions with a 70 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms likely after 1pm. It's expected to quickly escalate into increased cloudiness, and south winds could to sharply gust as high as 31 mph. Those planning outdoor activities should be especially vigilant of the weather changes as the chance for hazardous conditions increases.

Looking forward to the weekend, the skies seem to afford a brief respite with a mostly clear Saturday and a sunny high near 80 degrees. But this calm is fleeting, as the NWS has advised that there is a 20 percent chance of overnight showers leading into a week where thunderstorms become a frequent visitor again, with precipitation likelihood oscillating from 30 percent on Sunday to as high as 80 percent by Tuesday.

The NWS has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook as well, emphasizing that eastern and central Missouri, along with west central and southwest Illinois, should be on alert. Friday afternoon and evening are particularly marked for severe weather risks, with possible very large hail, damaging wind gusts, and tornadoes. This calls for residents to not just be weather aware, but also to possibly prepare to shelter in place if needed.

While provisionally "spotter activation is not expected at this time," according to the Hazardous Weather Outlook , the emerging situation will mandate close monitoring. Therefore, it's important for the community to stay informed on the latest weather updates and heed any forthcoming advisories for the safety and well-being of all in the impacted regions.