Lethbridge is in for a stretch of hot, sunny weather this week, with Environment Canada forecasting daytime highs reaching 26 to 33 degrees. Saturday is expected to be the hottest day at 33 degrees, while the humidex will make it feel like 33 on Monday.
The UV index will hit very high levels of 9 on Monday and Tuesday, prompting a reminder from Environment and Climate Change Canada for residents to protect themselves. When the index is at 8 or above, people should limit time in the sun, especially between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., wear UV-blocking sunglasses, seek shade, and reapply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
There are no active heat warnings or alerts for Lethbridge, and the forecast shows a slight cooldown on Wednesday with a 60 percent chance of showers and a high of 26 degrees. After that, sunny skies and temperatures near 30 are expected to return. The historical average high for July in Lethbridge is 26 degrees, so this week’s heat is running above normal but remains well short of the all-time record of 40.5 degrees set on August 10, 2018.
Lethbridge sits in a Chinook belt that brings the city an average of 30 to 35 Chinook days each year. Those warm, dry winds off the Rockies are a hallmark of the region’s variable climate, and they can send temperatures soaring even in cooler months. During this sunny week, the long summer days will provide close to 16 hours of daylight, from sunrise at 5:38 a.m. to sunset at 9:36 p.m. Residents are advised to enjoy the weather safely by staying hydrated and keeping sun protection handy.