Lethbridge, Alta. residents can look forward to a stretch of clear, warm weather this week, according to Environment Canada. After early summer haze and a significant smoke event in early August, conditions are shifting to mainly sunny skies with temperatures climbing well above normal.
On Monday afternoon, the Lethbridge Airport reported mainly sunny conditions with a temperature of 23.4°C, westerly winds at 21 km/h, and visibility of 81 km. The forecast calls for a high of 25°C on Monday, rising to 27°C on Tuesday, 31°C on Wednesday, and peaking at 33°C on Thursday. The seasonal average for this time of year in Lethbridge is a high of 24°C and a low of 9°C, so this week will feel notably warmer.
The clear skies come with a high UV index of 6 on Monday and Tuesday, which Environment Canada considers high. Residents are advised to wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses if spending extended time outdoors. The UV index typically peaks between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Thursday night brings a 30 percent chance of showers, but conditions are expected to clear again by Friday, with temperatures moderating to around 24°C by Sunday. No weather alerts or air quality advisories are currently in effect for the Lethbridge area.
Earlier this month, Lethbridge experienced extremely poor air quality on August 2, when the Air Quality Health Index reached 10+, the highest reading on the 11-point scale, due to smoke from B.C. wildfires. That event forced some outdoor activities to be postponed. With the current clear stretch, local sports and community events are expected to proceed as planned.
The warming trend reflects a typical late-summer pattern for southern Alberta, but this week’s highs of 31°C to 33°C will be 7 to 9 degrees above the August average. Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated and check on vulnerable neighbours during the warmest afternoons.
