Lethbridge, Alberta will see temperatures jump well above the freezing mark this week as warm winds move through the region. Environment Canada forecasts a high of 15°C for March 3, 2026, and 16°C for March 7, 2026. These temperatures are much warmer than the usual early March high of 4°C.
Strong west winds are expected to accompany the warm air, with gusts reaching between 40 and 60 kilometres per hour starting Tuesday afternoon. These winds can make driving difficult for tall vehicles and may blow away loose outdoor items like garbage cans or patio furniture. Residents are encouraged to secure any light objects they have stored outside to prevent them from blowing away.
The arrival of these warm winds can cause snow and ice to melt at a rate of up to one inch per hour, according to the Canada West Foundation. This rapid thawing is expected to create slushy streets and large puddles throughout the city during the day. This is a common occurrence in the region when warm air descends from the mountains.
Because nighttime temperatures are forecast to drop as low as -3°C, the standing water on roads and sidewalks will likely freeze into thin layers of ice overnight. Drivers and pedestrians should prepare for slippery conditions during morning commutes and allow for extra travel time between March 3, 2026, and March 5, 2026. The risk of ice is highest in the early hours before the sun begins to melt the surface again.
This spring-like weather follows a similar warm spell earlier this year when Lethbridge reached 20.6°C on February 4, 2026. The current warm stretch is expected to break on Monday, March 9, 2026, when temperatures will drop back toward 5°C with a chance of showers. Residents should enjoy the warmth while it lasts but remain cautious of the changing road conditions.
