Southwest residents are pleased to be looking at well above-average temperatures and sunny weather coming up this weekend.

The warmer temperatures will be caused by a ridge of high pressure, an area of warm air coming into the prairies from the southern US.

Natalie Hasell, warning preparedness meteorologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada, encourages people to spend some time outside during this nice weather because it won't be here to stay.

"Looking at some very warm conditions, already today we're expecting a high of 17," said Hasell. "Some places might see a little bit of cloud but most places should see mainly sunny conditions."

Hasell notes that Saturday and Sunday will see daytime highs around 19 or 20 and Monday should reach a whopping high of 23 degrees.

"With the weather being so benign it would be a good time to take advantage and get ready for the next season," she said.

"For tomorrow Swift Current is just on the edge of the area that could see thunderstorm activity, so not expecting it in Swift Current but areas East of you might see some cloud."

Following the warmer weather, the southwest can expect thunderstorms and a good chance of precipitation.