Swift Current drivers might want to fuel up soon with seasonal trends for gasoline prices bound to return in the coming weeks.

According to Head of Petroleum Analysis at GasBuddy, Patrick DeHaan, the factors that play into the cost increase include higher demand, warmer temperatures, and refineries conducting seasonal maintenance. 

"At the end of January, it's kind of a calm before the storm," he said. "I would say starting in mid-to-late February, by May long weekend average gas prices across the province could be 25 to 35 cents per litre higher than where they are today."

The provincial average right now is 133.2, up about 50 cents from last week but down 13 cents from last year at this time. Swift Current prices are currently sitting at 129.9 cents per litre.

DeHaan predicts that by the start of the summer driving season things should level out, closer to the mid-dollar per liter.