LETHBRIDGE, AB — Nestled in a quiet cul-de-sac on the east side of Lethbridge lies what has become an unlikely local landmark: a puddle. Dubbed the “Lethbridge Lagoon” by residents, the small yet resilient pool of water has now reached an astonishing milestone of 297 consecutive days without fully evaporating, solidifying its place as Canada’s longest-lasting puddle.
The puddle, located at the intersection of Fourth Avenue and Willow Street, first formed on April 1, 2024, following a light drizzle. Despite the shifting seasons, heavy vehicle traffic, and sporadic attempts to sweep it away, the puddle has stubbornly remained intact, baffling residents and sparking heated debates about its origins and durability.
“It’s just always there,” said local resident and self-proclaimed puddle enthusiast Gary Sanderson. “We’ve had weeks with no rain, days of scorching heat, and even frost, but this puddle refuses to go away. It’s almost like it’s part of the community now.”
An Engineering Mystery
Experts are divided over why the puddle has shown such remarkable staying power. Civil engineer Emma Wilkins suggests that the cul-de-sac’s slight depression traps water in a way that defies conventional drainage patterns.
“What we’re seeing is a combination of poor road grading and an impervious asphalt surface,” Wilkins explained. “It’s a perfect storm for puddle persistence.”
Others speculate that the unusually high clay content in the soil beneath the asphalt may be preventing the water from seeping away.
Community Pride
Far from being a nuisance, the puddle has become a source of pride and amusement for the Lethbridge community. Locals have adorned it with rubber ducks, built tiny paper sailboats, and even held a tongue-in-cheek “Puddle Appreciation Day” last September, complete with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and free hot chocolate for attendees.
“It’s just so random, but it brings people together,” said Karen Mullins, who lives two houses down from the puddle. “We even have a Facebook group for it with over 3,000 members. People post pictures of the puddle every day, and someone even started selling T-shirts with the slogan, ‘I Survived the Lethbridge Lagoon.’”
What’s Next for the Puddle?
City officials have acknowledged the puddle’s unique status but remain noncommittal about addressing it.
“On the one hand, it’s a drainage issue that we should probably fix,” said City Council Member Doug Peterson. “On the other hand, it’s harmless and seems to be bringing the community some joy. It’s not every day a puddle becomes a local celebrity.”
For now, the “Lethbridge Lagoon” shows no signs of retreating. As residents prepare to celebrate the puddle’s 300-day milestone next week, many hope it can make it a full year.
“I think we all know it’s not going to last forever,” Sanderson admitted. “But until it’s gone, it’s our puddle, and we’re going to make the most of it.”
Editor’s Note: For those visiting Lethbridge, the puddle is located near the corner of Fourth Avenue and Willow Street. Parking is limited.