The East Kootenay snowpack is 92 per cent of normal, marking a significant increase from the same time last year, according to the first snowpack bulletin from the BC River Forecast Centre.
In the first snowpack bulletin last year, the East Kootenays was at 62 per cent of normal, as the province wrestled with drought conditions and lower snowfall accumulations.
Provincially, B.C.'s snowpack is at 87 per cent of normal, also a significant increase from the same time last year, which was 56 per cent of normal.
Weather during the first week of January was cold in northern portions of the province and warmer in the south, with mild storm systems affecting the coast," reads the bulletin. "In general, below normal snow accumulation started the month. The upcoming 7-day weather forecast shows the likelihood of moderate storm systems arriving, particularly for the northern coastal regions."
Looking ahead, Seasonal weather forecasts in late December by Environment and Climate Change Canada indicate a greater likelihood of
above normal temperatures for B.C. from January through March.
"During the first week of January, snow at the automated snow weather stations has accumulated at a below seasonal rate," reads the bulletin. "Regions with normal to above normal snowpack levels have an increased risk for spring snowmelt related flooding, especially if La Niña conditions persist. Areas with below normal snowpacks show early concerns for drought conditions amplifying in the spring and summer."
Snowpack bulletins are released just after the first week of a new month in the winter and spring seasons.
