By Columbia Outdoor School

The River Forecast Centre, under the of the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development, analyzes snowpack levels in the province of B.C. to help predict and assess seasonal water supply and floods.

The team collects data from various weather and snow stations and provides snow bulletins available to the public throughout the winter.

In February 2022, their most recent report was released and provides a snapshot of current snowpack throughout the province.

Locally, the East Kootenay basin measured 117% of normal, compared to the provincial average of 109% of normal.

Continual storm systems starting in September contributed to early season snowpack development and continued to grow into the final month of 2021.

This year is a La Niña year, being the second year La Niña is present. La Niña is due to low oceanic temperature along the Pacific Ocean region for a prolonged period. It influences British Columbia by bringing cooler temperatures and generally, more snow.

These conditions are predicted to continue for the remainder of the winter but have a 60% likelihood of transitioning into the spring months.

If La Niña continues into the spring, there is an increased risk of freshet flooding and could impact our local watersheds.

Keep checking in with the River Forecast Centre to see how the spring will unfold.

Read more about snow Conditions and see the Water Supply Bulletin.

Columbia Outdoor School is the non-profit charity organization responsible for the operation of Blue Lake Camp, and coordinates and manages the Restore Joseph Creek Project, in partnership with the City of Cranbrook.  The Society consists of local individuals, educators, businesses and industries dedicated to providing balanced resource education for all ages.

e-KNOW file photo

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