File Photo (Image Credit: CFJC Today)

By James Peters

Snowpack

High North Thompson snowpack prompts warning of potential spring flooding in Kamloops

Apr 8, 2022 | 12:25 PM

KAMLOOPS — About 95 per cent of the typical seasonal snowfall has come down by April 1, and the B.C. River Forecast Centre (BCRFC) says this year’s readings are upping the risk of spring flooding in Kamloops.

In its April 1 snow survey and water supply bulletin, the BCRFC shows 119 per cent of average snowpack in the North Thompson basin. That’s the highest April 1 reading since 1999.

In addition, the Quesnel and Upper Fraser East areas are also seeing high snowpack volumes.

The BCRFC says that situation “indicates a heightened concern for flooding for Prince George, Kamloops and the overall Fraser River.”

The South Thompson basin is at 101 per cent of normal, but the Centre notes only a few stations are reporting and there is reason to believe the true snowpack may be higher.

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The BCRFC also notes the effects of the November, 2021 atmospheric river have “made many rivers more vulnerable to freshet high flows.”

Image Credit: B.C. River Forecast Centre