By Canadian Press

B.C. seasonal forecast shows cool spring, flood hazard in high snowpack regions

Apr 13, 2023 | 2:30 PM

VICTORIA — British Columbia residents can expect a long, cool spring, with the highest risk of flooding likely coming in May and June as temperatures rise.

A seasonal weather outlook from B.C.’s Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness forecasts cool offshore temperatures that are likely to persist throughout the province in the spring months, delaying snowmelt this month.

The data reveals low water flows and low amounts of precipitation across much of B.C. over the past nine months, especially in the Kelowna area, but mountain snowpacks are in the normal range, with some variation across different regions.

As of April 1, the ministry says snowpack in the Interior is rated as moderate to high, and high in the Chilcotin, Lower Thompson and Boundary regions.

It says flood hazards will increase in areas of high snowpack, with the riskiest months being May to June as temperatures warm.

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The ministry says it will be watching for periods of prolonged heat followed by heavy rains that can lead to flooding, as well as lightning, which can spark wildfires.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 13, 2023.

The Canadian Press