File photo (Image credit: CFJC Today).

By Aaron Schulze

Lower Snowpack, Slower Melt

B.C.’s snowpack still extremely low, but melt slower than in 2023: province

May 23, 2024 | 10:08 AM

VICTORIA — B.C.’s average snowpack for this time of year is lower than 2023, but the snowmelt has been slower.

In its Snow Survey and Water Supply Bulletin released Thursday (May 23), the B.C. River Forecast Centre (BCRFC) says 31 per cent of the seasonal snowpack melted by May 15. While it’s far quicker than the average 17 per cent of seasonal snowpack that melts by May 15, it’s far slower than the 43 per cent that melted at the same time last year.

The BCRFC notes the snowmelt-related flood hazard remains low.

“Despite significant heat [from] May 9 to 12, no flooding was experienced,” the BCRFC notes. “The greatest flood risk over the upcoming six weeks is from widespread heavy rain events. Low snowpack, early snowmelt and lingering impacts from ongoing drought are creating significantly elevated drought hazards for this upcoming spring and summer.”

According to the latest set of numbers from May 15, the provincial snowpack is extremely low, sitting at 57 per cent of normal for this time of year. At this time last year, the BCRFC says provincial snowpack was at 66 per cent normal.

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Image credit: BC River Forecast Centre

The North and South Thompson basins remain below normal snowpack for this time of year, sitting at 67 and 74 per cent respectively, down from 71 and 80 at the beginning of the month. The Middle Fraser is at 42 per cent normal while the Lower Fraser is at 63 per cent.

The BCRFC says May 15 is generally past the peak period of snow accumulation and the survey captures how the snowmelt is progressing.

“Weather patterns transitioned to wetter and cooler through much of the province by mid-month with some snow stations in the mountains measuring snow accumulation,” the BCRFC states. The upcoming seven-day forecast shows continued unsettled, wet weather conditions with a possibility of warming again near the end of the month.”

Another bulletin is due June 10.