File Photo (Image Credit: CFJC Today)

By Aaron Schulze

SNOWPACK CONDITIONS

Below-normal snowpack totals slightly improve in April; drought hazards linger

Apr 11, 2025 | 7:35 AM

VICTORIA — Snowpack conditions for this time of year in the Kamloops area have marginally improved, but they are still below normal.

The latest Snow Survey and Water Supply Bulletin distributed by the BC River Forecast Centre (BCRFC) shows the province at 79 per cent of normal snowpack on April 1, up from 73 per cent the month.

Both the North and South Thompson basins showed readings of 85 and 86 per cent of normal respectively, up from 78 per cent as of March 1.

Elsewhere, the Middle Fraser basin is at 75 per cent of normal while the Lower Fraser is at 85 per cent of normal.

Image credit: BC River Forecast Centre

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The current snowpack situation is less grim than this time of year in 2024 when B.C.’s average snowpack was at 63 per cent of normal, the lowest level in more than 50 years. The North and South Thompson basins were sitting at 71 and 79 per cent respectively as of April 1, 2024.

The BCRFC notes the southern interior saw temperatures range from one-to-three degrees Celsius above normal in March while seeing near record high precipitation totals.

According to the BCRFC, the province’s annual snow accumulation reaches maximum levels in mid-April, so the April 1 survey provides the best snapshot of the snowpack that will provide river runoff for freshet season. It notes nearly 96 per cent of seasonal snowpack has typically accumulated by April 1.

As of April 1, the BCRFC says there is no elevated flood risk. However, the low snowpack and season runoff forecasts, combined with warm seasonal forecasts and lingering impacts from ongoing drought, suggest heightened drought hazards for the spring and summer.

The next Snow Survey and Water Supply Bulletin is scheduled to be released on May 8 or 9, depending on the timeliness of data availability as of May 1.