Snowpack levels on Vancouver Island have increased more than in many other regions over the past month but remain well below seasonal averages for this time of year.
The latest Snow Basin Index report from the B.C. River Forecast Centre shows Vancouver Island’s snowpack at 48 per cent of the seasonal average. The South Coast region, which includes the Sunshine Coast, sits at 61 per cent.
The report said the Vancouver Island figure represents a nine per cent increase from February. Storm systems in the first week of March brought additional accumulation to most areas of the province.
Provincewide, the snowpack sits at 91 per cent of the seasonal average. The Skagit Basin has the lowest level at 38 per cent, while the Northwest Region reports the highest total at 118 per cent.
The report said about 80 per cent of B.C.’s mountain snowpack typically accumulates by March 1.
“Regions with normal to above normal snow pack levels have increased hazard for spring snowmelt related flooding, especially if La Niña conditions persist into the spring,” the report said. “Areas with well below normal snowpack have an in creased summer drought hazard.”
The River Forecast Centre said there are still four to eight weeks remaining in the accumulation season.
