Data from the B.C. River Forecast Centre’s April Snow Basin Index showed snowpack levels on Vancouver Island remain among the lowest in the province.
The April report indicated Vancouver Island’s snowpack was at 44 per cent of its seasonal average.
The report also noted that 97 per cent of the annual snowpack has typically accumulated by April 1.
Levels were marginally higher on the South Coast, which includes the Sunshine Coast, where snowpack was at 57 per cent of normal for this time of year.
The B.C. River Forecast Centre said lower snowpack levels could mean an increased risk of drought conditions through summer.
“Coastal regions, including the South Coast and Vancouver Island, also remain below normal and may see earlier-than-normal recession of flows,” said a statement from the centre. “While recent precipitation and late-season snow accumulation have improved conditions in parts of the province, drought hazard remains sensitive to spring weather. A warm and dry spring could rapidly accelerate snowmelt and reduce water availability, while continued precipitation could help mitigate emerging drought conditions.”
Provincewide, snowpack levels were at 92 per cent of normal, higher than the 75 per cent reported in April 2025.
