The warm weather and early spring could have consequences later in the summer.
BC’s snow levels are only 13% of what is normal this time of year, with melting and streamflow 3-4 weeks ahead of schedule.
The Upper Fraser (Prince George), Nechako and Skeena-Nass (Bulkley Valley) basins are all at a level two drought (Dry) already. While it’s not reason for concern quite yet, BC Fire Superintendent Eric Meyer says we could have issues soon.
“What we are looking at are conditions over the next week to two weeks where very rapid drying is anticipated, higher than normal temperatures, lower humidities across most of the province.”
Water Stewardship Manager Valerie Cameron says the future drought forecast and fire season is at the mercy of the weather.
“So if precipitation comes we will be better off, but if it doesn’t as it happened last year we could be expecting drought in at least some areas around the province”
The current wet weather should exit the province this weekend, giving way to highs in the mid to high 20s across Northern BC next week.
w/ files from Spencer Gowan