Snowpack levels in Southern Interior not adding to flooding concerns | iNFOnews | Thompson-Okanagan's News Source
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Snowpack levels in Southern Interior not adding to flooding concerns

The most recent data from the B.C. River Forecast Centre suggests snow melt should not contribute to flooding concerns this year, as most regions have normal or below normal snow levels.

February’s cold weather kept the Southern Interior’s snowpack levels in check last month.

The latest snowpack data from the B.C. River Forecast Centre, released today, March 8, shows the cold temperatures in February and early March limited snow accumulations at upper elevations, in some cases dropping basin levels by five to 15 per cent when compared to measurements from Feb. 1.

The River Forecast Centre reports no elevated flood risk based on the current snowpack levels in the province, but says the seasonal snowpack can still change significantly with two more months of possible accumulation. Depending on the weather during freshet, flooding is still possible, even with near normal snowpacks.

As of March 1, the North Thompson snow basin was at 100 per cent of normal, while the South Thompson and Okanagan were at 83 and 81 per cent respectively. The Nicola also stands at 81 per cent of normal, while the Similkameen is only at 72 per cent of normal.

March 1, 2019 data from River Forecast Centre shows snowpack levels throughout the province.
March 1, 2019 data from River Forecast Centre shows snowpack levels throughout the province.
Image Credit: SUBMITTED/ River Forecast Centre

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News from © iNFOnews, 2019
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