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Vancouver Set to Finish First Snow‑Free Winter Since 1983 as Atmospheric River Drenches Region

An unusually warm season left the South Coast with low snowpack, raising concerns over summer water supplies.

Overview

  • Environment and Climate Change Canada says Vancouver is on track for its first official no‑snow winter since 1982–83, with only trace flakes recorded at YVR on February 20, March 10 and March 15.
  • The December–February mean temperature reached about 6°C, placing this winter second‑warmest on record for the city compared with a 4.3°C normal.
  • Winter precipitation at YVR totaled roughly 384 mm versus a 436 mm average, adding to concerns about summer water supplies, hydropower and firefighting readiness.
  • Provincial monitoring reports snowpack below historic medians on the South Coast (about 79%) and Vancouver Island (about 61%), signaling reduced meltwater reserves.
  • A prolonged atmospheric river is delivering heavy rain, with ECCC orange rainfall warnings in parts of Metro Vancouver and a local emergency declared for Electoral Area E.