It’s called a “blocked weather pattern”.
The high pressure system that’s been causing record temperatures, and a record dry spell, in coastal BC isn’t moving.
Environment Canada’s Matt MacDonald says rainfall in the region last month was only 10-15 millimetres. Normally we’d see 50 to 60.
MacDonald says while day-to-day temperature records get a lot of attention, it’s worth noting that the May and June averages were also unprecedented.
MacDonald says forecasters are predicting no let up to the heat, and no significant rainfall for at least two more weeks.
Water flows are about as low as they can be on the Cowichan River.
And, as the drought continues, authorities controlling other rivers on the Island are cutting the amount of water they’re letting out of reservoirs.
BC Hydro says it’s now reducing flow on the Puntledge River in the Comox Valley, and may have to slow it to record lows.
BC Hydro’s Stephen Watson says they were prepared for a drought, but this is worse than expected.
On the Cowichan River, meanwhile, flow is about 4.5 cubic meters a second; the minimum to sustain fish populations and human demand.
The Watershed Board says that flow is possible as long as the lake level is at least 161.3 meters. Right now it’s just over 161.9
