River Forecast and Snow Surveys: Interpretation and Commentary

Staff at the River Forecast Centre analyze the snow, meteorological and hydrometric data as they become available. Several documents are produced each year which are available through this page.


Snowpack and Water Supply Outlook

(The Snow Bulletin). Snow Surveys are conducted at the beginning of each month from January through June, with small additional surveys on May 15 and June 15. Once the data have been collected, a province-wide and region-by-region analysis is made of the snowpack and water supply outlook. Included with the analyses are graphs showing regional snowpack indices, cumulative regional precipitation and hydrographs of representative natural rivers. This page is normally updated about four working days after the nominal snow survey date.


Commentary on Seasonal ASP readings

Seasonal ASP graphs are updated four times per month during the period from October 1 through July. A brief summary and comments are provided after the data have been updated at the beginning and middle of the month.


Seasonal Volume Forecasts

At the beginning of April and May each year, forecasts of the volume of water anticipated as a result of snowmelt are published. These forecasts for key points around the province, are based on hydrologic models and statistical regression techniques. They assume that normal weather conditions will prevail during the forecast period.

Water Supply and Streamflow Conditions

Comments on any dry or low water supply conditions existing or forecast for B.C., with links to relevant provincial or U.S. sites.


Commentary on Ground Water Conditions

Based on selected observation well readings, commentaries on regional ground water conditions are published at the beginning of each month from January through June.