Metro Vancouver residents are bracing for what could be their first significant snowfall of the season, with weather forecasts indicating dramatic changes starting later this week. Environment Canada meteorologist Lisa Erven has signaled the end of the area's unusually dry January, predicting the arrival of winter weather patterns with potential snowfall.
After experiencing one of the driest Januaries on record, the region is set for its first taste of winter weather as snow could begin falling by Thursday, January 30. Erven described this transition as 'drastic,' marking the end of three weeks of bone-dry conditions. 'We are headed toward a major shift in the weather, with the first serious system impacting the region on Thursday,' she noted.
The influx of moisture is primarily attributed to a lazy, low-pressure system currently affecting the South Coast, which is expected to bring varied precipitation. Erven explained, 'Most of the precipitation will fall as rain, but with freezing levels low, there's always the potential for it to freeze and produce flurries at higher elevations, including the North Shore and Burnaby Mountain.' This fluctuation could see snow falling at lower elevations should the conditions align correctly.
By Friday, warmer air is anticipated to move through, contributing to the potential accumulation of rain before colder air returns, giving way to snow. Erven states, 'Once the Friday system passes, we will find ourselves enveloped by much colder air.' This drop in temperatures is set to coincide with moisture returning to the region over the weekend.
Residents should prepare for possible traffic and transit disruptions as the weekend approaches. 'It's wise to check the forecast regularly,' advises Erven. 'Adding buffer time to your commute or getting snow tires ready might be prudent, as snow-related disruptions could occur across various areas.' Metro Vancouverites have been informed of the importance of daily weather checks due to this brewing weather system.
More intriguingly, the longer-term picture suggests this may not be just a one-off event. Meteorologists anticipate conditions remaining ripe for snowfall throughout the weekend and possibly continuing through early next week, as another weather system looms. 'We have all the ingredients for some low-elevation snow on Saturday: cool temperatures and moisture,' Erven confirmed.
The dryness of January, marked by Vancouver and Abbotsford experiencing their third-driest month on record, has made the arrival of winter precipitation particularly welcomed, albeit it is expected to come with challenges. Prior to this, the region recorded just 33.5 mm of rain, far below the January average of around 168 mm.
Avalanche Canada also noted the unique circumstances this winter, as above-normal freezing levels associated with lower precipitation might risk increased avalanche danger. Wendy Lewis, from Avalanche Canada, highlighted, 'We’ve had very low snowfall amounts this month, not ideal for riding conditions but resulting in overall low avalanche danger ratings. But as snowfall returns, this situation could change.'
The dynamics of this winter have also been influenced by the La Niña phenomenon, which is known to affect atmospheric conditions. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Climate Prediction Centre announced the development of La Niña conditions back in December 2024, which have historically brought colder and wetter winters to the region. "La Niña winters often lead to more low-elevation snowfall than typical seasons," explained Erven.
With temperatures expected to be 3 to 5 degrees below seasonal averages, this winter could present numerous opportunities for snowfall. The changes forecasted for early February could lead to continuing chilly weather events. According to Erven, 'This weekend's weather system has the potential to drop significant snowfall across the area, leading to interactions with various local ecosystems and necessitating worried eyes on the mountain passes.'
Metro Vancouver residents are reminded to have their winter gear ready as the cold descends. With unpredictable weather patterns potentially signaling more serious accumulations, staying informed is now more important than ever for safety and preparation as winter finally arrives.