Snow levels above average for Greater Vernon water utility

By Staff Writer - Vernon Morning Star Updated: April 29, 2013 2:31 PM
There still appears to be sufficient water supply for Greater Vernon.  The Regional District of North Okanagan took snowpack readings recently at three monitoring stations near the Duteau Creek water reservoirs. “These readings show the snow water content and the snow depth is above average for this time of year,” said Renee Clark water quality manager, adding that water storage in the reservoirs was also measured. “As of April 23, the stored water volume is 167 per cent of average.” According to the B.C. River Forecast Centre, April snowpack levels are at 107 per cent of normal for the Okanagan-Kettle Basin, which includes the Kalamalka Lake water source. The South Thompson Basin, covering the Duteau Creek water reservoirs, was recorded at 111 per cent of normal. “This information indicates that we are currently experiencing an average year for snow levels,” said Clark. The B.C. River Forecast Centre predicts normal or close to average temperatures and precipitation for the next three months. “We will continue to monitor climate trends and water supplies,” said Clark.