BC warns of anticipated 2025 drought conditions, Creston plans accordingly

Photo: Flickr

The B.C. Forecast Centre has anticipated an increased risk of drought conditions across the province for the spring and summer, however, the Town of Creston currently does not have a drought response plan.

"We do put out water advisory restrictions every June no matter what. Depending on the extremities, a higher level could be put on," said Creston's director of infrastructure, Fred Schmidt.

He added that a drought response plan could be included in the next draft of Creston's Master Plan.

In a letter from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs, the government recommends that cities across the province prepare their water resources and drought response plans.

Municipalities are recommended to take part in a water supply status survey during drought season to understand what communities are most at risk. They are also encouraging local governments to establish water monitoring programs if they have not already done so.

The province's geographic drought information systems describe drought as a long period with below normal rain or snow that may result in a water shortage.

The West Kootenay drought levels reached level three around mid-August in 2024, and levels 4 and 5 in mid-September and late October.

Photo: Riverforecast Centre

According to Environment Canada, Creston had below average rainfall in July 2024 (5 millimetres). The average rainfall for this month is typically 35 mm. September also was reportedly below average rainfall (5 mm) with the normal average sitting at 40 mm.

Nelson’s precipitation rates were below average as well during the same year. July reportedly had (5 mm), while August (22 mm). The normal average rainfall for these months is 34 mm and 31 mm.

According to the River Forecast Centre, the combination of drought conditions and back-to-back yearly impacts of extreme weather can affect the water we need for people, fish, animals and the environment.