Conditions show high drought risk this summer

Regional District of North Okanagan staff are warning of a high possibility of a drought this summer.

At the meeting Wednesday, Mar. 5, the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee heard the current snow pack levels were low, and, unless there was significant rainfall in the spring, there were concerns about 2025 being another drought year.

The Regional District had already reached out to the agricultural sector to provide them with a warning about the possible dry summer conditions.

Staff also indicated that there could be an early freshet this year, which could cause increase matter entering Kalamalka Lake. If the turbidity levels get too high, then there may be the need to issue wide-spread water quality advisories through much of Greater Vernon.