Summary

A strong storm system is still on track to bring heavy snow to most areas from Monday night through New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. The heaviest snow will fall across Northern BC on Monday, and across Southern BC (most ski areas) on Tuesday/New Year’s Day with additional light/moderate snow on New Year’s Day. Total snow amounts through Wednesday night will range from 25-60 cm (10-24”) for most ski areas, except the East Purcells (Kicking Horse, Panorama, etc.) where amounts will be less due to downsloping westerly winds. Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday (New Year’s Day) morning will offer the deepest powder turns for most areas, while Wednesday afternoon and Thursday morning will continue to offer fresh turns across the Interior as well. Another strong storm will impact BC from Thursday night through Saturday, with the heaviest precipitation falling across the Coast Range. However, snow levels could become an issue with this storm as warmer air arrives. Much colder air arrives Sunday with another weaker storm possible. Next week is looking colder than average with additional storms possible, although models are in poor agreement regarding timing and snowfall potential.

Short Term Forecast