The Okanagan region in British Columbia (B.C.) is expected to face an increase in precipitation across all seasons except summer, according to a new climate projections report for the 2050s and 2080s.
The report is intended to support a local understanding of how the climate is projected to change and inform regional planning on how to prepare for future climate events.
“This report is one of the most important tools we have in preparing for our future as a region,” said Kevin Acton, chair of the Regional District of North Okanagan. “We need action now, and through this report, we have a clearer idea of what to expect and how to adapt for the longevity of our communities.”
In addition to an increase in precipitation, the climate projections report indicates that the Okanagan can expect:
- Summer to remain the driest season, and become drier.
- Warmer temperatures year-round.
- Summers to be considerably hotter.
- The duration of the growing season to increase.
- Warmer winter temperatures.
“The modelling projections being completed by the Pacific Climate Impacts Consortium will help local governments prepare for a range of possible scenarios,” said Karla Kozakevich, chair of the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen. “This report will also provide valuable data about the potential environmental and economic challenges impacting the Okanagan in the coming decades.”
The climate projections report for the region was developed as a result of a partnership between the Regional District of North Okanagan, Regional District of Central Okanagan, Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen, Pacific Climate Impacts Consortium (PCIC), and Pinna Sustainability.
This project was made possible with support from Natural Resources Canada through the Adaptation Platform, the Okanagan Basin Water Board’s Water Conservation and Quality Improvement Grant Program, and Fraser Basin Council.
A copy of the climate projections report can be found here.
