Temperatures are forecast to spike again this week, which will trigger an increase in water consumption, something that the B.C. Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship is watching closely over drought concerns.
The ministry is urging residents and businesses to conserve water as much of the province is expected to be dealing with elevated drought conditions this summer. There are also water-scarcity concerns.
The ministry’s warning applies to the coming weeks.
“Protecting B.C.’s water resources is a shared responsibility, and the actions we take today will help communities, farmers and businesses manage increasing drought pressures,” said Randene Neill, Minister of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship, in a statement.
“We are working closely with First Nations, local governments, industry and the agricultural sector to support water conservation and long-term water security. By working together and reducing water use where we can, we can help protect fish and wildlife, support farmers who depend on reliable water supplies and strengthen the resilience of our communities.”
According to the ministry, voluntary reductions in water use can play a “critical role” in maintaining stream flows and reducing pressure on watersheds and aquatic ecosystems.
Favourable weather and rainfall also play a critical role.
Recent rainfall and cooler temperatures have improved stream-flow conditions in some parts of the province; however, warm and dry conditions are expected to continue.
Over the next week, temperatures will feel like over 30°C, and the weather forecast only calls for rain on one day in that span of time.
ECCC
In Metro Vancouver, stage 3 watering restrictions are currently in effect. Metro Vancouver Regional District says that watering restrictions will move from stage 3 to stage 2 beginning July 16.
Under the current restrictions, residents and businesses are not allowed to water their lawns.