Snow in the fields as the region moves toward traditional wet season (Photo 103674545 © Viktor Birkus | Dreamstime.com)

By Brian Konrad

February precipitation seen as promising shift in recent moisture patterns

Mar 6, 2024 | 10:26 AM

February is usually the driest month of the year, but with above average moisture across much of southwestern Alberta last month, forecasters with Alberta agriculture say that marks a promising shift in recent moisture patterns.

They are also quick to caution that February’s moisture in itself is not enough to erase long running moisture deficits.

30 day precipitation totals ( Alberta Agriculture graphic)

Total precipitation accumulations in February ranged from well over 100 millimetres at some mountain stations west of Lethbridge, with a station 25 kilometres northwest of the Waterton townsite measuring 170 mm of precipitation.

That same station has received 252 mm since the start of January, with other stations in that area also receiving over 200 mm.

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Still, the snow pillow readings in the mountain areas that feed into the rivers and streams in southern Alberta remain below normal.

Snow pack accumulations on stubble field (Alberta Agriculture graphic)

Snow pack accumulations on agriculture areas in the south are above normal.

But the forecaster points out the Southern Region is often snow free at this time of year, and any snow remaining is relatively light.

With El Niño waning and the traditional dry season now over, forecasters said there’s still ample opportunity for some significant moisture events ahead of the spring melt, though it’s impossible to predict how much with any certainty.

The watch for more precipitation continues as observers predict what could be a record-breaking drought season this summer, surpassing the conditions of 2023.

The City of Medicine Hat has not ruled out mandatory water restrictions as the Alberta government puts more of its resources into preparing for the year ahead.