While the rest of Canada is frozen in a deep winter, B.C. is breaking heat records.
Environment Canada says an “unseasonably warm air mass” is responsible.
According to the national weather authority, 15 communities set new temperature records Tuesday. Bella Bella, located on the central coast, reached a staggering 19.5 C, exceeding the high previously set in 1998.
Powell River and Tatlayoko Lake broke even older records. Those dated back to 1941.
It cooled down a bit further south, but was still well above seasonal. West Vancouver recorded a high of 15.6 C. It’s previous record was 14.9 C set in 1993.
In fact it’s so warm that Metro Vancouver announced a temporary opening of the Grouse Grind Wednesday.
“The Grouse Grind Trail reopened on February 4 due to favourable trail and weather conditions — the trail is currently clear of snow, ice, or other hazards,” Park Operations at the municipality said in a statement, adding that staff will continue to monitor the conditions and may reclose the trail is necessary.
The trail will also be closed for a couple weeks in March for spring maintenance.
The municipality said it is unusual for the Grind to open at this time of the year, with the typical opening happening sometime between mid-April and mid-May.
As for other activities on the mountain, a lack of snow means skiing and snowboarding is taking a hit. Only seven of the mountain’s 34 runs are currently open.
Environment Canada also says this may be the first in 43 years that Metro Vancouver remains snowless all winter.
Environment Canada meteorologist Ken Dosanjh says there is still tie, but there is no likelihood of sea-level snow in the immediate forecast.
– With files from The Canadian Press
