This winter forecast suggests favorable conditions for skiers and snowboarders in Metro Vancouver. Alpine enthusiasts can anticipate a season with potentially abundant snowfall and colder temperatures.
Metro Vancouver’s long-term weather is influenced by La Niña, a climate pattern linked to increased precipitation and below-average temperatures in the Lower Mainland. Ski hills in the region usually see plenty of snow during La Niña years, resulting in the prized champagne powder on the slopes.
A La Niña event happens when parts of the central Pacific Ocean cool by approximately 0.5°C (0.9°F) below normal. Its counterpart, El Niño, normally brings drier and milder weather conditions.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Centre reported that sea surface temperatures are "mostly below average" across the Pacific Ocean, confirming La Niña conditions are present.
These conditions are expected to remain through December 2025 and into February 2026, with a likely shift to neutral conditions between January and March 2026.
Environment Canada meteorologist Brian Proctor explains that November's weather should be near average with possibly slightly above-normal rainfall. The month is beginning with several storms, intermittent sunny spells, and temperatures close to the norm.
"This is generally good news for the region, to build the groundwater," said Proctor.
La Niña is set to bring wetter and colder conditions to Metro Vancouver this winter, benefiting the local ski season with increased snowfall and supporting water resources early in the season.
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