Heavy Halifax snowfall may help replenish water supplies after last year’s drought

Will the heavy winter snow in Halifax restore water levels ahead of summer?

A snowy winter across Halifax could ease some of the dry conditions that contributed to water shortages and wildfire concerns last year, but officials say it’s still early to know.

CT V News Atlantic meteorologist Kalin Mitchell says Halifax has seen significantly more snow this winter compared to last year.

“We have received about 221 centimetres of snow,” Mitchell said. “The average is about 177 centimetres for the snowy season, so we’re sitting about a foot-and-a-half above average right now, and much more than what we received last year.”

He said the deeper snowpack could provide some benefits as temperatures warm.

“With a bit more of a snowpack built up, it should linger a little bit later into the spring season before it completely disappears,’ Mitchell said. “So we do get that more gradual, slower release of moisture into some of the water systems around the Maritimes.”

Last year’s lack of snow contributed to dry conditions in parts of the region, as the smaller snowpack melted quickly and provided less moisture to lakes, rivers and groundwater.

Officials with Halifax Water say the system remains below historic levels and the full impact of the snowfall won’t be known until later in the spring.

Halifax Water spokesperson Brittany Smith said the utility will have a clearer picture once the snow has melted and runoff flows into reservoirs.

“We really know our fullest in May when the snow is finally gone,” said Smith.

One of the key water sources, Lake Major, has already returned to full capacity after being a concern during last year’s dry conditions. Smith said water from the lake is currently being transferred across the harbour to help supply Halifax.

“We’re hopeful when it starts to melt that the runoff will help,” she said. “But we’re still needing a lot of rain this spring.”

Officials are also continuing to encourage residents to conserve water throughout the year.

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