For the third year in a row, the climatological phenomenon known as La Niña will influence BC this winter, according to a new report by AccuWeather.
It is sure to play a vital role in the overall weather pattern this coming winter, said long time AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist, Brett Anderson
During a La Niña phase, sea surface temperatures in the open waters of the equatorial Pacific Ocean dip to below-average levels. When La Niña is present, an amplified polar jet stream ushers in cold air and more frequent storms to the western half of Canada.
While La Niña will be the primary driver of the winter pattern across much of North America, Anderson warns that a slight shift in the wind direction could enhance or counter its impacts.
Winters in Canada are typically cold and snowy in many regions, but due to the orientation of the jet stream and the climatological phenomenon known as La Niña, some areas will bear the brunt of stormy weather while people in other areas could experience a break on their heating bill.
Meanwhile, the special air quality statement has ended for Squamish, with rain in forecast starting this Friday.