Be prepared.
That's the message for British Columbians coming from Environment Canada for this winter.
While this season may be colder than average, Environment Canada Meteorologist Bobby Sekhon tells Vancouver Is Awesome in a telephone interview that every winter offers the possibility for extreme weather events, regardless of the long-term forecast.
As a result, Sekhon says it is best to consistently check the short-term weather forecast. Sudden changes in temperature, such as the arrival of frigid arctic air, are not included in long-term forecasts. Instead, these weather patterns are observed within a week of their arrival in the Lower Mainland.
That said, Metro Vancouverites may want to prepare for below-average temperatures this winter. The seasonal forecast model is "showing a 58 per cent probability of below-average temperatures," he explains.
But Sekhon cautions that the signal for the cooler temperatures isn't strong: "You know, that's obviously to be taken with a grain of salt."
Metro Vancouver weather forecast for winter 2021/2022
The average daily temperature for December in Vancouver is 3.6 C, which makes it the coldest month of the year. But, as Sekhon points out, the seasonal averages don't give a full picture of extreme weather events, such as arctic air, heavy rainfall, or snowstorms.
Additionally, other weather patterns, such as pineapple expresses, may bring warm air into the region during the winter months. As such, the average temperature for the month is a compilation of weather events but doesn't tell the complete story of extreme weather patterns.
Will there be a white Christmas this year?
As with any forecast, Sekhon is hesitant to comment on precipitation in the long-term forecast. While the models indicate temperature probabilities, it isn't possible to ascertain what specific days will have precipitation in a long-term forecast.
But snowstorms, as well as other tempestuous weather events, are always a possibility during winter — even in "raincouver."
