Plains Runoff Outlook

As of February 1, 2008, spring snowmelt runoff generally expected to range from below average to average for most of Alberta's plains areas. Exceptions include the Grande Prairie-High Level, Cold Lake-Lloydminster, Swan Hills areas and many plains areas south of Calgary and Brooks, where average to above average runoff is currently expected (Figure 1). Satellite estimation of plains percent of normal SWE as of February 1, 2008 is shown in (Figure 2).

Snow surveys to measure snowpack on the plains begin in late February. Since it is still early in the runoff forecasting season, further weather conditions leading up to spring could also change this forecast considerably. This forecast assumes a typical spring melt occurs; a late spring could mean higher runoff. Check the Forecaster's Comments on the department website throughout the month for the most current conditions.