Before the rain

by Richard
(Castlegar)

snow air

snow air

Got it done, whew...


Barry's Response Thank you, Richard. That gave us some relief from thinking we had a lot of snow this year.

We always lose to British Columbia. Was this really before the rain? You probably know what would happen if that happened. When heavy snow like that precedes a solid rain it results in significant slush, possible hidden water flows and landslides in extreme cases.

What causes landslides? Water flows under the slope and destabilizes it. It could happen at any time. There are times when rainwater and melting snow weaken the ground slope more than usual, which makes groundwater flow worse. This type of landslide happens a lot in BC. Hope, BC - 1965 and Frank, Alberta - 1903 are two of Canada's biggest events. There's also the recurring Devil's Slide in California that makes US headlines.

I'm not aware of any landslides in Castlegar; what's the climate like? It has a dry (ish) summer and pretty good snow all winter. Summers can get into the mid-30s and winters can get down to -15°C.



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Castlegar, British Columbia, is blessed with a unique climate that is influenced by its mountainous surroundings and its location in the interior of the province.


For those not familiar with this place, I did a bit of research.

In the heart of British Columbia's interior, Castlegar has a diverse and captivating climate. This city, located in the Selkirk Mountains near the confluence of the Columbia and Kootenay rivers, has beautiful natural surroundings. Castlegar has a mix of continental and mountain influences, resulting in distinct seasonal patterns.

Here we find warm, dry summers with plenty of sunshine. Outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and exploring the nearby national parks are available around the mountains. Daytime temperatures can get pretty warm, but cooler nights offer relief and the chance to enjoy the fresh mountain air.

In contrast, their winters can be chilly because of its location in the interior. A winter wonderland can be created by cold air masses descending from the mountains. Ski resorts and winter recreation activities are nearby, so visitors and locals can enjoy the beauty and serenity of the snowy landscape.

Castlegar's climate is transitional in spring and autumn. These seasons bring moderate temperatures, blossoming flowers, and vibrant foliage. Autumn paints the landscape with a tapestry of red, orange, and gold as the leaves change colors.

So now we see a climate that embraces the beauty of British Columbia. Summers are warm and inviting, winters are snowy, and spring and autumn are beautiful. Castlegar's climate provides a captivating backdrop for residents and visitors to immerse themselves in the natural splendor of the region, whether you're basking in the sun, enjoying winter sports, or admiring the changing seasons.

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