Spring Snowpack Anomaly Patterns and Winter Climatic Variability, British Columbia, Canada

摘要: The objective of this study was to describe the spatial and temporal structure spring snowpack anomalies in British Columbia, Canada, relate anomaly patterns climatic fluctuations. Cluster analysis used identify relatively homogeneous groups snow course sites, based on April 1 measurements, for periotd 1966–1992. Time series cluster-averaged were then computed. Synoptic-scale circulation types defined by applying a correlation-based map classification technique gridded data sets surface pressure 500-hPa height levels. Frequencies calculated each winter (November March). Total precipitation mean temperature from monthly 16 climate stations. Snowpack 1966 1976 dominated two patterns: one characterized generally heavier-than-average snowpacks over most province other south lighter-than-average north. From 1977 1992, conditions either lighter than average whole or heavier north south. correlated, although at some stations it appears that high temperatures, likely causing more midwinter melt rain, can act reduce snowpack. differences frequencies synoptic between 1966–1976 1977–1992 periods accord with decadal-scale shifts sea temperatures atmospheric North Pacific, as reported literature. shift following is consistent glacier mass balance rates retreat streamflow