Metro Vancouver Weather: Will La Niña Bring a Snowier, Colder Winter?
This winter could be especially promising for skiers and snowboarders in Metro Vancouver. The region's long-term weather forecast is shaped by La Niña, a climate pattern often linked to increased precipitation and cooler temperatures in the Lower Mainland.
Impact of La Niña on Local Ski Conditions
During La Niña years, local ski hills usually receive abundant snowfall. The combination of wetter and colder weather results in the coveted "champagne powder" snow that attracts alpine enthusiasts.
What is La Niña?
La Niña occurs when parts of the central Pacific Ocean cool by about 0.5°C (0.9°F) below normal. This is the opposite of El Niño, which tends to cause drier and milder conditions.
Current Ocean Conditions
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Climate Prediction Centre reports that sea surface temperatures are "mostly below average" across the Pacific Ocean, confirming La Niña conditions.
These patterns are expected to continue through December 2025 into February 2026, with a likely shift toward neutral conditions between January and March 2026.
November Weather Outlook
Environment Canada meteorologist Brian Proctor told V.I.A.: "This is generally good news for the region, to build the groundwater."
November is expected to be fairly typical, with possibly slightly above-average rainfall. The month begins with a mix of storms, brief sunny periods, and temperatures near the seasonal norm.
Summary
La Niña is likely to bring colder and wetter conditions to Metro Vancouver this winter, benefiting ski slopes with increased snowfall and helping replenish groundwater levels.
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