Notes:
- As of 22 Mar 2024, Williston Reservoir is 2164.4 feet (659.7 metres) ~1 ¼ ft below average for this time of year.
- The average reservoir level for this date is 2165.7 feet (660.1 metres).
- On this date last year, Williston was ~5½ ft lower at 2158.9 feet (658.0 metres).
- Williston inflows remain below average.
- This is a result of the below average spring 2023 snowpack, the regional (and provincial drought) last year, and reduced winter inflows observed since 2024.
- Minimum spring 2024 Williston Reservoir level is currently expected to be between 2155 feet and 2160 feet.
- This is higher than the forecast provided last month.
- The further increase in expected reservoir levels is associated with additional system precipitation, continued imports, and milder March weather.
- For spring 2024 operations, the past year’s Inflows were sufficiently low to meet the criteria for the Low System Supply Event for the 2023/24 season.
- This permitted, if needed, reservoir operations below the Normal Minimum Level of 2147 feet.
- As the current forecasts expect Williston to be above 2150 feet during its spring minimum under a range of weather conditions, the likelihood of operating below 2147 feet is now very unlikely.
Source: BC Hydro, March 22, 2024
THE MACKTOWN BUZZETTE 