Drought Levels

current conditions

Drought Levels

The Province uses a 6 level drought classification to describe the impacts and suggested responses to drought conditions. These levels are explained in the table below.  Provincial Drought levels are reported for large water basins across the province. The Drought Level reported for East Vancouver Island represents average conditions from Victoria to north of Campbell River, but local conditions may be more severe for individual watersheds within the region.

For a full explanation of how the drought level is determined, as well as the roles and responsibilities of various levels of government in responding to drought conditions, see the British Columbia Drought and Water Scarcity Response Plan.

Level Conditions Impacts General Response Measures
0 (Green) Normal There is sufficient water to meet socio-economic and ecosystem needs

Preparedness

Conservation

1 (Yellow) Dry Adverse impacts to socio-economic or ecosystem values are rare

Preparedness

Conservation

2 (Peach) Very Dry Adverse impacts to socio-economic or ecosystem values are unlikely

Conservation

Local water restrictions where appropriate

3 (Orange) Severely Dry Adverse impacts to socio-economic or ecosystem values are possible

Conservation

Local water restrictions likely

4 (Red) Extremely Dry Adverse impacts to socio-economic or ecosystem values are likely

Conservation and local water restrictions

Regulatory action possible

5 (Maroon) Exceptionally Dry Adverse impacts to socio-economic or ecosystem values are almost certain Conservation and local water restrictions
Regulatory action likely
Possible emergency response
For information on the current drought levels throughout the province visit the Provincial Drought Information Portal

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The New Normal is an initiative of the Cowichan Valley Regional District.

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Kate Miller, Manager
Environmental Services
Engineering Services
Cowichan Valley Regional District
250.746.2509 / 1.800.665.3955
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