| This study applies statistical analysis on precipitation, surface temperature and snowpack data from weather stations in Fernie British Columbia, to determine the presence and significance of trends over the timeframe of 1963--2006. The observed trends, and projected changes in precipitation and temperature for the region are used to identify climate change impacts on water resources in Fernie. Significant increasing trends are observed in the annual average extreme maximum temperatures, most notably during the spring and summer seasons. Annual rainfall has increased over the study period, with spring rain contributing most significantly to the annual change. A statistically significant decrease in average snowfall is observed, with snowfall in the winter contributing most significantly to the decline. The implications of the analytical results are discussed, and focus primarily on the vulnerability of the community of Fernie to decreased water supply as a result of decreased snowpack, earlier spring melt and likelihood of longer, hotter summers. |
