Mount Washington Alpine Resort reopened Friday on a limited basis after warm weather and rain stifled snow conditions on the mountain.
The ski lodge was closed on Wednesday and Thursday amid a warm weather system that prompted flood concerns for Vancouver Island.
The B.C. River Forecast Centre has downgraded its flood watch for all of the Island to a “high streamflow advisory,” except for along Ventral Vancouver Island, where a flood watch remains in effect.
A high streamflow advisory means river levels may rise rapidly, but that no flooding is expected. A flood watch, meanwhile, means rivers may reach or exceed their riverbanks and cause some localized flooding.
When either warning is in effect, people should avoid fast-flowing bodies of water due to safety risks.
Some ski lifts open
On Mount Washington, some chair lifts are open Friday, while others remain closed.
“The Whiskey Jack Chair and Carpets are planned to operate, as well as some trails for snowshoeing from Raven Lodge,” said the resort in an update Friday morning.
“The Tube Park and Night Skiing will not open tonight.”
Ticket prices on Friday are reduced if you buy them in person due to the closed terrain.
The resort asks that visitors stay only on groomed runs to avoid potential hazards. Ted’s Bar and other retail and guest services are open as usual Friday.
“For Saturday, we hope to reopen the Eagle Chairlift, one lane of The Tube Park, and for cross-country ski trails to open at the Nordic Centre,” said Mount Washington. “Night skiing is planned to resume on Saturday and Sunday evening.”
This week also saw daily temperature records fall across the Island.
On Thursday, the Victoria Harbour Area broke another 83-year-old record, when it reached a high of 13.1°C. The previous daily record was 12.8°C set in 1941.
Adam Chan
