Winter solstice is nearing and the days are getting shorter by the minute. This past week, qathet was fortunate to have a few days of clear skies and colourful sunsets bestowed upon the region.
Weatherhood is forecasting a 71 per cent chance of rain this evening, beginning at 6 pm, and a temperature of eight degrees Celsius. Winds may get up to 17 kilometres an hour. The sun will set at 4:19 pm this afternoon, with an overnight temperature of four degrees.
Saturday, December 7, and Sunday, December 8, the forecast is for a mix of sun and cloud with a 50 per cent chance of rain.
According to Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), December 1 marked the start of meteorological winter, the coldest season of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. "Lasting until February 28, this period is defined by reduced sunlight, long nights, cold temperatures and snow in many regions," stated a winter seasonal outlook alert from ECCC.
The temperature outlook for BC will begin as mild in December, but temperatures could drop closer to or below normal in January and February, according to ECCC.
"Ocean patterns like La Niña and the Pacific Decadal Oscillation may bring cooler, wetter weather to western Canada this winter, potentially offsetting the overall warming trend in some regions, stated the ECCC.
qathet region residents are gearing up for the holiday season by decorating their homes with lights and reindeer sculptures and maybe hitting a few Christmas markets, which have been in full swing for the past few weeks.
Springtime Garden Centre is hosting a two-day winter market this Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 3 pm each day. Paradise Valley Railroad will be at Paradise Exhibition Grounds on McLeod Road giving train rides through the lights to folks by donation of food, toys or cash for the Salvation Army Christmas program. There will also be a bonfire and snacks in the Quonset by Kiwanis.
Tonight, December 6, is opening night for PRESENT at qathet Art Centre, located at 215-6975 Alberni Street, from 6 to 9 pm.
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