As we began to shift into spring, conditions across Canada were significantly variable in April. Exceptionally high precipitation was reported across the Central Region of Canada with large portions of Ontario and southern Quebec reporting more between 100 to 150 mm. Short-term dryness continued in Atlantic Canada with monthly precipitation deficits of more than 60 mm and 3-month deficits now over 100 mm for much of the region. Precipitation deficits persisted in parts of the Prairies, especially northern agricultural areas of Alberta and Saskatchewan. Both long-term and short-term precipitation deficits have led to continued drought impacts despite recent snowmelt. In British Columbia, a number of atmospheric rivers brought substantial rainfall to the coastal regions improving drought conditions, however Moderate Drought (D1) continued across much of the southern portion of the province due to both short-term and long-term precipitation deficits and related impacts.
At the end of the month, 34% of the country was classified as Abnormally Dry (D0) or in Moderate to Severe Drought (D1 to D2), including 61% of the country’s agricultural landscape. There was no Extreme or Exceptional Drought (D3 or D4) reported this month.
