Vineyards in the Okanagan Valley are experiencing a welcome reprieve this winter, following last year’s devastating cold snap that wiped out significant portions of grape crops. Tantalus Vineyards in Kelowna, B.C., is one of many in the region slowly recovering from the severe temperatures that reached as low as –30°C, leaving lasting damage on vines.
“A respite year, like the one we are currently experiencing, is crucial for the vines to heal and recover,” said Dave Paterson, winemaker at Tantalus Vineyards. The extreme cold that gripped the region last January pushed temperatures far below the –17°C threshold that grapevines typically tolerate. In 2023, temperatures plummeted to –27°C and –30°C in some areas, causing widespread damage.
This year, however, the winter has been much milder. As of January 14, the lowest temperature recorded was –3.9°C, significantly higher than the average seasonal low of –8°C. Paterson remains hopeful, saying, “Fingers crossed that the mild weather we’ve seen over the last few months continues.”
In addition to the milder temperatures, daytime highs have also been above average. Global News meteorologist Peter Quinlan reported that Kelowna’s temperatures have been about 2.8°C warmer than normal. While last winter was similarly warmer than average, it did not prevent the extreme cold snap that caused significant crop losses.
The milder conditions have also led to lighter snowfall. Snow removal teams in Kelowna have seen little work so far, with only small snow events requiring attention. “We saw a couple of small events toward the end of 2023, but so far in January, we haven’t had a single snow event that required a full response,” said Geert Bos, department manager of infrastructure operations for the City of Kelowna.
Local residents have also taken advantage of the warmer conditions, enjoying more time outdoors than usual. “A lot of people suffer from cabin fever this time of year, but with warmer weather, it’s great to get outside,” said Kelowna resident James Chester.
For Khoa Nguyen, the balance between snow on the mountains and mild conditions in the valley has been ideal. “We get the best of both worlds,” he said, noting opportunities for skiing and outdoor recreation such as biking and hiking.
However, meteorologists warn that the milder weather may not last. According to Quinlan, the region is likely to experience a cooldown next week, with daytime highs dropping into the minus-single digits and overnight lows potentially reaching double-digit negatives.
For now, Okanagan residents and vineyard owners are making the most of the mild weather, hopeful that it will continue to aid vine recovery and provide more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
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