Vancouver hit by heavy rainfall ahead of Winter Olympics
With the 2010 Winter Olympics less than a month away, Vancouver is seeing unseasonable warm weather and has already broken the January rainfall average of 139mm.
Vancouver International Airport saw a record high of 13.4℃ on Tuesday, beating the old 1981 record of 12℃, and more than double the 6℃ average.
The warm air and heavy rain are causing problems for some outdoor Olympic Venues, particularly Cypress Mountain, which has now closed to the public two weeks earlier than planned in order to prepare for Olympic events in less than a month when it is due to host the Freestyle Skiing and Snowboard Halfpipe events.
Whistler to the north is receiving more snow, having already accumulated more than 8 metres since opening in November. Current base depths at mid-mountain are more than 2.5 metres (over eight feet).
Olympic officials have stressed that the Vancouver rainfall is not a problem and a scenario that they have planned for for many years. They say the venues will be able to operate next month.
The Winter Olympics begin on February 12th.
Image courtesy of Iwona Kellie
Factfile: Whistler
- Total km of piste: 216kms
- Number of runs: 216
- Lifts: 38
Whistler has been ranked number 1 ski resort 12 years running and is also host to the 2010 Winter Olympics. A unique ski village with a distinctively West Coast style, relaxed mood and spectacular skiing. The attractive pedestrianised village centre has pleasant walkways and plazas with stylish shops, a huge choice of great bars, clubs and restaurants. Designed by skiers, for skiers, everything you could possibly want from a ski holiday is right on your doorstep.
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