2021 certainly was an unprecedented year for those working on campus to support extreme weather events.
From heat domes, atmospheric rivers, a tornado, and arctic outflows with little to no rest over the holiday period — the teams across Facilities have had to navigate heavy snow and ice, downed trees, air quality issues, extreme heat to extreme cold temperatures, flooding and so much more.
Some interesting facts:
- A White Christmas in Vancouver is very rare. 2021 was only the fourth one recorded in the last 25 years.
- Vancouver recorded the longest dry spell and second hottest temperatures ever in July and August 2021. With Lytton recording 49.6°C, the hottest temperature ever observed in Canada,
- The tornado that hit UBC was the first recorded in over 30 years, and the fourth ever recorded in the lower mainland.
- Atmospheric rivers have brought extreme flooding, and continue to bring heavy rainfalls that may result in further flooding. A warning is in effect for January 11 and 12.
- Arctic-outflows resulted in windchills of around -20°C.
A big thank you goes out to all of those from across Facilities who support extreme weather such that the university can continue to operate in a safe and functional capacity. We appreciate your dedication and commitment to the campus community.