I don't know the correct answer, Gerry. I can say I've noticed a change in the weather since I was a kid (check the stats for B.C. for Jan. - March 1950). I think it's quite possible climate change has played a role, how much I wouldn't have a clue.
Our family has black and white photos from the 50's of my sisters and I tobogganing off the second story roof of our house on our farm in Saskatchewan. Haven't heard the likes of that in many a year now. Whatever the cause behind the change, I'm sure farmers in Sask today would love to see even half that amount blanket their fields in the winter.
I saw a guy on C.B.C. this morning, being interviewed who had just passed through Fort Mac in the convoy and he said he got a fairly good view of the down town core and most of the structures are still standing, the media having grossly exaggerated the amount of damage....................but then I guess that's how you sell newspapers!

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I suppose it depends on the source of the news, JLM. For the most part the reports I've heard about damage concerned personal property - homes, vehicles, boats, RVs, ATVs and such. I haven't heard a reporter say anything about the infrastructure of the town being damaged.
Damn Karma.
Tis the time of year for BC to burn again. Hopefully they can contain them.
Forestry managed to contain then put out at least ten fires in our area so far. The weather is helping things as we have had intermittent rainy days and hot sunny days. It was sunny and hot today - 27' and now the clouds have rolled in and I can smell the moisture in the air. Thank you Gaia.