Canada gets less snow than it used to — a lot less, according a study that scientists at Environment Canada say is the most precise estimate of global snowfall yet.

Weather is the major unknown variable that could determine if the region actually runs into trouble with high water.

The regional district says it has activated its emergency operations centre and it is monitoring snowpack levels.

Flooding season is rapidly approaching and this year might be an especially wet one.

All water users, including residents, industry, farmers and municipalities are asked to voluntarily reduce water use under Level 3 conditions.

Alberta officials are keeping a close eye on the snowpack in the mountains west of Calgary, which could have an impact on flooding.

The B.C. River Forecast Centre says snow levels have dropped significantly since the beginning of the month due to persistently hot weather and rapid melt.

The River Forecast Centre says upper-elevation rivers could reach their peak flow soon.

Okanagan snowpack level at 81 per cent of normal as of March 1.

The WSA said the far north and most of southern Saskatchewan are expected to have a below normal spring runoff.