Vancouver/IBNS: British Columbia will experience drought conditions through the summer months, a forecast has suggested and urged people, businesses across the province to conserve water.

Recent rains have provided relief for some regions in B.C., but not enough to overcome the limited rain and precipitation from previous months and  the increased flows that are present in some streams and river systems are likely to be short-lived. 

If the province does not see sufficient results due to conservation measures, the authorities would issue temporary protection orders under the Water Sustainability Act to water licensees to support drinking water for communities.

People and businesses in affected areas are advised to reduce water use.

Areas currently under drought level 4 include: the East Peace, Fort Nelson, and Finlay areas while the majority of other watershed basins in B.C. are in drought levels 2 or 3.

(Reporting by Asha Bajaj)