Winter is firmly back in control across much of the country. After a brief stretch of mixed conditions, colder air is settling in, snow levels are cooperating, and several regions are setting themselves up for improved skiing as we head toward the holiday period. Here’s a look at how things are shaping up around the country.
Northwest
The Northwest remains the standout over the next five to six days. A series of cold storms with low snow levels will deliver exactly what the region needs after a slow start to the season: deep, base building snow.
Snow totals are expected to stack up quickly:
* Cascades and BC Coast Range: 2 to 5 feet
* Snow levels remain low enough to favor mountain terrain
This is not just powder. This is the kind of snow that builds coverage, opens terrain, and sets resorts up for a stronger season moving forward.
Western Canada
Western Canada continues to quietly deliver. The Canadian Interior already has a solid base in place, and more snow is on the way.
* Canadian Interior and Northern U.S. Rockies: 1 to 2 feet
* Interior BC resorts continue to benefit from an already deep snowpack
These areas are well positioned heading into the heart of winter, with consistent coverage and improving conditions.
California
California has had quite a rough go to start the season. However, there may be some hope on the horizon and during the holiday week with snow in the forecast for higher elevations. Keep an eye on December 24-28th.
Colorado
Colorado’s snowpack remains below average overall, but there are signs of improvement ahead.
* A few inches expected Friday night into Saturday for the northern and central mountains
* Not a big storm, but a helpful refresh
* The December 25 to 28 window currently looks like the best opportunity for more meaningful snowfall
Terrain remains limited in some areas, but this is a forecast worth watching closely as holiday travel ramps up.
Midwest
A colder pattern settles into the Midwest with light snow through Saturday, offering a small but welcome refresh for regional ski areas.
* Light snow through Saturday
* Enough to freshen conditions, not a major storm
* Cold air sticks around after the snow tapers off
This is the kind of snowfall that helps keep surfaces in good shape and skiing enjoyable.
East Coast
New England
New England saw a brief warm and rainy stretch this past week, but that break from winter will be short lived.
* Much colder air returns
* Snow showers continue through the weekend
* Additional high elevation snow is possible into next week
This sets the region back into a more consistent winter pattern, especially for mountain resorts.
Mid-Atlantic
The Mid-Atlantic sees a quick flip on Friday as rain exits and colder air moves in.
* Rain changes briefly to snow
* Snow totals range from 1 to 4 inches from North Carolina to Pennsylvania
* Up to 6 inches possible in the northern Mid-Atlantic
* Drier weather returns for the weekend
Nothing major, but enough to freshen things up before weekend skiing.
Final Take
This is a base building stretch for the Northwest and Western Canada, a refresh cycle for the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic, and a cautiously optimistic setup for Colorado heading into Christmas week. Cold air is back, snow levels are cooperating, and winter is steadily tightening its grip.
As always, ski the good snow when it shows up.
