1. La Niña

Many have heard of El Niño, which is a warming in ocean temperatures; however, many are unaware of its opposite, La Niña. According to AccuWeather, La Niña is characterized by cooler water temperatures in the Pacific Ocean and has now officially arrived. Climate.gov predicted a 55 percent chance that La Niña would persist this winter.

2. More Snow

La Niña brings with it more extreme weather patterns, and according to mynorthwest.com, at least average snowfall can be expected this winter. October had record rainfall, so a large amount of snowfall can be predicted in coming months as well.The mountain will receive more snow than town, so skiers and snow-boarders can look forward to the ski season.

3. A Super Ski Season

While some locals dismay over cold temperatures and massive amounts of snow that La Niña brings, local skiers and boarders rejoice.  In the past five years, Schweitzer has received dismal to sub-par conditions and has not experienced a legitimate La Niña winter since 2008. If predictions made by NOAA for 2016/17 hold true, Schweitzer could receive over 300 inches of snow.

4. Schweitzer Changes

As weather predictions begin to shape up for the upcoming winter, workers are putting some of the finishing touches on the Summit Lodge. The Summit Lodge is Schweitzer’s newest addition to the mountain. Placed between the Great Escape and Snow Ghost lifts, it will provide restrooms, a cafeteria and restaurant, and a beautiful view of the mountain.

5. A White Christmas

If snowfall increases this year as predicted, a white Christmas can be expected. Years past have had little fresh snow around the holidays, but this year individuals may be able to wake up to snow falling on Christmas morning. Welcome to  winter!