(1) We see a lot of "Alberta Clippers" and short waves (little kinks in the jet stream). These tend to be rather frequent, and come from the Northwest (out of Albeta, Canada). These systems, while frequent, don't usually produce a lot of snowfall on their initital pass. Usually 2-4". They can lead to lake effect snow, on their heels, and we all know that lake effect snow really likes to "pile up" here.

(2) There are systems, like the one that may be brewing this weekend. This one is coming out of the southwest, and is a big, wet system that is going to run into colder air over this area. These lead to freezing rain, sleet, snow, and lake effect snow on their heels. These are the ones that usually get people talking. This type of storm has the ability to dump a lot of snow on the initial pass, and turn on the lake effect snow too.

(3) Nor' easters are the third. While they usually pile on the snow in New York City, and New England, they usually only have residual effects here. Mainly lake effect.... there it is again. These travel northward, along the Eastern Coast. So, this one, will be to the east.

I think the answer you are looking for is number 2, but there are so many systems that impact us in different ways. That is why I decided to give you three to choose from.

If you ever have a question, feel free to email the weather team at weather@wsee.tv.