Winter's on its Way - and with lots of Snow for the Pacific Northwest!

At least that's what the experts say.

AccuWeather.com Chief Long-Range Meteorologist Joe Bastardi predicts that the Pacific Northwest will see a much colder and snowier winter than last season: Get the full low-down on Joe's super snow predictions.

Another AccuWeather.com expert Meteorologist predicts up to 20% more moisture (meaning snow!) for the Pacific Northwest for the 2010/11 winter season: Get the full snowy details.

So who do we have to thank for all this anticipated snow and a powderlicious 2010/11 ski season? Her name is La Nina.

La Nina (translated: "the girl") is the weather pattern that develops when the sea surface temperature drops 3 to 5 degrees Celsius below normal. La Nina is El Nino's (translated: 'the boy's") darker half, bringing cold wet weather to the areas she touches. She tags along behind her brother, chasing his above average temps and dry weather with her frosty wet touch. The two operate in a cycle, taking turns playing with the world's weather.

As a woman, I'm not sure I appreciate this description, but as a snowboarder, I'll get over it.

Do you feel a chill in the air?

Posted by Adrienne