The relentless lineup of eastern storms, that attacked the region in alphabetical order, will provide skiers and riders with conditions and length of season that could rival last winter. In a number of resorts, the additional snow cover will act as insurance for some key events that are on the January schedule.

Winter Storm Hercules hit the east coast with all the strength of the mythological Greek figure, and eastern resorts are enjoying the wallop.

It’s the frugal kind of artificial snow but, unfortunately, it’s not available to the entire ski world. Such a pity, because it needs no water, pipelines or compressed air to produce.