Once more we find ourselves bracing for the approach of yet another winter tempest. The outcome, whether it be a picturesque winter paradise or a dreary, sodden disaster, may ultimately rest on a single determining factor: the path the storm chooses to take.

It may seem arbitrary, almost as if it were a toss of the dice, but the reality is far more intricate. You see, there exists a crucial demarcation known as the Benchmark – an imperceptible boundary hovering approximately 115 miles to the south of the Outer Cape. This boundary possesses a considerable influence over the nature of the weather we are to experience when winter storms come knocking at our door.

Should the storm traverse a particular point on the map – around 40°N, 70°W to be precise – it earns the label of a “Benchmark” storm. And let me tell you, these storms are no trifling matter. Upon their arrival, they bring forth a deluge of snow, particularly for those residing along the I-95 corridor. Given the abundance of frigid air at their disposal, we are invariably subjected to copious amounts of snowfall.

Then we have the “outside runners” – storms that skirt around the Benchmark. Alas, these do not measure up to the benchmark storms. For New England, they typically herald a dearth of snow; most of it ends up loitering near the coastline.

Let us not overlook the “inside runners,” notorious troublemakers indeed. These vexing entities usher in warmer air, thereby necessitating contemplation of the perturbing rain/snow divide. With these storms, anticipation is rife, as the amount of snow we receive is subject to abrupt changes contingent upon our location.

Now, you may be wondering about the storm scheduled to make an appearance this Sunday. The current indications point towards it being an inside runner. There may well be a blend of snow and rain along I-93 and further south. Even Boston may find itself in the throes of a snow and rain medley. How disappointing indeed!

And for those who harbour curiosity regarding the imminent snowfall, fret not, for I have obtained the most recent snow maps. It would be prudent to take a look.

In summary, it seems wise to brace ourselves for a slushy, disheartening maelstrom. A less than ideal state of affairs, to be sure!