In mid-November, the Pacific Northwest got pummeled with a series of storms that brought strong wind and heavy precipitation — and yes, snow to mountain areas that suffered through a severely below-average snowfall last winter. Last winter, most ski runs in the region couldn’t open, with some resorts remaining closed altogether.

This year seems like it’s off to a different start. Recent storms meant several feet of accumulation in some areas of the Cascade Mountains, and ski lifts are looking to open. But travelers should be warned before buying plane tickets, lift tickets or season passes for Northwest ski resorts.

Weather experts are still predicting a stronger than normal El Nino system, which will bring warmer, drier winters than average, meaning if snow does fall at all, it will be confined to high elevations, likely higher than most ski runs.

Of course, that prediction can change, but travelers should sit tight. If the winter is indeed warm and dry, perhaps you should plan to visit in early summer. If 2016 is at all like 2015, trails normally under heavy snow well into July will be free and clear in June.