Ski areas in Colorado have been claiming 'the storm of the century' this weekend with up to 90cm (three feet) of powder descending in 48 hours.
Aspen Snowmass has done particularly well out of the abundance of powder, which they report is lying 'poles deep' on the piste, leading to superb conditions once terrain is made avalanche safe.
Further west there's palpable relief in California after the two month drought finally ended and big snowfalls were reported at resorts around Tahoe and down as far as Mammoth.
December and January had seen almost no snow fall at world famous resorts liked Heavenly, Squaw Valley and Mammoth – normally famous for their deep bases of pacific powder, which frequently allows them to stay open well in to spring and sometimes summer if they wish.
Squaw Valley opened four lifts for the first time this season yesterday following the storm that brought 10 inches (25cm) of fresh snow to both Squaw Valley and neighbouring Alpine Meadows.
"The new openings provide access to some of Squaw's most popular terrain. Mountain Meadow lift services the mountain-top beginner area, giving first-time skiers and riders the opportunity to progress amid stunning views of Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada," said a resort statement, "Off of Shirley Lake Express, skiers and riders will find five wide, tree-cut runs, perfect for intermediate to advanced skiers and riders. Siberia Run and Siberia Bowl will be open off of Siberia Express, offering wide, open terrain for advanced skiers and riders."