The UKMET actually had a few good performances last winter, as did the Canadian duo.
The UKMET has been horrendous this winter though. Unsure if they performed any 'upgrades' or not.
There are several pieces to the puzzle.
PV well north up in Canada, a disturbance currently cut off well offshore of California, lead waves coming onshore in BC/Pac NW, and then lastly another wave that will dive into the Pac NW from Alaska.