I think seasonal pattern and temp forecasting has some degree of skill and accuracy. However, I think it is still a low probability of success no matter the method, skill, or experience.
The part that I think has virtually zero reliability is snowfall prediction. I would love to go back and see the long range outlook for 2015-16. My guess with it being a Nino the predictions were normal to slightly cooler temps with normal to above snowfall. If so, the temps would have been off. The snow probably spot on but only because of pure luck. Take away the bomb, which easily could have never happened, and that winter was a total disaster that I am sure would not have been forecasted correctly.
we may end up above normal in temps this year. I don’t know. But we could end up above normal snow as well. Snow is so much about luck and timing. I just don’t think that can be forecast at long range.