WeatherWhys for December 9,2014 from accuweather.com

Heavy, wet snow threatens to put residents in the dark, as well as causing tree damage. When the air is cold, snow crystals are dry and powdery and contain less water. As the air warms to near freezing, the snow becomes wetter and heavier. If enough wet snow accumulates, it could take down power lines. This type of snow also creates hazards for those who have to shovel it.