As a fast-moving system is expected to bring some plowable snow to Vermont, Northern New York and much of New England this week, many might be wondering what an Alberta Clipper is. We break down what this term means and where it comes from.

Alberta Clippers are quick-moving areas of low pressure that originate in the western Canadian province of Alberta, usually tapping some energy from the polar jet stream and sometimes a bit from the Pacific. The name “clipper” was coined in the 1960s and derives from the fast-moving sailing ships of the 19th century.

A punishing storm has much of the U.S. bracing for severe winter weather. So what is an Alberta Clipper? And what should those in its path be expecting?

A clipper system brought many their first measurable snowfall of the season. That clipper system is also known as an Alberta Clipper. What is an Alberta Clipper? Alberta Clippers occur most often from October to March.