When I'm planning a winter-season hike (as I am now, for this weekend), I
==check the multiple weather services (wunderground, mountwashington.org, stream-level heights, etc.; others have favorites);
==watch the weather segments on the news (NECN does a nice animated prediction that shows expected precip across all of NE); and
==check the Trail Conditions and Trip Reports just prior to going, especially for the trails you'll be on, but also for a general feel for the conditions overall.
These will tell what kind of traction you'll need & what other conditions prevail. Keep checking right up until departure.
I don't think there's any real snow-base yet (right?), so you'll only need something for what falls right before you go.
Good luck & report back!
--Mike.