Whether this pending winter storm is a Storm of the Century or at least something we'll be talking about for the next several days, weeks, months or years—that won't be determined until it finally arrives and after it leaves and we can assess the impact. But when we do talk about it, what will we call it?

The Weather Channel says you should call the storm Nemo, a name that makes most people think of a talking fish or a submarine captain. The cable station that some people consider to be the ultimate authority on all things weather decided that it would name all "noteworthy" winter storms in 2012-13 and every season going forward, just like what is done for hurricanes. Athena was the first Weather Channel-named winter storm. Then came Brutus, followed by Caesar, Draco and Euclid.

"Our goal is to better communicate the threat and the timing of the significant impacts that accompany these events," the Weather Channel's website states. "The fact is, a storm with a name is easier to follow, which will mean fewer surprises and more preparation."  

Some media outlets have chosen to use the Weather Channel's names. Others are not interested. The National Weather Service, which the federal government considers to be the ultimate authority on all things weather, has refused to recognize them, as it said in a diplomatically worded statement.

"The National Weather Service has no opinion about private weather enterprise products and services," an official statement released by the NWS in November says. "A winter storm's impact can vary from one location to another, and storms can weaken and redevelop, making it difficult to define where one ends and another begins. While the National Weather Service does not name winter storms, we do rate major winter storms after the fact."

A less-diplomatic statement was released by Joel N. Myers, founder of Accuweather, rival of the Weather Channel.

"In unilaterally deciding to name winter storms, The Weather Channel has confused media spin with science and public safety," Myers said. "We have explored this issue for 20 years and have found that this is not good science and will mislead the public. Winter storms are very different from hurricanes."

So, what do you think? Is Winter Storm Nemo headed your way? Or maybe it's the Blizzard of '13? Share your opinions in the comments section below, vote in our poll and stay safe during these next two days.