The October 25th event was stronger (deeper cyclone, more amplified flow, more lift).
The primary mid-tropospheric lift remained south of the area of interest on January 3rd, while it focused over the area on October 25th.
The October 25th event began with less low-level cold air available (neither event had much).
Precipitation began as snow on the hills on January 3rd, then changed to snow in the valleys. On October 25th, precipitation began as rain everywhere.
A pronounced bright band was observed on October 25th.