An automated station moored in Lake Michigan near Michigan City, Indiana, collects real-time meteorological and oceanographic data. This data typically includes wind speed and direction, wave height and period, air and water temperature, atmospheric pressure, and sometimes water current speed and direction. These stations, often anchored to the lakebed, transmit data via satellite or radio to agencies like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and are often part of larger networks providing comprehensive coverage across the Great Lakes.
Real-time data from these strategically placed instruments supports a wide range of activities. Mariners rely on this information for safe navigation, while weather forecasters use it to improve prediction accuracy, particularly for lake-effect snow and other localized weather phenomena. Researchers leverage the data for studies related to climate change, water quality, and ecosystem health. The continuous monitoring also enhances safety for recreational boaters and other users of the lake. Historical data collected over time contributes to a deeper understanding of long-term trends and patterns in the lake environment.
This information is essential for various stakeholders and applications, affecting maritime safety, weather forecasting, research endeavors, and recreational planning around Lake Michigan. Further exploration of specific data uses, technological advancements in buoy design, and the broader impact on the Great Lakes region will provide a richer understanding of this vital resource.
1. Real-time Data
The defining characteristic of a weather buoy deployed near Michigan City is its ability to provide real-time data. This continuous stream of information offers critical insights into current conditions on Lake Michigan, directly impacting safety, forecasting, and research initiatives. Understanding the nature and implications of this real-time data is essential for appreciating the buoy’s significance.
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Current Conditions:
Real-time data provides up-to-the-minute information on meteorological and oceanographic parameters, such as wind speed, wave height, water temperature, and atmospheric pressure. This immediate awareness of current conditions is crucial for safe navigation, allowing mariners to adapt to changing circumstances. For example, sudden wind shifts or increasing wave heights can prompt course corrections or delays in departure.
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Short-Term Forecasting:
The continuous data stream allows for the development of short-term, highly localized forecasts. These forecasts, often more accurate than broader regional predictions, are essential for anticipating rapidly changing lake conditions. The real-time data feeds into predictive models, enabling warnings for severe weather events like thunderstorms and lake-effect snow squalls, which can develop quickly and pose significant risks.
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Dynamic Monitoring:
Real-time data facilitates continuous monitoring of the lake environment, capturing dynamic changes and trends as they occur. This constant observation is invaluable for tracking the development and movement of weather systems, as well as monitoring long-term environmental changes. For instance, tracking water temperature fluctuations contributes to understanding seasonal lake turnover and its impact on aquatic life.
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Safety and Response:
Access to real-time data strengthens safety protocols and informs emergency response efforts. Immediate knowledge of developing hazardous conditions allows for timely warnings and enables more effective search and rescue operations. Real-time wave and wind data, for example, can be crucial in determining safe operating conditions for rescue crews during a maritime emergency.
The availability of real-time data from the Michigan City buoy significantly enhances understanding and response capabilities related to Lake Michigan. This immediacy translates to improved safety for maritime activities, better accuracy in short-term forecasts, and a more nuanced comprehension of dynamic lake processes. The continuous flow of information underscores the buoy’s role as a critical tool for managing activities and mitigating risks associated with this valuable natural resource.
2. Lake Michigan Location
The strategic placement of the weather buoy near Michigan City, Indiana, directly influences the data collected and its applicability. Positioned within the southern portion of Lake Michigan, the buoy captures conditions specific to this region, an area known for its dynamic weather patterns, including volatile lake-effect snow events during winter. This location is crucial for understanding localized phenomena that may not be adequately reflected by broader regional weather observations. For instance, wind patterns influenced by the lake’s topography can create highly localized variations in wave height and intensity, information crucial for safe navigation in the vicinity of Michigan City harbor.
Furthermore, the buoy’s location contributes to a comprehensive network of observational points across the Great Lakes, enabling researchers and forecasters to generate a more complete picture of lake-wide conditions. Data from the Michigan City buoy, when combined with data from other buoys and land-based stations, facilitates a more nuanced understanding of atmospheric and hydrological processes impacting the entire lake system. This integrated approach improves the accuracy of regional weather forecasts and strengthens predictive capabilities for events like lake-effect snow, which heavily impact communities along the southern Lake Michigan shoreline. The location also plays a critical role in monitoring water quality and ecological changes specific to the southern basin.
In summary, the buoy’s placement near Michigan City provides essential localized data critical for safe navigation, accurate forecasting, and a deeper understanding of the dynamic processes within Lake Michigan. This strategic location ensures the collected information is highly relevant to local communities, maritime activities, and scientific research focused on this specific region of the lake, while simultaneously contributing to a broader network of observations that benefit the entire Great Lakes region. The challenges associated with maintaining and operating a buoy in this dynamic environment highlight the importance of its strategic placement and the value of the data it provides.
3. Weather Forecasting
Accurate weather forecasting relies heavily on real-time data, and the Michigan City weather buoy plays a crucial role in providing this information for the southern Lake Michigan region. This buoy’s data directly influences the accuracy and precision of forecasts, particularly those related to hazardous conditions such as lake-effect snow, strong winds, and rapid temperature changes. Understanding this connection is fundamental to appreciating the buoy’s significance in promoting safety and informed decision-making.
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Lake-Effect Snow Prediction:
Lake-effect snow events, common in the Great Lakes region, are notoriously difficult to forecast accurately. The Michigan City buoy provides critical data on water and air temperature, wind speed and direction, and atmospheric pressureall crucial factors influencing lake-effect snow development and intensity. This data allows meteorologists to refine their predictions, providing more accurate forecasts of snowfall amounts, duration, and location, contributing to public safety and preparedness.
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Wind and Wave Forecasting:
Precise wind and wave forecasts are essential for safe navigation on Lake Michigan. The buoy’s real-time measurements of wind speed, direction, and wave height provide critical input for forecasting models, enabling more accurate predictions of wave conditions. This information is particularly valuable for commercial shipping, recreational boating, and search and rescue operations. Accurate wave forecasts enable safer navigation and contribute to informed decisions regarding maritime activities.
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Short-Term Forecast Accuracy:
Weather conditions on Lake Michigan can change rapidly. The buoy’s continuous data stream allows for the development of highly localized, short-term forecasts that capture these rapid fluctuations. This near real-time data allows for better prediction of sudden changes in wind speed, direction, and precipitation, enhancing situational awareness for those operating on or near the lake. This improved accuracy is vital for making informed decisions about recreational activities, commercial operations, and emergency preparedness.
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Severe Weather Warnings:
The Michigan City buoy contributes to the timely issuance of severe weather warnings for the southern Lake Michigan region. Real-time data on rapidly changing conditions allows meteorologists to detect and predict the development of severe thunderstorms, waterspouts, and other hazardous phenomena. These timely warnings enable individuals and communities to take appropriate precautions, minimizing potential risks and enhancing public safety. The buoy data is integrated into warning systems, triggering alerts and ensuring timely dissemination of critical information.
The Michigan City weather buoy plays a vital role in enhancing weather forecasting accuracy for the southern Lake Michigan area. Its real-time data feeds directly into forecasting models, improving predictions related to lake-effect snow, wind and wave conditions, and severe weather events. This improved forecasting capability enhances safety for maritime activities, informs public decision-making, and strengthens emergency preparedness across the region. The ongoing collection and analysis of data from the buoy contribute to a continuously improving understanding of Lake Michigan’s dynamic weather patterns.
4. Maritime Safety
The Michigan City weather buoy plays a critical role in maritime safety within the southern portion of Lake Michigan. Real-time data transmitted from the buoy provides crucial information about current and developing weather conditions, directly impacting the safety of navigation for all vessels, from large commercial freighters to smaller recreational boats. This connection between real-time data and informed decision-making is fundamental to mitigating risks and preventing accidents on the lake.
Specific data points, such as wind speed and direction, wave height, and visibility, are essential for safe navigation. Strong winds and high waves can create hazardous conditions, especially for smaller vessels. Reduced visibility due to fog or heavy precipitation further increases risk. Access to real-time data allows vessel operators to make informed decisions about route planning, departure times, and necessary safety precautions. For example, a sudden increase in wind speed reported by the buoy might prompt a captain to alter course or seek shelter, while real-time wave height data informs decisions about safe anchoring locations. In addition, the buoy’s data contributes to the development of accurate short-term weather forecasts, providing crucial information about impending storms or other hazardous conditions that could impact maritime activities. This proactive approach to safety, informed by real-time data, is crucial for preventing incidents and ensuring the well-being of those operating on the lake.
Maintaining maritime safety is a complex undertaking, and the Michigan City weather buoy serves as a crucial tool in this effort. The buoy’s contribution to informed decision-making, accurate forecasting, and timely warnings significantly reduces risks associated with navigation on Lake Michigan. Continuous monitoring of weather and water conditions provides a critical layer of safety, protecting both commercial and recreational interests and contributing to a safer maritime environment within the southern lake region. The challenges associated with operating and maintaining this vital piece of infrastructure underscore the significant role it plays in safeguarding those who work and recreate on Lake Michigan.
5. Research Applications
Data transmitted from the Michigan City weather buoy provides valuable resources for various research applications related to Lake Michigan. The buoy’s strategic location within the southern portion of the lake allows researchers to investigate localized phenomena and contribute to a broader understanding of the lake’s complex ecosystem. The continuous monitoring of meteorological and oceanographic parameters provides a rich dataset for scientific inquiry, supporting studies related to climate change, water quality, and aquatic ecosystem dynamics.
For instance, long-term data sets on water temperature fluctuations contribute to research on the impacts of climate change on the lake’s thermal structure and its implications for aquatic life. Changes in water temperature can influence fish spawning patterns, algal blooms, and overall ecosystem health. Similarly, data on wave height and wind patterns can support studies on coastal erosion and the effectiveness of shoreline protection measures. Real-time wave data combined with bathymetric information contributes to more accurate models of nearshore wave dynamics, informing coastal engineering projects and mitigating erosion risks. The buoy’s data also plays a crucial role in validating and refining numerical models used to predict lake circulation patterns and the transport of pollutants. By comparing model outputs with real-time observations, researchers can improve the accuracy and reliability of these predictive tools. This enhanced modeling capability supports more effective management of water resources and mitigation strategies for pollution events.
The sustained operation of the Michigan City weather buoy contributes significantly to scientific understanding of Lake Michigan. The readily available data supports a wide range of research activities, from investigating the impacts of climate change to improving the accuracy of predictive models. This ongoing data collection provides valuable insights into the complex interplay of factors influencing the lake’s environment, supporting evidence-based decision-making for resource management and promoting the long-term health of this valuable ecosystem. Challenges related to data quality control and ensuring the long-term continuity of data collection underscore the importance of continued investment in this critical research infrastructure. Integrating data from multiple sources, including satellite observations and other in-situ measurements, further enhances the research value of the buoy data and contributes to a more holistic understanding of Lake Michigan.
6. Environmental Monitoring
The Michigan City weather buoy serves as a critical component of environmental monitoring efforts within southern Lake Michigan. Continuous data collection provides valuable insights into the lake’s dynamic conditions, supporting assessments of water quality, ecosystem health, and the impacts of environmental change. This real-time data stream allows researchers and environmental agencies to track trends, identify potential issues, and inform management strategies aimed at protecting the lake’s valuable resources.
Measurements of water temperature, dissolved oxygen, and turbidity provide crucial indicators of water quality. Changes in these parameters can signal potential problems, such as algal blooms, pollutant influx, or thermal stratification, which can negatively impact aquatic life. For instance, increased turbidity, often caused by sediment runoff, can reduce light penetration, affecting photosynthetic activity and disrupting the food web. Similarly, fluctuations in dissolved oxygen levels can indicate stress on aquatic organisms and potentially signal the presence of pollutants. Real-time data from the buoy allows for prompt detection of such changes, enabling timely interventions and mitigating potential harm to the ecosystem. Furthermore, long-term data sets collected by the buoy contribute to understanding the impacts of climate change on the lake environment, such as rising water temperatures and altered seasonal patterns. This information is essential for developing effective adaptation strategies and protecting the lake’s ecological integrity in the face of changing climatic conditions. Observations of wave height and current patterns provide additional insights into coastal processes, including erosion and sediment transport, informing management decisions related to shoreline protection and habitat restoration.
Effective environmental stewardship of Lake Michigan relies on continuous monitoring and assessment. The Michigan City weather buoy provides essential data for this purpose, contributing to a deeper understanding of the lake’s complex dynamics. Challenges associated with maintaining the buoy’s operation and ensuring data quality highlight the ongoing need for investment in this crucial infrastructure. Integrating data from the buoy with other monitoring efforts, such as satellite imagery and water sampling programs, provides a more comprehensive perspective on the lake’s health and supports science-based management decisions aimed at preserving this valuable resource for future generations. Continued data collection and analysis will be essential for adapting to evolving environmental challenges and ensuring the long-term health and resilience of the Lake Michigan ecosystem.
7. Data Transmission
Data transmission is the crucial link between the Michigan City weather buoy’s data collection and its practical application. The buoy, a remote platform in Lake Michigan, relies on robust and reliable transmission methods to deliver real-time data to users onshore. This data, encompassing meteorological and oceanographic parameters, is essential for various purposes, including weather forecasting, maritime safety, and research. Understanding the data transmission process is fundamental to appreciating the buoy’s overall functionality and its contribution to informed decision-making.
Typically, weather buoys utilize various communication technologies for data transmission, including satellite and cellular networks. Satellite communication, often relying on geostationary or polar-orbiting satellites, provides broad coverage and enables data transfer from remote locations. Cellular communication, leveraging land-based cell towers, can offer higher bandwidth and faster data rates, but coverage is limited by proximity to the shore. The choice of communication technology depends on factors such as data volume, transmission frequency, power requirements, and cost-effectiveness. For example, transmitting high-resolution wave spectra might require higher bandwidth afforded by cellular communication, while basic meteorological data can be effectively transmitted via satellite. Redundancy in communication systems is often incorporated to ensure data delivery even if one method experiences an outage. Regular maintenance and calibration of transmission equipment are essential for ensuring data quality and the continuous flow of information from the buoy to end-users.
Reliable data transmission is paramount for realizing the Michigan City weather buoy’s full potential. Timely and accurate data delivery enables informed decision-making for maritime activities, enhances the accuracy of weather forecasts, and supports critical research initiatives. Challenges related to maintaining consistent communication links in a harsh lake environment and managing data volume highlight the importance of robust and reliable data transmission systems. Advancements in communication technologies continue to improve data transfer rates, reliability, and power efficiency, further enhancing the value and effectiveness of weather buoys as essential tools for monitoring and understanding the dynamic environment of Lake Michigan.
8. Public Safety
The Michigan City weather buoy plays a vital role in public safety, particularly for communities and individuals engaging in activities on or near Lake Michigan. By providing real-time data and contributing to accurate weather forecasting, the buoy enhances situational awareness and enables informed decision-making, mitigating risks associated with the lake’s dynamic and sometimes hazardous conditions. This connection between data availability and public safety is crucial for protecting lives and property.
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Timely Warnings for Hazardous Weather:
Real-time data from the buoy enables the issuance of timely warnings for severe weather events impacting the Michigan City area. Rapidly changing conditions, such as approaching thunderstorms, high winds, or dense fog, can create dangerous situations for boaters, swimmers, and those on the shoreline. Buoy data allows meteorologists to detect these developing hazards and issue timely warnings, enabling individuals to take appropriate precautions and seek safety. These warnings are disseminated through various channels, including weather alerts, radio broadcasts, and online platforms, maximizing public awareness and preparedness.
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Safe Navigation for Recreational Boating:
Recreational boating is a popular activity on Lake Michigan, and the Michigan City weather buoy contributes significantly to boater safety. Real-time data on wind speed, wave height, and water temperature informs boaters about current and forecasted conditions, enabling them to make informed decisions about whether to venture out, adjust planned routes, or seek safe harbor. Access to this information is crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of those enjoying recreational activities on the lake. For example, knowing the wave height allows boaters to assess whether conditions are safe for their vessel size and experience level, preventing potentially dangerous situations.
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Search and Rescue Operations:
In the event of maritime emergencies, the Michigan City weather buoy plays a crucial role in supporting search and rescue operations. Real-time data on wind and wave conditions, water currents, and visibility assists rescue crews in planning and executing effective search strategies. This information helps determine safe operating conditions for rescue vessels, predict the drift patterns of objects or individuals in the water, and maximize the chances of a successful rescue. Accurate and timely data contributes to faster response times and improves the likelihood of positive outcomes in emergency situations. For instance, knowing the direction and speed of water currents helps narrow the search area and deploy resources more effectively.
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Beach Safety and Public Awareness:
The buoy’s data also contributes to beach safety by providing information about wave conditions, water temperature, and potential hazards such as rip currents. This information can be used to inform beachgoers about current conditions and potential risks, allowing them to make informed decisions about entering the water and taking necessary precautions. Real-time data on wave height, for instance, can inform decisions about whether swimming is safe, while water temperature data contributes to awareness of potential cold water risks. Public awareness campaigns and beach warning systems often incorporate buoy data to enhance public safety along the shoreline. This information empowers individuals to make responsible choices and minimize risks associated with recreational activities near the water.
The Michigan City weather buoy serves as a silent guardian, continuously monitoring lake conditions and providing critical data that enhances public safety in various ways. From enabling timely warnings for severe weather to supporting search and rescue operations, the buoy’s contribution to informed decision-making is essential for mitigating risks and protecting those who live, work, and recreate on or near Lake Michigan. Continued investment in maintaining and enhancing this infrastructure underscores its vital role in safeguarding the public and ensuring a safer environment for all. By integrating buoy data with other information sources and communication channels, communities can further enhance preparedness, response capabilities, and overall public safety in the dynamic Lake Michigan environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the Michigan City weather buoy, providing concise and informative responses to enhance understanding of its function and significance.
Question 1: How frequently does the buoy transmit data?
Data transmission frequency varies depending on the specific buoy and its configuration. Many buoys transmit data hourly, while some provide updates more frequently, especially during rapidly changing weather conditions. Data latency can also vary depending on communication methods and processing procedures.
Question 2: What types of sensors are typically deployed on the buoy?
Standard sensors measure wind speed and direction, air temperature, water temperature, barometric pressure, wave height and period, and sometimes water current speed and direction. Some buoys may also include sensors for visibility, relative humidity, and other parameters relevant to meteorological and oceanographic monitoring.
Question 3: Who maintains and operates the weather buoy?
Weather buoys are typically operated and maintained by governmental agencies like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) or other research institutions. Regular maintenance includes sensor calibration, equipment repair, and occasional buoy retrieval for comprehensive servicing.
Question 4: How does the buoy remain anchored in its location?
Buoys are anchored to the lakebed using heavy mooring systems, typically consisting of chains, anchors, and specialized hardware designed to withstand the dynamic forces of wind, waves, and currents. The specific mooring design depends on water depth, bottom conditions, and the buoy’s size and configuration.
Question 5: How is data from the buoy quality controlled?
Rigorous quality control procedures are implemented to ensure data accuracy and reliability. These procedures include automated checks for data anomalies, manual reviews by trained personnel, and comparisons with data from other sources. Flags or qualifiers are often applied to data points to indicate potential uncertainties or quality issues.
Question 6: How can the public access data from the Michigan City buoy?
Data from NOAA weather buoys, including the one near Michigan City, is typically publicly available through various channels, including the NOAA National Data Buoy Center website, mobile apps, and specialized data dissemination systems. Data may be presented in various formats, from raw data files to user-friendly visualizations and summaries.
Understanding these key aspects of the Michigan City weather buoys operation enhances appreciation for its significance in supporting safe navigation, accurate weather forecasting, and environmental monitoring. Access to reliable and timely data remains crucial for informed decision-making and mitigating risks associated with Lake Michigan.
Further exploration of specific data applications, technological advancements, and the broader impact of weather buoys on the Great Lakes region will provide a more comprehensive understanding of this essential resource.
Tips for Utilizing Weather Buoy Data
Accessing and interpreting data from sources like the Michigan City weather buoy empowers informed decision-making for various activities on or near Lake Michigan. The following tips provide guidance on effectively utilizing this valuable resource.
Tip 1: Check Current Conditions Before Heading Out:
Consult real-time buoy data before engaging in any on-the-water activities. Confirm wind speed, wave height, and water temperature are within safe limits for planned activities. Sudden changes in weather can create hazardous conditions, particularly for smaller vessels.
Tip 2: Understand Wave Height and Period:
Wave height indicates wave size, while wave period represents the time between successive wave crests. Short wave periods coupled with high wave heights create choppy conditions, potentially hazardous for navigation. Longer periods generally indicate more manageable swells.
Tip 3: Monitor Wind Speed and Direction:
Wind significantly impacts wave conditions and navigation. Strong winds can create challenging conditions, especially for smaller boats. Pay attention to wind direction relative to planned travel direction, as headwinds or crosswinds can significantly affect handling and fuel consumption.
Tip 4: Consider Water Temperature:
Cold water poses significant risks, even during warmer months. Be aware of water temperature and potential cold-water shock risks, especially for swimmers and those engaging in water sports. Dress appropriately for water activities and consider wearing a life jacket.
Tip 5: Account for Lake-Effect Snow:
During colder months, be aware of the potential for lake-effect snow, which can produce intense localized snowfall and rapidly changing conditions. Monitor weather forecasts and buoy data for indications of developing lake-effect snow events, especially if traveling near the shoreline.
Tip 6: Utilize Multiple Data Sources:
Combine buoy data with other weather information sources, such as forecasts from the National Weather Service and radar imagery, to gain a comprehensive understanding of current and developing weather patterns. Integrating multiple data sources enhances situational awareness and supports more informed decision-making.
Tip 7: Be Aware of Data Latency:
While buoy data is transmitted regularly, some latency can occur. Be aware that conditions may have changed slightly since the last data transmission. Consider this potential delay when making critical decisions based on buoy data.
Effectively utilizing weather buoy data empowers individuals to make informed choices, enhance safety, and minimize risks associated with activities on Lake Michigan. Integrating this information with other weather resources promotes responsible planning and preparedness for a safe and enjoyable experience on the water.
By understanding the data provided and its implications, individuals can contribute to a safer and more informed environment for all who utilize Lake Michigan’s valuable resources. This awareness is crucial for long-term preservation and enjoyment of this vital ecosystem.
Conclusion
The Michigan City weather buoy stands as a critical sentinel within the southern expanse of Lake Michigan. Exploration of this technological asset reveals its multifaceted role in enhancing maritime safety, refining weather forecasting accuracy, and furthering scientific understanding of the lake’s dynamic environment. From real-time data transmission facilitating informed navigational decisions to long-term data collection supporting vital research initiatives, the buoy’s contribution is undeniable. Its strategic placement near Michigan City captures localized phenomena, enriching regional comprehension of lake processes and contributing to broader Great Lakes observational networks. The buoy’s data empowers stakeholders, including recreational boaters, commercial shipping operations, researchers, and emergency responders, to make informed decisions, mitigate risks, and promote responsible interaction with this valuable natural resource.
Continued investment in maintaining and enhancing this infrastructure remains essential for safeguarding those who utilize Lake Michigan and for furthering scientific exploration of this complex ecosystem. The buoy’s ongoing operation represents a commitment to safety, informed decision-making, and environmental stewardship. As technological advancements continue to refine data collection and transmission capabilities, the value and impact of the Michigan City weather buoy are poised to grow, further solidifying its vital role in understanding, protecting, and responsibly enjoying Lake Michigan’s dynamic environment for generations to come. Continued support for this vital resource ensures the safety and well-being of those who rely on Lake Michigan, while simultaneously contributing to a deeper understanding of this complex and dynamic ecosystem.
