A National Weather Service notification signifies hazardous winter conditions are imminent or occurring within a specific geographic area. This typically includes freezing rain, sleet, heavy snow, or a combination, potentially leading to difficult travel conditions and power outages. In this instance, a large portion of the state encompassing 38 counties was placed under such a notification.
These alerts provide critical information to the public, enabling individuals, businesses, and emergency services to prepare for potentially disruptive weather. Timely warnings allow residents to adjust travel plans, stock up on essential supplies, and take precautions to protect property and vulnerable populations. Historically, such advance warnings have played a significant role in mitigating weather-related risks and enhancing public safety during winter storms. The impact can range from preventing traffic accidents to saving lives.
This situation raises several key questions: What specific weather conditions triggered the alert? How long is it expected to last? What regions within the affected counties will experience the most severe impacts? What safety measures should residents take? Further examination of these topics will provide a comprehensive understanding of this developing weather event and its potential consequences.
1. Affected area
Delineating the specific geographic area subject to a winter weather advisory is fundamental for effective communication and public safety. “Affected area: 38 counties” clarifies the scope of the advisory issued within Michigan, indicating the substantial portion of the state facing potentially hazardous winter conditions. Understanding the geographic reach allows for targeted dissemination of information and resource allocation for preparedness and response.
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Geographic Scope and Population Impact
Thirty-eight counties represent a significant portion of Michigan’s landmass and population. Pinpointing these counties allows residents to ascertain their risk exposure and take appropriate precautions. Population density within each county further informs the scale of potential impact, aiding emergency management agencies in resource allocation and preparedness efforts. For example, a sparsely populated county might require different resources compared to a densely populated urban area within the advisory zone.
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Variability of Conditions Within the Affected Area
While all 38 counties fall under the advisory, variations in weather conditions are likely. Terrain, proximity to large bodies of water like the Great Lakes, and localized weather patterns contribute to these variations. Some counties might experience heavy snowfall, while others might primarily face freezing rain or a mix of both. Understanding this variability is crucial for localized preparedness and response strategies.
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Infrastructure and Service Disruptions
The large affected area raises concerns about potential widespread disruptions to infrastructure and essential services. Road closures, power outages, and disruptions to public transportation are possibilities within the 38 counties. The geographic scope informs the scale of potential infrastructure challenges and guides resource mobilization for timely restoration efforts.
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Communication and Outreach Strategies
Reaching residents across 38 counties requires robust communication strategies. Utilizing various channels such as emergency alerts, local media, social media, and weather apps ensures widespread dissemination of critical information regarding the advisory and recommended safety measures. The defined geographic scope enables targeted outreach to the specific populations at risk.
The delineation of 38 affected counties provides crucial context for understanding the potential impact of the winter weather advisory in Michigan. This specific geographic scope informs individual preparedness efforts, resource allocation decisions by emergency management agencies, and the targeted dissemination of critical information to ensure public safety throughout the affected region. Recognizing the potential for varying conditions within these counties is essential for localized responses and mitigating the overall impact of the winter weather event.
2. Advisory type
Advisory type: Winter weather specifies the nature of the weather event prompting the official notification for 38 Michigan counties. This categorization distinguishes the advisory from other weather-related alerts, such as severe thunderstorm warnings, tornado watches, or flood advisories, clarifying the specific hazards posed by this particular event and guiding appropriate precautionary measures. Understanding the distinction between various advisory types is crucial for effective public response and preparedness.
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Specific Hazards and Impacts
Winter weather advisories typically encompass hazards like freezing rain, sleet, heavy snow, and blowing snow, leading to hazardous travel conditions due to reduced visibility and slippery roads. Accumulating snow and ice can also stress infrastructure, potentially causing power outages and tree damage. Distinguishing these specific winter weather hazards from those associated with other advisory types allows individuals and communities to implement appropriate safety measures, such as adjusting travel plans, stocking up on essential supplies, and protecting vulnerable populations.
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Severity and Duration
Winter weather advisories generally signify moderate-level threats. While disruptive, they are not typically life-threatening if appropriate precautions are taken. The duration of a winter weather advisory can vary, ranging from a few hours to several days, depending on the evolving weather system. Understanding the anticipated duration is crucial for planning and resource allocation. For instance, prolonged advisories might necessitate school closures, adjustments to work schedules, and extended preparation for potential power outages or supply chain disruptions.
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Geographic Specificity and Localized Impacts
The 38 Michigan counties component further refines the advisory, indicating the specific geographic area affected by the winter weather conditions. Within this area, localized variations in impact are possible due to factors like elevation, proximity to water bodies, and microclimates. Understanding the geographic scope is essential for targeted communication and resource allocation by emergency management agencies, ensuring effective response and mitigation within the specified counties.
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Relationship to Other Advisory Types
Winter weather advisories can escalate to more severe warnings, such as blizzard warnings or ice storm warnings, if conditions worsen. Conversely, they might be preceded by less severe advisories, like winter weather watches, which indicate the potential for hazardous conditions to develop. The specific “Winter Weather Advisory” designation clarifies the current level of threat and indicates the potential for escalation or de-escalation based on evolving meteorological forecasts.
Specifying “Advisory type: Winter weather” within the context of the notification for 38 Michigan counties clarifies the specific nature of the hazard, its potential impacts, and the appropriate precautionary measures for residents and emergency management agencies. This information is crucial for effective communication, preparedness, and response, ultimately contributing to public safety during the winter weather event.
3. Severity
The “Severity: Moderate” designation within the winter weather advisory for 38 Michigan counties provides crucial context for understanding the potential impact and required response. This classification signifies conditions that are disruptive but not immediately life-threatening, distinguishing the event from more severe weather phenomena like blizzards or ice storms. “Moderate” severity implies challenges to travel and potential disruptions to daily routines, requiring preparedness but not widespread panic or emergency evacuations. This categorization helps individuals, businesses, and emergency services allocate resources and implement appropriate safety measures proportionate to the anticipated level of disruption.
Consider the practical implications. “Moderate” severity suggests the possibility of several inches of snow accumulation, leading to slippery roads and reduced visibility. This might necessitate adjustments to travel plans, such as delaying commutes or avoiding unnecessary trips. Schools might experience closures or delayed starts, while businesses could face temporary disruptions. Understanding “Moderate” severity allows for proactive measures, such as ensuring vehicles are winterized, stocking up on essential supplies, and charging electronic devices in anticipation of potential power outages. Contrast this with a “Severe” designation, which might warrant more drastic actions like staying off roads entirely or seeking designated emergency shelters.
Furthermore, the “Moderate” severity label influences resource allocation by emergency services. While requiring preparedness and monitoring, this level typically does not necessitate large-scale deployments of emergency personnel or equipment. Resources can be strategically positioned to address localized issues like traffic accidents or downed power lines. The “Moderate” designation allows for a balanced response, ensuring adequate resources are available while avoiding over-deployment that could strain emergency response capabilities during truly catastrophic events. This nuanced understanding of severity is crucial for efficient resource management and effective public safety measures throughout the affected counties.
4. Timing
The “Timing: Imminent/Ongoing” component of a winter weather advisory provides critical temporal context, indicating the urgency and current status of the hazardous conditions. This element informs immediate actions and preparedness strategies within the affected 38 Michigan counties. Understanding whether the winter weather is impending or already underway is crucial for public safety and effective decision-making.
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Impact on Decision-Making
“Imminent” suggests conditions are expected to begin shortly, requiring immediate preparations such as securing loose objects outdoors, adjusting travel plans, and ensuring access to emergency supplies. “Ongoing” signifies hazardous conditions are already present, necessitating heightened caution, limiting travel to essential trips, and staying informed about changing conditions. This real-time information empowers individuals, businesses, and emergency services to make informed decisions regarding safety and resource allocation.
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Safety Precautions and Public Response
The timing element influences the urgency of safety precautions. An “imminent” designation prompts proactive measures, allowing time for preparations before conditions deteriorate. “Ongoing” emphasizes the need for immediate action, such as staying indoors, avoiding travel, and monitoring official updates. For example, if conditions are already ongoing, residents should avoid unnecessary travel, whereas an imminent designation might allow time for last-minute errands or securing property before the onset of hazardous weather.
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Duration and Evolving Conditions
While “Timing: Imminent/Ongoing” provides the current status, it doesn’t specify the duration of the advisory. Weather conditions can evolve rapidly, and what begins as “imminent” quickly transitions to “ongoing,” potentially escalating in severity. Continuous monitoring of forecasts and official updates is essential for assessing the evolving situation. For instance, an advisory initially designated as “imminent” might transition to “ongoing” and extend for several days, requiring prolonged vigilance and preparedness.
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Communication and Information Dissemination
Effective communication of the timing element is paramount. Clear and concise messaging through official channels, such as the National Weather Service, local media, and emergency alert systems, ensures the public receives timely information. This enables individuals and communities to react appropriately and minimize risks associated with the winter weather event. Regular updates on the advisorys timing are crucial for maintaining situational awareness and facilitating informed decision-making.
The “Timing: Imminent/Ongoing” aspect of the winter weather advisory is not a static element but a dynamic indicator of the evolving weather situation within the 38 Michigan counties. Its effective communication and interpretation are crucial for ensuring public safety, enabling informed decision-making, and facilitating appropriate responses throughout the duration of the advisory.
5. Hazards
The “Hazards: Snow, ice” designation within the winter weather advisory provides specific information regarding the primary threats posed by this weather event across the 38 Michigan counties. Snow and ice accumulations create hazardous travel conditions, disrupt infrastructure, and pose risks to public safety. Understanding the specific hazards associated with this advisory is crucial for preparedness and mitigation efforts.
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Travel Impacts
Snow and ice accumulations significantly impact road conditions, reducing traction and visibility. Slippery roads increase the risk of vehicle accidents, particularly on bridges, overpasses, and less-traveled roads. Reduced visibility due to falling snow or blowing snow further compounds these dangers, making navigation challenging even at low speeds. These conditions necessitate cautious driving practices, including reducing speed, increasing following distance, and avoiding unnecessary travel.
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Infrastructure Disruptions
The weight of accumulated snow and ice can strain infrastructure, particularly power lines and tree branches. This can lead to power outages, disrupting essential services like heating, communication, and healthcare. Downed trees and power lines further obstruct roadways, exacerbating travel difficulties and posing safety risks to both drivers and emergency responders. Preparing for potential power outages by having backup power sources, emergency supplies, and alternative heating methods is crucial.
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Public Safety Concerns
Exposure to cold temperatures combined with snow and ice presents several public safety concerns. Hypothermia and frostbite become significant risks, particularly for vulnerable populations like the elderly and those experiencing homelessness. Slips and falls on icy surfaces contribute to injuries. Understanding these risks necessitates taking precautions such as dressing warmly in layers, limiting time outdoors, and checking on vulnerable individuals.
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Economic Impacts
Winter weather hazards like snow and ice can disrupt economic activity. Business closures, transportation delays, and supply chain disruptions contribute to economic losses. The severity of these impacts correlates with the duration and intensity of the weather event. Proactive measures by businesses, such as adjusting operating hours or implementing remote work policies, can mitigate these impacts.
The “Hazards: Snow, ice” component of the winter weather advisory underscores the multifaceted nature of these weather events and their potential to disrupt daily life across the 38 Michigan counties. Understanding the specific hazards posed by snow and ice accumulation allows individuals, communities, and emergency services to take appropriate precautions, mitigate potential impacts, and prioritize public safety throughout the duration of the advisory.
6. Impacts
Travel disruption serves as a primary consequence of winter weather advisories, particularly those impacting a large area like the 38 counties in Michigan. The advisory’s core purpose is to forewarn of conditions conducive to hazardous travel. Snow and ice accumulation reduce road traction, decrease visibility, and create challenging driving conditions. These factors contribute to increased risks of accidents, delays, and road closures. Understanding the potential for travel disruption is critical for individual safety and logistical planning.
Consider the cascading effects of widespread travel disruption. Commuters face longer travel times, potential road closures, and increased accident risks. Supply chains experience delays, impacting businesses and the availability of goods. Emergency services encounter difficulties responding to incidents due to hazardous road conditions. For example, during a 2019 winter storm in Michigan, numerous accidents and road closures were reported across affected counties, highlighting the direct link between winter weather and travel disruption. Such disruptions underscore the practical significance of heeding winter weather advisories and adjusting travel plans accordingly.
Mitigating the impacts of travel disruption requires a multi-pronged approach. Individual preparedness includes checking road conditions before traveling, ensuring vehicles are winterized, and allowing extra time for journeys. Organizations benefit from developing contingency plans for transportation and logistics, considering remote work options where feasible. Public transportation systems must adapt to changing conditions, potentially adjusting routes or reducing service frequency. Effective communication from authorities regarding road closures, travel advisories, and safety recommendations plays a crucial role in minimizing disruption and ensuring public safety during winter weather events. Ultimately, recognizing “Travel disruption” as a key impact of winter weather advisories emphasizes the need for proactive planning, flexible decision-making, and adherence to safety guidelines.
7. Safety
Staying informed is paramount for ensuring safety during a winter weather advisory, particularly one impacting a large geographic area like 38 Michigan counties. Information acts as a crucial tool for preparedness and informed decision-making. Access to timely and accurate weather forecasts, road conditions, and safety recommendations enables residents to assess risks, adapt plans, and take appropriate precautions. This proactive approach minimizes potential harm and empowers individuals to navigate hazardous conditions effectively.
The connection between staying informed and safety is demonstrably causal. Consider the hypothetical scenario of two individuals within the advisory area. One actively monitors weather updates and heeds official recommendations, adjusting travel plans and preparing for potential power outages. The other remains uninformed, proceeding with routine activities unaware of deteriorating conditions. The informed individual significantly reduces their risk of accidents, exposure to hazardous conditions, and other negative consequences. The uninformed individual faces heightened risks due to their lack of awareness. Real-world examples abound. During the February 2021 North American ice storm, individuals who stayed informed through official channels received timely warnings about power outages and hazardous road conditions, enabling them to make informed decisions about safety and resource allocation. Conversely, those who lacked access to timely information faced greater challenges and risks.
Practical applications of “Stay informed” extend beyond individual safety. Businesses utilize weather information to make informed decisions regarding operations, logistics, and employee safety. Emergency services rely on real-time weather data and communication networks to deploy resources effectively and coordinate response efforts. School districts utilize weather information to determine closures or delayed starts, prioritizing student safety. The efficacy of these responses hinges on the accuracy and timeliness of the information received. In conclusion, “Safety: Stay informed” functions not merely as a passive recommendation but as an active component of a comprehensive response to winter weather advisories. It empowers individuals, organizations, and communities to mitigate risks, protect lives, and enhance overall resilience in the face of hazardous winter conditions. The challenges lie in ensuring equitable access to information and fostering a culture of preparedness that prioritizes staying informed as a fundamental safety measure.
8. Duration
Understanding the duration of a winter weather advisory is crucial for effective preparedness and response. “Duration: Check forecasts” emphasizes the dynamic nature of winter weather events and the need for continuous monitoring of meteorological predictions. Within the context of an advisory impacting 38 Michigan counties, the duration significantly influences the scale of potential disruptions, the necessary safety precautions, and the allocation of resources by individuals, businesses, and emergency services. Regularly checking forecasts provides critical information for informed decision-making and adaptive strategies throughout the evolving weather event.
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Impact on Preparedness and Resource Allocation
The anticipated duration of a winter weather advisory directly impacts preparedness measures. A short-duration advisory might require temporary adjustments to daily routines, such as delaying travel or stocking up on essential supplies. A longer-duration advisory necessitates more extensive preparations, including securing properties, arranging for alternative heating sources, and coordinating with support networks. For example, a multi-day advisory impacting 38 counties could lead to widespread school closures, strain resources for snow removal, and necessitate the activation of emergency shelters. Accurate duration estimations from forecasts enable individuals and communities to scale their preparedness efforts accordingly.
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Travel Decisions and Safety Measures
Duration significantly influences travel decisions. Short-duration advisories might warrant delaying non-essential trips until conditions improve. Extended advisories, however, could necessitate canceling travel plans altogether or seeking alternative transportation methods. For instance, a prolonged period of heavy snow and ice across 38 counties could render roads impassable, making travel extremely hazardous. Regularly checking forecasts allows individuals to adjust travel plans dynamically, minimizing risks and avoiding becoming stranded.
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Economic and Societal Impacts
The duration of a winter weather advisory correlates with its potential economic and societal impacts. Short-duration events might cause temporary disruptions to businesses and daily routines. Longer-duration events, however, can lead to significant economic losses due to business closures, supply chain disruptions, and lost productivity. The 38-county scope of the advisory amplifies these potential impacts. For example, extended road closures across multiple counties disrupt the transportation of goods, impacting businesses and potentially leading to shortages. Accurate duration forecasts enable proactive mitigation strategies, minimizing economic and societal disruption.
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Emergency Response and Resource Management
Emergency services rely on accurate duration forecasts to optimize resource allocation. Short-duration events require a different response strategy compared to prolonged events. A longer-duration advisory across 38 counties necessitates strategic deployment of personnel and equipment, potentially including snowplows, emergency vehicles, and personnel for search and rescue operations. Forecasts provide critical information for anticipating resource needs and ensuring effective response throughout the duration of the advisory.
The “Duration: Check forecasts” message is essential for understanding the potential impact of a winter weather advisory affecting a large geographic area like 38 Michigan counties. Regularly consulting reliable weather forecasts enables individuals, businesses, and emergency management agencies to make informed decisions regarding safety, resource allocation, and operational continuity throughout the evolving winter weather event. The duration acts as a critical parameter for scaling preparedness efforts and adapting to changing conditions, ultimately minimizing disruptions and safeguarding public safety. Neglecting this advice increases vulnerability to the hazards associated with winter weather and potentially exacerbates the negative consequences of the advisory.
Frequently Asked Questions
This FAQ section addresses common inquiries regarding winter weather advisories, specifically focusing on the implications for residents within the 38 affected Michigan counties. The information provided aims to clarify potential uncertainties and promote informed decision-making during such weather events.
Question 1: What distinguishes a winter weather advisory from a winter storm warning?
A winter weather advisory indicates conditions that are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous, particularly for travel. A winter storm warning signifies more severe conditions with heavy snow, blizzard conditions, or significant ice accumulation that will pose a substantial threat to life and property.
Question 2: How should one prepare for a winter weather advisory?
Essential preparations include ensuring vehicles are winterized, stocking up on necessary supplies like food, water, and medications, having alternative heating sources available, and charging electronic devices in anticipation of potential power outages. Staying informed about changing weather conditions is crucial.
Question 3: What precautions should be taken when driving during a winter weather advisory?
Reduce speed, increase following distance, avoid sudden braking or acceleration, and ensure vehicles have adequate fuel. Travel should be limited to essential trips only. Checking road conditions before departure is highly recommended.
Question 4: What resources are available to residents during a winter weather advisory?
Local emergency management agencies, the National Weather Service, and community organizations provide resources and information. Staying informed through official channels is essential for accessing available assistance.
Question 5: How might school closures be determined during a winter weather advisory?
School districts typically make closure decisions based on factors like road conditions, snow accumulation, and forecasts. Staying informed through school district communication channels provides the most accurate information regarding closures.
Question 6: What should be done if power outages occur during a winter weather advisory?
Report outages to the utility company, conserve heat by closing off unused rooms, and avoid using portable generators indoors due to carbon monoxide risks. Having alternative light sources and communication methods is also important.
Preparedness and informed decision-making are crucial for navigating winter weather advisories safely. Consulting reliable sources for updated information, including weather forecasts and official advisories, remains paramount for minimizing risks and ensuring well-being during these events.
For further details and region-specific information, please refer to resources provided by the National Weather Service and local emergency management agencies. This FAQ section provides general guidance, but conditions may vary locally.
Winter Weather Advisory Tips
The following tips provide guidance for residents in areas affected by winter weather advisories, with particular relevance to the 38 counties in Michigan under the current advisory. These recommendations prioritize safety and preparedness, offering practical strategies for mitigating risks associated with hazardous winter conditions.
Tip 1: Monitor Weather Forecasts Regularly
Staying informed about evolving weather conditions is paramount. Regularly consult reliable sources like the National Weather Service for updated forecasts and advisory information. Pay attention to predicted snowfall amounts, temperatures, and wind speeds to anticipate potential hazards.
Tip 2: Winterize Vehicles
Ensure vehicles are equipped for winter driving. Check tire pressure, battery condition, and antifreeze levels. Keep an emergency kit in the vehicle containing blankets, a first-aid kit, a flashlight, and non-perishable food items.
Tip 3: Stock Essential Supplies
Prepare for potential power outages and disruptions to essential services by stocking up on non-perishable food, bottled water, medications, and other necessary supplies. A well-stocked emergency kit can provide critical resources during prolonged periods of inclement weather.
Tip 4: Adjust Travel Plans
Avoid unnecessary travel during winter weather advisories. If travel is essential, allow extra time for journeys, reduce speed, and increase following distance. Check road conditions before departure and consider alternatives like public transportation if available and safe.
Tip 5: Dress in Layers
If venturing outdoors, dress in warm layers to protect against cold temperatures and potential exposure to wind and precipitation. Multiple layers trap warm air more effectively than single, bulky garments. Pay particular attention to extremities like hands, feet, and head.
Tip 6: Conserve Energy
During periods of heavy snowfall or extreme cold, conserving energy reduces strain on the power grid and minimizes the risk of outages. Lower thermostats, seal windows and doors to prevent drafts, and limit the use of energy-intensive appliances.
Tip 7: Communicate and Check on Others
Maintain communication with family, friends, and neighbors, especially vulnerable individuals, during winter weather events. Check on their well-being and offer assistance if needed. Communication can be crucial in emergencies.
Tip 8: Avoid Overexertion
Snow removal and other outdoor activities during winter weather can be physically strenuous. Avoid overexertion and take frequent breaks to prevent injuries or health complications. Dress warmly and stay hydrated.
Adhering to these precautionary measures enhances safety and minimizes disruptions associated with winter weather advisories. Preparedness and informed decision-making are key factors in navigating hazardous winter conditions effectively.
These tips offer practical guidance for navigating the challenges posed by winter weather. The following conclusion summarizes key takeaways and reinforces the importance of preparedness within the context of the advisory impacting 38 Michigan counties.
Conclusion
The winter weather advisory issued for 38 Michigan counties underscores the importance of preparedness and community resilience during significant weather events. This advisory, signifying potentially hazardous conditions arising from snow and ice accumulation, necessitates a proactive approach to safety and informed decision-making. The potential for travel disruptions, infrastructure impacts, and public safety concerns emphasizes the need for residents, businesses, and emergency services to take appropriate precautions.
Effective response to winter weather advisories requires continuous monitoring of official forecasts, adherence to safety recommendations, and a commitment to community support. The collective responsibility to prepare for and mitigate the impacts of these events strengthens community resilience and safeguards public well-being throughout Michigan’s winter season. Vigilance and preparedness remain crucial elements in navigating the challenges posed by winter weather and ensuring the safety and stability of communities across the affected counties.
