This type of forecasting is called synoptic forecasting. Synoptic forecasting is getting a general idea of the weather over a large area. It relies on the fact that in certain atmospheric conditions, particular weather conditions are usually produced. For example, meteorologists know that a low-pressure system over the U.S. state of Arizona in winter will bring warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico toward Colorado. The high-pressure weather system of the Rocky Mountains drains the water vapor out of the air, resulting in rain. Meteorologists know that heavy snow may result when that warm air mass heads toward Colorado. Businesses, such as ski resorts, rely on such information. Transportation networks also rely on synoptic forecasting.