Annual snowfall in the valley is 55 inches (140 cm), with up to 100 inches (250 cm) on the benches. Most snow falls between mid-November and late March. The mountains receive up to 500 inches (1270 cm) of light, dry snow and up to 55 inches (140 cm) of precipitation annually. The dry snow is often considered good for skiing, contributing to the four ski resorts in the county. Snow usually falls from October through May. The heavy snow totals across the county can be attributed to the lake-effect, where precipitation is intensified by the warm waters of the Great Salt Lake, which never entirely freezes due to the lake's high salinity. The lake-effect can affect any area of the county, depending on wind conditions. The dry snow is attributed to the low humidity of the region.