The hot summer of 2024 is drawing to a close, which means it’s almost time for fall leaf watching.

The Old Farmer’s Almanac indicates that leaf colors can begin to shift as soon as mid-September and can last until early November. “Generally, the peak viewing weeks fall during the second and third weeks of October, but this can vary based on your location and local weather,” the Almanac explained.

Sunny, warm days are ideal for vibrant autumn hues, but they should be combined with cooler nights, as stated by the Weather Channel. Rainfall can also influence the colors – both severe drought and heavy rain can negatively impact foliage.

A warm spell in the fall may also dim the brightness of autumn colors, according to the U.S. Forest Service. The latest projections from the Climate Prediction Center suggest a warmer-than-usual fall is expected across much of the United States.

Regions and Timing for Leaf Color Changes

Here’s a detailed look at how foliage is expected to change across the U.S. this year:

New England is famous for its stunning fall colors, attracting around ten million visitors annually who come to admire the scenery. Typically, northern areas of Vermont, New Hampshire, and northwest Maine see their peak colors early in October.

Regions in New York, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania usually experience peak foliage later in October, according to ExploreFall.com.

Impact of Drought on Fall Foliage

The U.S. Forest Service notes that a significant drought during summer can postpone the arrival of fall colors by a couple of weeks. Drought conditions were particularly severe in the mid-Atlantic and central Appalachian areas this summer, potentially delaying foliage in those regions, as mentioned by AccuWeather meteorologist Paul Pastelok.

The Science Behind Leaf Color Changes in Fall

During this season, ample bright light and an increase in plant sugars help create anthocyanins, which add red hues to the leaves.

SOURCE The National Forest Service, SmokyMountains.com, ExploreFall.com