When Will You See Changing Fall Colors?

Leaves will soon make their gradual change to vibrant hues of yellow, orange and red as we head through the fall months, but when you can usually expect peak color to arrive depends on where you live.

When Will Fall Foliage Peak For You?

The map above from ExploreFall.com shows the timing of the typical arrival of peak fall foliage across the Lower 48.

-Late September or early October: The Rockies, the northern parts of Minnesota through Michigan and a strip from upstate New York to northern New England see peak color first.

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-Mid to Late October: Potential for peak fall color advances through the Midwest into the Appalachians and much of the Northeast in mid- to late October. Most other areas in the western region, including valleys, see fall's most vibrant color by this time of year as well.

-November: Much of the mid-Atlantic coast and the South are the last holdouts to see peak color in November.

Why Do Leaves Change Color?

A shorter amount of daylight is the primary trigger for the color of the leaves to begin to change. As nights grow longer and cooler, production of chlorophyll (the green pigment) slows and eventually stops. This allows the yellow and orange pigments to shine through, revealing the many beautiful colors of fall.

What Makes A 'Good' Fall Color Season?

-Location matters: Higher elevations and northern latitudes cool first, triggering earlier color changes. So while this map shows an estimated peak fall foliage, you may be able to see these beautiful colors sooner if you head to higher elevations.

-Weather's role: The perfect recipe includes warm, sunny days paired with cool nighttime temperatures, according to Michigan State University Extension. This combination produces the most vivid colors.

-Wind warning: If a strong windstorm affects an area that's near peak color, then it can rip down leaves from trees to some extent, reducing the display of peak color, or shortening the time period that it lasts.

-Soil moisture can make a difference: Sufficient soil moisture through spring and summer can help increase the chances of the colorful leaves. A severe drought can delay the autumn display.

So grab your camera, plan your trip, and get ready for nature's colorful delight!

Miriam Guthrie graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology with an undergraduate degree in Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences and is now a meteorology intern with weather.com while working towards her master’s.