September 1, 1999
The 1999 foliage season has begun in the Northeast. There is much talk and anticipation about this year's foliage season due to the drought experienced throughout most of the Northeast this spring and summer. This year’s drought has varied in severity. The hardest hit areas have been central and eastern Pennsylvania, the lower Hudson Valley Region of New York, and central and eastern Massachusetts. In fact, in June of this year, Boston did not record any measurable precipitation. Western Pennsylvania, and portions of New Hampshire, however, have not felt the effects of the drought.
Throughout the Northeast, there have been reports of brown leaves on some trees, some of which have already fallen. While this is true, it is important to realize that the only trees affected are those which are young or distressed. A vast majority of the trees still have their leaves and will bring yet another beautiful autumn show.
Much of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and upstate New York have already seen some color change. Eastern Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Jersey, and most of Connecticut and Pennsylvania have not yet seen any change. Throughout the Northeast, leaf drop has been very low, which is to be expected this early in the season. Within the next few weeks, as the days grow shorter and the nighttime temperatures become cooler, the fall colors should become more widespread. Watch for updates from The Foliage Network to keep current with the latest foliage conditions.
