October 22, 2003

This year's foliage season has been strange to say the least. Many locations have observed a mix of trees that have completely changed and lost their leaves and some (of the same species) that are still mostly green. Typically, the trees change more in unison. Another strange twist is the timing of the change. A few weeks ago, it appeared that the foliage season would be later than most years. However, in early October, there was a stretch of consecutive mild days and very cool, crisp evenings (some areas had many frosts) which accelerated the change. Unfortunately, in the areas that experienced a number of hard frosts, the foliage season did not reach its full potential due to the damage caused by the freezing temperatures. Also, a number of wind events this season brought down many leaves prematurely, especially in the higher elevations. This year is a good example of just how difficult it is to predict the fall foliage.

The foliage change is progressing nicely in the Southeast. Much of West Virginia is now at or past peak. In Virginia, the mountains are beginning to approach peak while eastern portions of the state are reporting color change in the low to moderate range. In Maryland, much the same can be said, with western locations at or past peak, while the east is still low to moderate. Delaware is yet to get into the foliage act. Looking further south into Tennessee and North Carolina, the Great Smoky Mountains and Bald Mountains are near or at peak. The lower elevations in these states are reporting mostly moderate to high color.

Leaf drop is moderate to high throughout the region.

If you have not yet made your leaf-peeping travel plans, now is the time! Check out our Places to Stay and Foliage Spotters sections to find great accommodations!

This information provided by Marek D. Rzonca, The Foliage Network. The next report will be released on Saturday, October 25, 2003.

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