There are a lot of great things about fall when it finally settles and across the nation. Many people appreciate the cooler weather the change of season brings. 

One of the most popular things many people enjoy doing around the nation is checking out the beautiful fall foliage colors. However, with a severe drought gripping much of the nation this year, the fall colors could be different from years past.

For some areas, that peak has already passed. According to the meteorologist, perfect fall foliage conditions depend on a combination of temperature that’s not too hot and not too cold and moisture where it’s not too wet or too dry. 

Unfortunately for areas that have experienced extreme weather conditions this year, such as in the West and New England, it is impacting fall colors.

Residents and visitors to Vermont are expected to see vibrant fall foliage this year due to factors such as good tree growth last year, mild drought, and warm days and cold nights over the last month. 

However, Dr. William Keeton, forest ecology and forestry professor at the University of Vermont, says that while the drought could trigger more vibrant colors, the timing may be premature. He says that the colors this year are coming about two weeks earlier than normal and probably go by quickly.