Washington, D.C. – From New England to the Carolinas, residents across the East Coast are beginning to notice the vibrant transition of green leaves to fiery reds, oranges, and yellows. According to the National Weather Service, the annual change is driven by both weather patterns and natural chemical processes inside the leaves.
During the spring and summer, trees stay green thanks to chlorophyll, the pigment that powers photosynthesis. As fall arrives, decreasing daylight hours and cooler nighttime temperatures cause chlorophyll to break down, revealing pigments that were previously masked. Yellows and oranges become more visible, while direct sunlight exposure can push some leaves to turn red.
“Leaves on the shady side of trees often stay yellow, while those facing the sun may shift to deep red,” forecasters explained. The timing and intensity of color can also vary based on elevation and temperature shifts.
Peak foliage generally arrives in October across much of the East Coast, though northern states such as Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine typically see earlier changes than the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast. Weather conditions—including rainfall, frost, and temperature swings—can influence how vivid or muted the colors appear.
For those hoping to catch the best views, experts recommend getting outdoors within the next few weeks before the season’s window closes.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
