“When to Expect Peak Fall Colors in Ohio: ODNR Predicts a Sporadic Season”
As October approaches, many are eager to know when peak fall foliage will arrive. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) provided an update, noting that the dry summer and early fall have caused non-drought-resistant trees, such as maples, sycamores, and tulip poplars, to begin changing colors earlier than usual.
Additionally, trees that typically change early, like buckeyes, poison ivy, and sumac, are already displaying vibrant red hues, according to ODNR.
Ohio has recently been experiencing drought conditions, as reported by FOX 8 meteorologists. ODNR’s fall color forester, David Parrott, mentioned that these dry conditions could lead to a sporadic fall color season, with pockets of vibrant color appearing across the state from now through October.
Currently, most of the state, including areas near Cleveland, is in the “changing” stage, where less than 25% of leaves are showing color. Parrott indicated that drought-resistant trees are expected to change colors at their usual time, but increased rain and cooler temperatures could enhance their vibrancy.
“In areas that have received more rain, peak colors are expected to occur in mid-October in the north and gradually move southward through the end of the month,” Parrott stated.
Stay informed on the latest weather conditions to make the most of the fall foliage season!