STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — For many, the change of colors in the leaves is often one of the most anticipated aspects of the fall season.
This year, parts of New York will feature some particularly vibrant fall colors, according to AccuWeather’s 2025 fall foliage forecast.
“There will be drastic differences in fall foliage across this country this year,” AccuWeather Lead Long-Range Expert Paul Pastelok explained. “We expect vibrant colors across much of New England and the Midwest this autumn. Don’t wait too long to check out the leaves as they approach peak color. The fall foliage may not last very long this year.”
Much of eastern and northern upstate New York is among those areas forecast to see some particularly nice hues of orange, yellow and red. However, New York City and western New York should expect typical fall foliage, AccuWeather said.
Those planning to go upstate for apple picking may wish to schedule their trip for when these colors are at their peak.
According to AccuWeather, the peak times vary depending on location. Areas in Central New York can expect colors to be at their best in early October. Meanwhile, the Hudson Valley is forecast to peak in mid October and colors in New York City are expected to peak in late October.
A number of factors go into setting the stage for such vibrant conditions, including a healthy amount of rain, cool nights in the early fall and minimal impact from wind, drought and insects, according to AccuWeather.
An AccuWeather graphic shows the forecast for times in which fall foliage will peak in color in New York.(AccuWeather)
“Warm autumn nights are especially impactful,” AccuWeather Climate Expert and Senior Meteorologist Brett Anderson said. “Evening temperatures that are higher than the historical average can prevent leaves from producing the sugars needed for brilliant reds and purples. Too much rain increases the odds of fungal stress or duller hues. Too little rainfall can lead to leaves withering early. Extremes linked to climate will likely have a bigger impact on the vibrancy and length of fall foliage season in the decades to come.”
In addition to New York, New England, and the Midwest, residents of the Colorado Rockies, Plains and the Carolinas can also expect some mesmerizing fall foliage.
Fall colors are generally expected to be duller for most of the Appalachians and Gulf Coast states.
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