The dry conditions in the Shenandoah Valley this summer will put a damper on fall foliage colors this fall, according to an AccuWeather meteorologist.
“The leaves are likely to drop off the trees earlier than usual,” said Thomas Kines, also the director of forecaster scheduling. “The orange and red are not likely to be as vibrant as they usually are. The yellows and browns will probably be the dominant colors.”
A good fall foliage year usually consists of near average or above average precipitation during the growing season along with abundant sun followed by cooler nights during the early fall, Kines said.
Since June 1, temperatures have been about 1.6 degrees above the historical average in the Shenandoah Valley, Charlottesville and Waynesboro. Rainfall has unfortunately been well below normal, averaging about 50 percent of what it should be. In Waynesboro, rainfall totals are approximately 57 percent below normal.
The fall foliage colors may not be the only disappointing news for lovers of autumn.
People who love bonfires, smores and everything pumpkin spice are usually ready for cooler temperatures after Labor Day.
“The transition to a more fall-like weather pattern will be slower than typical,” Kines said.
He expects weather in the autumn season to be warmer than usual, probably by a few degrees, from September to November.
Rainfall is expected to be close to the historical average in the Shenandoah Valley during fall months. Above normal rainfall is expected across eastern Virginia, including the I-95 corridor, especially if that area is impacted by a tropical system.
“There is the risk of severe thunderstorms this fall with the higher-than-normal temperatures,” Kines said. “We also have to beware of any tropical systems that affect Virginia which can cause tornados in eastern Virginia.”
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Crystal Graham
