Weather's Effect On Fall Colors

We've already been getting some great fall color pics this year, but have you ever wondered what causes the changing colors? Here's a quick science lesson:

Yellows and oranges are the most common colors we see and those are associated with decreasing sunlight during the day. Those colors aren't really affected by things like temperatures or precipitation. Your more vibrant colors, like your reds and purples, are different. You need specific weather conditions to see those colors. Namely, cool nights with dry and sunny afternoons.

There are things that can shorten the color season, like strong winds or rain. The dreaded s-word can also end the season early. One thing we won't have to worry too much about this year is brown leaves. You typically get those with drought conditions, and we haven't seen much of that this year.

For more information and updates on this year's fall color season, check out NWS Chicago's resource page here.