Leaf change could be early

A forest ecologist at Clemson says a rare summer cool snap may mean that fall colors in the Southern Appalachians could peak a few days sooner than normal. Donald Hagan says, “The polar vortex that visited our region in July created conditions for a slightly earlier leaf looking season. Peak colors at the upper elevations usually occur around October 15. Look for the peak to occur a few days earlier this year.” Leaf lookers should watch the weather reports closely. Crisp nights followed by clear, mild days will cause colors to change more rapidly.