Dr. Robert Bardon recently explained how drought, heat, and rain could shape this year's fall foliage in this featured NC State College of Natural Resources article.

Key takeaways:

• A mix of drought, heat, and rainfall could create a "patchwork" of foliage, with some areas showing duller colors or shorter seasons.
• North Carolina's fall foliage can begin as early as late September in the upper mountain elevations, gradually spreading across the state until it peaks along the coast in early to mid-November.
• The duration and vibrancy of fall foliage ultimately depend on weather conditions in September and October. Sunny days and cool (not freezing) nights are ideal conditions for fall foliage.
• The Piedmont and Coastal Plain regions are leaning toward above-normal temperatures and continued drought conditions that may cause delayed fall colors, leaves to drop early, or dull fall foliage.
• Western North Carolina is expected to offer the most vibrant foliage, especially around Asheville, yet drought and warm temperatures could cause leaves to brown or drop early.
• North Carolina's mountains, parks, rivers, lakes, and greenways will still offer many places to see fall colors, even if conditions vary across the state.