It seems like just weeks ago, signs of summer were all around. Temperatures were in the 70s and 80s during the early portions of September with most trees yet to change color. Below is a high resolution satellite image from September 2, courtesy of UW-Madison. As shown in the image, the landscape is dominated by greenery.

However, by the middle of the month, leaves started to change color. Below are satellite images from September 17th and September 30th.

It was difficult to find a good image of the landscape during October because we have seen so many cloud days. But the image below form October 7th, gives glimpses of the colorful landscape.

Nevertheless, the colorful landscape will soon be a thing of the past. This weekend will likely be one of the last opportunity’s to soak in this years fall foliage. Colors have nearly reached their peak across Northeast Wisconsin, with some locations in the northern part of the state already past their peak.

So just how was this year for fall colors? I encourage you to share your opinions. I for one believe that the fall colors weren’t anything out of the ordinary, but they also weren’t poor.

Prime conditions for vibrant red colors are warm sunny days with cool nights. That was generally the case during much of September. However, during October we saw cool and wet days with cold nights.

Until Next Time,
Meteorologist Andrew Thut