Fall Foliage Report: Oct. 9

Much of Connecticut has near-peak color with several areas now peaking.

The northwestern hills are experiencing peak conditions. Near peak color reaches through most of Tolland and Windham counties. The same is true for interior western Connecticut. Other areas are only seeing patchy color.

Peak:
Most of Litchfield County is now reporting peak color with vibrant oranges and reds throughout the area. With the change occurring, a substantial leaf drop is evident across some of the highest terrain.

Near-peak:
Fall color continues to spread through the state. Most of western Connecticut away from the shoreline and deeper valleys is reporting near-peak foliage. The same can be said for northeastern Connecticut. Peak colors have also been popping up across the higher terrain of Middlesex County.

Patchy color:
The shoreline and Connecticut River valley continue to only report patchy color, but even some of these areas will soon be moving into the near-peak category.

Into this weekend:
Northwestern Connecticut continues to be the place to go to see the most vivid colors. However, a trip on I-84 into western Connecticut, as well as areas east-northeast of Manchester, will also feature abundant color. The rural areas across central Connecticut should see nice colors as well, as a trip along much of Route 9 will feature near-peak foliage.

Locally heavy rain and gusty wind did bring down some leaves Wednesday morning, but the good news is that foliage conditions were not significantly impacted. A dry day on Friday will make for excellent leaf viewing conditions. Although a bit of rain is likely early Saturday, the weekend looks mainly dry. Temperatures are expected to be near average for mid-October.

Map color table:
Green – Most leaves are green
Lime green – Patchy color is noted (more than 50% green)
Yellow – Colors are approaching peak (more than 50% turning)
Orange – Colors are peaking (more than 75% have turned)
Brown – Colors are turning brown and leaves are falling

Reports will be posted each Monday and Thursday through the foliage season.