Fall has only just begun, but Virginia’s forests are already turning vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow—earlier than usual, according to the Virginia Department of Forestry.
Weeks of dry weather in August and September have accelerated the color change, particularly in western and central parts of the state where deep reds are appearing ahead of schedule. In the mountains and north central Virginia, bright yellows from yellow-poplar and pale oranges from sassafras are now visible, along with intense reds from sumac, Virginia creeper, black gum, and dogwood.
The highest elevations in the Blue Ridge and Alleghenies are reporting 10–25% leaf change, while most of eastern Virginia remains green, though chlorophyll is starting to fade. Urban trees under drought stress are also showing early color, starting from the top down.
The Department advises planning leaf-viewing trips sooner rather than later, as this year’s foliage season is likely to peak on the early side.
