Leaf-peeping season is almost here. Lincoln Riddle has the story on where fall foliage is expected to be most vibrant this fall.

AccuWeather experts report that the vibrancy of fall foliage in the US this year will be closely tied to recent weather patterns. Areas with a wet growing season and bright early fall sunlight are expected to see the most colorful leaves. The central US, eastern Carolinas, and the Northeast are forecast to have especially vibrant foliage, though the Northeast's season may be shorter due to recent dry conditions. In contrast, regions such as Utah, Nevada, Idaho, Oregon, and parts of the South may experience duller colors due to drought, fires, or tree stress from excessive rainfall and pests. Travelers are advised to plan early visits to peak regions and consult updated forecasts.

What parts of U.S. could see the most vibrant fall foliage this year?

Meteorological fall is here and that means leaf peeping season is just weeks away. Accuweather long-range expert Paul Pastelok says how vibrant or dull fall foliage is in a given area is directly related to the weather in the spring, summer and early fall. We need to have a good wet growing season or at least near average precipitation. We don't need drought. Drought causes more stress on the trees and as we get into early fall it's very helpful to get bright sunlight. For those seeking the most vibrant foliage in the country this year, Pastelok says you'll want to head to the central U.S., the eastern Carolinas or the northeast and while the northeast is expected to have a great season, Pastelok says you may want to get there early as recent dry conditions could impact the season's overall length. Get out early when they start to really go and get a good viewing then before any of the big storms knock the leaves down because of the stress caused by the dry conditions. Pastelok says there are multiple regions in the country that can expect duller foliage this fall including portions of Utah, Nevada, Idaho and Oregon where drought and fires have caused stress on trees. Another area of concern is from East Texas to Alabama and on up into the central Appalachian Mountains. This is an area that has seen a lot of rainfall since the late spring. Now we have dried out recently but still this area could, the trees may be dealing with some some stress, some fungus, some insects. As you plan your fall foliage excursions be sure to check the AccuWeather app for the latest forecasts. Reporting for AccuWeather, I'm Lincoln Riddle.

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