Climate change is delaying Minnesota’s peak fall colors

The colors of fall foliage are important to many Minnesotans, and timing for peak colors is wrapping up in the northern portion of the state. But future generations may get to enjoy those vibrant colors later in the year.

MPR Chief Meteorologist Ben Cathey spoke with Brian Schwingle, forest health program coordinator with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, to see how climate change is delaying when leaves change.

“Peak color since the late ’60s up until 2025 has delayed about almost two weeks,” Schwingle said. “There are two main factors that control leaf color change: day length ... and temperature in the fall. Temperature, specifically minimum night temperatures in September and October.”

The delayed timing doesn't necessarily mean Minnesota's fall color season will become shorter. But as autumn temperatures continue to warm, the state's annual display is likely to keep arriving later in the year.

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