Anticipated autumn conditions indicated in The Old Farmer's Almanac are anticipated to be cooler than usual, potentially resulting in vibrant fall foliage.
Forecast Predicts Vibrant Fall Foliage in Northeast
The Old Farmer's Almanac has released its 2025 fall forecast for the Northeast region, predicting cooler and drier conditions than usual. This year, September is expected to average around 59°F, which is about 2°F below normal, with approximately 3.5 inches of precipitation. October will be even cooler, averaging 46°F, 3°F below normal, with only about 2.5 inches of rain.
These cooler temperatures combined with below-average rainfall are expected to produce a particularly vibrant fall foliage display. The cooler nights and dry conditions help enhance the intensity of leaf colors, reducing early leaf drop and boosting pigment production, leading to brighter reds, oranges, and yellows. As a result, the Northeast could have a notably colorful and attractive autumn season for leaf peepers in 2025.
However, there is some caution about the potential for drought conditions due to below-average precipitation, which could impact foliage if dryness becomes too severe. Still, as of late July 2025, rainfall events were anticipated intermittently, possibly mitigating extreme dryness compared to the previous year.
Central Park's trees may display a sea of reds and oranges due to the fall foliage. New York, specifically, is predicted to have a warmer fall compared to usual. The Northeast, the Appalachians, the Lower Lakes, the Ohio Valley, the Upper Midwest, the Southwestern desert, and Hawaii are also predicted to have a cooler than usual fall.
The Old Farmer's Almanac predictions for 2025 are available online for more information. The forecast indicates a warmer hike to the pumpkin patches this year, especially in the West. The fall foliage tracker is being refreshed for the 2025 season.
Despite the cooler temperatures, pumpkin-scented candles are being prepared for the fall season. A famous New York location has been ranked among the best sunset views in the United States, making it an ideal spot to enjoy the vibrant fall colors.
Enjoying the outdoor-living during the cooler and drier fall in the Northeast could result in a stunning home-and-garden display, as the vibrant fall foliage is expected to be increasingly bright due to the reduced early leaf drop and enhanced pigment production. However, the lack of rainfall might also lead to potential drought conditions, affecting the quality of the foliage if it becomes too severe.
