When to look for the best fall color in Ohio

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- The Ohio Department of Natural Resources fall color update for early October takes into account the impact of the historic drought in the southeastern half of Ohio that caused some leaves to turn color early and drop off.

Rain from Helene's broad circulation late last week brightened the lawns and provided much-needed moisture for stressed trees, which, when coupled with cooler temperatures, will help will make conditions more favorable for colorful foliage in the coming weeks.

Every year, ODNR puts out weekly updates on the changing leaves and where to look for the best fall colors. The map released by ODNR this weekend indicates colors are beginning to change statewide (yellow), with near peak conditions (orange) in the higher elevations of east-central Ohio.

ODNR Fall Color Forester David Parrott said that while the colors this season will be more patchy than usual, there will be areas of vivid color in October during mid-to-late October.

In central Ohio, fall colors generally peak around the third week of October (Oct. 17-20), with pockets of vibrant color in the southern part of the state in the last week of the month.

“The recent rainy weather should help some with fall color here in Ohio,” Parrott said. “For the best fall color, we need cooler nights and sunny days. The recent rain in Ohio, after a very dry summer, may benefit some of the late changers as they show their colorful displays within the next few weeks.”

Parrott said the strong winds last Friday associated with the remnants of Helene brought down some leaves prematurely. He added that drought resistant trees will follow their usual timeline.