‘The color is just not going to be there this year for some hillsides’: Autumn leaf peeping pegged back by drought, climate change

This year, autumn leaf peeping may be disappointing due to severe drought conditions and climate change affecting the Northeast and western U.S., as highlighted by USDA meteorologist Brad Rippey. The vibrant colors typically seen during this season are expected to be muted, which not only impacts the beauty of the landscape but also the tourism and local economies that rely on leaf peepers. It's a stark reminder of how climate change is altering our natural cycles and the experiences we cherish.