Cold Front Could Bring Early End To Oklahoma's Fall Foliage

The cold weather headed our way isn't welcome news to a lot of us, especially to the people hoping the brilliant leaves changing color hang on a little longer.

Monday, November 10th 2014, 7:19 pm

By: Craig Day


The cold weather headed our way isn't welcome news to a lot of us, especially to the people hoping the brilliant leaves changing color hang on a little longer.

Much of Oklahoma's beautiful fall colors near Keetonville Hill and Woodward Park are catching the eye of admiring foliage fans like Lynn Newton.

"They're gorgeous, prettier than we remember them in years past," she said.

The last few years of drought made fall colors less than stellar, but more moisture is making a difference in some areas this year.

"It's like the mountain is on fire, it's really cool,” Newton said.

OSU Extension Horticulture Educator, John Haase, said in some spots the fall foliage is impressive.

"I've talked to several people who have said that they've seen some really pretty trees this year, but they aren't all turning at the same time this year," Haase said.

Put very simply, trees need sunny days and cool, crisp, nights to produce better color.

This year's weather conditions led to a later fall foliage season.

A front already shaking trees - and which will soon have people shivering - will likely mean a shorter fall foliage season.

"Kind of depends on the dry cold. If it's really dry and cold that could make them kind of turn brittle and come off quicker," Haase said.

The wind will likely be more of a factor than the cold.

Some trees protected from that wind, could keep their color a little longer, but due to high winds and the probability of very low temperatures this week, those not wanting to miss the view should get a good look now.

Oklahoma's tourism department provides regular updates of fall foliage across the state.

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