Prediction for early fall color

The Clemson authority on autumn foliage predicts conditions are such that you’ll be able to take in leaf changes earlier than normal this year.  Don Hagan of the Clemson Department of Forestry and Environment Conservation made the prediction standing at the edge of North Carolina’s Pisgah National Forest and noted that color change has already begun at higher elevations – above a magical 5,000 –foot mark.  And, don’t worry, Hagan says, Hurricane Ian is not likely to have spoiled the color change season at all.  For those of us who care not to drive as far as western North Carolina for the spectacle, Hagan advises, “We may have a little bit earlier peak this year at this elevation (the top of Pisgah) than we normally have.  But for fall color in the Upstate – along SC Highway 11 and near Lake Jocassee – realistically you’re looking at early November before you see your best colors there.”