The changing the colour the autumn leaves is a spectacular, photogenic, natural event many forests around the world. The myriad golds, reds, yellows, greens and browns provide a colourful canvas that ushers the end summer. This year the USA, the autumn foliage has been adversely affected drought conditions. The vibrant colours the leaves have been dulled by unusually dry weather. Over 80 per cent of America's northwest is undergoing extreme conditions that are not conducive to perfect foliage. The traditional autumnal beauty spots of Massachusetts, Maine, Rhode Island and New Hampshire are experiencing severe drought, and lacklustre colours.
Dr. William Keeton, a Forest Ecology and Forestry Professor the University of Vermont, explained why the adverse conditions were prevalent this year. He said: "It is due to a combination factors, including good tree growth last year, mild drought and both warm days and cool nights the last month." He added: "The colours this year are coming two weeks earlier than normal and will probably go fast and furiously. Largely, this is because the drought creates physiological stress the trees." He warned: "The stress is not a good thing and may be a harbinger things to come climate change. terms fall foliage, drought can cause the leaves to die and fall earlier."
