Warm Stretch Slows Leaf Change Progress

(KNSI) – Warm temperatures have helped slow down the color change, according to the latest data from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

A side-by-side comparison of the progress over the past three years as of September 21st is available on the agency’s Fall Color Finder page. So far in 2025, leaves are further along than in 2024 in practically every corner of the state. When comparing against 2023, though, much of the northwestern part of the state is holding onto the green vibrancy of summer longer. That is especially true from Itasca and Lake La Salle State Parks to the Grand Forks area and up to the Canadian border.

In central Minnesota, peak typically arrives between early October and mid-October. It continues to look like 2025 will see a crescendo of reds, yellows, and oranges towards the beginning of that window. The recent stretch of warmer weather shows no signs of abating, though. Highs are forecast in the 70s all week, and maybe more importantly, lows should continue to hover in the 50s.

The DNR says nighttime temps between 32 and 45 degrees, even to the point of a light frost, produce the most audacious and bold colors.

___