The Pocono Mountains are expected to experience vibrant fall foliage this year, thanks to the high rainfall in August. According to meteorologist Ben Gelber, the extra moisture should prevent the leaves from turning brown too early. As long as there is sufficient sunlight in September and October, the fall leaves should display their best colors. The foliage colors in the Poconos are expected to peak by late October.
Stroudsburg experienced its third-wettest August on record this year, with a total of 9.69 inches of rain. This abundance of moisture is good news for foliage enthusiasts, as a dry summer would cause leaves to brown prematurely. Gelber, a Pocono weather expert, stated that only a particularly gray and gloomy September into early October would cause diminished colors, but this is unlikely to happen.
The color change will start farther north and at higher elevations, gradually working its way southward and down into the valleys as the season progresses. The northern Poconos should display good color in early October, with a later peak in southeastern Monroe County, according to Gelber.
The Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau will release its foliage forecast on Thursday, Sept. 5, with weekly updates through the end of October. The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources also produces weekly updates. Last year, Wayne County had its best color the week of Oct. 5-11, while Carbon, Monroe, and Pike counties had their best color from Oct. 19-25.
According to the Pocono Record, the fall foliage is expected to start peaking in early October at the highest altitudes. The initial weekly update from the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau notes that less than 5% of leaves have changed color, and the vast majority of leaves (90 to 99%, depending on the region) are still on trees.