As children return to school and temperatures dip across the state, many New Yorkers are already looking ahead to the real highlight of autumn — vibrant fall foliage. But when will the leaves start to change in New York this year? While it’s still early for peak color, meteorologists and long-range forecasters are already weighing in on how soon — and how spectacular — fall colors will be across the Empire State in 2025.
When does fall start in New York?
Fall officially begins Monday, Sept. 22, with the autumn equinox. But signs of the season are already here:
In Rochester, New York, for example, August 2025 averaged 68.7°F — about 2 degrees cooler than normal, according to the National Weather Service in Buffalo. In Buffalo, recent highs have ranged from the mid-60s to upper 70s, setting the stage for seasonal transition.
How colorful will the leaves be this fall?
According to AccuWeather’s 2025 fall foliage forecast, leaf peepers in eastern New York — including the Adirondacks, Catskills and Hudson Valley — are in for a treat. Ample spring and summer rainfall has set the stage for vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. Meanwhile, central and western New York, including the Finger Lakes and Greater Niagara regions, can expect typical color displays this season.
“We expect vibrant colors across much of New England and the Midwest this autumn,” said AccuWeather lead meteorologist Paul Pastelok. “Don’t wait too long to check out the leaves… the fall foliage may not last very long this year.”
Predicted peak weeks in New York
How to track fall foliage in New York
The New York State Fall Foliage Tracker — managed by the state Department of Economic Development — offers weekly updates throughout September and October.
The interactive map covers 11 regions, including:
Map Legend:
The first foliage reports will be published during the second week of September, with peak colors spreading throughout October. Throughout the fall, more than 90 volunteers track the color transition.
Track it here: Visit the I LOVE NY Fall Foliage Report
Other fall foliage tools & forecasts
SmokyMountains.com Fall Foliage Map: Predicts minimal to patchy color in New York early September, with peak conditions starting the week of October 7 in higher elevations.
ExploreFall.com: Forecasts peak foliage in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut between the third and fourth weeks of October, with NYC reaching peak color in mid-November.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Fall foliage tracker: When will leaves change and peak in NY?
Reporting by Victoria E. Freile, New York Connect Team / Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
