Colors Pop As Temps Drop

This picture was taken last weekend in the Shawnee National Forest. The reds were really vibrant and the golds were outstanding in the October sunshine.
We're starting to see the mountains being painted with nature's brush in a dazzling way right now. Earlier in the season there was concern because of the dry weather. But I once interviewed a tree expert from the Cherokee National Forest who said, "Weather present is more important than weather past." The point being that wet or dry seasons are not as important as the conditions when the leaves are actually changing. For brilliant color you need warm sunny afternoons, and clear chilly nights. And viola! Primo color.
And as long as we don't get a lot of rain or wind we should see the peak change last awhile. I've been noticing some very nice color popping here at home the last few days driving around.
This may be the best weekend to get out and enjoy Fall foliage. Look for full sunshine Friday and Saturday afternoons. And mostly sunny skies Sunday afternoon. Lower 60s for highs today and Friday. Mid 60s on Saturday. Near 70 for Sunday. Partly cloudy and 73 for trick-or-treaters on Monday.
We have a ton of Fall Foliage information on WRCB-TV3's website. Check it out at: http://www.wrcbtv.com/news/news.cfm?DID=15297