Drought is forcing leaves to fall before Fall 2024 begins

 

Even with a round of 60° temperatures on the way fall is still far away from Michiana. Autumn officially begins September 22 this year.

However, even in early September, some are already seeing Michiana trees shed leaves. Some shades of yellow, burnt orange and brown are starting to appear as well.

The reason for the changes is not an early taste of fall. Instead, it's the worsening drought that's been drying out Michiana since August.

Drought stress was apparent on trees in Boland Park in South Bend and along the Riverwalk in Mishawaka.

The drought will likely continue and even expand in the next few weeks. So, if you don't notice the early leaf drop yet, you might throughout the first half of September.

Rain is likely on Friday but is unlikely to significantly halt the drought. Dry and hot weather looks to stay with us for most of next week.

This is also bad news for fans of leaf-watching. Hot temperatures and drought can dull maximum fall color, which usually arrives across Michiana at the end of October. Additionally, it's tough to witness the full splendor of fall color if most of the leaves have already fallen from the trees.

We'll continue to monitor this situation, especially with a new drought monitor update expected on Thursday.