Why are Fall Colors in Missouri & Illinois So Dull This Year?

I don't know about you, but I love Fall. I'm not sure between Spring and Fall which season is my favorite, but I sure do love it when the leaves change into brilliant colors this time of year. Have you noticed that the leaves in Missouri and Illinois have been a bit dull this year so far?

At first I thought it was my imagination, but I've seen others notice the same thing I have this year. Fall colors just aren't popping like they normally do and I think I know the reason why.

Take a look at the drought monitor in Missouri. Most of the state is dry as a bone.

It's the same story for the northern half of Illinois, too. Not enough moisture.

It's not hard to do the math. Due to the fact that much of Missouri and Illinois are WAY below normal precipitation totals for the year, that means the leaves in the trees are dry which also means rather drab colors. I'm sure there's somebody somewhere that loves the color brown, but it's not this dude.

It's not all bad. We still have some decent yellows, but I have not seen nearly as many bright orange Fall leaf colors as usual. Perhaps if the sky will open up and give us some moisture soon, we'll stand a better chance of having a more brilliant Fall season next year.