Maryland Officials Released Fall Foliage Report
The state expects average color changes this year as trees transition under a strong El Niño weather pattern.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Current Conditions
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The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has released its annual fall foliage report, projecting average color displays across the state. The cycle is currently driven by soil moisture levels as trees pull green chlorophyll into their roots.
Why it matters
Maryland's autumn colors are influenced by a strong El Niño climate pattern that is forecasted to bring warmer-than-average temperatures. This pattern dictates how trees transition to red, orange, and yellow hues throughout the season.
NOAA reports a 40%-50% chance of above-normal temperatures statewide, with a 33%-40% probability of higher-than-average precipitation. The impact of these conditions on the exact timing of peak color remains under investigation.
The players
Maryland Department of Natural Resources
This state agency is responsible for managing Maryland's natural resources and monitoring forest health.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
This federal scientific agency provides seasonal weather outlooks and monitors climate patterns.
The details
Foresters tracking color changes across the state report that goldenrod and aster wildflowers are currently in full bloom. The progression of autumn colors follows a geographical sequence that moves from the western counties toward the coast.
Timeline
Oct. 14-17: Peak foliage in Garrett, Allegany, and Washington counties.
Late October: Peak foliage in central Maryland.
Early November: Peak foliage on Maryland's Eastern Shore.
October to December: Period covered by the NOAA seasonal weather outlook.
Seasonal Patterns
This year's foliage projection aligns with the National Weather Service's seasonal climate outlooks for Maryland. These patterns reflect how El Niño influences regional precipitation and temperature deviations compared to historical averages.
Residents planning leaf-peeping trips should monitor the projected peak dates for specific counties to ensure optimal viewing conditions. Those in Western Maryland should prepare for peak changes by mid-October, while those near the Eastern Shore should wait until early November.
The takeaway
Understanding the intersection of soil moisture and climate patterns can help residents better predict the timing of the fall season. While the foliage is expected to be average, the unseasonably warm weather may affect the duration of the vibrant colors.
Further reading
For more information on the current conditions, visit Maryland.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Baltimore Banner.
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