Ontario fall foliage may be delayed by ‘Super El Nino’

The anticipated ‘Super El Nino’ climate pattern, expected to be the strongest on record, may impact the timing of fall foliage in Ontario. While the phenomenon is causing global weather disruptions, including droughts and floods, experts suggest it will likely bring warmer-than-normal autumn temperatures to the region.

Susan Dudley, a biology professor at McMaster University, noted that cooler nights typically trigger the change in leaf color. Because of the warmer El Nino weather, the onset of vibrant orange, red, and yellow pigments may be delayed, though the season's color progression could potentially be prolonged. Unlike the previous year, where heat and limited rainfall resulted in duller hues, trees this season have not faced the same level of stress, which may aid the color display.