South Carolina is heading into the ramp-up of the fall foliage season, but for some communities, the brilliant colors may be a bit muted compared to other years.
For the yellow, orange and red hues to exhibit their maximum intensity, leaf peepers generally hope for warm, sunny days followed by cool evenings with minimal drought conditions.
While some of these norms are being met, drought conditions south of Interstate 85 have been intensifying as the region endures a fall heat wave.
According to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor, 66% of the Palmetto State is considered unusually dry, while just over 7% is officially in moderate drought status.
For the year, Anderson has recorded a shortfall of nearly 5 inches of rain, while Aiken and Florence are closer to 7 inches below normal.
Drought conditions alter the chemistry within trees that produce chlorophyll and sugars - two critical components of the foliage season. Drier-than-average conditions can result in leaves turning color earlier, appearing less vibrant, or even browning and dropping before peak color arrives.
Despite the challenges, the three-week window from October 13 to November 3 is expected to provide the best opportunity to see autumn colors across most of the state, though the timing will vary depending on terrain and elevation.
Based on data from ExploreFall.com, the higher elevations and communities north of Interstate 85 should see their first peak foliage in mid-October. Between I-85 and I-95, the peak is projected to arrive by late October, which coincidences with Halloween festivities. Communities south and east of I-95 may need to wait until early November, or possibly longer, for peak activity.
In addition to the dryness and lingering summer-like heat across much of the state, many areas along the Georgia–South Carolina border and in the Upstate are still recovering from Hurricane Helene.
The 2024 cyclone produced around 20 inches of precipitation along the Interstate 85 corridor, triggering landslides and flash flooding.
While an exact count of downed trees was not available, the South Carolina Forestry Commission estimated damage to forests and the state’s timber industry at around $200 million.
NWS Columbia survey teams have been out across the area assessing the damage from Helene and associated tornadoes. The worst impacted areas saw hurricane force wind gusts over 100 mph for an extended period as Helene moved through. #scwx #gawx pic.twitter.com/DBUOMepksR
— NWS Columbia (@NWSColumbia) October 2, 2024
Local observers say the natural restoration of vegetation is progressing better than expected, which may not be as significant of a hindrance for fall foliage enthusiasts.
South Carolina State Parks officials note that sourwoods and dogwoods often provide the first hints of red, while tulip poplars produce bright yellow hues.
Park staff highlighted around a dozen spots across the state where viewing is optimal.
Among the popular destinations are Table Rock State Park in Pickens County, Caesars Head State Park in Greenville County and Paris Mountain State Park, just outside Greenville.