The Times-News reports

A somewhat rainy summer coupled with sunny days and cool temperatures this month is setting the stage for good color on the trees, said Dr. Howard Neufeld, a professor of biology at Appalachian State University.

"We had a real hot summer in August and then it switched and we got these cool days," he said. "We haven't had severe drought and that's good. What I tell people is that since it was a record warm summer, we don't have anything to go on since this is the first time that's happened. If it continues to be cool and sunny going into October, we should have good color."