PITTSBURGH —

Have you noticed some of the trees are starting to change colors or even drop their leaves? It has very little to do with a sneak preview to cooler, fall-like air. Instead, the hot summer sun and a lack of rain since July may be the blame.

Temperatures and rainfall are significant weather factors in determining the timing, vibrancy and duration of the changing foliage each autumn. Trees are sensitive to many other factors, including sun exposure. The effects can begin as early as the summer. Advertisement

Hot temperatures will prolong chlorophyll production and the green leaves deeper into the fall. Meanwhile, dry soil conditions can signal an early color change. Often a drought robs us of a bright fall, leading to a muted color change.

It has turned unusually dry since t

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