First signs of changing leaves spotted in Alaska as seasonal shift begins

FAIRBANKS, Alaska – The first signs of fall have begun to appear in parts of Alaska , with forecasters noting that trees around Fairbanks and across the North Slope are starting to lose some of their warm season green.

While the changes are not yet dramatic or widespread, patches of yellow and orange are visible on some brush and trees.

According to local forecasters, birch and aspen trees are among the first species to display fall hues.

The seasonal change is only considered to be slightly earlier than normal, with the most dramatic changes only a few weeks away.

In past years, changes in leaves have typically become more noticeable towards the latter half of August, but recent weather patterns may be influencing the earlier start.

MASSIVE LANDSLIDE IN ALASKA TRIGGERS DAMAGING TSUNA