CORNELL, N.Y. (WENY) -- The vibrant fall colors along our rolling hills and valleys bring many tourists into our region. This makes the fall season an economically important one across the Twin Tiers. We are in that time of the year when the leaves are expected to start changing. 

''We had a quick transition from spring to summer temperatures earlier in the year and it stayed hot. So, this could stress the trees out and I could see a couple of maples around town that are in full colors right now because they have been stressed out,'' said Daniel Weitoish at Cornell University. 

Weitoish said that shorter days play a role in bringing on the colors, but weather conditions affect the vibrancy and timing of the foliage. However, an early freeze could damage the leaves resulting in a less vibrant color.

''Warm, sunny days during the fall produce the most explosive colors, '' said Daniel Weitoish.

Chlorophyll, a pigment in plants, causes the green color in leaves and powers photosynthesis. During the fall these green pigments break down during the longer and cooler nights, causing leaves to change to a more radiant color. 

Generating strong reds, purples, yellows, and oranges is never a guarantee. Foliage color only develops to its full potential when days are cool, and nights are chilly, but not freezing.

The Climate Prediction Center is predicting above-average temperatures and near-normal rainfall through November, making the colorful fall season a distinct possibility.