Big storm system could put swift end to western colors

By News9 Meteorologist Carrie Rose.

A big, slow-moving storm system in the western U.S. is bringing the first snowstorm to the Rockies from Nevada to Montana.  You can get updates on the snow totals here.

This low pressure system has gusty winds with it, and this could blow off the Fall leaves across much of the Rockies region through the weekend. 

The Rockies are at or just past their peak colors the second week of October, with mountainsides and valleys blanketed in brilliant yellows.  However, the show may not be allowed to linger if the winds end the show early. 

The Upper Midwest, Great Lakes, and Northeast are all at peak colors this week, with widespread color across the Southeast.  Even in Oklahoma, we are starting to see the yellow colors peeking through at last.  The yellow pigment you see in the leaves is always there, but underneath the green during the spring and summer.  As our days grow shorter and the green begins to fade (not enough solar energy to feed it), the yellow begins showing through. 

Oklahoma still looks on track to peak in early November.  Our next round of rain should ensure we put on a decent show this year.

Stay with News9 and News9.com, we'll keep you advised.