ATLANTA — If you’ve noticed that autumn feels warmer and seems to linger longer, you’re not mistaken.

Research indicates that since 1970, every county in the contiguous United States has experienced warming due to climate change. This shift has resulted in higher energy expenses and extended allergy seasons, while also significantly delaying the first freeze dates of fall.

“In fact, among the 204 cities we examined, 88% are seeing their initial fall freeze occur, on average, nearly two weeks later,” explained Shel Winkley, a meteorologist with Climate Central. “In regions like Reno, Nevada, and Bend, Oregon, that delay can be over a month.”

This phenomenon isn’t restricted to the West. Across the nation, fall is gradually losing its traditional coolness from coast to coast.

Climate Central’s study shows Toledo, Ohio’s first freeze is arriving 29 days later on average than in the 1970s; Philadelphia typically sees its first frost 20 days later; and Nashville and New York don’t get frosty until about two weeks later than they used to.

While summer lovers may not see a problem, the consequences can be costly. Later freezes are known to affect health, agriculture and the environment.

“It can stretch allergy season longer, give pests like mosquitoes more time to buzz and thrive, and even reduce the quality of fruit and nut crops that depend on colder temperatures,” Winkley said. “It also affects fall color, farming schedules and local ecosystems.”

The first freeze is more than just a weather milestone — it’s a biological signal. Farmers rely on predictable freeze dates for planting, harvesting and pest control. While a later freeze and longer growing season can mean more time for crops to grow, it also opens up more opportunities for pests and diseases to thrive.

Many crops, including fruits and nuts, depend on a steady stretch of “chill time” beginning in early fall to ensure healthy yields. However, since 1980, Climate Central reports 181 locations have seen this chilling period shrink.

Beyond farms and forests, fall warming throws off the natural timing for birds to migrate and animals to hibernate.

The evidence is clear: Cooler falls are history thanks to climate change.  Now, like Mother Nature, we have to find new ways to adapt.