Last updated: January 18, 2025
Arkansas, situated in the southern United States, predominantly experiences a Cfa climate according to the Köppen-Geiger classification. This temperate climate is characterized by a striking range of temperatures, with winter lows plummeting to a minimum of -25°C (-12°F) in February, while summer can soar to a sweltering 41°C (107°F) in July. The state's average annual temperature hovers around 17°C (62°F), reflecting the dynamic seasonal transitions that shape its diverse ecosystems and influence the everyday lives of its residents.
In Arkansas, temperature patterns exhibit significant seasonal variation, reflecting distinct weather transitions throughout the year. Winter months, such as January and February, show frigid minima dipping to -25°C (-12°F) while average temperatures remain near freezing, gradually increasing to a comfortable 7°C (45°F) by late February. As spring approaches, March and April bring a noticeable warming trend, with temperatures escalating to 16°C (60°F) by April's average. The transition into summer sees a remarkable rise in heat, with July temperatures peaking at an intense 41°C (107°F). August maintains similar warmth, before a gradual shift into cooler conditions during September and October. Fall temperatures decline further, with October averages reaching 17°C (64°F), ultimately setting the stage for winter’s return. This seasonal progression creates a dynamic climatic landscape that profoundly impacts both the environment and lifestyle in Arkansas.
The climate in Arkansas showcases significant temperature variation across its regions, particularly in notable locales such as Hot Springs National Park, Eureka Springs, and Hot Springs. In Hot Springs National Park, temperatures range from a frigid -19°C (-2°F) in February to a sweltering 38°C (101°F) in July. Similarly, Eureka Springs records even lower winter temperatures with a minimum of -25°C (-12°F) in February, while summer peaks reach 36°C (97°F) in July. In the city of Hot Springs, temperature patterns mirror those of the national park, with February lows at -19°C (-2°F) and highs soaring to 38°C (101°F) during the hottest month. These diverse temperature ranges not only enhance Arkansas's distinctive climate but also influence its rich natural landscapes and recreational opportunities.
Arkansas experiences a varied precipitation pattern throughout the year, with a notable concentration of rainfall in the spring months. From January to May, precipitation steadily increases, starting at 95 mm (3.8 in) in January and peaking at 167 mm (6.6 in) in May. This period is characterized by a higher frequency of rainy days, particularly in February and May, which average 12 and 13 rainy days respectively. April and March also contribute significantly to the total rainfall, receiving 162 mm (6.4 in) and 153 mm (6.0 in), making these months critical for replenishing the region’s water resources.
As the summer approaches, precipitation levels begin to decline, with June experiencing 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain and July further decreasing to 96 mm (3.8 in). However, a slight uptick occurs in August with rain accumulating to 119 mm (4.7 in). The fall months, specifically September and October, present a reduction in precipitation, with September receiving 80 mm (3.2 in) and October showing 120 mm (4.7 in), while November and December bring mild rainfall of 78 mm (3.1 in) and 117 mm (4.6 in), respectively. This seasonal variation in precipitation supports diverse ecosystems and agricultural practices across the state.
In Arkansas, the duration of sunshine reflects a pronounced seasonal trend, with hours of sunlight steadily increasing from winter to summer. Beginning with the 149 hours of sunshine in January, the state experiences a gradual rise through the early months of the year. By March, Arkansas basks in 214 hours, showcasing a transition into spring. April marks a significant uptick as sunlight reaches 251 hours, further solidifying the onset of longer days. The peak sunshine month occurs in July, where residents enjoy an impressive 350 hours of bright sunlight, setting the stage for a vibrant summer landscape.
As summer draws to a close in August, sunshine hours begin to taper off slightly to 316 hours. The trend continues into the fall months, with September yielding 287 hours and October presenting 255 hours. As daylight decreases with the approach of winter, November offers 224 hours, while December concludes the year with 205 hours of sunshine. This cyclical pattern not only shapes the region's climate and agriculture but also influences local recreational activities and the overall mood of its residents throughout the seasons.
The UV Index (UVI) in Arkansas exhibits notable seasonal fluctuations, peaking during the summer months when the risk of overexposure to ultraviolet rays is highest. Beginning in January with a moderate UVI of 4, the index rises sharply as spring approaches, reaching 8 in March and a striking 11 in both April and May. These increasing values indicate that as the days grow longer and sunnier, residents need to be more mindful of sun protection, particularly in late spring when exposure levels can be particularly intense.
As summer unfolds, the UVI reaches its apex of 12 in both June and July, underscoring the critical importance of sun safety during the heat of the year. Slightly lower yet still elevated values are recorded in August at 11, before a gradual decline occurs with the onset of fall. The UVI decreases to 10 in September and further to 8 in October, signaling a return to safer levels as temperatures cool. By November and December, the index drops back to 6 and 4 respectively, indicating less risk from UV exposure, as Arkansas transitions into the winter months. This seasonal variation emphasizes the need for increased awareness and protective measures during the sunnier, hotter months of the year.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Arkansas fluctuates throughout the year, showcasing a clear seasonal rhythm that enhances the state’s varying activities and lifestyles. In January and February, residents experience about 10 hours of daylight, which gradually increases to 11 hours in March as spring approaches. By April, daylight hours expand significantly to 13 hours, and this trend continues, reaching its zenith in May with a full 14 hours of sunlight per day. The summer months maintain this generous daylight duration, with June and July also basking in 14 hours of daylight, providing ample time for outdoor activities and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
As summer transitions to fall, daylight hours begin to wane, with August still boasting 13 hours but decreasing to 12 hours by September. This decline continues into October when daylight durations reach back down to 11 hours. By November, daylight is further reduced to 10 hours, and the shorter days culminate in December with just 9 hours of daylight. This seasonal shift significantly impacts daily routines, recreational opportunities, and the overall ambiance of Arkansas, as residents adapt to the varying amounts of natural light throughout the year.
Bentonville, United States, experiences a varied climate with distinct seasonal changes. In the winter months, temperatures can range from chilly lows of -25°C (-12°F) in February, with average highs reaching up to 27°C (81°F), while summer brings warmth, particularly in July, with averages around 26°C (79°F) and highs peaking at 37°C (99°F). Precipitation peaks in spring, notably in April with 177 mm (7.0 in), while the drier months are November and December, each with around 69 mm (2.7 in) of rainfall. Sunshine hours are abundant during summer, with July enjoying the most at 352 hours, whereas the winter months see less sun, like January's 154 hours. For further details on Bentonville's climate, visit the Bentonville climate page.
Eureka Springs, located in the United States, exhibits a diverse climate with distinct seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, and sunshine. Winter months, particularly January and February, are colder with average temperatures around 3-4°C (37-40°F) and minimal sunshine, while precipitation levels remain moderate. Spring brings a warming trend, with average temperatures gradually rising from 10°C (51°F) in March to 19°C (67°F) in May, along with increased rainfall, peaking at 170 mm (6.7 inches) in May. The summer months are warm and sunny, with July experiencing the highest average temperatures of 26°C (79°F) and maximum sunshine of 348 hours. The transition to autumn sees temperatures cooling from September to November, with reduced precipitation and sunshine, providing a pleasant climate for visitors. For detailed information, visit the Eureka Springs climate.
Greers Ferry, United States, experiences a varied climate with notable seasonal shifts. Winter temperatures can plummet to as low as -20°C (-4°F), while summer peaks can hit up to 38°C (101°F). Precipitation is fairly distributed throughout the year, with May receiving the highest rainfall at 182 mm (7.2 in) and November the least at 79 mm (3.1 in). Sunshine is abundant during the summer months, peaking at 353 hours in July, while the winter months see around 150-210 hours. For more detailed climate information, see Greers Ferry climate.
Hot Springs, United States, experiences a diverse climate with significant variations in temperature throughout the year. Winters are cold, with January's average temperature around 6°C (43°F) and lows reaching -15°C (6°F), while summers are hot, peaking in July with averages around 27°C (82°F) and maximums reaching 38°C (101°F). Precipitation is relatively stable, averaging from 79 mm (3.1 in) in November to 168 mm (6.6 in) in May. Sunshine hours vary from 148 hours in January to a peak of 345 hours in July, reflecting the longer summer days. For further information, you can visit the Hot Springs climate page.
Hot Springs National Park experiences a diverse climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The temperature ranges from a chilly minimum of -19°C (-2°F) in February to a scorching maximum of 38°C (101°F) in July. Precipitation is distributed throughout the year, with May receiving the highest at 168 mm (6.6 in), while November has the least at 79 mm (3.1 in). Sunshine duration peaks at 345 hours in July, offering ample daylight for outdoor activities. For more detailed climate information, visit the Hot Springs National Park climate.
Jasper experiences a diverse climate with significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year. Winters see temperatures ranging from -24°C (-10°F) in February to highs of around 24°C (76°F) in December, while summers enjoy warm conditions with July averaging 25°C (77°F) and reaching maximums of 35°C (95°F). The wettest months are May, receiving 190 mm (7.5 in) of precipitation, and April, with 157 mm (6.2 in), while September is the driest with only 70 mm (2.8 in). Sunshine is abundant, peaking in July with 354 hours, contrasting with the shorter winter days of January's 154 hours. For more detailed information, you can visit Jasper climate.
Mount Ida, located in the United States, experiences a varied climate throughout the year. Winters are relatively mild, with January temperatures ranging from a minimum of -15°C (5°F) to a maximum of 22°C (73°F), while summer months like July see temperatures rising to 38°C (100°F). The area receives moderate precipitation, with the highest rainfall occurring in May at 182 mm (7.2 in) and the lowest in September at 65 mm (2.6 in). Sunshine hours increase from 147 in January to a peak of 341 in July, indicating long summer days. For more detailed climate information, visit Mount Ida climate.
Springdale experiences a diverse climate with cold, snowy winters and hot, humid summers. Temperature extremes range from chilly lows of -25°C (-12°F) in February to scorching highs of 37°C (99°F) in July. The region sees substantial precipitation throughout the year, peaking in the spring months, particularly in April with 177 mm (7.0 in) of rainfall. Summer boasts the most sunshine, with July offering up to 352 hours, compared to a paltry 154 hours in January. For more detailed information on Springdale's climate, please visit the Springdale climate.
In conclusion, the climate and environmental patterns of Arkansas demonstrate a dynamic interplay between temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours throughout the year. The state experiences significant seasonal changes, ranging from the cold winters to the hot, sunny summers, each bringing unique climate characteristics that influence local ecosystems and day-to-day life. Understanding these climatic variables is crucial for residents and visitors alike, as it informs choices related to outdoor activities, sun protection, and agricultural practices. With its rich and varied climate, Arkansas remains a vibrant tapestry of natural beauty and seasonal experiences, highlighting the importance of awareness and adaptation to its ever-changing environment.