Arkansas Weather

Arkansas climate

Arkansas has a humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and generally mild winters. The state receives approximately 50 inches of rainfall per year, distributed fairly evenly across all seasons. The Ouachita Mountains and Ozark Plateau in the western and northern parts of the state create varied microclimates with slightly cooler temperatures.

Severe thunderstorms and tornadoes are a recurring threat in Arkansas, especially during spring and early summer. The state lies at the intersection of warm, moist Gulf air and cooler continental air masses, creating ideal conditions for violent storms. Ice storms are also a notable hazard during winter, occasionally causing widespread power outages and tree damage.

Summers in Arkansas are characterized by high heat and humidity, with average highs in the low to mid-90s across most of the state. The combination of heat and moisture produces a heat index that often exceeds 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Winters are relatively short, with snow more common in the Ozark region, where accumulations of several inches can occur multiple times per season.