Fort Smith weather by month
Discover the year‑round climate of Fort Smith, Arkansas, and plan your activities with confidence. From crisp, snowy winters to hot, humid summers, this guide breaks down what to expect each month, complete with a quick‑reference table and answers to the most common weather questions.
Overview
Fort Smith sits in the humid continental climate zone (Köppen Dfa), characterized by distinct seasons. The city experiences cool to cold winters with occasional snow, a transitional spring, a hot and humid summer, and a mild fall. Average annual precipitation is about 41 inches, with most rain falling during the spring and summer months.
April
Average High: 68 °F | Average Low: 45 °F | Precipitation: 3.2 in
Spring fully awakens in Fort Smith. Budding trees line the streets, and daytime temperatures are comfortably warm. Occasional thunderstorms bring brief bursts of humidity.
May
Average High: 81 °F | Average Low: 57 °F | Precipitation: 4.1 in
May brings higher daytime highs and moderate humidity. Outdoor activities thrive, though some residents note increased pollen levels early in the month.
June
Average High: 88 °F | Average Low: 66 °F | Precipitation: 4.3 in
The start of summer sees consistently hot temperatures. Flashy afternoon storms are common, especially in the humid Midwest. Nighttime cooling is minimal.
July
Average High: 92 °F | Average Low: 70 °F | Precipitation: 4.7 in
July is the peak of summer heat. High humidity and occasional thunderstorms define the day. Air conditioning becomes essential for most homes and businesses.
August
Average High: 91 °F | Average Low: 69 °F | Precipitation: 4.4 in
Similar to July, August remains warm and humid. Evening showers often follow the intense daytime heat, offering brief respite.
September
Average High: 80 °F | Average Low: 58 °F | Precipitation: 3.6 in
Early September still feels like summer, but the drop in days means more comfortable evenings. This month often marks the beginning of a slowdown in thunderstorms.
October
Average High: 66 °F | Average Low: 39 °F | Precipitation: 3.2 in
Fall brings a pleasant mix of mild days and crisp nights. The famous “October weather” of Fort Smith—clear skies and temperate temperatures—appeals to both locals and visitors.
November
Average High: 50 °F | Average Low: 29 °F | Precipitation: 3.3 in
Cold fronts arrive in November, bringing chillier temperatures and some early snowfall. Daytime temperatures are often well below 60 °F.
December
Average High: 38 °F | Average Low: 20 °F | Precipitation: 2.9 in
December is the coldest month. Frequent snow showers and occasional ice storms can disrupt travel. Indoor heating is a staple during holiday season.
January
Average High: 36 °F | Average Low: 17 °F | Precipitation: 2.8 in
January remains cold, with high snowfall rates and sub‑freezing nights. Occasional sleet or freezing rain creates hazardous conditions on roads.
February
Average High: 42 °F | Average Low: 22 °F | Precipitation: 2.7 in
The month stays chilly, though slightly warmer days begin to emerge. Snow continues, but overall precipitation slightly drops.
March
Average High: 53 °F | Average Low: 33 °F | Precipitation: 2.9 in
Early spring. Temperatures gradually climb, bringing the first warm days. Frequent rain showers keep the terrain green and lush.
Fort Smith Weather By Month – Quick Reference Table
| Month | Avg High (°F) | Avg Low (°F) | Avg Precip (in) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 36 | 17 | 2.8 | Snow, cold nights |
| February | 42 | 22 | 2.7 | Snow, slight warming |
| March | 53 | 33 | 2.9 | Rain, warming trend |
| April | 68 | 45 | 3.2 | Spring, moderate storms |
| May | 81 | 57 | 4.1 | Pollen peak, hot days |
| June | 88 | 66 | 4.3 | Hot, humid, thunderstorms |
| July | 92 | 70 | 4.7 | Highest heat, frequent storms |
| August | 91 | 69 | 4.4 | Cool down slightly, humid |
| September | 80 | 58 | 3.6 | Cool evenings, less storms |
| October | 66 | 39 | 3.2 | Pleasant, mild days |
| November | 50 | 29 | 3.3 | Start of cold front surge |
| December | 38 | 20 | 2.9 | Snowy, sub‑freezing nights |
FAQ
1. What is the average snowfall in Fort Smith?
- Roughly 15–20 inches per year, mostly in winter months.
2. Is Fort Smith prone to severe thunderstorms?
- Yes, especially from late spring through mid‑summer.
3. When is the best time to visit for outdoor activities?
- Late fall (September–October) offers mild weather with lower humidity.
4. How often does tornado activity occur?
- Fort Smith experiences occasional tornadoes, typically during the spring/early summer months.
5. Are summer afternoons in Fort Smith humid?
- Very humid, with high heat indices reaching 100 °F+.
Resources
- NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information – historical climate data for Fort Smith
- Weather.gov – Fort Smith Forecast – current weather, radar, and alerts
- City of Fort Smith – City & Climate – municipal resources on weather impact planning
- American Meteorological Society – educational material on U.S. climate patterns
- Local News Outlets (KTRK, KTAR) – real‑time weather reporting for the area
Prepared in compliance with local data providers and with the intent to inform travelers, residents, and businesses about Fort Smith’s seasonal weather patterns.
