Jonesboro weather by month
Introduction
Jonesboro, Arkansas, sits in the humid subtropical zone, meaning warm summers, mild winters, and a steady mix of sunshine and showers. Whether you’re a local planning a road trip, a new resident wondering about the heat, or a visitor curious about the best time to visit, this guide gives you a month‑by‑month snapshot of the weather you’ll encounter in Jonesboro.
The focus is on real, practical information—average highs, lows, rainfall, and what’s typical for each season—so you can pack, schedule, and plan with confidence.
Seasonal Weather Overview
Winter (December – February)
- Temperature Range: Daytime highs average 45–55 °F (7–13 °C), while nights can dip below 30 °F (‑1 °C) during cold snaps.
- Rainfall: The driest part of the year; about 2–3 inches of precipitation monthly.
- Snow: Rare, but the occasional flake can land, especially late December or early January.
What to Expect: Mild, crisp days and cooler nights with occasional cold fronts. Ideal for winter sports and outdoor hikes when the air feels fresh.
Spring (March – May)
- Temperature Range: Gradual warming; highs range from 60–75 °F (15–24 °C) and evenings cool down to 40–50 °F (4–10 °C).
- Rainfall: Increasing to 3–5 inches per month, especially in May, reflecting the eastern U.S. thunderstorm season.
- Humidity: Starts high in March, peaking in May, but stays comfortable in early spring.
What to Expect: Floral bursts, occasional thunderstorms, and the comforting feel of moderate warmth—perfect for planting, festivals, and outdoor picnics.
Summer (June – August)
- Temperature Range: Hot and humid; highs regularly reach 90–100 °F (32–38 °C), while evenings stay warm around 70–75 °F (21–24 °C).
- Rainfall: Most of the annual precipitation; peaks in July (≈4–5 inches) due to thunderstorm activity.
- Heat Index: Often exceeds 100 °F (38 °C) in July and August, so staying hydrated is key.
What to Expect: Bask in sun at the park, enjoy water‑based recreation, and be alert to afternoon thunderstorms in July.
Fall (September – November)
- Temperature Range: Gradual cooling; highs 70–80 °F (21–27 °C) in September, dropping 50–60 °F (10–15 °C) by November.
- Rainfall: Steady at 2–4 inches monthly; less thunderstorm activity than summer.
- Leaves: Stunning foliage colors, especially in early October.
What to Expect: Comfortable days, crisp nights, and a vibrant outdoor scene—a great time for hiking, ball games, and the holiday harvest.
Jonesboro Weather By Month Table
| Month | Avg High (°F) | Avg Low (°F) | Precipitation (in) | Sunshine (hrs/day) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 48 | 28 | 2.5 | 6.5 | Mild winter, occasional cold fronts |
| February | 52 | 31 | 2.2 | 6.8 | Transition to spring, slightly warmer |
| March | 60 | 39 | 3.0 | 7.0 | Warm days, mild evenings, spring blooms |
| April | 68 | 43 | 3.5 | 7.3 | Growing thunderstorms, hiking friendly |
| May | 77 | 51 | 4.0 | 7.6 | Hot days, high humidity, peak rainfall |
| June | 91 | 60 | 3.8 | 7.8 | Summer heat, thunderstorms every few days |
| July | 97 | 63 | 4.4 | 8.0 | Peak heat, thunderstorm season, high humidity |
| August | 94 | 62 | 4.2 | 7.9 | Slightly cooler than July, still hot |
| September | 81 | 55 | 3.6 | 7.4 | Cooling trend, mild nights |
| October | 70 | 45 | 3.2 | 7.1 | Beautiful fall foliage, pleasant temps |
| November | 56 | 35 | 2.8 | 6.9 | Early frosts, cozy evenings |
| December | 48 | 27 | 2.5 | 6.6 | Mild winter, occasional flurries |
Data sourced from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and local climate archives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: When is the best time to visit Jonesboro for outdoor activities?
A1: The shoulder seasons—late spring (April–May) and early fall (September–October)—offer comfortable temperatures and fewer chances of extreme weather.
Q2: How often does snow fall in Jonesboro?
A2: Snow is uncommon; most winters see light, sometimes non‑accumulating precipitation. A significant snowfall is possible but rare.
Q3: Is it safe to go hiking in summer?
A3: Yes, but plan for early morning or late afternoon outings to avoid peak heat and thunderstorm windows; stay hydrated and wear sun protection.
Q4: What is the average humidity level in Jonesboro?
A4: Humidity ranges from moderate (35–55 %) in winter to high (70–85 %) during summer, especially in July and August.
Q5: How do the seasons affect outdoor festivals?
A5: April and May host the most vibrant festivals due to the pleasant weather, while December festivals benefit from mild temperatures and festive lights.
Resources
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) – Jonesboro climate data and historical weather reports.
- Weather Underground – Real‑time forecasts, radar, and local updates for Jonesboro.
- Arkansas Department of Transportation – Weather alerts and road conditions during severe storms.
- Jonesboro Chamber of Commerce – Event calendars and tourism guides tailored to seasonal weather.
- Local News Outlets (Rogers–Lee) and Climate Briefing – Comprehensive coverage of weather patterns in Northwest Arkansas.
With this monthly breakdown, you can confidently prepare for whatever Jonesboro’s weather brings. Stay informed, pack appropriate gear, and enjoy all that North‑West Arkansas has to offer—sun, showers, or snow!