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Contents
- The climate of Fort Smith
- The best time to visit Fort Smith
- The worst time to visit Fort Smith
- Spring weather in Fort Smith
- Summer weather in Fort Smith
- Autumn weather in Fort Smith
- Winter weather in Fort Smith
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average snowfall
- Average snowfall days
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
The climate of Fort Smith
Geographically situated in Arkansas, USA, Fort Smith features a humid subtropical climate according to the Köppen climate classification. This is identified by the code Cfa which implies the region experiences substantial precipitation throughout all twelve months, without any dry season.
A review of annual climatological data suggests temperature fluctuations from 31.5°F (-0.3°C) observed as the lowest average in winter, up to a peak of 93.4°F (34.1°C) during the summer months. The month-wise relative humidity stays consistent, hovering between 70% and 76% annually. Rainfall varies from 1.34" (34mm) to 3.43" (87mm) throughout the year, with March through May witnessing higher volumes. Snowfall is a rarity, with only very marginal accumulations in January and December.
An analysis of sunlight exposure presents a sunnier environment from May to September with the daily sunshine duration extending up to 10.6 hours in May and June. The combination of humidity, temperature, and precipitation patterns indicates a climate that stays humid most of the time, with either warm or chilly weather conditions based on the season.
A review of annual climatological data suggests temperature fluctuations from 31.5°F (-0.3°C) observed as the lowest average in winter, up to a peak of 93.4°F (34.1°C) during the summer months. The month-wise relative humidity stays consistent, hovering between 70% and 76% annually. Rainfall varies from 1.34" (34mm) to 3.43" (87mm) throughout the year, with March through May witnessing higher volumes. Snowfall is a rarity, with only very marginal accumulations in January and December.
An analysis of sunlight exposure presents a sunnier environment from May to September with the daily sunshine duration extending up to 10.6 hours in May and June. The combination of humidity, temperature, and precipitation patterns indicates a climate that stays humid most of the time, with either warm or chilly weather conditions based on the season.
The best time to visit Fort Smith
Given the climatic conditions, the city of Fort Smith offers diverse experiences round the year. However, weather data suggests that the months from April to June might be the best ones for tourism. This time frame offers daytime temperatures fluctuating between 61.7°F (16.5°C) and 89.2°F (31.8°C). Rainfall averages range from 2.28" (58mm) to 3.43" (87mm). Instead of stifling heat, visitors can enjoy a comfortable thermal sensation and generally clear skies with a relative cloud percentage not exceeding 39%.
The worst time to visit Fort Smith
Holidaymakers seeking to avoid chillier regimens may wish to steer clear of Fort Smith during December and January. The average daytime temperatures during these months hover around the lower threshold, between 50.4°F (10.2°C) and 48°F (8.9°C). Nighttimes can feel considerably colder, with temperatures dropping to 35.4°F (1.9°C) and 31.5°F (-0.3°C) respectively. Snowmaking events are also a possibility during these months, albeit infrequent and minor.
Spring weather in Fort Smith
Springtime in Fort Smith extends from March to May. Daytime temperatures climb progressively from 61.7°F (16.5°C) in March to 79°F (26.1°C) in May. Overnight lows also witness a steep increase, from 43°F (6.1°C) to 58.6°F (14.8°C) within the same period. The rainfall volume tends to be higher than in other seasons, peaking at 3.43" (87mm) in May. Despite substantial precipitation, the city receives up to 14 hours of daylight and 9 hours of sunshine per day, fostering an enjoyable spring climate.
Summer weather in Fort Smith
Summers in Fort Smith, spanning June to August, are characterized by high temperatures consistently maintaining between 89.2°F (31.8°C) and 93.4°F (34.1°C). Nighttime temperatures also stay warm, within a range from 67.6°F (19.8°C) to 70.7°F (21.5°C), ensuring comfortable evenings. Although rainfall decreases compared with spring, intermittent showers still occur, averaging between 1.97" (50mm) in July and 2.68" (68mm) in August. The summer season brings a rise in daylight hours, allowing up to 14.5 hours of light and a commendable 10.6 to 10.9 hours of sunny weather.
Autumn weather in Fort Smith
Autumn, extending from September to November, experiences a gradual cooling trend in Fort Smith. Daytime temperatures drop from 85.1°F (29.5°C) to 59.9°F (15.5°C), while nighttime lows dip from 63°F (17.2°C) to 42.1°F (5.6°C). The rainfall during this period averages between 1.93" (49mm) in September and 1.61" (41mm) in November. Despite the declining trend in daytime temperatures, Fort Smith retains relatively high daylight hours, with approximately 11.3 to 12.4 hours of light per day.
Winter weather in Fort Smith
During winters in Fort Smith, marked from December to February, temperatures experience a decrease. Daytime temperatures settle within 50.4°F (10.2°C) and 51.8°F (11°C), while the nighttime lows drop to frosty levels of 35.4°F (1.9°C) to 31.5°F (-0.3°C). This period sees the minimum amount of daylight hours, from 9.8 to 10.9 hours per day. Rainfall dips to lower levels, measuring between 1.42" (36mm) to 1.77" (45mm) across the winter months. Sparse snowfall events also occur during winter, adding a picturesque chill to the season.
Weather in January
During January, Fort Smith, Arkansas experiences a steady increase in daylight hours, up from 10.1 hours to 10.9 hours between the first and last day. Overall, the winter feel holds, as higher humidity levels come along with lower temperatures. Weather in January »
Weather in February
The warmth starts to return in February, thawing the chill of winter in Fort Smith, Arkansas. With daily sunshine hours gradually increasing, people get more time to enjoy outdoor activities. An increase in wind speeds complements the slivers of sunlit warmth, beginning to awaken dormant trees and nourishing the empty gardens. Weather in February »
Weather in March
A gradual change in season becomes evident in March. The month marks the transition from winter to spring with noticeably longer mornings and evenings, inviting blooming flora and returning fauna. Heavy rainfall is a hallmark of March weather in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Weather in March »
Weather in April
Springs’ ascension in April is noticeable. With mild temperatures, it marks an end to winter frost and snow. Flowers in bloom turn the city parks into works of art and the longer days invite more outdoor activities. An upward temperature variation brings the city into a comfortable state, with the scale tipping from 50.5°F (10.3°C) to 70.7°F (21.5°C). Weather in April »
Weather in May
The arrival of May signals a departure from the mild spring weather. This time in Fort Smith, Arkansas tends to be vibrant and energetic, with increasingly longer and warmer days. Outdoor events and activities significantly increase, largely because of the idyllic weather that encourages residents to step outside. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June kicks off the official start of the summer season. The whole city of Fort Smith switches into summer mode with children splashing in pools and families spending time in parks. Full of long, sunny days, this is an excellent time for all outdoor activities or to take a drive around town, enjoying the scenery. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is a time of celebration in Fort Smith, often considered the height of summer. Residents fill the local parks and bodies of water, taking advantage of the sunny weather and warm temperatures. Barbecues and picnics are frequent occurrences this month, epitomizing the essence of Arkansas summer. Weather in July »
Weather in August
As August begins, there is a feeling of the summer starting to wind down. Even though the weather is still warm, the city of Fort Smith prepares for a slow transition into autumn, especially towards the end of the month. Community gatherings, baseball games, and swimming still hold sway over the weekends. Weather in August »
Weather in September
Fort Smith welcomes fall in September. The months' air is filled with changing leaves, cooler temperatures and increasingly shorter days. The transition towards autumn feels seamless, providing a comfortable ambiance to residents. Weather in September »
Weather in October
Life in Fort Smith shows signs of wrapping up the warm seasons during October. The full onset of fall disclaims the arrival of Halloween decorations, pumpkins and beautiful fall colors. Residents adapt to the evening chills that preface the coming winter. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November is an indication of the approaching winter in Fort Smith. Holidays and indoor events become more frequent - an effective escape from the chilly weather. Residents feel a surge of wintry winds despite the bearing sunshine. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December dynamically concludes the year with the full force of winter. This month in Fort Smith sees a decrease in daylight hours and colder temperatures cloud over the sky. The holiday season spirit in the city is held strong with activities planned around the chilly weather. Weather in December »
Updated: Feb 9, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
What is the coldest month in Fort Smith?
January tends to be the coldest month in Fort Smith, Arkansas, with temperatures averaging a daily high of 48°F (8.9°C) and a low of 31.5°F (-0.3°C).
How much does it rain in Fort Smith?
In Fort Smith, Arkansas, during the entire year, the rain falls for 131.9 days and collects up to 25.51" (648mm) of precipitation.
When does it snow in Fort Smith?
Months with snowfall in Fort Smith are January through March and December.
How much does it snow in Fort Smith?
In Fort Smith, during the entire year, snow falls for 3.9 days and aggregates up to 0.79" (20mm) of snow.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Fort Smith?
January and December, with an average of 5.5h of sunshine, are months with the least sunshine in Fort Smith, Arkansas.
What is the driest month in Fort Smith?
The month with the least rainfall in Fort Smith is February, when the rain falls for 9.2 days and typically collects 1.34" (34mm) of precipitation.
What is the snowiest month in Fort Smith?
The month with the most snowfall is February, when snow falls for 1.7 days and typically aggregates up to 0.31" (8mm) of snow.
What is the most humid month in Fort Smith?
March and May, with an average relative humidity of 77%, are most humid months in Fort Smith.
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Fort Smith?
On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts, and the time zone changes from CST to CDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from CDT to CST.
When it does not snow in Fort Smith?
In Fort Smith, Arkansas, snow does not fall in April through November.
What is the rainiest month in Fort Smith?
The month with the most rainfall in Fort Smith is May, when the rain falls for 13.7 days and typically aggregates up to 3.43" (87mm) of precipitation.
When are the longest days in Fort Smith?
June has the longest days of the year, with an average of 14h and 30min of daylight.
What is the month with the highest UV index in Fort Smith?
June and July, with an average maximum UV index of 7, are months with the highest UV index in Fort Smith, Arkansas.
What part of the year is the hottest in Fort Smith?
With average high temperatures of 93.4°F (34.1°C) and lows of 70.7°F (21.5°C), July is the warmest month in Fort Smith, Arkansas.
What is the least humid month in Fort Smith?
The months with the lowest humidity are July and August, with an average relative humidity of 70%.
What month has the most sunshine in Fort Smith?
With an average of 10.9h of sunshine, July has the most sunshine of the year in Fort Smith, Arkansas.
What is the month with the shortest days in Fort Smith?
The month with the shortest days is December, with an average of 9h and 48min of daylight.
When is the lowest UV index in Fort Smith?
With an average maximum UV index of 2, December is the month with the lowest UV index in Fort Smith, Arkansas.
Average temperature
Fort Smith, AR
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (93.4°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (48°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (70.7°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (31.5°F).
Average pressure
Fort Smith, AR
- Average pressure in January:
30.17"Hg - Average pressure in February:
30.11"Hg - Average pressure in March:
30.06"Hg - Average pressure in April:
29.94"Hg - Average pressure in May:
29.95"Hg - Average pressure in June:
29.93"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
29.97"Hg - Average pressure in August:
29.96"Hg - Average pressure in September:
30.01"Hg - Average pressure in October:
30.04"Hg - Average pressure in November:
30.13"Hg - Average pressure in December:
30.14"Hg
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (30.17"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.93"Hg).
Average wind speed
Fort Smith, AR
- Average wind speed in January:
6.7mph - Average wind speed in February:
7mph - Average wind speed in March:
7.3mph - Average wind speed in April:
7.6mph - Average wind speed in May:
6.5mph - Average wind speed in June:
5.5mph
- Average wind speed in July:
4.7mph - Average wind speed in August:
4.7mph - Average wind speed in September:
5.2mph - Average wind speed in October:
6.2mph - Average wind speed in November:
6.7mph - Average wind speed in December:
6.3mph
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is April (7.6mph).
The calmest months (with the lowest average wind speed) are July and August (4.7mph).
Average humidity
Fort Smith, AR
The months with the highest relative humidity are March and May (77%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are July and August (70%).
Average rainfall
Fort Smith, AR
- Average rainfall in January:
1.42" - Average rainfall in February:
1.34" - Average rainfall in March:
2.28" - Average rainfall in April:
2.76" - Average rainfall in May:
3.43" - Average rainfall in June:
2.05"
- Average rainfall in July:
1.97" - Average rainfall in August:
2.68" - Average rainfall in September:
1.93" - Average rainfall in October:
2.28" - Average rainfall in November:
1.61" - Average rainfall in December:
1.77"
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is May (3.43").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is February (1.34").
Average rainfall days
Fort Smith, AR
- Average rainfall days in January:
7.7 days - Average rainfall days in February:
9.2 days - Average rainfall days in March:
12.4 days - Average rainfall days in April:
14 days - Average rainfall days in May:
13.7 days - Average rainfall days in June:
11.6 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
13.5 days - Average rainfall days in August:
13.1 days - Average rainfall days in September:
10.6 days - Average rainfall days in October:
10.6 days - Average rainfall days in November:
7.6 days - Average rainfall days in December:
7.9 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is April (14 days).
The month with the least rainy days is November (7.6 days).
Average snowfall
Fort Smith, AR
The month with the highest snowfall is February (0.31").
The months with the least snowfall are April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November (0").
Average snowfall days
Fort Smith, AR
- Average snowfall days in January:
1.1 days - Average snowfall days in February:
1.7 days - Average snowfall days in March:
0.4 days - Average snowfall days in April:
0 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0 days - Average snowfall days in October:
0 days - Average snowfall days in November:
0.3 days - Average snowfall days in December:
0.4 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is February (1.7 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are April, May, June, July, August, September and October (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Fort Smith, AR
- Average daylight in January:
10h and 1min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 5min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 1min - Average daylight in May:
14h and 0min - Average daylight in June:
14h and 3min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 2min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 3min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 2min - Average daylight in November:
10h and 2min - Average daylight in December:
9h and 5min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 14h and 30min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 48min).
- Average sunshine in January:
5h and 3min - Average sunshine in February:
5h and 5min - Average sunshine in March:
6h and 5min - Average sunshine in April:
8h and 3min - Average sunshine in May:
9h and 0min - Average sunshine in June:
10h and 4min
- Average sunshine in July:
10h and 5min - Average sunshine in August:
10h and 5min - Average sunshine in September:
9h and 4min - Average sunshine in October:
6h and 2min - Average sunshine in November:
5h and 5min - Average sunshine in December:
5h and 3min
The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 10h and 54min).
The months with the least sunshine are January and December (Average sunshine: 5h and 30min).
Average sunshine days
Fort Smith, AR
- Average sunshine days in January:
21.4 days - Average sunshine days in February:
16.7 days - Average sunshine days in March:
16.6 days - Average sunshine days in April:
14.2 days - Average sunshine days in May:
15.6 days - Average sunshine days in June:
15.5 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
14.8 days - Average sunshine days in August:
14.8 days - Average sunshine days in September:
17.3 days - Average sunshine days in October:
19.2 days - Average sunshine days in November:
20.9 days - Average sunshine days in December:
21.1 days
The month with the most sunshine days is January (21.4 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is April (14.2 days).
Average UV index
Fort Smith, AR
The months with the highest UV index are June and July (UV index 7).
The month with the lowest UV index is December (UV index 2).
Average cloud cover
Fort Smith, AR
The month with the most cloud cover is February (Cloud cover 44).
The month with the least cloud cover is August (Cloud cover 24).
Average visibility
Fort Smith, AR
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
The month with the lowest visibility is May (5mi).
Fort Smith, Arkansas, USA
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