Little Rock, Arkansas offers a diverse climate that caters to various weather preferences throughout the year.
With a hot season spanning from late May to mid-September, residents can experience average daily high temperatures above 84°F.
The hottest month is July, with temperatures reaching an average high of 92°F and a low of 73°F.
The cooler months make for a pleasant contrast, as temperatures drop below 59°F from late November to late February.
Rain is a common feature in Little Rock, with roughly 51 inches of annual rainfall.
Snowfall, though minimal, adds a winter charm with an average of around 4 inches per year.
This makes it different from many other US cities like Chicago, which sees much heavier snowfalls.
For those interested in comparing climates across Arkansas, places like Fayetteville and Texarkana exhibit similar patterns but may have their own unique weather traits.
For more detailed weather reports and monthly averages, consider looking at various sources to understand how Little Rock’s climate stacks up throughout the year.
Average Temperature in Little Rock, Arkansas
The average temperature in Little Rock, Arkansas varies throughout the year.
The hottest month is July, with an average high of 92°F and a low of 73°F.
During January, the coldest month, temperatures range between a high of 51°F and a low of 31°F.
Monthly Average Temperatures
| Month | Average High (°F) | Average Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 51 | 31 |
| February | 55 | 34 |
| March | 64 | 42 |
| April | 73 | 51 |
| May | 81 | 60 |
| June | 89 | 68 |
| July | 92 | 73 |
| August | 92 | 72 |
| September | 86 | 65 |
| October | 75 | 53 |
| November | 61 | 43 |
| December | 52 | 34 |
Seasonal Changes
The hot season in Little Rock, typically lasts from late May to mid-September.
During this period, daytime temperatures often exceed 84°F.
The coolest season spans from late November to late February, with average temperatures staying below 62°F.
Temperature Extremes
July often stands as the peak of summer heat, while January is the peak of winter chill.
Notably, late April and October offer moderate temperatures, providing comfortable weather.
For more on temperature trends, articles on temperature provide detailed insights into climate patterns.
The variation in average temperatures makes Little Rock a city of distinct seasons.
Average Precipitation in Little Rock, Arkansas
Little Rock, Arkansas, experiences various levels of rainfall and minimal snowfall throughout the year. The precipitation patterns show significant wet and dry periods which are critical for understanding the local climate.
Average Rainfall in Little Rock, Arkansas
The average annual rainfall in Little Rock is about 49 inches.
The wettest months are typically April and May, with each month receiving around 5 inches of rain.
While summer months also see substantial rainfall, July, for example, averages about 4 inches.
Notably, September tends to be drier compared to other parts of the year.
Rainfall is fairly well-distributed throughout the year, but significant variations exist.
Sudden heavy rains can cause flash floods, especially in low-lying areas.
Rainfall helps maintain the lush greenery and provides ample water to rivers and lakes in the region.
Average Snow in Little Rock, Arkansas
Snowfall in Little Rock is quite rare and usually light. On average, the city receives about 3 inches of snow annually.
The winter season, spanning from November to February, occasionally experiences snow, but it never accumulates significantly. January is often the coldest month and sees the most snow.
Although snow and ice can sometimes disrupt daily activities, such occurrences are infrequent.
When snow does fall, it’s a short-lived event and usually melts within a few days.
For those interested in more details about snow and ice, helpful resources are available for further reading about snow and ice events.
Average Sun in Little Rock, Arkansas
Little Rock experiences significant sunshine throughout the year, with variable daily solar energy and cloud cover across different months.
Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy in Little Rock, Arkansas
In Little Rock, the average daily shortwave solar energy varies by season.
In summer, the city sees higher values, with peaks often occurring in June and July.
During these months, the city enjoys long daylight hours, translating to more sunshine.
Conversely, the winter months have lower solar energy. December and January typically record shorter days and more cloud cover, reducing sunshine hours.
Here’s an overview of the monthly average hours of sunshine recorded in Little Rock:
- January: 140 hours
- April: 220 hours
- July: 300 hours
- October: 230 hours
These values highlight that the city has its sunniest periods during summer and early fall.
Enjoying the sun most days, residents can expect a mix of clear and partly cloudy skies.
Notably, the city averages about 3097 hours of sunshine annually.
Average Humidity in Little Rock, Arkansas
Little Rock experiences varying levels of humidity throughout the year. Humidity plays a significant role in how hot or cold the weather feels.
Humidity is higher in the warmer months, making the air feel heavier and more muggy.
The peak humidity months are typical in the summer, where the increased moisture in the air can cause discomfort.
Using average daily relative humidity readings, here is a breakdown by month:
| Month | Average Humidity (%) |
|---|---|
| January | 75 |
| February | 73 |
| March | 71 |
| April | 68 |
| May | 72 |
| June | 74 |
| July | 76 |
| August | 77 |
| September | 75 |
| October | 73 |
| November | 72 |
| December | 74 |
The highest levels of humidity are recorded in August, reaching up to 77%. In contrast, April registers the lowest average humidity, around 68%.
Humidity levels affect the dew point as well.
The higher the humidity, the higher the dew point will be, indicating more moisture in the air. This contributes to the muggy feeling during summer months.
Understanding these average humidity levels helps residents and visitors prepare for the seasonal weather changes in Little Rock, ensuring they can plan their activities accordingly.
Visit the monthly humidity averages for comprehensive details on the relative humidity throughout Arkansas.
Average Wind in Little Rock, Arkansas
In Little Rock, the wind usually stays light to moderate. Speeds generally vary between 3 to 10 mph.
Monthly Wind Pattern:
- The windiest time tends to be in the spring, particularly in March and April, when the average daily wind speeds can reach around 10 mph.
Calmer Periods:
- The calmest month is typically August, with speeds often dropping to about 3 mph.
Wind conditions can make a difference in everyday activities.
For instance, spring activities might feel more breezy, while summer months often experience calmer winds.
Average Air Quality in Little Rock, Arkansas
The air quality in Little Rock, Arkansas, is generally good throughout the year. The Air Quality Index (AQI) typically remains low, indicating air that is safe for most outdoor activities.
On average, the AQI for Little Rock is often in the “Good” range.
For instance, the AQI can be around 21, which signifies good air quality conditions.
This means that the levels of harmful particles like PM2.5 and PM10 are minimal and not likely to affect health.
A typical reading for PM2.5 (fine particulate matter) might be around 9µg/m³, while PM10 (coarse particulate matter) is around 19µg/m³. These levels are well within safe limits.
Weather conditions such as wind, temperature, and pressure play a role in air quality.
For example, on days with good visibility and average temperatures around 84°F (29°C), the air quality tends to remain favorable.
Pressure and visibility also impact air quality.
LIttle Rock often has clear skies with good visibility, making it easier for pollutants to disperse. Average atmospheric pressure remains steady, contributing to stable air conditions.
Monthly Air Quality Snapshot (Example)
| Month | Average AQI | Main Pollutant |
|---|---|---|
| January | 20 | PM2.5 |
| July | 25 | Ozone |
Tools like these help residents make informed decisions about outdoor activities based on current air quality.
Topography of Little Rock, Arkansas
Little Rock is the capital city of Arkansas and is located in Pulaski County. It sits at a longitude of approximately 92.2896° W and a latitude of about 34.7465° N.
The elevation of Little Rock averages around 315 feet above sea level. This elevation can vary as the city is positioned near the Arkansas River.
The terrain is characterized by rolling hills and flat plains.
Little Rock’s topography allows for a mix of urban and natural landscapes.
To the north, North Little Rock shares similar features with lower elevated areas closer to the river.
The city lies within the temperate climate zone of the northern hemisphere and is not far from the Mississippi River, which influences its geographical features.
These factors contribute to varied elevation levels and diverse landforms.
For a detailed visual representation, you can view and explore Little Rock’s elevation and terrain on a topographic map showcasing the different heights and depths throughout the city.
The varied topography supports different types of vegetation and wildlife, making Little Rock an interesting place for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring nature trails.
Extreme Weather Events that Occur in Little Rock, Arkansas
Little Rock, Arkansas, experiences various extreme weather events.
Tornadoes are common, especially in spring and early summer.
A recent tornado hit Little Rock causing significant damage and injuring many people.
Storms often bring heavy rain, high winds, and hail.
Storms in June 2023 were notable for widespread wind damage and hail.
High winds can cause power outages, as seen with over 50,000 customers without power during a recent tornado event.
Winter weather includes significant snowfall and ice storms.
For instance, the state had heavy snowfall in February 2021 and dangerous ice storms recorded back to 1819.
These winter events can disrupt daily life, making travel hazardous and leading to potential power outages.
Freezing rain is another winter hazard. It creates slick roads and can lead to accidents.
Ice buildup on trees and power lines can cause them to break, resulting in more power outages.
A list of the state’s worst ice storms includes those that affected Little Rock.
Best Time of the Year to Visit Little Rock, Arkansas
The best time to visit Little Rock, Arkansas, is during the spring and fall when temperatures are mild and pleasant. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are usually short and cool.
What Is Little Rock, Arkansas Like in Spring
Spring in Little Rock runs from March through May.
Temperatures range from the mid-60s to low 80s Fahrenheit, making it a comfortable and enjoyable time to explore outdoor activities.
The city experiences blooming flowers and vibrant greenery. Rain is common, which helps to nourish the foliage.
This season is popular for outdoor festivals and events. It is a time when the tourism score is high due to favorable weather conditions.
What Is Little Rock, Arkansas Like in Summer
Summers in Little Rock can be quite hot.
From June to August, temperatures often soar to the high 80s and low 90s Fahrenheit.
Humidity is also a factor, adding to the heat index.
Despite the heat, summer is a lively season with various cultural events and activities.
Visitors should plan for indoor activities or schedule outdoor excursions during the cooler parts of the day.
What Is Little Rock, Arkansas Like in Fall
Fall spans from September to November.
Temperatures during these months range from the mid-60s to low 80s Fahrenheit, offering another pleasant time to visit.
The fall foliage brings beautiful colors to the city’s parks and urban areas.
This is also a period of high tourism scores, with many visitors taking advantage of the cooler weather and outdoor activities.
Festivals and events continue to attract both locals and visitors.
What Is Little Rock, Arkansas Like in Winter
Winter in Little Rock is short and cool, lasting from late November to February.
Average temperatures vary from the 40s to 50s Fahrenheit.
Snow is rare, and when it does occur, it is usually light.
This season is less crowded, making it a good time for visitors who prefer a quieter experience.
The subtropical climate ensures that even during winter, there are warm days mixed with cooler temperatures.