Annual Average Number of Rainy Days

Arkansas receives an average of about 100 days of rain per year. This figure may vary somewhat depending on different regions within the state, but overall, due to the humid climate, rain is frequent. Rain mainly falls in spring and autumn, while summer is characterized by sudden downpours due to thunderstorms. Winter is relatively dry, but rain can occasionally occur with cold snaps.

Monthly Average Precipitation

The monthly average precipitation in Arkansas varies greatly depending on the season and region. Looking at the major cities, it is as follows:

Little Rock

  • January: About 3.2 inches of rain.
  • February: About 3.4 inches of rain.
  • March: About 4.5 inches of rain.
  • April: About 3.8 inches of rain.
  • May: About 4.9 inches of rain.
  • June: About 4.7 inches of rain.
  • July: About 4.5 inches of rain.
  • August: About 4.3 inches of rain.
  • September: About 4.0 inches of rain.
  • October: About 3.5 inches of rain.
  • November: About 3.0 inches of rain.
  • December: About 3.1 inches of rain.

Main Features:

  • Spring (March to May): Spring is a time when precipitation increases sharply. In particular, May can see frequent heavy downpours accompanied by strong thunderstorms.

  • Summer (June to August): Summer records the highest precipitation, with frequent thunderstorms and sudden downpours due to high temperatures and humidity.

  • Autumn (September to November): Autumn also sees a lot of rain, but there is a tendency to become gradually drier. In particular, September may see increased rainfall due to the influence of hurricane season.

  • Winter (December to February): Winter is relatively dry, with lower precipitation. However, rain can occasionally occur with cold snaps.

Record High Rainfall and Snowfall

Record High Rainfall: The highest recorded rainfall in Arkansas occurred during a downpour on May 15, 1916, with 11 inches (about 280mm) of rain. This amount of rainfall resulted from concentrated precipitation over a short period, causing severe flooding and inundation in the area.

Record High Snowfall: The highest recorded snowfall in Arkansas was 2 inches (about 51mm) of snow on January 31, 1989. This was a very rare event, as snow is quite uncommon.

Regional Climate Characteristics

Arkansas has somewhat varying climates depending on the region. The main climate characteristics by region are as follows:

  • Northern Arkansas: The northern region has a slightly colder climate than other areas of the state, with somewhat higher precipitation. Snow is rarely seen in winter.

  • Central Arkansas: The central region maintains a relatively mild climate, with precipitation distributed moderately. It is an area where agriculture is developed, and rain plays an important role.

  • Southern Arkansas: The southern region has the warmest and most humid climate, with frequent hurricanes and strong thunderstorms occurring in summer. Coastal areas are particularly affected by hurricanes.


The climate of Arkansas features characteristics of a humid subtropical climate, with an average of 100 rainy days per year and monthly average precipitation varying according to seasonal and regional climate characteristics.