Fort Smith (AR) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Fort Smith.

Climate overview of Fort Smith

Fort Smith, Arkansas, United States of America, experiences significant temperature variation throughout the year. Summers bring daytime highs of 34°C (93°F) in July, while winters cool to 10°C (50°F) in January.

Rain/snowfall is high, totalling around 1205 mm (47 in) per year. May is the wettest month and February the driest. The city also experiences very warm summers and cold winters.

Fort Smith Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Fort Smith - and find the best time to visit.

Monthly Temperature in Fort Smith

Depending on the time of the year, temperatures range from very warm to chilly in Fort Smith. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a very warm 34°C (93°F) in July, the warmest time of the year, to a chilly 10°C (50°F) during cooler months like January.

At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 23°C (73°F) in July to around -2°C (28°F) during January.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Fort Smith

Fort Smith has a relatively rain/snowy climate with high precipitation levels, averaging 1205 mm (47 in) of rain/snowfall annually. Significant seasonal changes in precipitation occur throughout the year. In the wettest month, May it receives heavy rainfall, averaging 168 mm (6.6 in) of precipitation, recorded across 12 rainy days. In contrast, the driest month February brings less rainfall, with 56 mm (2.2 in) over 8 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Fort Smith Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Best Time to Visit Fort Smith

Conditions in Fort Smith are generally most comfortable in April, May, October and November. They are typically least comfortable in January, July and August.

Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.

  • Best overall: April, May, October and November
  • Warmest weather: July and August
  • Fewest rainy days: January and November
  • Seasonal pattern: Very warm summers and cold winters
  • Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -2°C (28°F).

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Fort Smith

What is the best time to visit Fort Smith?

April, May, October and November typically offer the most optimal weather in Fort Smith. In contrast, January, July and August tend to have less optimal conditions. Fort Smith has very warm summers and cold winters.

What temperatures can I expect in Fort Smith?

Daytime highs range from 10°C (50°F) in January to 34°C (93°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -2°C (28°F) to 23°C (73°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.

How much rain does Fort Smith get?

Annual rainfall is around 1205 mm (47 in). May is the wettest month with 168 mm (6.6 in), while February is the driest with 56 mm (2.2 in).

Fort Smith 3-Day Forecast

Fort Smith on the map

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