Weather Fort Smith AR Hourly: A Detailed Overview
Fort Smith, Arkansas, is a city that experiences a diverse range of weather conditions throughout the year. Whether you’re planning a day out or just curious about the local climate, understanding the hourly weather forecast can be incredibly helpful. Let’s delve into the hourly weather forecast for Fort Smith, AR, and explore the various aspects that make it unique.
Temperature Patterns
The temperature in Fort Smith can vary significantly throughout the day. On average, the lowest temperatures are recorded in the early morning hours, often dropping below 50掳F (10掳C) during the winter months. As the day progresses, temperatures gradually rise, reaching their peak in the late afternoon or early evening. During the summer, temperatures can soar above 90掳F (32掳C), making it a hot and humid time of the year.
Time of Day | Temperature Range (掳F) |
---|---|
Early Morning | 40-60掳F (4-15掳C) |
Midday | 60-80掳F (15-27掳C) |
Evening | 70-90掳F (21-32掳C) |
Humidity Levels
Humidity levels in Fort Smith can be quite high, especially during the summer months. The highest humidity is typically observed in the morning, with levels often exceeding 70%. As the day progresses, humidity levels tend to decrease, reaching their lowest points in the late evening. This can make the heat feel even more oppressive during the summer, as high humidity can reduce the body’s ability to cool down.
Wind Patterns
Wind patterns in Fort Smith can vary throughout the year. During the winter months, the wind tends to be relatively calm, with speeds rarely exceeding 10 mph (16 km/h). However, during the spring and fall, wind speeds can increase, sometimes reaching 20 mph (32 km/h) or more. In the summer, wind speeds are generally moderate, with an average of 10-15 mph (16-24 km/h).
Precipitation
Fort Smith experiences a variety of precipitation throughout the year, including rain, snow, and occasional thunderstorms. The highest precipitation levels are observed during the spring and summer months, with an average of 4-6 inches (100-150 mm) per month. During the winter months, precipitation is typically light, with an average of 1-2 inches (25-50 mm) per month.
UV Index
The UV index in Fort Smith can be quite high, especially during the summer months. It’s important to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays by wearing sunscreen, a hat, and protective clothing. The UV index is typically highest between 10 am and 4 pm, so try to limit your exposure to the sun during these hours.
Seasonal Variations
Fort Smith experiences four distinct seasons, each with its own unique weather patterns. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect during each season:
- Winter: Cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Snowfall is common, and ice can accumulate on roads and sidewalks.
- Spring: Warmer and wetter, with frequent rain and thunderstorms. The risk of severe weather, such as tornadoes, is highest during this season.
- Summer: Hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 90掳F (32掳C). Thunderstorms are common, and the risk of flooding is increased.
- Autumn: Cooler and drier, with temperatures gradually dropping. The fall foliage is a beautiful sight, and the risk of severe weather is lower than during the spring.
Understanding the hourly weather forecast for Fort Smith, AR, can help you plan your day and stay safe. By keeping an eye on temperature, humidity, wind, precipitation, and the UV index, you can make informed decisions about your activities and protect yourself from the elements.