The views and opinions expressed in the Graduate and International Ambassador Blog are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the University of Arkansas.
by Aaron Eley
One of the best things about Fayetteville: its year-round beauty.
From the colorful leaves and crisp air of fall, to the vibrant blossoms and warm sun of spring, our hometown can be stunningly gorgeous in many different ways. However, the diverse climate means that students need to be prepared for a variety of conditions. Whether you are moving here from another state or another country, this post will help you know what to expect during each season in Northwest Arkansas.
Fall (Autumn)
Fall is an especially beautiful season in Fayetteville. The rolling hills of the Ozark Mountains and the trees around campus turn every shade of yellow, orange, and red. It’s the perfect time of year to hike at Devil’s Den State Park or travel part of the Razorback Greenway. Dressing appropriately during these months can be a bit challenging, as the days can be very warm, but the early morning and nights can be chilly. Temperatures can reach around 75 to 80°F (~26°C) and dip as low as 40°F (4°C). I would suggest having a sweater or light jacket that is easy to put on, take off, and carry around campus. Personal preference and flexibility are key factors for fall weather.
Winter
Winter weather in Northwest Arkansas can vary greatly from year to year. From December to February, the average high is approximately 45°F (7°C), with an average low of 25°F (-4°C). However, at the time I am writing this, it is 10°F (-12°C) outside and there is almost 7 inches of snow! This is unusual, but because some winters are drastically colder than others, you should always pack very warm clothes, just in case.
Be sure to pack heavy sweatshirts/sweaters, an insulated jacket, thick socks, and something to cover your ears. If you need a place to find quality winter clothes at discount prices, check out some Fayetteville thrift stores like Potter’s House Thrift and Goodwill. Even though they can be quite cold, the winter months hold spectacular sights, such as our snow-dusted campus and twinkling holiday lights.
Spring
Springtime at the University of Arkansas is full of green plants, budding flowers, and sunny days; it is the perfect kind of wonderful weather for strolling down our historic Senior Walk. The chill of winter can sometimes stretch into March, but things start to warm up by the time April rolls around. The highest temperatures average 75 to 65°F (21°C) while the lowest temperatures average 50 to 40°F (7°C).
Be sure to be prepared if you are typically cold natured. Common clothes during the Spring include windbreakers, long sleeve shirts, and light sweatpants. You may need that light jacket you used during the fall at first, but as the Spring goes on, you will be wearing shorts and a t-shirt in no time.
Summer
Summer is a great time to take a break from schoolwork and enjoy all that Northwest Arkansas has to offer. You can cool off by floating the Buffalo River or spend a starry night at the 112 Drive-In Theater, but don’t forget to consider the weather so that you can have safe, comfortable fun. The lowest temperatures are around 65°F (18°C), and the highest temperatures are around 90°F (32°C). However, high humidity is common in Arkansas, sometimes making the temperature feel over 100°F (38°C). Owning several pairs of light shorts and t-shirts are ideal.
It is also very important to stay safe. Be sure to stay hydrated: make sure you have a good reusable water bottle, especially if you plan on doing lots of outdoor activities. Be vigilant against sunburn and skin damage as well, and stock up on a quality sunscreen of at least SPF30 and keep it applied to exposed skin whenever outside for more than a few minutes.
Staying Dry
Lastly, no matter the season, it is always a good idea to invest in some rain gear. While it only rains 5-6 days on average each month, it is never fun to get drenched while walking on campus. An umbrella, a quality rain jacket, and some waterproof shoes will help you stay dry all year long.
Hopefully this guide has helped you learn more about the climate of Northwest Arkansas, and I hope you are able to experience it for yourself soon!
