LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – NOAA’s Winter 2025–2026 outlook, released Thursday, Oct. 16, shows Arkansas gearing up for a colder, wetter winter with multiple snow and ice events likely from January through early March. The Climate Prediction Center’s guidance indicates above-normal precipitation and near- to below-normal temperatures across the Mid-South — a pattern typical of La Niña years that often bring wintry surprises south of the Ozarks.
According to the National Weather Service in Little Rock, “This winter favors frequent cold fronts and storm systems that could deliver snow or ice to much of the state.” Northern and western Arkansas — including Fayetteville, Harrison, and Fort Smith — could see several accumulating snow events, while central and southern areas may deal more with freezing rain and sleet.
The most active stretch is expected between mid-January and late February, when Gulf moisture meets Arctic air. Travel on I-40, I-49, and U.S. 67 may be impacted multiple times by icy conditions and sudden temperature drops. ARDOT crews are preparing for extended plow and salt operations, while utility providers urge customers to prepare for possible outages during ice events.
Forecasters note that colder-than-average air may persist into March, prolonging frost and delaying early planting across northern counties. NOAA urges residents to keep winter kits ready, service heating systems, and monitor advisories as each system develops.
For Arkansas, Winter 2026 looks colder, wetter, and more unpredictable than recent years — a season built for preparedness, not surprises.
