If you’re planning something special for Valentine’s Day in Arkansas, you really have to keep an eye on the weather. February usually brings cool days and chilly nights, and the conditions can flip fast between mild sunshine and those damp, gray skies. Most years, daytime highs land in the 40s to low 50s Fahrenheit, with nighttime lows hovering close to freezing.
The weather can feel pretty different depending on where you are in Arkansas. In the north, you might get a bit of snow or ice. Down south, it’s more likely to be cold rain and the afternoons can feel a bit milder. This mix makes it smart to know what’s coming before you settle on outdoor plans or a cozy weekend away.
Whether you’re eyeing a dinner in Little Rock, a trip up to the Ozarks, or maybe just a quiet escape in the southern counties, the weather really sets the vibe. If you get a handle on the usual patterns and those little regional quirks, you’ll plan Valentine’s Day with a lot more confidence.
Typical Valentine’s Day Weather in Arkansas
You’ll usually get cool to cold weather, with some mild afternoons and brisk mornings. Rain shows up more than snow, but wind chill can make the air bite harder than you’d expect.
Average Temperatures on February 14
On Valentine’s Day, Arkansas mornings typically start out between 30°F and 35°F, and the afternoons climb to about 48°F to 55°F. Up north, Fayetteville runs a little colder. Down south, towns like Texarkana get a bit warmer.
Little Rock usually sits around 50°F for the high and 33°F for the low. Colder years can drop nights into the upper 20s, especially if the sky stays clear and lets the heat escape.
Snow hardly ever shows up, but it’s not impossible. Most years, you’ll only spot a few flurries or maybe a light dusting. Ice storms almost never happen, but every now and then, central and northern Arkansas get a surprise.
| Location | Avg Low (°F) | Avg High (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| Fayetteville | 30 | 48 |
| Little Rock | 33 | 50 |
| Texarkana | 35 | 54 |
Precipitation Patterns
Rain is definitely more likely than snow in mid-February. The month averages 3 to 4 inches of precipitation, and Valentine’s Day often lands during a wet stretch.
You’ll usually see light or moderate showers, not so much heavy downpours. Storms rolling in from the west sometimes bring a rain-snow mix, especially in the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains.
Fayetteville might get about 2 inches of snow in February, but central and southern Arkansas usually see less than an inch. Any snow that falls melts quickly, since the afternoons usually warm up above freezing.
Clouds are pretty common too, so sunshine hours lag behind what you’ll get in spring or summer.
Wind Chill Effects
Even if the thermometer says it’s in the 40s, the wind can make it feel way colder. A 10 to 15 mph northwest wind often sweeps in after a cold front, dropping the “feels like” temp into the 30s.
Up north, stronger gusts can push wind chills into the 20s, especially in open spots or up in the hills.
If you’re heading outside, wear layers and grab a wind-resistant jacket. Gloves and hats help a lot, since wind chill can sting exposed skin fast.
Sometimes the wind dies down, but it’s better to plan for the chill and stay comfortable.
Regional Differences Across Arkansas
Arkansas really shows off its variety in mid-February. The landscape, how close you are to the Gulf, and even the local hills all shape the weather you’ll run into.
Northwest Arkansas Conditions
In the Ozark Plateau and those hills, Valentine’s Day feels colder than most other parts of the state. Lows hit the mid-30s °F, and highs usually stay in the upper 40s or low 50s °F. You’ll see snow here more often than elsewhere, but it’s usually just a dusting.
Cold fronts seem to show up more in this area. The higher elevation lets Arctic air settle in, sometimes bringing freezing rain or a quick snow shower. Even a little ice can make those hilly roads slick, so travel isn’t always easy.
Still, you get more partly sunny days, which helps. If you like crisp air and quieter scenes, this region has a real wintry Valentine’s Day feel.
River Valley Valentine’s Day Climate
The Arkansas River Valley sits between the Ozark Plateau and the Ouachita Mountains. This spot gets a milder climate than the higher ground nearby. Most years, highs reach the low to mid-50s °F, and lows hover around 40 °F.
Warm air tends to settle in the valley, so snow is rare. Rain is more likely, with light showers possible in mid-February. The month brings about 4 inches of rain, making it one of the wetter winter months.
Thanks to the milder temperatures, the soil here almost never freezes deep. Vineyards and early-budding crops in Franklin County benefit, though a sudden freeze can still cause problems. If you want a spot with a little winter chill but some hints of spring, the River Valley usually delivers.
Southeast and Central Arkansas Variations
Central Arkansas, including Little Rock, usually gets highs in the mid-50s °F and lows around 35–40 °F for Valentine’s Day. The weather here blends northern cool air with moisture from the Gulf. Rain is common, but freezing stuff is less likely than up north.
Southeast Arkansas and the Mississippi Alluvial Plain feel warmer. Highs often reach the upper 50s to low 60s °F, and lows usually stay above freezing. This area also racks up some of the highest rainfall totals in Arkansas, averaging close to 5 inches for February.
Humidity is more noticeable in the southeast, even in winter. Snow or ice almost never shows up, but heavy rainstorms can happen. If you’re traveling here, expect soggy ground and occasional flooding in the low spots, especially near the Delta.
Sunshine and Cloud Cover
Mid-February in Arkansas brings a real mix of sun and clouds as winter gives way—slowly—to spring. The days get a bit longer, and the sky switches between clear and overcast.
Average Sunshine Hours
By Valentine’s Day, you’ll get about 10.9 to 11 hours of daylight, depending on where you are. Little Rock and Texarkana see a little more daylight than up in Fayetteville.
Actual sunshine is less, thanks to cloud cover. You’ll usually get 4 to 5 hours of real sun each day in mid-February. That’s enough to brighten up the afternoons, but mornings and evenings can still feel pretty gray.
Compared to December and January, you pick up nearly an extra hour of daylight. That extra time can make outdoor plans feel a bit more doable.
Sunshine varies a lot though. One year, you might luck out with crisp, sunny afternoons. The next, it could stay cloudy for days.
Typical Cloudiness Levels
Clouds are a regular thing in February. Around Valentine’s Day, skies are clear to partly cloudy about half the time. Little Rock averages 52% clearer skies, and Fayetteville and Texarkana are pretty similar.
You’ve got about an even shot at seeing some sun during the day. Mornings often start with low clouds or fog, especially in valleys, but things can clear up by afternoon.
Overcast days still pop up often, and drizzle can add to the gloom. But when the sun breaks through, it feels warm against the chilly air—those moments really stand out.
If you’re planning anything, expect a mix: some days will be bright, others will stay gray from start to finish.
Temperature Extremes and Notable Records
February in Arkansas can swing wildly when it comes to temperature. Some years, you’ll get bitter cold, while others feel way too warm for winter. The records are kind of wild.
Coldest and Warmest Valentine’s Days
Sharp cold snaps definitely happen around Valentine’s Day. The state record low of -29°F hit near Gravette in 1905—so yeah, Arctic air can get here. That wasn’t on Valentine’s Day itself, but February has brought single-digit lows to plenty of towns.
Fort Smith hit -15°F in 1899 during one of the coldest February events. That same cold wave kept highs near zero. These cold spells don’t happen often, but they sure leave a mark.
Warm spells can surprise you too. Arkansas hit 120°F in 1936 (not in February!), but Valentine’s Days in the 60s or even low 70s aren’t rare, especially down south. These swings remind you that February can feel like winter or, suddenly, like spring.
Historic Weather Events
Some Valentine’s weeks in Arkansas are memorable for more than just the temperature. Heavy snow has fallen a few times, though big storms are less common this late in winter. Fort Smith, for example, measured 11 inches of snow in a single day back in January 2000, so late-season storms can still pack a punch.
Rainfall extremes play a role too. In 2015, Fort Smith got nearly 20 inches of rain in May, but February has also brought flooding events when Gulf moisture surges north. Valentine’s weeks with strong storms can bring heavy rain, thunderstorms, or even freezing rain.
These records just show how fast Arkansas weather can change. If you’re heading out for a trip or a night on the town, remember: Valentine’s Day might bring icy roads or a taste of spring.
Weather Trends and Recent Years
Valentine’s Day in Arkansas usually brings cool, damp weather, with rain and the occasional snow thrown in. Long-term records show big swings in temperature, which makes outdoor planning a bit of a gamble.
Recent Valentine’s Day Weather Patterns
Weather around February 14 in Arkansas jumps around a lot. Highs usually settle in the upper 40s to low 50s °F, and lows dip into the 30s °F. Some years, you’ll get mild afternoons near 60 °F, but other years start with freezing mornings.
Snow doesn’t show up all that often, but it’s not out of the question. Some years bring measurable snow, though it melts fast. Rain is the bigger story, with February averaging about 3 inches of precipitation in most Arkansas towns.
Winds tend to pick up in mid-February, averaging around 8 mph. That breeze can make cool days feel even colder. Cloud cover stays higher than in spring or fall, so sunshine averages about 5 hours per day.
You might need both a warm coat and an umbrella, depending on the year. This mix of rain, clouds, and occasional snow gives Arkansas Valentine’s Days a reputation for being unpredictable.
Climate Change Impacts in February
Over the past few decades, Arkansas’ Februarys have warmed up a bit. Average winter lows aren’t as cold as they used to be, and those really cold nights below 20 °F don’t happen as much.
Rainfall has gotten more unpredictable too. Some years, you’ll get heavy downpours; other years stay dry. This makes flooding more likely some years, and long dry spells in others.
Snowfall has dropped off as well. February is still the snowiest month in some parts of Arkansas, but totals are lower than they were in the mid-1900s. These days, you’re more likely to see rain than snow on Valentine’s Day.
Not every year is warmer or wetter, but the trend is toward milder winters, less snow, and bigger swings in rainfall. If you’re planning to travel or spend time outside, you’ll need to be ready for just about anything.
Tips for Planning Valentine’s Day Activities
Arkansas weather in mid-February can shift fast—from mild afternoons to chilly mornings, and rain is always lurking. Plan activities that let you enjoy the outdoors, but give yourself an easy way to stay comfortable if the weather turns on you.
Outdoor Planning Considerations
Daytime highs in Arkansas around Valentine’s Day usually hit the upper 40s to mid-50s °F. Sometimes, a warm spell surprises you and bumps those numbers up.
You can try outdoor activities like short hikes, scenic walks, or even a trip to a winery if you’re ready for chilly air and maybe some damp ground.
February brings plenty of rain, so I’d always check the forecast before making any outdoor plans. Tossing a compact umbrella or light rain jacket in your bag might just save your date.
If you’re thinking about biking or wandering through state parks, remember that trails get muddy fast. Waterproof shoes or boots really help.
Evenings cool off quickly, so if you’re planning outdoor dining or want to stargaze, you’ll need extra layers.
One easy trick? Pair an outdoor activity with an indoor backup. Maybe plan a walk near a downtown spot so you can duck into a café or gallery if the weather goes sideways.
Staying Comfortable in February Weather
Comfort really comes down to layering. I always start with a breathable base, then throw on a warm fleece or something similar, and top it off with a water-resistant jacket. That combo makes it way easier to handle Arkansas’s variable February weather.
Don’t forget gloves and a hat. Trust me, you’ll want those for those surprisingly chilly nights.
Wind just cuts right through you sometimes, especially if you’re stuck in an open spot. If you’re hanging around outside after sunset, maybe toss a blanket in your bag or carry a thermos with something hot. It really does help you stick it out longer.
When you’re heading indoors, pick places that just feel cozy when it’s cold. Cabins, restaurants with fireplaces, or even hot springs can make winter feel way more inviting.
I usually pack a small bag with a few essentials—hand warmers, tissues, maybe an extra pair of shoes. It’s a little thing, but it means wet socks or cold fingers won’t ruin your day.