Alma, Arkansas Climate SummaryTemperature
• Average annual temperature: 60.1°F (15.6°C)
• Average January temperature: 36.7°F (2.6°C)
• Average July temperature: 81.2°F (27.3°C)
• Record high temperature: 113°F (45°C)
• Record low temperature: -29°F (-33.9°C)
Precipitation
• Average annual precipitation: 46.7 inches (118.6 cm)
• Average number of rainy days: 110
• Average snowfall: 5.6 inches (14.2 cm)
• Record 24-hour rainfall: 11.0 inches (27.9 cm)
• Record snowfall: 22.0 inches (55.9 cm)
Humidity
• Average annual relative humidity: 77%
• Average July relative humidity: 83%
• Average January relative humidity: 71%
Wind
• Average annual wind speed: 9.2 mph (14.8 km/h)
• Average July wind speed: 9.6 mph (15.4 km/h)
• Average January wind speed: 8.7 mph (14.0 km/h)
Sunshine
• Average annual sunshine: 2,581 hours
• Average July sunshine: 306 hours
• Average January sunshine: 179 hours
Climate Type
• Humid subtropical climate (Köppen climate classification Cfa)
Climate Summary
Alma, Arkansas has a humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild, wet winters. The average annual temperature is 60.1°F (15.6°C), with average temperatures ranging from 36.7°F (2.6°C) in January to 81.2°F (27.3°C) in July. The average annual precipitation is 46.7 inches (118.6 cm), with most rain falling in the spring and summer months. Snowfall is relatively rare, averaging only 5.6 inches (14.2 cm) per year.
Alma's climate is influenced by its location in the Ozark Mountains. The mountains help to moderate temperatures, making summers slightly cooler and winters slightly warmer than in other parts of the state. The mountains also receive more precipitation than the surrounding areas, which helps to keep the region lush and green.
Climate Trends
The climate in Alma, Arkansas is changing, as it is in many parts of the world. The average annual temperature has increased by about 1.5°F (0.8°C) since the late 19th century. The number of days with temperatures above 90°F (32°C) has also increased, while the number of days with temperatures below 32°F (0°C) has decreased.
The amount of precipitation has also changed in recent years. The average annual precipitation has increased by about 5 inches (12.7 cm) since the late 19th century. The number of days with heavy rain (more than 1 inch (2.5 cm)) has also increased.
These changes in climate are likely due to human activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels. The burning of fossil fuels releases greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, which trap heat and cause the planet to warm.
Climate Impacts
The changing climate is having a number of impacts on Alma, Arkansas and the surrounding area. These impacts include:
• More extreme weather events, such as heat waves, droughts, floods, and wildfires.
• Changes in plant and animal life, as some species are unable to adapt to the changing climate.
• Increased risk of flooding, as heavier rains can cause rivers and streams to overflow.
• Increased risk of wildfires, as hotter and drier conditions can make it easier for fires to start and spread.
Adaptation and Mitigation
There are a number of things that can be done to adapt to and mitigate the impacts of climate change in Alma, Arkansas. These include:
• Planting trees and other vegetation to help reduce heat and cool the air.
• Using energy-efficient appliances and lighting to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
• Investing in renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power.
• Developing emergency plans for extreme weather events.
By taking these steps, Alma, Arkansas can help to reduce its vulnerability to the impacts of climate change and build a more sustainable future.