Bentonville, Arkansas, located in the northwestern corner of the state, experiences a humid subtropical climate, which means winters are generally mild. The short answer to whether it snows is yes, but the winter season is not characterized by the heavy, persistent snow common in northern latitudes. The region does see frozen precipitation, though the frequency and accumulation are significantly less than in colder climates.
Bentonville’s Average Annual Snowfall
The city receives an average of approximately 9 inches of snow annually, which is considerably less than the national average of 28 inches. This accumulation is typically spread across a few separate events throughout the winter season. On average, Bentonville sees measurable snowfall for only a handful of days each year. The longevity of the snow cover is often brief, as temperatures frequently fluctuate above freezing shortly after a storm. January’s average low temperature hovers around 25°F, but daytime highs typically climb into the mid-40s.
When Snow is Most Likely
The snowy period in Bentonville typically spans from late November to mid-March, but the most consistent chance for snow falls in January and February. January is often the month with the highest average snowfall, sometimes recording over 3 inches of accumulation. Snowfall in November or April is an extremely rare occurrence and generally amounts to very little. While snow does fall, it is often freezing rain or sleet that constitutes the most disruptive winter weather in Northwest Arkansas. Weather patterns frequently involve moisture from the Gulf of Mexico meeting cold air masses, which often results in a mix of wintry precipitation rather than deep, dry snow.
Preparing for Winter Weather
Local authorities, including the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) and Benton County crews, prepare for winter by stocking salt and sand mixtures. The county uses sprayer trucks to pre-treat roads with anti-icing solutions when freezing conditions are forecasted. Residents and visitors should be prepared for the possibility of slick roads, as the region’s infrastructure is not equipped with the same volume of heavy-duty plows as northern states. It is advisable to keep a car emergency kit stocked with blankets, water, and non-perishable snacks during the winter months. Furthermore, schools and some businesses may close even for the forecast of ice or snow, prioritizing safety during potential travel hazards.