Arkansas Temperatures Expected to Rise Sharply December 16–22 as Mild Pacific Air Overtakes Earlier Cold Outbreak
ARKANSAS — A noticeable warmup is expected across Arkansas beginning around December 16, marking a sharp reversal from the recent stretch of cold that has dominated much of the region. This shift is part of a broader pattern across the lower 48 states, where warmer air is set to push eastward and temporarily break the early-winter chill.
The upcoming warm spell is not unusual for this time of year. After strong cold outbreaks, the atmosphere often rebounds with a late-December thaw, giving winter-weary residents a brief break before colder conditions eventually return.
Warm Pacific Air Set to Push Into Arkansas
A surge of mild Pacific air is expected to sweep across the central United States, finally breaking through after weeks of colder dominance. This warmer flow has been building and is now positioned to spread across the region, delivering temperatures well above seasonal averages.
This warmup is tied to a broader pattern that favors milder conditions, allowing warmer air to “flood the gates,” as some forecasters often describe this type of setup.
“A warmup has been on the horizon for mid-month, and confidence is now increasing across the lower 48,”
reads an early outlook discussing the large-scale shift.
The transition comes as the jet stream relaxes enough to allow this Pacific influence to move freely across the country. While Arkansas will feel the warmest push, the northern tier of the U.S. may continue to see occasional fast-moving systems that keep temperatures more seasonal.
How Long Will the Warmup Last in Arkansas?
This warm stretch is not expected to last long. Early indications suggest it may persist about a week, with temperatures easing back down sometime after December 22.
Despite this temporary warmup, the expectation among long-range forecasters is that colder air will eventually return. So far this season, the dominant theme has been quick warming periods followed by renewed cold — a pattern that may repeat.
“Can this trend turn colder again? Yes — that has been the common theme so far,”
one outlook notes, emphasizing that winter still has plenty of room to reignite.
Even as temperatures rise, the northern jet stream may remain active, delivering occasional “clippers” that clip the northern U.S. but leave Arkansas primarily mild through the warm period.
A Short Break Before Winter Resumes
For many Arkansans, this brief period of warmth may offer a welcome pause from the freezing mornings and brisk afternoons that have settled in recently. Warmer days also provide the region a moment to recover, especially after sharp early-season cold snaps.
But residents should not pack away winter gear just yet. The overall seasonal pattern still supports the potential for colder air to return, meaning Arkansas may see additional winter-like conditions as the calendar moves deeper into December and early January.
Stay Informed with Waldron News
Weather patterns during December can shift quickly, especially when warm and cold air battle for control across the central United States. Waldron News will continue tracking temperature trends and upcoming changes so Arkansas residents can plan confidently and stay prepared.
For more weather updates, local coverage, and breaking news, visit WaldronNews.com — and stay connected with the stories that matter to our community.