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The Old Farmer’s Almanac 2025–2026 Winter Forecast describes the national outlook as “mostly mild—with pockets of wild.”
Editor Carol Connare notes that “most areas will experience near-normal to slightly milder temperatures,” though the Deep South should expect a warmer, quieter winter overall.
For Arkansas homeowners, that means a mild, dry season ahead—marked by fewer cold snaps, little snow, and an easier stretch for household maintenance.
A Milder Winter for the Natural State
Arkansas falls within the Deep South region in the Old Farmer’s Almanac forecast, which includes Little Rock, and other cities down south like Jackson, MS and New Orleans. The region is expected to see above-normal temperatures this winter, with the coldest stretches arriving in mid-December, early and late January, and early February.
Precipitation will run below normal, meaning a drier season overall, and snowfall will also be below normal across the state. Northern Arkansas could see a brief flurry in late January or early February, but otherwise, the winter will likely bring crisp mornings, mild afternoons, and mostly clear skies.
Altogether, the forecast suggests an easy winter for most of Arkansas—ideal for homeowners who prefer outdoor projects to snow shoveling. The mild air should help reduce heating costs, while the dry pattern will keep travel smooth through the holidays.
Home Fixes to Tackle Before Winter Sets In
Even during a mild year, November is the perfect time for Arkansas homeowners to focus on fall home preparation. The Realtor.com November checklist highlights simple, high-impact maintenance projects to improve efficiency, comfort, and safety before temperatures dip.
Start with smoke detectors—test each one and replace batteries as Daylight Saving Time ends. If your alarms are outdated or missing, professionals can install hard-wired detectors for around $80 to $120 each.
Next, inspect your weatherstripping and caulk around doors, windows, and vents. Even in mild winters, sealing small gaps can help regulate indoor temperature and reduce energy waste. Home expert Krystal Rogers-Nelson explains that sealing leaks “can make a huge difference in keeping you warm and toasty during the winter months and saving a lot of money in utilities.” The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that minimizing drafts can save 5% to 30% annually on heating costs.
Homeowners should also restock emergency supplies. While Arkansas winters are rarely severe, brief cold snaps or power outages can happen. Keep flashlights, batteries, bottled water, and canned goods on hand, and consider testing for radon gas—levels tend to rise when homes stay sealed in winter. Test kits cost about $20 and can be found at most hardware stores.
For homeowners reviewing their winter budgets or planning upgrades, a mortgage calculator can help estimate how projects might affect monthly costs.
Finally, use this mild-weather window to prep for the holidays. Launder guest linens, polish serving ware, and organize common spaces. A professional deep cleaning—typically $200 to $400 depending on home size—can make entertaining easier and stress-free once the season begins.
This article was produced with editorial input from Dina Sartore-Bodo and Gabriella Iannetta.