Arcola, Mississippi, located in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, is a small yet historically rich community located in Washington County. Situated in the northwest region of the state, Arcola is approximately 35 miles northwest of Greenville, the county seat. With its rich agricultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and close-knit community, Arcola offers residents and visitors a glimpse into the vibrant culture and history of the Mississippi Delta. Let’s delve into the geographical, demographic, and cultural aspects of Arcola before exploring its climate and weather patterns.
Geography and Location
Arcola is located in the fertile floodplain of the Mississippi Delta, characterized by its flat terrain and rich alluvial soil. The town sits along the banks of the Sunflower River, a major tributary of the Mississippi River, which has played a crucial role in the region’s agricultural development. Surrounding Arcola are vast expanses of farmland, primarily used for cotton, soybeans, and rice cultivation. The town’s location in the Mississippi Delta contributes to its humid subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and mild winters.
Affiliation and Population
As part of Washington County, Arcola is governed by the laws and regulations of the county and state of Mississippi. The town has a relatively small population, with approximately 300 residents according to the latest census data. Despite its small size, Arcola boasts a tight-knit community characterized by a strong sense of camaraderie and cultural pride. Residents often come together to celebrate local festivals, preserve historical landmarks, and support community initiatives.
Major Landmarks
Arcola may be a small town, but it is rich in historical landmarks and cultural heritage. One notable landmark is the Arcola Rosenwald School, a historic African American school that operated from the 1920s to the 1950s. The school, built with funding from the Rosenwald Fund, served as a crucial educational institution for African American children during segregation and played a significant role in the community.
Another prominent landmark is the Sunflower River, which runs alongside Arcola and serves as a focal point for outdoor recreation and leisure activities. The river offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation, allowing residents and visitors to connect with nature and enjoy the serene beauty of the Mississippi Delta landscape.
Climate and Weather Overview
Arcola experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. The town’s location in the Mississippi Delta contributes to its climate, with influences from the nearby Gulf of Mexico. Summers in Arcola are typically long, hot, and humid, while winters are mild with occasional cold snaps. Rainfall is spread relatively evenly throughout the year, with thunderstorms and occasional severe weather events occurring during the spring and summer months.
Average Climate Data
The table below provides average temperature, precipitation, and sunny days for each month in Arcola:
| Month | Average Temperature (Fahrenheit) | Precipitation (inches) | Sunny Days |
| January | 51.2 | 4.45 | 5 |
| February | 54.7 | 4.28 | 6 |
| March | 61.9 | 5.05 | 7 |
| April | 69.5 | 4.90 | 8 |
| May | 76.9 | 5.16 | 9 |
| June | 82.4 | 4.58 | 9 |
| July | 85.3 | 4.12 | 9 |
| August | 84.9 | 3.68 | 8 |
| September | 79.8 | 3.68 | 7 |
| October | 70.8 | 3.72 | 7 |
| November | 60.9 | 4.72 | 5 |
| December | 54.0 | 4.68 | 5 |
Weather by Month
January
January in Arcola is characterized by cool temperatures and occasional rainfall. Average highs hover around 51.2°F, while average lows dip to 34°F. Precipitation levels are relatively high, with an average of 4.45 inches of rainfall. Despite the cooler weather, residents may still enjoy outdoor activities such as birdwatching, hiking, and exploring the natural beauty of the Mississippi Delta.
February
February brings slightly warmer temperatures to Arcola, with average highs reaching 54.7°F. Average lows range from 36°F to 38°F. Precipitation levels remain consistent, with an average of 4.28 inches of rainfall. Residents may take advantage of the milder weather to engage in outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and nature walks along the Sunflower River, or explore nearby historical sites and landmarks.
March
As spring approaches, March sees a gradual increase in temperatures and precipitation in Arcola. Average highs rise to 61.9°F, while average lows range from 41°F to 43°F. Precipitation levels increase, with an average of 5.05 inches of rainfall. Residents may welcome the arrival of spring by planting gardens, attending local festivals and events, or participating in outdoor recreational activities such as camping, picnicking, and wildlife viewing.
April
April is characterized by mild temperatures and increasing rainfall in Arcola, with average highs averaging around 69.5°F. Average lows range from 49°F to 51°F. Precipitation levels continue to rise, with an average of 4.90 inches of rainfall. Residents may embrace the spring weather by visiting local farmers’ markets, attending outdoor concerts and performances, or taking scenic drives through the countryside to admire blooming wildflowers and lush green landscapes.
May
May brings warmer temperatures and abundant rainfall to Arcola, with average highs averaging around 76.9°F. Average lows range from 58°F to 60°F. Precipitation levels peak, with an average of 5.16 inches of rainfall. Despite the rain, residents may enjoy outdoor activities such as gardening, hiking, and birdwatching, or attend local fairs and festivals celebrating the arrival of spring and the cultural heritage of the Mississippi Delta.
June
June is characterized by hot temperatures and occasional thunderstorms in Arcola, with average highs reaching 82.4°F. Average lows range from 66°F to 68°F. Precipitation levels decrease slightly compared to May, with an average of 4.58 inches of rainfall. Despite the heat, residents may still enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming in the Sunflower River, or seek refuge from the sun indoors at local museums, galleries, and cultural centers.
July
July is the hottest month of the year in Arcola, with average highs peaking at 85.3°F. Average lows remain mild, ranging from 70°F to 72°F. Precipitation levels decrease further compared to June, with an average of 4.12 inches of rainfall. Despite the heat, residents may take advantage of the summer weather to spend time outdoors swimming, picnicking, and enjoying water sports at nearby lakes and recreational areas, or attend local festivals and events celebrating community spirit and cultural diversity.
August
August sees similar weather conditions to July in Arcola, with hot temperatures and occasional showers. Average highs remain around 84.9°F, while average lows stay mild, ranging from 68°F to 70°F. Precipitation levels decrease slightly compared to July, with an average of 3.68 inches of rainfall. Despite the rain, residents may continue to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking, or visit local fairs and carnivals for entertainment and amusement.
September
As summer transitions into fall, September brings cooler temperatures and decreasing rainfall to Arcola. Average highs drop to 79.8°F, while average lows range from 58°F to 60°F. Precipitation levels remain relatively low, with an average of 3.68 inches of rainfall. Residents may take advantage of the pleasant weather to engage in outdoor activities such as apple picking, hiking, and attending local fairs and festivals celebrating the harvest season, or enjoy leisurely strolls along the Sunflower River and scenic countryside.
October
October is characterized by cool temperatures and decreasing rainfall in Arcola, with average highs averaging around 70.8°F. Average lows range from 51°F to 53°F. Precipitation levels remain moderate, with an average of 3.72 inches of rainfall. Residents may embrace the arrival of fall by decorating their homes, attending Halloween events and pumpkin patches, or taking scenic drives through the countryside to admire the vibrant colors of autumn foliage and seasonal decorations.
November
November brings colder temperatures and increasing rainfall to Arcola, with average highs averaging around 60.9°F. Average lows range from 41°F to 43°F. Precipitation levels rise, with an average of 4.72 inches of rainfall. Residents may prepare for the winter season by completing outdoor chores such as raking leaves, cleaning gutters, and storing outdoor furniture, or spend time indoors cooking comfort foods, crafting holiday decorations, and enjoying quality time with loved ones.
December
December marks the onset of winter in Arcola, with cool temperatures and occasional rainfall. Average highs drop to 54.0°F, while average lows range from 36°F to 38°F. Precipitation levels decrease slightly compared to November, with an average of 4.68 inches of rainfall. Despite the cooler weather, residents may embrace the holiday spirit by decorating their homes, attending festive events and concerts, or participating in outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and nature walks along the Sunflower River.
Natural Disasters
While Arcola is relatively sheltered from major natural disasters, the region is susceptible to occasional severe weather events such as thunderstorms, tornadoes, and flooding. These events can disrupt transportation, cause property damage, and pose risks to public safety. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about weather alerts and warnings, as well as to have emergency supplies and evacuation plans in place to ensure their safety and well-being.
Recommended Activities
Throughout the year, Arcola offers residents and visitors a variety of indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy amidst its scenic landscapes and changing seasons. From exploring the Sunflower River and nearby natural areas to attending local festivals and events celebrating the region’s cultural heritage, there is something for everyone to experience and enjoy in this quaint Mississippi Delta town. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, cultural enrichment, or simply a relaxing retreat, Arcola promises an authentic and memorable experience in the heart of the Delta.