September 2026 will be remembered in Mountain Home for its hot, dry conditions, as the month closed with near-record low rainfall and prolonged high temperatures. According to the official weather reporting station for the National Weather Service (NWS), only 1.12 inches of rain were recorded for the entire month, a stark drop compared to the 3.88 inches observed in September 2025.
Temperatures soared, with nearly two-thirds of September’s days surpassing 90 degrees. Sixteen of those days hit 95 degrees or higher, peaking at 101 degrees on September 5. A relief from the heat arrived in the month's final week, with the lowest recorded temperature of 55 degrees occurring on September 25.
The lack of rain has exacerbated drought conditions in northern Arkansas, as most of the state has been under burn bans and categorized under high wildfire danger. On September 22, the NWS reported that approximately 17 inches of rainfall over a month would be required to alleviate the current drought.
The dry conditions also impacted the Twin Lakes area, where lake levels remained low and hot weather hampered fishing. Forecasts for October, however, signal some hope for cooler temperatures and increased rainfall as the area moves into the fall season.
Officials remind residents to remain cautious with outdoor burning until conditions improve and to prepare for the potential hazards associated with wildfire and drought.