Sierra County Climate
Sierra County, California
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
53.1°F
Annual Precip
46.3"
Annual Snowfall
26.2"
Extreme Heat Days
53
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
6b
Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival
2,642
Supports most vegetables & fruits
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: Sierra County
Climate Verdict
Sierra County has a mild, with an average annual temperature of 53.1°F, moderately wet with 46.3 inches of annual precipitation, occasional hot days — 52.5 per year above 90°F, moderate snowfall of 26.2 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal Breakdown
Winters are cold, with January averaging 39.0°F. summers are warm — July averages 70.2°F. The 31°F seasonal variation provides noticeable but manageable change. December is typically the coldest month and July the warmest.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
Growing season and gardening data is currently limited for Sierra County. Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and local extension office for specific guidance.
Regional Context
Sierra County is 5.6°F cooler than the California statewide average of 58.7°F, it is also noticeably wetter, receiving 20.5 inches more precipitation than the state average.
Climate Profile
About Sierra County Weather
A Cooler Mountainous Environment
With an average temperature of 53.1°F, Sierra County is cooler than the national median. Its high elevation creates a climate that is distinct from the rest of the California coast.
One of California's Coldest Regions
Sierra sits well below the California average of 58.7°F. It is one of the wettest counties in the state, receiving 46.3 inches of precipitation annually.
High Precipitation and Heavy Snowfall
Sierra receives 46.3 inches of rain and 26.2 inches of snow, far exceeding neighbors like Siskiyou. It is one of the most precipitation-heavy regions in the entire state.
Snowy Winters with Hot Summer Peaks
Winter temperatures average a cold 39.4°F, contributing to the 26.2 inches of annual snow. Despite this, the county still faces 53 days of extreme heat over 90°F in the summer.
Gear Up for Serious Winter Weather
Snow tires and high-grade home insulation are essential for the snowy 39.4°F winters. Residents should also prepare for the 53 days of high heat by ensuring homes are well-ventilated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average temperature in Sierra County?
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Track your own weather in Sierra County
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Data sources: NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), U.S. Climate Normals 1991-2020. Forecast and alert data from National Weather Service API. Air quality data from Open-Meteo.
Climate normals are 30-year averages of weather variables. Station data is aggregated to county level. Forecasts and alerts are fetched live and may change frequently. Data is informational only — not a substitute for official National Weather Service forecasts or emergency weather warnings.