Lee County Climate

Lee County, Illinois

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec48.5°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

48.5°F

Annual Precip

37.6"

Annual Snowfall

29.6"

Extreme Heat Days

10.933333333333332

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
1.7"
1.7"
2.3"
3.5"
4.7"
5.0"
4.1"
3.9"
3.5"
2.9"
2.3"
2.0"
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring36°60°10.6"Summer69°72°13.0"Fall38°64°8.7"Winter20°26°5.3"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 25% of US counties
Wetter than 39% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 80% of US counties

Climate Profile

About Lee County Weather

Cooler Northern Continental Climate

Lee County's annual average temperature of 48.5°F sits below the national median, reflecting its position in the upper Midwest. The region experiences a classic continental climate with distinct, sharp seasonal transitions.

One of Illinois’ Cooler Counties

At 48.5°F, Lee County is significantly cooler than the Illinois statewide average of 52.8°F. This temperature gap is driven primarily by its cold winter months, which average just 23.8°F.

Cooler and Snowier than Southern Peers

Lee County receives 29.6 inches of snow annually, nearly double what counties in central or southern Illinois typically see. Its 37.6 inches of rain is slightly below the state average, making for a drier but colder environment.

Harsh Winters and Brief Summers

Winter dominates with a January average of 20.5°F and nearly 30 inches of annual snow. Summers are relatively mild, with only 11 days per year reaching 90°F or higher.

Prepare for Snow and Cold

Residents should invest in heavy-duty snow removal equipment and ensure homes are well-insulated for the sub-freezing winter average. Cooling needs are modest, as the county enjoys a comfortable July average of 72.4°F.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Lee County?
The average annual temperature in Lee County, IL is 48.5°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Lee County get?
Lee County receives an average of 37.6 inches of precipitation per year, including both rain and meltwater from snow. This is based on NOAA 30-year climate normals.
Does it snow in Lee County?
Yes, Lee County receives an average of 29.6 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Lee County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Lee County is 70.8°F. The county experiences an average of 10.933333333333332 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Lee County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Lee County is 23.8°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 20.5°F.

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Data source: NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), U.S. Climate Normals 1991-2020.

Climate normals are 30-year averages of weather variables computed from 1991 to 2020. Station data is aggregated to county level using spatial averaging. Data is informational only — not a substitute for official National Weather Service forecasts or emergency weather warnings.

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