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Pope County Climate

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec57.2°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

57.2°F

Annual Precip

50.5"

Annual Snowfall

7.2"

Extreme Heat Days

47

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
3.8"
3.6"
4.7"
5.0"
5.2"
4.1"
4.4"
3.6"
3.8"
3.8"
4.3"
4.2"
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Growing Season & Gardening

USDA Hardiness Zone

7a

Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival

Growing Degree Days

4,288

Excellent for heat-loving crops

Last spring frost (32°F): 04/14
First fall frost (32°F): 10/21

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring48°66°14.8"Summer74°77°12.1"Fall47°70°11.9"Winter34°39°11.6"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 61% of US counties
Wetter than 77% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 50% of US counties

7-Day Outlook

Forecast

Current Conditions

Air Quality

Safety

Weather Alerts

Climate Advisory: Pope County

Climate Verdict

Pope County has a mild, with an average annual temperature of 57.2°F, moderately wet with 50.5 inches of annual precipitation, occasional hot days — 46.8 per year above 90°F, light snow averaging 7.2 inches per year. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.

Seasonal Breakdown

Winters are cold, with January averaging 34.4°F. summers are warm — July averages 77.4°F. The 43°F seasonal variation provides noticeable but manageable change.

Outdoor & Gardening Guidance

The moderate temperatures support hiking, cycling, and camping comfortably in spring, summer, and fall.

Regional Context

Pope County is 4.4°F warmer than the Illinois statewide average of 52.8°F, it is also noticeably wetter, receiving 8.7 inches more precipitation than the state average, the county experiences 19.5389678030303 more extreme heat days than the state average.

Climate Profile

About Pope County Weather

A Warm Outlier in the Midwest

Pope County averages 57.2°F annually, making it significantly warmer than the national median temperature. This climate leans toward humid subtropical characteristics, featuring long summers and mild winters.

Among the Warmest in Illinois

With an annual average of 57.2°F, Pope County is much warmer than the state average of 52.8°F. It also receives 50.5 inches of precipitation, far exceeding the state norm of 41.7 inches.

Southern Illinois Heat and Rain

The county shares the high-heat profile of neighboring Saline County, both exceeding 40 days of 90-degree temperatures. Its 50.5 inches of rain makes it one of the wettest spots in the region.

Sizzling Summers and Light Snow

Extreme heat is common here, with 47 days per year hitting 90°F or higher. Winters remain relatively gentle, producing only 7.2 inches of annual snowfall and a January average of 34.4°F.

Planning for High Humidity and Heat

The high precipitation and heat require robust dehumidification and cooling systems for local homes. Winter gear needs are minimal as the county averages less than 8 inches of snow annually.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Pope County?
The average annual temperature in Pope County, IL is 57.2°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Pope County get?
Pope County receives an average of 50.5 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 Pope County?
Yes, Pope County receives an average of 7.2 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Pope County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Pope County is 75.8°F. The county experiences an average of 47 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Pope County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Pope County is 37.0°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 34.4°F.

Track your own weather in Pope 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.

By Evan Brooks, Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
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