Benton County Climate
Benton County, Minnesota
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
41.6°F
Annual Precip
30.1"
Annual Snowfall
—
Extreme Heat Days
7
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
4a
Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival
2,144
Favors cool-season crops
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: Benton County
Climate Verdict
Benton County has a cool, averaging 41.6°F annually, moderate rainfall of 30.1 inches per year, rare extreme heat with only 6.5 days above 90°F annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal Breakdown
Winters are severe, with January averaging a frigid 9.6°F. summers are pleasantly cool with July averaging 69.2°F. Residents experience a substantial 60°F difference between winter and summer.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
Growing season and gardening data is currently limited for Benton County. Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and local extension office for specific guidance.
Regional Context
Benton County closely matches the Minnesota statewide average temperature of 42.8°F.
Climate Profile
About Benton County Weather
Classic Mid-State Northern Climate
Benton County averages 41.6°F annually, falling well below the national median temperature. It experiences the high-pressure systems and clear, cold air typical of the Upper Midwest.
Close to the Minnesota Median
The county is just 1.2 degrees cooler than the state average of 42.8°F. This makes it a representative example of central Minnesota weather patterns.
Comparing Benton to Nearby Counties
Benton is warmer than Aitkin (40.7°F) but follows a similar precipitation pattern of about 30 inches annually. It sees more extreme heat than its northern neighbors, with 7 days over 90°F.
Freezing Winters and Humid Summers
Winter averages 13.6°F while July reaches 69.2°F. Although snowfall records are incomplete, the 30.1 inches of annual precipitation suggests a moderately snowy and rainy cycle.
Preparing for Seasonal Extremes
Homeowners should prepare for a balanced mix of heavy winter heating and occasional summer cooling. The 7 extreme heat days require functional air conditioning or cooling centers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average temperature in Benton 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.