Carlton County Climate
Carlton County, Minnesota
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
39.7°F
Annual Precip
31.8"
Annual Snowfall
65.3"
Extreme Heat Days
4
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
4a
Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival
1,716
Favors cool-season crops
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: Carlton County
Climate Verdict
Carlton County has a cold, with an average annual temperature of 39.7°F, moderate rainfall of 31.8 inches per year, rare extreme heat with only 4.033333333333334 days above 90°F annually, heavy winter snowfall averaging 65.3 inches per year. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal Breakdown
Winters are severe, with January averaging a frigid 9.3°F. summers are pleasantly cool with July averaging 66.4°F. Residents experience a substantial 57°F difference between winter and summer.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
Winter sports enthusiasts benefit from reliable snow cover for 3-4 months annually.
Regional Context
Carlton County is 3.1°F cooler than the Minnesota statewide average of 42.8°F.
Climate Profile
About Carlton County Weather
Carlton County Trails the National Temperature Median
Carlton County maintains an average annual temperature of 39.7°F, placing it significantly below the United States median. This cold-continental climate reflects its northern position, making it one of the cooler regions in the country.
Cooler and Wetter than the Minnesota Average
The county's 39.7°F annual average sits roughly three degrees below the Minnesota state average of 42.8°F. However, residents see more moisture than their peers, with 31.8 inches of annual precipitation compared to the state's 30.0-inch average.
A Snowy Outlier in the North Woods
With 65.3 inches of annual snowfall, Carlton is significantly whiter than neighboring Cass or Chisago counties. It experiences a damp, cool climate that differentiates it from the drier plains found further west.
Short Summers and Deep Winter Freezes
Summer peaks in July with a mild 66.4°F average and only four days topping 90°F. Conversely, January is punishingly cold, averaging just 9.3°F as 65.3 inches of snow accumulates throughout the season.
Prioritize Heavy Insulation and Winter Preparedness
Homeowners must prioritize high-efficiency heating and snow removal equipment to handle the heavy winter loads. While air conditioning is rarely urgent given only four extreme heat days, a reliable vehicle with winter tires is essential for navigating the long snowy season.
Frequently Asked Questions
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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.