Clay County Climate
Clay County, Minnesota
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
42.2°F
Annual Precip
25.4"
Annual Snowfall
46.8"
Extreme Heat Days
11
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
4a
Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival
2,439
Favors cool-season crops
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: Clay County
Climate Verdict
Clay County has a cool, averaging 42.2°F annually, moderate rainfall of 25.4 inches per year, rare extreme heat with only 10.7 days above 90°F annually, moderate snowfall of 46.8 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal Breakdown
Winters are severe, with January averaging a frigid 8.3°F. summers are warm — July averages 71.0°F. Residents experience a substantial 63°F difference between winter and summer.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
Winter sports enthusiasts benefit from reliable snow cover for 3-4 months annually.
Regional Context
Clay County closely matches the Minnesota statewide average temperature of 42.8°F, it is somewhat drier than average for Minnesota.
Climate Profile
About Clay County Weather
A Cold Frontier Climate on the Plains
Clay County averages 42.2°F annually, placing it well below the national temperature median. This region is known for its wide-open landscape and exposure to Arctic air masses.
A Dry and Average Temperature Profile
Clay County’s 42.2°F average is nearly identical to the state average of 42.8°F. However, it is significantly drier than much of the state, receiving only 25.4 inches of precipitation compared to the 30.0-inch norm.
Drier and Sharper than Eastern Neighbors
Clay is notably drier than Chisago or Carlton, reflecting its position on the edge of the Red River Valley. It faces more extreme temperature fluctuations because it lacks the moderating influence of heavy forest cover or large lakes.
Intense Winter Chills and Bright Summers
January is very cold with an average of 8.3°F, while July heats up to 71.0°F. The county experiences 11 days of extreme heat over 90°F and 46.8 inches of annual snow.
Invest in Windbreaks and Cold-Weather Gear
The flat terrain makes wind protection essential for homes and livestock during the cold 8.3°F January stretches. With 11 extreme heat days and lower rainfall, residents should also plan for efficient lawn and garden irrigation.
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.