Dakota County Climate
Dakota County, Minnesota
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
45.3°F
Annual Precip
33.3"
Annual Snowfall
41.0"
Extreme Heat Days
8
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
5a
Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival
2,672
Supports most vegetables & fruits
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: Dakota County
Climate Verdict
Dakota County has a cool, averaging 45.3°F annually, moderate rainfall of 33.3 inches per year, rare extreme heat with only 7.766666666666666 days above 90°F annually, moderate snowfall of 41.0 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal Breakdown
Winters are very cold — January averages 14.4°F. summers are warm — July averages 72.2°F. Residents experience a substantial 58°F difference between winter and summer.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
Winter sports enthusiasts benefit from reliable snow cover for 3-4 months annually.
Regional Context
Dakota County closely matches the Minnesota statewide average temperature of 42.8°F, it is somewhat wetter than average for Minnesota.
Climate Profile
About Dakota County Weather
A Continental Mix of Extremes
Dakota County’s 45.3°F average annual temperature is cooler than the national median but reflects a typical humid continental zone. It receives 33.3 inches of annual precipitation, which is higher than many of its western neighbors.
Warmer and Wetter than Average
The county stays warmer than the Minnesota average of 42.8°F, fueled by its southeastern location. It also sees 3.3 inches more precipitation than the state norm, marking it as a wetter regional hub.
Milder than the Northern Counties
Dakota is nearly four degrees warmer annually than Crow Wing County to the north. While it is slightly cooler than Cottonwood, it maintains a similar summer profile with an average July temp of 72.2°F.
Vibrant Summers and Snow-Covered Winters
Summers are warm with eight days of extreme heat and a July average of 72.2°F. Winter brings 41.0 inches of snow, providing a consistent white blanket for the December through February period.
Ready for Rain and Snow
With 33.3 inches of annual precipitation, residents should ensure proper home drainage and waterproofing. Standard Minnesota winter gear is essential for the 14.4°F January average.
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.