Lake County Climate
Lake County, Minnesota
Avg Annual Temp
39.1°F
Annual Precip
31.5"
Annual Snowfall
81.4"
Extreme Heat Days
2.475
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
Climate Profile
About Lake County Weather
Cooled by the Great Lakes
Lake County features an annual average temperature of 39.1°F, significantly lower than the national median of 54°F. Its proximity to Lake Superior creates a unique microclimate that moderates extreme spikes but keeps averages low.
A cold and wet outlier
The county is colder than the state average of 42.8°F and wetter than most of Minnesota with 31.5 inches of annual precipitation. It ranks as one of the snowiest and dampest regions in the state.
The snow king of the region
With a massive 81.4 inches of annual snowfall, Lake County far outpaces its neighbors like Lake of the Woods. This high accumulation is driven by lake-effect moisture and the region's rugged topography.
Rare heat and heavy snow
Summer heat is almost non-existent, with only 2 days per year reaching 90°F. Conversely, winter is long and snowy, though the January average of 10.1°F is slightly warmer than the interior counties due to lake moderation.
Invest in heavy snow equipment
The 81.4 inches of snow makes a high-stage snowblower and four-wheel drive essential for daily life. Since extreme heat is so rare, residents typically prioritize insulation and moisture-resistant building materials over central air conditioning.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Data source: NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), U.S. Climate Normals 1991-2020.
Climate normals are 30-year averages of weather variables computed from 1991 to 2020. Station data is aggregated to county level using spatial averaging. Data is informational only — not a substitute for official National Weather Service forecasts or emergency weather warnings.