McDonald County Climate
McDonald County, Missouri
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
57.2°F
Annual Precip
46.8"
Annual Snowfall
9.4"
Extreme Heat Days
37
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
7a
Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival
4,251
Excellent for heat-loving crops
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: McDonald County
Climate Verdict
McDonald County has a mild, with an average annual temperature of 57.2°F, moderately wet with 46.8 inches of annual precipitation, occasional hot days — 37.05 per year above 90°F, light snow averaging 9.4 inches per year. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal Breakdown
Winters are cold, with January averaging 35.1°F. summers are warm — July averages 78.2°F. The 43°F seasonal variation provides noticeable but manageable change.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
The moderate temperatures support hiking, cycling, and camping comfortably in spring, summer, and fall.
Regional Context
McDonald County closely matches the Missouri statewide average temperature of 54.9°F, it is somewhat wetter than average for Missouri.
Climate Profile
About McDonald County Weather
Warm and Wet Southwest Missouri
McDonald County is significantly warmer than the national median with an annual average of 57.2°F. It also receives 46.8 inches of rain, exceeding both national and state averages for precipitation. This combination creates a lush, humid environment in the state's southwestern corner.
One of Missouri's Warmest Counties
McDonald County's average temperature of 57.2°F is well above the Missouri state average of 54.9°F. The county experiences significantly more heat than northern regions like Mercer or Marion. It ranks as a leader in state temperatures due to its southern latitude.
Warmer than Central Neighbors
McDonald County is notably warmer than central counties like Moniteau, which averages 54.9°F. It experiences 37 days of extreme heat, which is more than Morgan or Maries counties. Precipitation is also higher here than in almost all neighboring regions at 46.8 inches.
Long Summers and Brief Winters
The county faces 37 days per year over 90°F, driven by a July average of 78.2°F. Winter remains mild with a January average of 35.1°F and only 9.4 inches of snow. This allows for a longer growing season and shorter periods of deep frost.
Plan for High Rainfall
With 46.8 inches of annual rain, robust gutter systems and proper site drainage are essential for homeowners. Air conditioning systems see heavy use during the 37 days of extreme summer heat. Winter preparations are lighter, but the 9.4 inches of snow still require basic clearing tools.
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.