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Silver Bow County Climate

Silver Bow County, Montana

NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate Normals
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec40.5°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

40.5°F

Annual Precip

12.0"

Annual Snowfall

15.2"

Extreme Heat Days

7

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
0.3"
0.5"
0.7"
1.1"
1.9"
2.3"
1.1"
1.1"
1.1"
0.8"
0.6"
0.5"
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Growing Season & Gardening

USDA Hardiness Zone

5a

Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival

Growing Degree Days

1,240

Limited to cold-tolerant varieties

Last spring frost (32°F): 06/13
First fall frost (32°F): 09/07

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring32°48°3.7"Summer56°64°4.6"Fall29°53°2.5"Winter20°23°1.3"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 3% of US counties
Wetter than 4% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 50% of US counties

7-Day Outlook

Forecast

Current Conditions

Air Quality

Safety

Weather Alerts

Climate Advisory: Silver Bow County

Climate Verdict

Silver Bow County has a cool, averaging 40.5°F annually, arid conditions receiving just 12.0 inches of precipitation annually, rare extreme heat with only 7.35 days above 90°F annually, light snow averaging 15.2 inches per year. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.

Seasonal Breakdown

Winters are very cold — January averages 20.8°F. summers are pleasantly cool with July averaging 63.8°F. The 43°F seasonal variation provides noticeable but manageable change. December is typically the coldest month and July the warmest.

Outdoor & Gardening Guidance

Growing season and gardening data is currently limited for Silver Bow County. Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and local extension office for specific guidance.

Regional Context

Silver Bow County is 3.2°F cooler than the Montana statewide average of 43.7°F, it is somewhat drier than average for Montana.

Climate Profile

About Silver Bow County Weather

A High-Altitude, Dry Climate

Silver Bow County maintains a cool 40.5°F annual average, influenced by its significant elevation. This keeps the county much cooler than the national median throughout the year.

Cooler and Drier Than the State

At 40.5°F, Silver Bow is colder than the 43.7°F state average. It is also exceptionally dry, receiving only 12.0 inches of precipitation compared to the 15.4-inch state norm.

Low Heat and Low Snowfall

Compared to its neighbors, Silver Bow has very few extreme heat days, averaging just 7 per year. Surprisingly, it only sees 15.2 inches of annual snowfall, which is remarkably low for a high-altitude Montana county.

Milder Summers and Moderate Cold

July is very comfortable with an average of 63.8°F, and the county rarely sees extreme heat. Winters are cold but dry, with a January average of 20.8°F and minimal snow accumulation.

Dress in Layers for Dry Cold

Because of the low 12.0-inch annual precipitation, humidifiers are a common household need. Residents can enjoy summers without heavy air conditioning, but should prepare for constant winter chills.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Silver Bow County?
The average annual temperature in Silver Bow County, MT is 40.5°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Silver Bow County get?
Silver Bow County receives an average of 12.0 inches of precipitation per year, including both rain and meltwater from snow. This is based on NOAA 30-year climate normals.
Does it snow in Silver Bow County?
Yes, Silver Bow County receives an average of 15.2 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Silver Bow County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Silver Bow County is 60.4°F. The county experiences an average of 7 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Silver Bow County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Silver Bow County is 21.1°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 20.8°F.

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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.

By Evan Brooks, Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
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