weatherbycounty

Howard County Climate

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec51.7°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

51.7°F

Annual Precip

27.3"

Annual Snowfall

22.4"

Extreme Heat Days

40

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
0.6"
0.7"
1.6"
2.7"
4.5"
4.0"
3.5"
3.5"
2.1"
2.2"
1.2"
0.9"
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Growing Season & Gardening

USDA Hardiness Zone

5b

Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival

Growing Degree Days

3,532

Supports most vegetables & fruits

Last spring frost (32°F): 04/23
First fall frost (32°F): 10/14

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring41°62°8.8"Summer72°77°11.0"Fall39°67°5.5"Winter25°29°2.1"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 38% of US counties
Wetter than 23% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 86% of US counties

7-Day Outlook

Forecast

Current Conditions

Air Quality

Safety

Weather Alerts

Climate Advisory: Howard County

Climate Verdict

Howard County has a mild, with an average annual temperature of 51.7°F, moderate rainfall of 27.3 inches per year, occasional hot days — 39.7 per year above 90°F, moderate snowfall of 22.4 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.

Seasonal Breakdown

Winters are very cold — January averages 24.9°F. summers are warm — July averages 76.9°F. Residents experience a substantial 52°F difference between winter and summer.

Outdoor & Gardening Guidance

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

Regional Context

Howard County closely matches the Nebraska statewide average temperature of 49.7°F.

Climate Profile

About Howard County Weather

Balanced Mid-American Weather Patterns

Howard County's annual average of 51.7°F is just under the national median. It experiences a classic four-season climate with a mix of humid and dry air masses.

Warmer and Wetter than Average

At 51.7°F, Howard is warmer than the 49.7°F Nebraska average. Its 27.3 inches of annual precipitation also beats the state average of 25.9 inches.

Moderate Snowfall and Steady Rain

The county sees 22.4 inches of snow, which is lower than many western neighbors. This makes it a more accessible region during the winter compared to the Nebraska panhandle.

Warm Summers and Brisk Winters

July is warm with a 76.9°F average and 40 days of extreme heat above 90°F. Winter remains cold but manageable, with a December-February average of 27.5°F.

Dual-Season Preparation is Key

Homeowners should prioritize efficient attic insulation for both the 40 days of 90-degree heat and the cold January nights. Standard snow shovels and salt are usually sufficient for the moderate 22.4-inch snowfall.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Howard County?
The average annual temperature in Howard County, NE is 51.7°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Howard County get?
Howard County receives an average of 27.3 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 Howard County?
Yes, Howard County receives an average of 22.4 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Howard County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Howard County is 74.6°F. The county experiences an average of 40 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Howard County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Howard County is 27.5°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 24.9°F.

Track your own weather in Howard County

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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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