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Washington County Climate

Washington County, Nebraska

NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate Normals
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec49.8°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

49.8°F

Annual Precip

33.4"

Annual Snowfall

Extreme Heat Days

20

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet
0.8"
0.9"
1.8"
3.3"
5.0"
5.1"
3.9"
4.2"
3.3"
2.4"
1.4"
1.3"
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

3,248

Supports most vegetables & fruits

Last spring frost (32°F): 04/22
First fall frost (32°F): 10/17

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring38°61°10.1"Summer71°75°13.2"Fall38°65°7.2"Winter22°27°3.0"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 29% of US counties
Wetter than 31% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 88% of US counties

7-Day Outlook

Forecast

Current Conditions

Air Quality

Safety

Weather Alerts

Climate Advisory: Washington County

Climate Verdict

Washington County has a cool, averaging 49.8°F annually, moderate rainfall of 33.4 inches per year, occasional hot days — 20.3 per year above 90°F. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.

Seasonal Breakdown

Winters are very cold — January averages 21.8°F. summers are warm — July averages 74.8°F. Residents experience a substantial 53°F difference between winter and summer.

Outdoor & Gardening Guidance

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

Regional Context

Washington County closely matches the Nebraska statewide average temperature of 49.7°F, it is also noticeably wetter, receiving 7.5 inches more precipitation than the state average.

Climate Profile

About Washington County Weather

A humid and temperate border

Washington County has an annual average temperature of 49.8°F, placing it near the national median. It is one of the wettest areas in the region, receiving 33.4 inches of annual precipitation. This abundance of moisture supports a lush, productive environment.

Nebraska's standard for temperature

Washington County's 49.8°F average perfectly aligns with the Nebraska state average of 49.7°F. However, it far exceeds the state's average rainfall by 7.5 inches. This makes it one of the most humid and rainfall-heavy counties in the entire state.

The wettest in the region

Compared to western Sioux County's 16.5 inches, Washington's 33.4 inches of rain is a stark contrast. It is also significantly more humid than central counties like Valley or Sherman. This high moisture level defines the county's local ecosystem and farming conditions.

Mild summers and cold winters

Summer heat is relatively moderate here, with only 20 days exceeding 90°F. While snowfall data is currently unavailable, January temperatures average 21.8°F, indicating cold winter conditions. The high annual precipitation suggests that winter likely brings frequent mixed-precipitation events.

Prioritize drainage and moisture control

With over 33 inches of rain, proper basement waterproofing and yard drainage are critical for homeowners. Cooling needs are lower than elsewhere in the state, as the county only sees 20 extreme heat days. Residents should still prepare for significant winter cold as January averages dip into the low 20s.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Washington County?
The average annual temperature in Washington County, NE is 49.8°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Washington County get?
Washington County receives an average of 33.4 inches of precipitation per year, including both rain and meltwater from snow. This is based on NOAA 30-year climate normals.
How hot does Washington County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Washington County is 72.8°F. The county experiences an average of 20 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Washington County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Washington County is 24.8°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 21.8°F.

Track your own weather in Washington 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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