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Sussex County Climate

Sussex County, New Jersey

NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate Normals
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec50.0°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

50.0°F

Annual Precip

47.0"

Annual Snowfall

38.7"

Extreme Heat Days

11

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
3.3"
2.7"
3.8"
3.8"
3.8"
4.6"
4.4"
4.5"
4.5"
4.6"
3.3"
3.9"
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Growing Season & Gardening

USDA Hardiness Zone

6b

Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival

Growing Degree Days

2,809

Supports most vegetables & fruits

Last spring frost (32°F): 04/25
First fall frost (32°F): 10/16

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring37°59°11.4"Summer68°72°13.4"Fall41°63°12.3"Winter27°32°9.9"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 30% of US counties
Wetter than 65% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 64% of US counties

7-Day Outlook

Forecast

Current Conditions

Air Quality

Safety

Weather Alerts

Climate Advisory: Sussex County

Climate Verdict

Sussex County has a cool, averaging 50.0°F annually, moderately wet with 47.0 inches of annual precipitation, rare extreme heat with only 10.860000000000001 days above 90°F annually, moderate snowfall of 38.7 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.

Seasonal Breakdown

Winters are cold, with January averaging 26.7°F. summers are warm — July averages 72.4°F. The 46°F seasonal variation provides noticeable but manageable change.

Outdoor & Gardening Guidance

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

Regional Context

Sussex County is 3.7°F cooler than the New Jersey statewide average of 53.6°F.

Climate Profile

About Sussex County Weather

Cooler Alpine Influences

At an annual average of 50.0°F, Sussex County is significantly cooler than the national median. Its climate leans more toward a humid continental profile with crisp air and distinct seasonal shifts.

New Jersey's Coldest County

Sussex is the state's refrigerator, with its 50.0°F average falling well below the New Jersey average of 53.6°F. It consistently ranks as one of the coldest regions in the Garden State.

The Snow King of the Region

Sussex receives a massive 38.7 inches of snow annually, nearly tripling the snowfall found in Salem County. Winters are harsh here, with a December-February average of only 29.2°F.

Brief Summers and Long Winters

The county only sees 11 days of extreme heat per year, the lowest in the region. However, January is brutal with an average temperature of 26.7°F and heavy persistent snow cover.

Winterize for Heavy Snowfall

A high-performance snowblower and winter-rated tires are non-negotiable for the nearly 39 inches of annual snow. Residents enjoy lower cooling costs in the summer but must budget for significant heating expenses during the long winter.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Sussex County?
The average annual temperature in Sussex County, NJ is 50.0°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Sussex County get?
Sussex County receives an average of 47.0 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 Sussex County?
Yes, Sussex County receives an average of 38.7 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Sussex County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Sussex County is 70.2°F. The county experiences an average of 11 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Sussex County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Sussex County is 29.2°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 26.7°F.

Track your own weather in Sussex 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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