McKinley County Climate
McKinley County, New Mexico
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
49.0°F
Annual Precip
12.8"
Annual Snowfall
26.6"
Extreme Heat Days
29
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
6a
Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival
2,359
Favors cool-season crops
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: McKinley County
Climate Verdict
McKinley County has a cool, averaging 49.0°F annually, arid conditions receiving just 12.8 inches of precipitation annually, occasional hot days — 29.2 per year above 90°F, moderate snowfall of 26.6 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal Breakdown
Winters are cold, with January averaging 29.3°F. summers are warm — July averages 70.6°F. The 41°F seasonal variation provides noticeable but manageable change.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
Growing season and gardening data is currently limited for McKinley County. Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and local extension office for specific guidance.
Regional Context
McKinley County is 5.8°F cooler than the New Mexico statewide average of 54.8°F, the county experiences 28.706855459355463 fewer extreme heat days than the state average.
Climate Profile
About McKinley County Weather
Cool High Desert Conditions
McKinley County features an annual average temperature of 49.0°F, which is cooler than the national median. The region is semi-arid, receiving 12.8 inches of precipitation and substantial winter snowfall.
Cooler Than the State Average
At 49.0°F, McKinley County stays significantly cooler than the New Mexico average of 54.8°F. Its 12.8 inches of annual rain is slightly lower than the statewide average of 14.0 inches.
Snowier Than Its Eastern Neighbors
McKinley receives 26.6 inches of snow, nearly triple the amount found in San Juan County. While it is cooler than Quay County, it avoids the triple-digit heat frequency found in the state's lower elevations.
Chilly Winters and Mild Summers
Winter temperatures average a cold 30.8°F, supported by over two feet of annual snowfall. Summers are pleasant with a 68.1°F average and only 29 days reaching above 90°F.
Invest in Cold Weather Gear
With 26.6 inches of snow and sub-freezing winter averages, reliable heating and snow removal tools are essential. High-altitude sun protection is also necessary despite the relatively mild 68.1°F summer average.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average temperature in McKinley County?
How much rain does McKinley County get?
Does it snow in McKinley County?
How hot does McKinley County get in summer?
How cold are winters in McKinley County?
Track your own weather in McKinley County
Ambient Weather personal weather stations give you hyperlocal climate data.
Sponsored
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.