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Burke County Climate

Burke County, North Carolina

NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate Normals
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec57.9°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

57.9°F

Annual Precip

51.2"

Annual Snowfall

4.5"

Extreme Heat Days

35

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
4.2"
3.6"
4.3"
4.4"
4.1"
4.7"
4.6"
4.8"
4.5"
3.8"
3.8"
4.6"
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Growing Season & Gardening

USDA Hardiness Zone

7b

Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival

Growing Degree Days

4,141

Excellent for heat-loving crops

Last spring frost (32°F): 04/07
First fall frost (32°F): 10/28

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring49°66°12.7"Summer73°77°14.1"Fall48°69°12.1"Winter39°42°12.3"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 63% of US counties
Wetter than 79% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 27% of US counties

7-Day Outlook

Forecast

Current Conditions

Air Quality

Safety

Weather Alerts

Climate Advisory: Burke County

Climate Verdict

Burke County has a mild, with an average annual temperature of 57.9°F, moderately wet with 51.2 inches of annual precipitation, occasional hot days — 34.7 per year above 90°F, light snow averaging 4.5 inches per year. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.

Seasonal Breakdown

Winters are cold, with January averaging 38.7°F. summers are warm — July averages 76.9°F. The 38°F seasonal variation provides noticeable but manageable change.

Outdoor & Gardening Guidance

The moderate temperatures support hiking, cycling, and camping comfortably in spring, summer, and fall.

Regional Context

Burke County closely matches the North Carolina statewide average temperature of 59.3°F.

Climate Profile

About Burke County Weather

Moderate Climate in the Foothills

Burke County’s 57.9°F annual average reflects a temperate climate nestled in the foothills. This temperature sits slightly below the national median and the North Carolina state average.

Slightly Below the State Average

Compared to the state average of 59.3°F, Burke County maintains a slightly cooler profile. It serves as a middle ground between the cold peaks of the west and the hot Piedmont plains.

Balancing Mountain Cool and Valley Warmth

The county sees 35 days of extreme heat annually, which is moderate for the region. Its 51.2 inches of annual precipitation closely mirrors the North Carolina state average of 51.5 inches.

Distinct Seasons with Occasional Snow

Winters are crisp with 4.5 inches of snowfall and an average December-to-February temperature of 40.5°F. July is warm but not oppressive, averaging 76.9°F.

Ready Your Home for Seasonal Shifts

Residents should prepare for a mix of weather, including occasional snow and over a month of extreme summer heat. Versatile HVAC systems that handle both freezing nights and 90°F days are a smart investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Burke County?
The average annual temperature in Burke County, NC is 57.9°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Burke County get?
Burke County receives an average of 51.2 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 Burke County?
Yes, Burke County receives an average of 4.5 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Burke County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Burke County is 75.2°F. The county experiences an average of 35 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Burke County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Burke County is 40.5°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 38.7°F.

Track your own weather in Burke 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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