Macon County Climate
Macon County, North Carolina
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
54.5°F
Annual Precip
72.0"
Annual Snowfall
5.1"
Extreme Heat Days
6
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
7a
Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival
3,226
Supports most vegetables & fruits
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: Macon County
Climate Verdict
Macon County has a mild, with an average annual temperature of 54.5°F, very wet conditions receiving 72.0 inches of precipitation annually, rare extreme heat with only 6.166666666666667 days above 90°F annually, light snow averaging 5.1 inches per year. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal Breakdown
Winters are cold, with January averaging 36.3°F. summers are warm — July averages 71.7°F. The 35°F seasonal variation provides noticeable but manageable change.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
Growing season and gardening data is currently limited for Macon County. Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and local extension office for specific guidance.
Regional Context
Macon County is 4.8°F cooler than the North Carolina statewide average of 59.3°F, it is also noticeably wetter, receiving 20.4 inches more precipitation than the state average, the county experiences 31.474234693877552 fewer extreme heat days than the state average.
Climate Profile
About Macon County Weather
Cooler Temperatures and Heavy Rainfall
Macon County's 54.5°F annual average is very close to the national median, setting it apart from its warmer neighbors. Its high elevation creates a temperate rainforest effect with massive precipitation.
One of the State's Coolest Spots
Macon is significantly cooler than the North Carolina average of 59.3°F. It also receives 72.0 inches of rain annually, far exceeding the state average of 51.5 inches.
The Wettest in the West
Macon averages nearly 30 inches more rain per year than Madison County to its north. While Madison sees more snow, Macon's 72 inches of precipitation makes it one of the wettest environments in the state.
Mild Summers and Cold Winters
Extreme heat is rare here, with only 6 days reaching 90°F annually. Winters are chilly with a January average of 36.3°F and 5.1 inches of annual snowfall.
Prioritize Rain Gear and Insulation
With 72 inches of annual rain, heavy-duty waterproof apparel and high-quality roofing are essential. Residents enjoy lower cooling bills thanks to a modest 71.7°F July average.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Track your own weather in Macon 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.