Slope County Climate
Slope County, North Dakota
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
44.5°F
Annual Precip
16.0"
Annual Snowfall
39.1"
Extreme Heat Days
31
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
4b
Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival
2,346
Favors cool-season crops
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: Slope County
Climate Verdict
Slope County has a cool, averaging 44.5°F annually, semi-arid conditions with only 16.0 inches of annual precipitation, occasional hot days — 30.8 per year above 90°F, moderate snowfall of 39.1 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal Breakdown
Winters are very cold — January averages 17.8°F. summers are warm — July averages 71.1°F. Residents experience a substantial 53°F difference between winter and summer.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
Growing season and gardening data is currently limited for Slope County. Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and local extension office for specific guidance.
Regional Context
Slope County is 3.6°F warmer than the North Dakota statewide average of 40.9°F, it is somewhat drier than average for North Dakota, the county experiences 17.909567307692306 more extreme heat days than the state average.
Climate Profile
About Slope County Weather
A Mild but Dry Western Climate
Slope County averages 44.5°F annually, staying well below the national median while remaining warmer than much of the state. Its semi-arid environment receives only 16.0 inches of precipitation each year. This combination creates a rugged, high-plains atmosphere.
One of North Dakota's Warmest Spots
At 44.5°F, Slope County ranks significantly higher than the state average of 41.0°F. Its position in the southwest corner of North Dakota provides it with a thermal advantage over the colder northern and eastern counties. This relative warmth defines the local ranching environment.
Drier and Warmer than Neighbors
Compared to Stark County's 16.4 inches, Slope is slightly drier with 16.0 inches of annual precipitation. It experiences far more extreme heat than its neighbors, recording 31 days over 90°F. This makes it one of the most heat-prone areas in the immediate region.
Intense Heat and Moderate Snow
Summers are hot, featuring 31 days above 90°F and a July average of 71.1°F. Winters are more manageable than in the east, with a 20.7°F average and 39.1 inches of snow. January temperatures stay relatively mild for the state, averaging 17.8°F.
Plan for Heat and Aridity
Residents should prioritize cooling systems and water conservation given the 31 days of extreme heat and low 16-inch rainfall. Durable winter gear is still necessary for the 39.1 inches of snow. Ranchers and gardeners must account for the high July temperatures and limited moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average temperature in Slope County?
How much rain does Slope County get?
Does it snow in Slope County?
How hot does Slope County get in summer?
How cold are winters in Slope County?
Track your own weather in Slope 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.