Steele County Climate
Steele County, North Dakota
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
38.7°F
Annual Precip
20.9"
Annual Snowfall
34.7"
Extreme Heat Days
11
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
4a
Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival
2,011
Favors cool-season crops
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: Steele County
Climate Verdict
Steele County has a cold, with an average annual temperature of 38.7°F, semi-arid conditions with only 20.9 inches of annual precipitation, rare extreme heat with only 11.3 days above 90°F annually, moderate snowfall of 34.7 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal Breakdown
Winters are severe, with January averaging a frigid 4.1°F. summers are pleasantly cool with July averaging 68.7°F. Residents experience a substantial 65°F difference between winter and summer.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
Growing season and gardening data is currently limited for Steele County. Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and local extension office for specific guidance.
Regional Context
Steele County closely matches the North Dakota statewide average temperature of 40.9°F.
Climate Profile
About Steele County Weather
A Truly Cold Northern Climate
Steele County is one of the coldest spots in the nation, with an annual average temperature of just 38.7°F. This is nearly 17 degrees below the national median for temperature. The climate is defined by long, harsh winters and short, vibrant summers.
Colder than the State Average
While the North Dakota state average is 41.0°F, Steele County remains significantly cooler at 38.7°F. It ranks among the coldest counties in the state due to its northeastern position. This chill persists even as other parts of the state begin to thaw.
The Chilly Red River Valley
Steele County is much colder than western counties like Stark, particularly in winter. It receives 20.9 inches of precipitation, making it wetter than the arid western plains. It shares this cold, moist profile with neighbors like Towner County.
Sub-Zero Starts and Mild Summers
January is brutal with an average temperature of 4.1°F, contributing to a winter average of 7.9°F. Summers are mild with only 11 days of extreme heat and a July average of 68.7°F. The county averages 34.7 inches of snow annually.
Essential Cold-Weather Preparation
Heavy-duty heating systems are a non-negotiable requirement for the 4.1°F January averages. Residents should stock winter emergency kits to handle the 34.7 inches of snow and extreme wind chills. Summer cooling needs are modest given the few days of extreme heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
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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.