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Deschutes County Climate

Deschutes County, Oregon

NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate Normals
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec46.0°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

46.0°F

Annual Precip

13.2"

Annual Snowfall

35.6"

Extreme Heat Days

19

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
1.9"
1.3"
1.0"
0.9"
1.3"
0.8"
0.5"
0.5"
0.5"
0.9"
1.6"
2.1"
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Growing Season & Gardening

USDA Hardiness Zone

6b

Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival

Growing Degree Days

1,561

Favors cool-season crops

Last spring frost (32°F): -9999.0
First fall frost (32°F): -9999.0

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring38°50°3.2"Summer57°65°1.8"Fall37°57°3.1"Winter30°33°5.2"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 16% of US counties
Wetter than 5% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 12% of US counties

7-Day Outlook

Forecast

Current Conditions

Air Quality

Safety

Weather Alerts

Climate Advisory: Deschutes County

Climate Verdict

Deschutes County has a cool, averaging 46.0°F annually, arid conditions receiving just 13.2 inches of precipitation annually, rare extreme heat with only 19.37142857142857 days above 90°F annually, moderate snowfall of 35.6 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.

Seasonal Breakdown

Winters are cold, with January averaging 31.4°F. summers are pleasantly cool with July averaging 65.0°F. The 34°F seasonal variation provides noticeable but manageable change. December is typically the coldest month and July the warmest.

Outdoor & Gardening Guidance

Growing season and gardening data is currently limited for Deschutes County. Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and local extension office for specific guidance.

Regional Context

Deschutes County is 4.4°F cooler than the Oregon statewide average of 50.5°F, it is also noticeably drier, receiving 24.2 inches less precipitation than the state average.

Climate Profile

About Deschutes County Weather

A High Desert Climate Below National Averages

Deschutes County maintains an annual average temperature of 46.0°F, placing it well below the national median for warmth. With only 13.2 inches of annual precipitation, the region is significantly drier than the typical American county.

Cooler and Drier than the Oregon Average

The county's 46.0°F average temperature is notably cooler than the Oregon state average of 50.5°F. Furthermore, its 13.2 inches of annual rainfall is less than half of the 37.4 inches seen across the state as a whole.

Consistency Across the High Desert

Deschutes shares a similar climate profile with neighboring Harney County, which averages 46.4°F. It remains slightly cooler than Jefferson County to the north, which sees an annual average of 48.5°F.

Snowy Winters and Temperate Summers

The region experiences 35.6 inches of snow annually, with winter averages hovering around 31.7°F. While the county sees 19 extreme heat days over 90°F, July averages remain a comfortable 65.0°F.

Prepare for Snow and Arid Conditions

Residents should invest in robust snow removal equipment to handle over 35 inches of annual accumulation. The dry 13.2-inch precipitation levels also necessitate efficient irrigation for any local landscaping or gardening.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Deschutes County?
The average annual temperature in Deschutes County, OR is 46.0°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Deschutes County get?
Deschutes County receives an average of 13.2 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 Deschutes County?
Yes, Deschutes County receives an average of 35.6 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Deschutes County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Deschutes County is 62.0°F. The county experiences an average of 19 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Deschutes County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Deschutes County is 31.7°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 31.4°F.

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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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