weatherbycounty

Aurora County Climate

Aurora County, South Dakota

NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate Normals
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec46.1°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

46.1°F

Annual Precip

23.9"

Annual Snowfall

37.7"

Extreme Heat Days

26

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
0.5"
0.7"
1.0"
3.0"
3.7"
3.6"
3.0"
2.6"
2.6"
1.9"
0.7"
0.6"
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Growing Season & Gardening

USDA Hardiness Zone

5a

Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival

Growing Degree Days

2,777

Supports most vegetables & fruits

Last spring frost (32°F): 05/03
First fall frost (32°F): 10/05

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring33°57°7.8"Summer68°74°9.2"Fall33°63°5.2"Winter18°22°1.8"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 16% of US counties
Wetter than 20% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 94% of US counties

7-Day Outlook

Forecast

Current Conditions

Air Quality

Safety

Weather Alerts

Climate Advisory: Aurora County

Climate Verdict

Aurora County has a cool, averaging 46.1°F annually, semi-arid conditions with only 23.9 inches of annual precipitation, occasional hot days — 26.2 per year above 90°F, moderate snowfall of 37.7 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.

Seasonal Breakdown

Winters are very cold — January averages 17.7°F. summers are warm — July averages 73.9°F. Residents experience a substantial 56°F difference between winter and summer.

Outdoor & Gardening Guidance

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

Regional Context

Aurora County closely matches the South Dakota statewide average temperature of 45.6°F.

Climate Profile

About Aurora County Weather

A Classic Cool Continental Climate

Aurora County averages 46.1°F annually, falling well below the national median of approximately 53°F. This humid continental region experiences sharp seasonal transitions and moderate precipitation of 23.9 inches.

Slightly Warmer Than the South Dakota Average

At 46.1°F, Aurora sits just above the South Dakota state average of 45.6°F. It ranks in the warmer half of the state's 66 counties, benefiting from its position in the southeastern quadrant.

Wetter Than Its Western Neighbors

Aurora's 23.9 inches of annual precipitation is significantly higher than neighboring Buffalo County's 20.1 inches. However, its 37.7 inches of annual snowfall is lower than many counties further north.

A Land of Extreme Temperature Swings

Residents endure 26 extreme heat days over 90°F during the 73.9°F July peak. Winters are harsh, with January temperatures averaging 17.7°F and nearly 38 inches of annual snow.

Equipping for Snow and Summer Sun

Heavy-duty snow removal equipment is essential to manage the 37.7 inches of average annual snowfall. High-efficiency cooling is also vital for the nearly four weeks of extreme summer heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Aurora County?
The average annual temperature in Aurora County, SD is 46.1°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Aurora County get?
Aurora County receives an average of 23.9 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 Aurora County?
Yes, Aurora County receives an average of 37.7 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Aurora County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Aurora County is 71.0°F. The county experiences an average of 26 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Aurora County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Aurora County is 20.4°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 17.7°F.

Track your own weather in Aurora County

Ambient Weather personal weather stations give you hyperlocal climate data.

Shop Weather Stations →

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.

By Evan Brooks, Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
← Back to South Dakota