Brookings County Climate
Brookings County, South Dakota
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
42.8°F
Annual Precip
25.2"
Annual Snowfall
35.8"
Extreme Heat Days
7
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
4b
Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival
2,324
Favors cool-season crops
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: Brookings County
Climate Verdict
Brookings County has a cool, averaging 42.8°F annually, moderate rainfall of 25.2 inches per year, rare extreme heat with only 7.25 days above 90°F annually, moderate snowfall of 35.8 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal Breakdown
Winters are very cold — January averages 12.3°F. summers are warm — July averages 70.3°F. Residents experience a substantial 58°F difference between winter and summer.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
Growing season and gardening data is currently limited for Brookings County. Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and local extension office for specific guidance.
Regional Context
Brookings County closely matches the South Dakota statewide average temperature of 45.6°F, it is somewhat wetter than average for South Dakota, the county experiences 16.27969658119658 fewer extreme heat days than the state average.
Climate Profile
About Brookings County Weather
A Cool and Damp Eastern Climate
Brookings County is significantly cooler than the national median, with an annual average of just 42.8°F. This area receives 25.2 inches of precipitation, making it one of the state's more humid regions.
Among the Coldest in South Dakota
The county averages nearly 3 degrees colder than the South Dakota average of 45.6°F. It ranks as one of the chilliest counties in the state, particularly during the deep winter months.
Fewer Heat Days Than Neighbors
Brookings experiences only 7 extreme heat days, far fewer than neighbor Beadle County's 22 days. However, its 25.2 inches of annual rain makes it wetter than much of the central plains.
Deep Freezes and Mild Summers
January is especially harsh with an average temperature of 12.3°F and 35.8 inches of annual snowfall. Summers are mild and pleasant, peaking at a July average of only 70.3°F.
Prioritize High-Efficiency Heating Systems
Homeowners must prioritize heavy insulation to combat the frigid 15.7°F winter average. While summer cooling needs are minimal, winter wardrobes require heavy gear for the long sub-freezing season.
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.