Buffalo County Climate
Buffalo County, South Dakota
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
46.3°F
Annual Precip
20.1"
Annual Snowfall
18.9"
Extreme Heat Days
29
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
4b
Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival
2,808
Supports most vegetables & fruits
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: Buffalo County
Climate Verdict
Buffalo County has a cool, averaging 46.3°F annually, semi-arid conditions with only 20.1 inches of annual precipitation, occasional hot days — 28.95 per year above 90°F, light snow averaging 18.9 inches per year. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal Breakdown
Winters are very cold — January averages 17.5°F. summers are warm — July averages 74.2°F. Residents experience a substantial 57°F difference between winter and summer.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
Growing season and gardening data is currently limited for Buffalo County. Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and local extension office for specific guidance.
Regional Context
Buffalo County closely matches the South Dakota statewide average temperature of 45.6°F, it is somewhat drier than average for South Dakota.
Climate Profile
About Buffalo County Weather
Dry and Temperate Plains Climate
Buffalo County's 46.3°F annual average is below the national median of 53°F. It is one of the drier counties in the state, receiving only 20.1 inches of precipitation annually.
Slightly Above the State Average
At 46.3°F, Buffalo County is marginally warmer than the South Dakota average of 45.6°F. Its dry climate often leads to more extreme temperature swings between day and night.
Low Snowfall Compared to Peers
Buffalo County only sees 18.9 inches of snow, which is less than half the 43.3 inches seen in neighboring Brule County. Its total precipitation of 20.1 inches is also lower than the state average.
Hot Summers and Very Dry Winters
The county deals with 29 days of extreme heat and a July average of 74.2°F. Winters are cold but dry, with January averaging 17.5°F and minimal snow accumulation.
Prepare for Dry Summer Heat
Effective cooling and hydration are essential for the 29 days of extreme summer heat. While snow removal is less of a burden here, residents still need reliable heating for the 17.5°F January average.
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.