Clay County Climate

Clay County, South Dakota

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec47.6°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

47.6°F

Annual Precip

27.4"

Annual Snowfall

30.5"

Extreme Heat Days

23.45

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
0.5"
0.7"
1.4"
2.9"
3.9"
4.3"
3.3"
3.0"
3.1"
2.3"
1.3"
0.7"
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring35°59°8.2"Summer70°74°10.7"Fall35°64°6.7"Winter19°23°1.9"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 22% of US counties
Wetter than 23% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 87% of US counties

Climate Profile

About Clay County Weather

Moderate and Moist Plains Climate

Clay County averages 47.6°F annually, placing it among the warmer regions of South Dakota. It also receives 27.4 inches of precipitation, which is higher than many other Great Plains counties.

Warmer and Wetter Than Average

Clay County exceeds the state average temperature of 45.6°F by two degrees. It is also significantly wetter than the 22.7-inch state average, receiving nearly five extra inches of rain and snow.

Lower Heat Than Southern Neighbors

Clay's 47.6°F average is slightly cooler than Charles Mix County at 48.8°F. Clay also experiences 10 fewer extreme heat days annually than Charles Mix, making for slightly milder summers.

Distinct Seasons with Humidity

Summers are warm with a July average of 73.7°F and 23 days over 90°F. Winter brings 30.5 inches of snow, though January averages stay relatively mild for the state at 18.6°F.

Managing Moisture and Winter Ice

With 27.4 inches of precipitation, basement waterproofing and gutter maintenance are essential for homeowners. Winter tires are recommended to navigate the 30.5 inches of annual snowfall.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Clay County?
The average annual temperature in Clay County, SD is 47.6°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Clay County get?
Clay County receives an average of 27.4 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 Clay County?
Yes, Clay County receives an average of 30.5 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Clay County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Clay County is 71.7°F. The county experiences an average of 23.45 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Clay County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Clay County is 21.6°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 18.6°F.

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Data source: NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), U.S. Climate Normals 1991-2020.

Climate normals are 30-year averages of weather variables computed from 1991 to 2020. Station data is aggregated to county level using spatial averaging. Data is informational only — not a substitute for official National Weather Service forecasts or emergency weather warnings.

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