Douglas County Climate
Douglas County, South Dakota
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
48.9°F
Annual Precip
25.4"
Annual Snowfall
34.4"
Extreme Heat Days
33
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
5a
Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival
3,160
Supports most vegetables & fruits
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: Douglas County
Climate Verdict
Douglas County has a cool, averaging 48.9°F annually, moderate rainfall of 25.4 inches per year, occasional hot days — 33.3 per year above 90°F, moderate snowfall of 34.4 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal Breakdown
Winters are very cold — January averages 20.9°F. summers are warm — July averages 75.0°F. Residents experience a substantial 54°F difference between winter and summer.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
Growing season and gardening data is currently limited for Douglas County. Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and local extension office for specific guidance.
Regional Context
Douglas County is 3.3°F warmer than the South Dakota statewide average of 45.6°F, it is somewhat wetter than average for South Dakota.
Climate Profile
About Douglas County Weather
Warmer Temps in the Heartland
Douglas County is one of South Dakota's warmer spots with an average of 48.9°F, though still cooler than the national median. The county experiences a robust continental climate with significant summer heat.
A Warm Outlier in South Dakota
The county sits more than 3 degrees above the state average of 45.6°F. This makes it one of the warmest counties in South Dakota, particularly during the peak of the growing season.
Higher Heat and Moderate Moisture
Compared to its neighbors, Douglas is both warmer and wetter, receiving 25.4 inches of precipitation annually. This moisture supports 33 days of extreme heat where temperatures top 90°F.
Hot July and Milder Winters
July is hot with an average of 75.0°F, while January stays relatively mild for the state at 20.9°F. The 34.4 inches of annual snowfall is lower than many northern South Dakota counties.
Prepare for High Cooling Demands
Residents should prepare for high energy demands in July and August to combat the 33 days of 90-degree weather. Winter requires less snow removal than northern neighbors, but heating remains a vital utility.
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.