Jackson County Climate
Jackson County, South Dakota
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
48.5°F
Annual Precip
19.3"
Annual Snowfall
38.1"
Extreme Heat Days
46
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
5a
Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival
2,963
Supports most vegetables & fruits
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: Jackson County
Climate Verdict
Jackson County has a cool, averaging 48.5°F annually, semi-arid conditions with only 19.3 inches of annual precipitation, occasional hot days — 46.46666666666666 per year above 90°F, moderate snowfall of 38.1 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal Breakdown
Winters are very cold — January averages 24.0°F. summers are warm — July averages 75.0°F. Residents experience a substantial 51°F difference between winter and summer.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
Growing season and gardening data is currently limited for Jackson County. Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and local extension office for specific guidance.
Regional Context
Jackson County closely matches the South Dakota statewide average temperature of 45.6°F, it is somewhat drier than average for South Dakota, the county experiences 22.936970085470083 more extreme heat days than the state average.
Climate Profile
About Jackson County Weather
Hot Summers in the Badlands Region
Jackson County maintains an annual average temperature of 48.5°F, which is lower than the national median but high for the Northern Plains. The area is characterized by a semi-arid climate with intense summer peaks. It experiences more extreme heat than many other parts of the American Midwest.
One of South Dakota's Warmest Spots
With an annual average of 48.5°F, Jackson County is nearly three degrees warmer than the South Dakota state average. However, it is also drier than average, receiving only 19.3 inches of precipitation annually. This combination creates a rugged, high-heat environment during the summer months.
Higher Heat Than Neighboring Western Counties
Jackson County stands out with 46 extreme heat days per year, far exceeding the state average. Its winter temperatures are also milder than northern neighbors, with a December-February average of 25.6°F. Despite the heat, it still receives 38.1 inches of snow, similar to the regional average.
A Climate of Intense Sun and Snow
Summer is the dominant season, featuring 46 days above 90°F and a July average of 75.0°F. Winters are surprisingly temperate for the region, with a January average of 24.0°F. Still, the county manages to accumulate 38.1 inches of snow throughout the colder months.
Maximum Cooling and Sun Protection
Residents must prioritize robust cooling systems to handle 46 days of extreme heat. Outdoor workers should plan for intense sun exposure during the 75.0°F July peak. While winters are milder at 24.0°F, snow removal tools are still required for the 38.1 inches of annual snowfall.
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.