Lawrence County Climate
Lawrence County, South Dakota
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
46.2°F
Annual Precip
25.8"
Annual Snowfall
122.9"
Extreme Heat Days
22
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
5a
Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival
2,220
Favors cool-season crops
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: Lawrence County
Climate Verdict
Lawrence County has a cool, averaging 46.2°F annually, moderate rainfall of 25.8 inches per year, occasional hot days — 22.25 per year above 90°F, heavy winter snowfall averaging 122.9 inches per year. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal Breakdown
Winters are cold, with January averaging 26.6°F. summers are warm — July averages 70.1°F. The 43°F seasonal variation provides noticeable but manageable change.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
Winter sports enthusiasts benefit from reliable snow cover for 3-4 months annually.
Regional Context
Lawrence County closely matches the South Dakota statewide average temperature of 45.6°F, it is somewhat wetter than average for South Dakota.
Climate Profile
About Lawrence County Weather
A Mountain Climate in the Black Hills
Lawrence County's average annual temperature of 46.2°F is cooler than the national median but influenced by the Black Hills' unique topography. This area experiences dramatic local variations in weather based on elevation. It is famous for its high snowfall and rapid temperature shifts.
Exceptional Snowfall and Average Temps
While its average temperature of 46.2°F is close to the state average of 45.6°F, its snowfall is legendary. Lawrence County receives a staggering 122.9 inches of snow annually, nearly triple the amount of many eastern counties. Precipitation is also high at 25.8 inches per year.
Wetter and Snowier than the Plains
Compared to the flatlands of eastern South Dakota, Lawrence County is a different world with over 122 inches of snow. Its winter average of 27.0°F is actually milder than the eastern plains due to higher elevation air dynamics. It maintains a July average of 70.1°F, keeping it cooler than the central Badlands.
Mild Summers and Epic Winter Snow
Summer in the hills is comfortable, with a July average of 70.1°F and 22 days of extreme heat. However, winter is defined by 122.9 inches of snow, even though January temperatures stay at a relatively mild 26.6°F. The high-altitude environment ensures that snow can linger long into the spring.
Serious Snow Management is Essential
Residents must own heavy-duty snow removal equipment or hire services to manage 122.9 inches of annual snow. Four-wheel drive vehicles are a necessity for navigating hilly terrain during the long winter months. Home design should prioritize roof load strength to handle the exceptional seasonal snow accumulation.
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.