Lawrence County Climate
Lawrence County, South Dakota
Avg Annual Temp
46.2°F
Annual Precip
25.8"
Annual Snowfall
122.9"
Extreme Heat Days
22.25
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
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.
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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.