Lincoln County Climate
Lincoln County, South Dakota
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
45.7°F
Annual Precip
27.8"
Annual Snowfall
36.1"
Extreme Heat Days
15
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
5a
Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival
2,727
Supports most vegetables & fruits
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: Lincoln County
Climate Verdict
Lincoln County has a cool, averaging 45.7°F annually, moderate rainfall of 27.8 inches per year, rare extreme heat with only 15.4 days above 90°F annually, moderate snowfall of 36.1 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal Breakdown
Winters are very cold — January averages 15.5°F. summers are warm — July averages 72.5°F. Residents experience a substantial 57°F difference between winter and summer.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
Growing season and gardening data is currently limited for Lincoln County. Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and local extension office for specific guidance.
Regional Context
Lincoln County closely matches the South Dakota statewide average temperature of 45.6°F, it is also noticeably wetter, receiving 5.0 inches more precipitation than the state average.
Climate Profile
About Lincoln County Weather
A Classic Northern Plains Climate Profile
Lincoln County maintains an annual average temperature of 45.7°F, which sits significantly below the national county median. This humid continental climate experiences sharp seasonal shifts and colder baselines than much of the United States. Residents navigate a landscape defined by significant temperature swings between summer and winter.
Matching the South Dakota Temperature Average
The county's 45.7°F average temperature almost perfectly matches the South Dakota state average of 45.6°F. While its thermal profile is typical for the region, its 27.8 inches of annual precipitation is notably higher than the state average of 22.7 inches. This makes it one of the wetter pockets in an otherwise semi-arid state.
A Damp Outlier Among Its Neighbors
Lincoln County receives more moisture than many of its western counterparts, recording five inches more rain annually than the state average. While neighbors like McCook County see similar temperatures, Lincoln's 36.1 inches of snow keeps its winters consistently white. The region balances this moisture with a moderate 15 days of extreme heat per year.
Dramatic Shifts From Snow to Sun
Winters are harsh with a January average of 15.5°F and over 36 inches of total snowfall. Summers offer a reprieve with a July average of 72.5°F, though the mercury still hits 90°F or higher roughly 15 times annually. The transition between a 18.8°F winter and a 70.4°F summer average defines the local lifestyle.
Preparing for Moisture and Cold
Residents should invest in heavy-duty snow removal equipment to handle the 36.1 inches of annual snowfall. High-efficiency home heating is essential given the 15.5°F January lows, while sump pumps help manage the above-average 27.8 inches of precipitation. Outdoor planning remains flexible as the county averages only 15 extreme heat days annually.
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.