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Lyman County Climate

Lyman County, South Dakota

NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate Normals
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec46.9°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

46.9°F

Annual Precip

20.2"

Annual Snowfall

39.6"

Extreme Heat Days

36

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
0.4"
0.6"
0.9"
2.2"
3.2"
3.5"
2.6"
2.3"
1.6"
1.6"
0.8"
0.4"
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Growing Season & Gardening

USDA Hardiness Zone

5a

Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival

Growing Degree Days

2,841

Supports most vegetables & fruits

Last spring frost (32°F): 05/12
First fall frost (32°F): 09/29

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring34°57°6.3"Summer67°74°8.5"Fall34°64°4.0"Winter20°23°1.4"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 19% of US counties
Wetter than 15% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 91% of US counties

7-Day Outlook

Forecast

Current Conditions

Air Quality

Safety

Weather Alerts

Climate Advisory: Lyman County

Climate Verdict

Lyman County has a cool, averaging 46.9°F annually, semi-arid conditions with only 20.2 inches of annual precipitation, occasional hot days — 36.46666666666667 per year above 90°F, moderate snowfall of 39.6 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.

Seasonal Breakdown

Winters are very cold — January averages 19.6°F. summers are warm — July averages 74.2°F. Residents experience a substantial 55°F difference between winter and summer.

Outdoor & Gardening Guidance

Growing season and gardening data is currently limited for Lyman County. Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and local extension office for specific guidance.

Regional Context

Lyman County closely matches the South Dakota statewide average temperature of 45.6°F, it is somewhat drier than average for South Dakota.

Climate Profile

About Lyman County Weather

Warmer and Drier Than the National Average

Lyman County averages 46.9°F annually, placing it well below the national median temperature but higher than many northern peers. The local climate is characterized by low annual precipitation of just 20.2 inches. This creates a semi-arid environment with intense summer exposure.

Outpacing the State in Summer Heat

With an annual average of 46.9°F, Lyman is warmer than the South Dakota state average of 45.6°F. It records a staggering 36 days of extreme heat over 90°F, more than double the count of many eastern counties. Meanwhile, its precipitation levels trail the state average by over two inches.

Central South Dakota's Heat Hub

Lyman County stands out for its high volume of extreme heat days compared to the more moderate eastern counties. Its 39.6 inches of snowfall is significant, even as its total annual precipitation remains a low 20.2 inches. This combination of dry air and heavy winter accumulation creates a rugged climate profile.

Intense Summers and Snowy Winters

July averages reach 74.2°F, fueled by 36 days of extreme heat that push the local climate to its limits. Winter brings a sharp contrast, with a December-to-February average of 21.8°F and nearly 40 inches of snow. These extremes require residents to prepare for both heat waves and heavy drifts.

Managing High Heat and Heavy Snow

Central air conditioning is a necessity in Lyman County to navigate the 36 days of temperatures above 90°F. Reliable winter vehicles are also a must, as the county sees nearly 40 inches of snow and January lows of 19.6°F. Water conservation is often important given the low 20.2-inch annual precipitation total.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Lyman County?
The average annual temperature in Lyman County, SD is 46.9°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Lyman County get?
Lyman County receives an average of 20.2 inches of precipitation per year, including both rain and meltwater from snow. This is based on NOAA 30-year climate normals.
Does it snow in Lyman County?
Yes, Lyman County receives an average of 39.6 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Lyman County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Lyman County is 71.3°F. The county experiences an average of 36 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Lyman County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Lyman County is 21.8°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 19.6°F.

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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.

By Evan Brooks, Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
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