Marshall County Climate
Marshall County, South Dakota
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
42.9°F
Annual Precip
24.4"
Annual Snowfall
46.8"
Extreme Heat Days
10
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
4a
Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival
2,444
Favors cool-season crops
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: Marshall County
Climate Verdict
Marshall County has a cool, averaging 42.9°F annually, semi-arid conditions with only 24.4 inches of annual precipitation, rare extreme heat with only 10.05 days above 90°F annually, moderate snowfall of 46.8 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal Breakdown
Winters are very cold — January averages 11.3°F. summers are warm — July averages 71.2°F. Residents experience a substantial 60°F difference between winter and summer.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
Winter sports enthusiasts benefit from reliable snow cover for 3-4 months annually.
Regional Context
Marshall County closely matches the South Dakota statewide average temperature of 45.6°F.
Climate Profile
About Marshall County Weather
A Truly Cold Northern Frontier
Marshall County is one of the cooler locations in the lower 48, with an annual average temperature of only 42.9°F. This is more than 10 degrees cooler than the national median, reflecting its position in the far north. The climate is defined by long, snowy winters and brief, mild summers.
Well Below the State Temperature Average
While South Dakota averages 45.6°F, Marshall County stays much colder at 42.9°F. It is one of the state's snowier regions, recording 46.8 inches of snow compared to a state average that typically sees far less. Its January average of 11.3°F marks it as one of the coldest spots in the region.
High Snow and Low Heat Days
Marshall County sees only 10 days of extreme heat per year, significantly fewer than its southern neighbors. Its 46.8 inches of snowfall is among the highest in the area, creating a long-lasting winter season. Total precipitation of 24.4 inches exceeds the state average, contributing to the heavy winter totals.
Short Summers and Deep Freezes
Winters are intense, with temperatures averaging just 14.6°F from December through February. Summer is pleasant and mild, with a July average of 71.2°F and very few days of oppressive heat. Snow dominates the calendar here, with nearly 47 inches falling annually.
Essential Gear for Extreme Winters
Sub-zero rated parkas and industrial snow blowers are standard equipment for surviving the 11.3°F January average. High-grade home insulation and winter-ready plumbing are critical to prevent pipes from freezing during the deep winter months. Residents enjoy a low need for air conditioning, given the county only hits 90°F about 10 times a year.
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.