Pennington County Climate
Pennington County, South Dakota
Avg Annual Temp
44.9°F
Annual Precip
20.4"
Annual Snowfall
50.8"
Extreme Heat Days
17.844444444444445
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
Climate Profile
About Pennington County Weather
High Elevation Continental Climate
Pennington County averages 44.9°F annually, sitting nearly 10 degrees below the national median. The local weather is shaped by the Black Hills, leading to significant seasonal variability.
Typical Temperatures With Higher Snowfall
The county's average temperature of 44.9°F aligns closely with the state average of 45.6°F. While its 20.4 inches of precipitation is slightly below the state norm, its 50.8 inches of snow is among the state's highest.
Leading the Region in Snow Accumulation
With 50.8 inches of annual snow, Pennington is significantly whiter in winter than Sanborn or Potter counties. It remains drier than the eastern counties, logging roughly 8 inches less rain than Minnehaha.
Significant Snow and Moderate Summers
Winter is intense with over 50 inches of snow and a 25.2°F average temperature. Summers are comfortable, with July averaging 69.0°F and only 18 days reaching above 90°F.
Gear Up for Serious Winter Snow
Residents must maintain reliable four-wheel-drive vehicles and professional-grade snow blowers for the 50.8-inch annual average. Layered clothing is essential for winter months that average around 25°F.
Frequently Asked Questions
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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.