Perkins County Climate
Perkins County, South Dakota
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
44.1°F
Annual Precip
17.7"
Annual Snowfall
41.0"
Extreme Heat Days
26
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
4b
Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival
2,307
Favors cool-season crops
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: Perkins County
Climate Verdict
Perkins County has a cool, averaging 44.1°F annually, semi-arid conditions with only 17.7 inches of annual precipitation, occasional hot days — 26.05 per year above 90°F, moderate snowfall of 41.0 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal Breakdown
Winters are very cold — January averages 18.2°F. summers are warm — July averages 70.8°F. Residents experience a substantial 53°F difference between winter and summer.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
Winter sports enthusiasts benefit from reliable snow cover for 3-4 months annually.
Regional Context
Perkins County closely matches the South Dakota statewide average temperature of 45.6°F, it is also noticeably drier, receiving 5.2 inches less precipitation than the state average.
Climate Profile
About Perkins County Weather
A Cool and Arid Western Climate
Perkins County averages 44.1°F annually, which is notably cooler than the national median of 54°F. The climate is distinctly semi-arid, featuring limited precipitation and wide temperature swings.
Colder and Drier Than the Average
The county stays cooler than the 45.6°F state average and is significantly drier. Perkins receives only 17.7 inches of precipitation annually, 5 inches less than the South Dakota average.
Sparse Rainfall Compared to Central Districts
With only 17.7 inches of annual moisture, Perkins is drier than Potter or Sanborn. However, it experiences more extreme heat than its eastern neighbors, logging 26 days above 90°F.
Hot July Days and Snowy Winters
Summer brings 26 extreme heat days, pushing the July average to 70.8°F. Winter is equally impactful, delivering 41.0 inches of snow and an average winter temperature of 20.1°F.
Managing Heat and Arid Conditions
Efficient cooling systems are necessary to handle nearly a month of 90-degree weather. Homeowners should also prepare for 41 inches of snow and use drought-resistant plants for their gardens.
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.