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Sanborn County Climate

Sanborn County, South Dakota

NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate Normals
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec45.5°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

45.5°F

Annual Precip

24.6"

Annual Snowfall

26.3"

Extreme Heat Days

26

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
0.5"
0.8"
1.1"
2.9"
3.6"
3.7"
3.1"
3.0"
2.3"
2.1"
0.9"
0.6"
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

2,689

Supports most vegetables & fruits

Last spring frost (32°F): 05/09
First fall frost (32°F): 09/28

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring33°58°7.5"Summer68°73°9.9"Fall33°62°5.2"Winter16°20°2.0"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 14% of US counties
Wetter than 20% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 95% of US counties

7-Day Outlook

Forecast

Current Conditions

Air Quality

Safety

Weather Alerts

Climate Advisory: Sanborn County

Climate Verdict

Sanborn County has a cool, averaging 45.5°F annually, semi-arid conditions with only 24.6 inches of annual precipitation, occasional hot days — 25.6 per year above 90°F, moderate snowfall of 26.3 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 72.7°F. Residents experience a substantial 57°F difference between winter and summer.

Outdoor & Gardening Guidance

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

Regional Context

Sanborn County closely matches the South Dakota statewide average temperature of 45.6°F.

Climate Profile

About Sanborn County Weather

Temperate Plains with Seasonal Swings

Sanborn County maintains an average temperature of 45.5°F, roughly 9 degrees below the national median. This climate provides four distinct seasons with significant variations in temperature.

The Model for South Dakota Climate

The county's 45.5°F annual average is almost identical to the South Dakota state average of 45.6°F. Its 24.6 inches of precipitation is also very close to the state's 22.7-inch average.

Lower Snowfall Than Northern Neighbors

Sanborn only receives 26.3 inches of snow, which is about 22 inches less than Roberts County. However, it experiences 26 extreme heat days, which is much higher than most eastern counties.

Hot Summers and Moderate Snowfall

Summers are quite warm, with 26 days reaching over 90°F and a July average of 72.7°F. Winter is cold but manageable, with 26.3 inches of snow and a January average of 15.5°F.

Preparing for Nearly a Month of Heat

With 26 days of extreme heat, ensuring your air conditioning is serviced by June is a smart move. Winter requires less heavy equipment than other counties, but reliable heating is still a must for the 15.5°F January lows.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Sanborn County?
The average annual temperature in Sanborn County, SD is 45.5°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Sanborn County get?
Sanborn County receives an average of 24.6 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 Sanborn County?
Yes, Sanborn County receives an average of 26.3 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Sanborn County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Sanborn County is 70.2°F. The county experiences an average of 26 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Sanborn County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Sanborn County is 18.7°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 15.5°F.

Track your own weather in Sanborn County

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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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