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Douglas County Climate

Douglas County, Washington

NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate Normals
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec49.1°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

49.1°F

Annual Precip

10.0"

Annual Snowfall

27.9"

Extreme Heat Days

34

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
1.3"
0.9"
0.9"
0.6"
0.9"
0.8"
0.4"
0.2"
0.3"
0.8"
1.1"
1.8"
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Growing Season & Gardening

USDA Hardiness Zone

7a

Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival

Growing Degree Days

2,618

Supports most vegetables & fruits

Last spring frost (32°F): 04/26
First fall frost (32°F): 10/11

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring41°58°2.5"Summer64°72°1.4"Fall36°63°2.2"Winter27°32°4.0"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 27% of US counties
Wetter than 2% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 62% of US counties

7-Day Outlook

Forecast

Current Conditions

Air Quality

Safety

Weather Alerts

Climate Advisory: Douglas County

Climate Verdict

Douglas County has a cool, averaging 49.1°F annually, arid conditions receiving just 10.0 inches of precipitation annually, occasional hot days — 34.266666666666666 per year above 90°F, moderate snowfall of 27.9 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.

Seasonal Breakdown

Winters are cold, with January averaging 27.1°F. summers are warm — July averages 72.5°F. The 45°F seasonal variation provides noticeable but manageable change. December is typically the coldest month and July the warmest.

Outdoor & Gardening Guidance

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

Regional Context

Douglas County closely matches the Washington statewide average temperature of 49.9°F, it is also noticeably drier, receiving 28.6 inches less precipitation than the state average, the county experiences 16.273899613899616 more extreme heat days than the state average.

Climate Profile

About Douglas County Weather

A Cool Continental Climate in Douglas

Douglas County’s average temperature of 49.1°F sits below the national median, characterizing its semi-arid continental climate. This cooler baseline reflects its position in the high desert of Central Washington.

Drier and Steadier Than the State

At 49.1°F, Douglas ranks slightly below the Washington state average of 49.9°F. It experiences much drier conditions than the state norm, receiving only 10.0 inches of annual precipitation compared to the 38.5-inch average.

High Desert Neighbors and Cold Winters

Its 10-inch annual rainfall is similar to neighboring Grant County, though its winters are notably colder with a January average of 27.1°F. It lacks the maritime influence that keeps coastal counties much wetter and milder.

Scorching Summers and Snowy Winters

Residents face 34 extreme heat days above 90°F during summers that average 69.5°F. Winter brings a sharp contrast, delivering 27.9 inches of snowfall and an average low of 28.7°F.

Preparing for Thermal Extremes

High-efficiency HVAC systems are essential to handle the 34 days of extreme summer heat. Winter preparations should include heavy-duty snow removal equipment to manage nearly 28 inches of annual snow.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Douglas County?
The average annual temperature in Douglas County, WA is 49.1°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Douglas County get?
Douglas County receives an average of 10.0 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 Douglas County?
Yes, Douglas County receives an average of 27.9 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Douglas County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Douglas County is 69.5°F. The county experiences an average of 34 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Douglas County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Douglas County is 28.7°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 27.1°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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