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Lafayette County Climate

Lafayette County, Wisconsin

NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate Normals
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec46.2°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

46.2°F

Annual Precip

37.5"

Annual Snowfall

36.4"

Extreme Heat Days

9

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
1.3"
1.5"
2.0"
3.8"
4.2"
5.3"
4.3"
4.0"
4.0"
2.9"
2.3"
1.7"
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

2,578

Supports most vegetables & fruits

Last spring frost (32°F): 05/03
First fall frost (32°F): 10/04

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring34°58°10.0"Summer68°71°13.7"Fall36°61°9.3"Winter18°24°4.5"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 17% of US counties
Wetter than 39% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 89% of US counties

7-Day Outlook

Forecast

Current Conditions

Air Quality

Safety

Weather Alerts

Climate Advisory: Lafayette County

Climate Verdict

Lafayette County has a cool, averaging 46.2°F annually, moderate rainfall of 37.5 inches per year, rare extreme heat with only 9.2 days above 90°F annually, moderate snowfall of 36.4 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.

Seasonal Breakdown

Winters are very cold — January averages 17.8°F. summers are warm — July averages 71.0°F. Residents experience a substantial 53°F difference between winter and summer.

Outdoor & Gardening Guidance

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

Regional Context

Lafayette County closely matches the Wisconsin statewide average temperature of 44.4°F, it is somewhat wetter than average for Wisconsin.

Climate Profile

About Lafayette County Weather

A Temperate Climate in the Driftless Area

Lafayette County maintains an annual average temperature of 46.2°F, which sits below the national median but remains warmer than many northern peers. This humid continental climate is characterized by significant seasonal swings and a healthy 37.5 inches of annual precipitation.

Warmer and Wetter Than the State Average

The county is noticeably warmer than the Wisconsin state average of 44.4°F. It also receives about three more inches of annual precipitation than the statewide average of 34.5 inches.

Outpacing Central Wisconsin Neighbors in Heat

Lafayette is significantly warmer than central counties like Marathon, which averages only 43.6°F. It shares a similar moist profile with other southern Wisconsin counties, exceeding the regional average for rainfall.

Hot Summers and Snowy Winters

Residents experience 9 extreme heat days over 90°F during the 71.0°F July peak. Winters are cold but slightly milder than the north, averaging 36.4 inches of snow and a 17.8°F January temperature.

Planning for Southern Wisconsin Extremes

Homeowners should prioritize efficient HVAC systems to handle both the 21.1°F winter average and frequent summer heat spikes. Durable rain gutters are also a must to manage the 37.5 inches of annual precipitation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Lafayette County?
The average annual temperature in Lafayette County, WI is 46.2°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Lafayette County get?
Lafayette County receives an average of 37.5 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 Lafayette County?
Yes, Lafayette County receives an average of 36.4 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Lafayette County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Lafayette County is 69.3°F. The county experiences an average of 9 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Lafayette County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Lafayette County is 21.1°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 17.8°F.

Track your own weather in Lafayette 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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