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Rusk County Climate

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec42.4°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

42.4°F

Annual Precip

34.0"

Annual Snowfall

47.9"

Extreme Heat Days

4

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
1.0"
1.1"
1.8"
3.0"
4.0"
4.7"
4.0"
4.1"
3.7"
3.3"
2.0"
1.4"
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Growing Season & Gardening

USDA Hardiness Zone

4a

Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival

Growing Degree Days

2,038

Favors cool-season crops

Last spring frost (32°F): 05/09
First fall frost (32°F): 09/29

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring29°55°8.8"Summer64°68°12.7"Fall32°58°9.0"Winter13°19°3.5"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 6% of US counties
Wetter than 32% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 92% of US counties

7-Day Outlook

Forecast

Current Conditions

Air Quality

Safety

Weather Alerts

Climate Advisory: Rusk County

Climate Verdict

Rusk County has a cool, averaging 42.4°F annually, moderate rainfall of 34.0 inches per year, rare extreme heat with only 3.9333333333333336 days above 90°F annually, moderate snowfall of 47.9 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.

Seasonal Breakdown

Winters are very cold — January averages 13.1°F. summers are pleasantly cool with July averaging 67.9°F. Residents experience a substantial 55°F difference between winter and summer.

Outdoor & Gardening Guidance

Winter sports enthusiasts benefit from reliable snow cover for 3-4 months annually.

Regional Context

Rusk County closely matches the Wisconsin statewide average temperature of 44.4°F.

Climate Profile

About Rusk County Weather

True Northern Continental Climate

Rusk County's annual average of 42.4°F puts it well below the national median for temperature. The region experiences abbreviated summers and long, snow-filled winters.

Cooler Than the Wisconsin Average

The county is cooler than the Wisconsin average of 44.4°F, reflecting its position in the northern third of the state. It ranks among the state's more winter-hardy regions.

Consistent Precipitation Across the North

Rusk averages 34.0 inches of precipitation, nearly matching its neighbor Portage to the southeast. However, its 47.9 inches of snow is more typical of the northern forest belt.

Frigid Winters and Rare Heat

Winters are cold with a 13.1°F January average and significant snowfall. Summers remain mild, peaking at a July average of 67.9°F with only 4 extreme heat days.

Prioritize Winter Prep and Insulation

Winter readiness is the top priority, requiring reliable snow removal equipment and home weatherization. Residents can often forgo heavy air conditioning given the rare 90°F days.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Rusk County?
The average annual temperature in Rusk County, WI is 42.4°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Rusk County get?
Rusk County receives an average of 34.0 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 Rusk County?
Yes, Rusk County receives an average of 47.9 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Rusk County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Rusk County is 65.9°F. The county experiences an average of 4 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Rusk County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Rusk County is 16.4°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 13.1°F.

Track your own weather in Rusk 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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