South Dakota experiences a variety of climates, ranging from semi-arid to humid continental. Summers in South Dakota are usually hot and dry, with temperatures typically reaching into the 80s and 90s. Winters tend to be cold and dry, with snowfall covering much of the state from late October until April. Average precipitation for the state is around 20 inches annually. One unique feature of the climate in South Dakota is its wide range of elevation - from 762 feet above sea level in Yankton to 14,000 feet above sea level in Harney Peak. This means that weather can vary greatly depending on where you are in the state. In general, though, South Dakotans can expect hot summers and cold winters with moderate amounts of precipitation throughout the year.
South Dakota, South Dakota gets 23 inches of rain, on average, per year. The US average is 38 inches of rain per year.
South Dakota averages 39 inches of snow per year. The US average is 28 inches of snow per year.
On average, there are 213 sunny days per year in South Dakota. The US average is 205 sunny days.
South Dakota gets some kind of precipitation, on average, 80 days per year. Precipitation is rain, snow, sleet, or hail that falls to the ground. In order for precipitation to be counted you have to get at least .01 inches on the ground to measure.
Weather Highlights
Summer High: the July high is around 85 degrees
Winter Low: the January low is 7
Rain: averages 23 inches of rain a year
Snow: averages 39 inches of snow a year