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Contents
- The climate of Pierre
- The best time to visit Pierre
- The worst time to visit Pierre
- Spring weather in Pierre
- Summer weather in Pierre
- Autumn weather in Pierre
- Winter weather in Pierre
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average snowfall
- Average snowfall days
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
The Capitol Dome building in Pierre, South Dakota, set in a beautiful tree park
The climate of Pierre
Comprehending Pierre's climate necessitates a focus on its Köppen climate classification, which denotes it as Dwa. This classification captures the region's humid continental climate, predominantly marked by severe dry winters and hot summers. Geographically perched within the mainframe of South Dakota, USA, Pierre experiences distinct climatic variations throughout the year.
The humidity remains on the higher scale at the onset of the year, with 85% in January declining to 52% by August. With the fluctuation in humidity, there is a visible shift in temperatures as well; January's average high temperature of 26.2°F (-3.2°C) soars to reach 88.7°F (31.5°C) in July. The lowest temperature touches 12.6°F (-10.8°C) in January and scales up to 67.5°F (19.7°C) by July. It is interesting to note that July, despite having the highest temperature, records a moderately low relative humidity of 53%.
Rainfall patterns display intriguing trends, with less than an inch recorded in the initial two months of the year and amounting to over two inches from May to June. However, rainfall days show variation with 2.4 days in February eventually reaching a high of 14.2 days in June. Similarly, patterns in daylight hours show an increase from the 9.3 hours in January to peak at 15.5 hours in June; setting a characteristic rhythm of light and precipitation throughout the year.
The humidity remains on the higher scale at the onset of the year, with 85% in January declining to 52% by August. With the fluctuation in humidity, there is a visible shift in temperatures as well; January's average high temperature of 26.2°F (-3.2°C) soars to reach 88.7°F (31.5°C) in July. The lowest temperature touches 12.6°F (-10.8°C) in January and scales up to 67.5°F (19.7°C) by July. It is interesting to note that July, despite having the highest temperature, records a moderately low relative humidity of 53%.
Rainfall patterns display intriguing trends, with less than an inch recorded in the initial two months of the year and amounting to over two inches from May to June. However, rainfall days show variation with 2.4 days in February eventually reaching a high of 14.2 days in June. Similarly, patterns in daylight hours show an increase from the 9.3 hours in January to peak at 15.5 hours in June; setting a characteristic rhythm of light and precipitation throughout the year.
The best time to visit Pierre
Factoring in all climatic conditions, the period from May to September emerges as a favorable time to visit Pierre. With the highest temperatures ranging from 68°F (20°C) in May through 88.7°F (31.5°C) in July and reducing to 76.8°F (24.9°C) in September, it creates an ideal climate for outdoor activities. Moreover, these months witness longer daylight hours stretching between 14.8 hours and 15.1 hours, maximizing opportunities for sightseeing and explorations. While rainfall is highest during this period, it's balanced by a lower number of rainfall days - ensuring torrential downpours do not disrupt plans.
The worst time to visit Pierre
An appreciation of Pierre's climatic diversity discourages travel plans between November and March. Drastic dip in temperatures across these months, ranging from a low of 12.6°F (-10.8°C) in January to highs barely reaching 44.2°F (6.8°C) in November and 28.2°F (-2.1°C) in December, potentially restrict travel flexibility. Despite these months registering lower rainfalls, the snowfall inches peak from 0.83" (21mm) in November and rise up to 2.48" (63mm) in December and 1.97" (50mm) in January.
Spring weather in Pierre
Spring ushers a fresh chapter into Pierre's seasonal climate between March and June. Temperatures during spring climb from 44.1°F (6.7°C) in March through 56.1°F (13.4°C) in April and reach 68°F (20°C) in May. This period observes a considerable leap in rainfall from 0.94" (24mm) in March to 2.24" (57mm) in May. Despite an increase in precipitation, climatic conditions are adequately moderate to engage in outdoor activities.
Summer weather in Pierre
Summer sets in from July and lasts until the beginning of September, bringing in high temperatures and extended daylight. Temperatures peak at 88.7°F (31.5°C) in July and slowly descent to 76.8°F (24.9°C) in September. The season witnesses a drop in rainfall days from 14.2 in June down to 8.9 in September, resulting in more ideal days for outdoor activities.
Autumn weather in Pierre
Autumn in Pierre, South Dakota, covers the final months of September and October and greets visitors with moderately high temperatures from 76.8°F (24.9°C) in September to 58.5°F (14.7°C) in October. The rainfall recedes from 0.67" (17mm) in September to 0.98" (25mm) in October, displaying a slight increase. The daylight hours descend from 12.5 hours in September to 11 hours in October, marginally defining the duration of sunlight available during this period.
Winter weather in Pierre
Winter, covering November to February, witnesses a severe drop in temperatures, with highs dropping from 44.2°F (6.8°C) in November to 26.2°F (-3.2°C) in January. The low temperatures accentuate this drop, descending from 29.5°F (-1.4°C) in November to 12.6°F (-10.8°C) in January. Snowfall at this time records an increase from 0.83" (21mm) in November to a peak of 2.48" (63mm) in December, followed by 1.97" (50mm) in January. These factors coupled with a reduced number of daylight hours, falling to a low of 8.9 hours in December, make this season the toughest yet visually enchanting.
Weather in January
January represents the quintessential winter season in Pierre, South Dakota, characterized by long nights and biting cold temperatures. This month experiences the year's shortest daylight hours, averaging only 9.3 hours per day. Weather in January »
Weather in February
The winter chill remains strong in February, but the city begins to witness a relative increase in daylight hours and slightly improved temperatures. The transition from January's deep freeze is noticeable, but it is incremental and subtle. Weather in February »
Weather in March
March in Pierre, South Dakota brings further relief from the winter extremities. The anticipation of spring is palpable with the continuing rise in temperature and daylight hours. March stands out as the month that the average high temperatures surpass the freezing point, now at 44.1°F (6.7°C), symbolizing a key turn in Pierre's weather pattern. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April signals the true arrival of spring in the city, with significant improvements in daytime temperatures. Residents transition into lighter clothing as they welcome the newfound brightness and comfortably warm days. The average high temperature has now reached a balmy 56.1°F (13.4°C), exhibiting an appreciable warmth in the afternoon. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May is the month that truly embodies the spring season in South Dakota, boasting mild weather and visibly greener landscapes. The city bids farewell to the last traces of winter, embracing the pleasant daytime temperatures and extended daylight hours. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June welcomes the start of summer in Pierre, with warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours. Citizens adorn summers dresses, light shirts and shorts, finding refuge in nearby lakes and rivers. The sun shines for more than half a day, on an average, ensuring clear skies for most of the day. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July represents the peak of summer in Pierre, with daily temperatures expected to soar. The heat opposes the idea of staying indoors, making activities like swimming and boating even more appealing. The most significant take-away is that July experiences the year’s highest average temperatures, peaking at 88.7°F (31.5°C). Weather in July »
Weather in August
August in Pierre, South Dakota continues riding the high wave of summer, with warm temperatures and clear skies. The city hosts a variety of outdoor events, capitalizing on the reliable sunny weather. However, the heat levels are slightly more forgiving compared to July, compensating for the increasing humidity. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September brings the onset of autumn, with a noticeable change of climate following the hot summer. Pierre's foliage starts showcasing shades of red, gold and brown, creating an impressionistic painting out of the city's landscapes. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October accentuates the autumnal characteristics in full swing, boasting cool weather and colorful decaying leaves. The trees in Pierre city begin to shed their leaves, forming a crunchy, multicolored carpet on the ground. The milder weather, with cooler temperatures, provides an ideal opportunity for sightseeing and exploring the city's natural scenery. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November in Pierre represents the transition towards winter, with steadily falling temperatures and generally overcast skies. The city prepares for the winter season, with snow shovels and winter tires making an appearance. The transition from the mild weather of October gets evident now, as November sees an average high temperature of 44.2°F (6.8°C). Weather in November »
Weather in December
December signals the peak of winter in Pierre, characterized by low temperatures, frequent snowfall and minimal daylight. Christmas lights glisten against the snowy backdrop, creating a sight to behold. Despite the severe weather, December holds its charm with the festive spirit conquering the cold. Weather in December »
[Resources]Frequently asked questions
What are the coldest months in Pierre?
January, recording an average high temperature of 26.2°F (-3.2°C) and a low temperature of 12.6°F (-10.8°C), is Pierre's coldest month.
What is the most humid month in Pierre?
January is the most humid month in Pierre, with an average relative humidity of 85%.
What is the driest month in Pierre?
The month with the least rainfall in Pierre is January, when the rain falls for 2.7 days and typically collects 0.35" (9mm) of precipitation.
How many days does it rain in Pierre?
Throughout the year, in Pierre, South Dakota, there are 98.5 rainfall days, and 13.7" (348mm) of precipitation is accumulated.
When does it snow in Pierre?
January through May, October through December are months with snowfall in Pierre, South Dakota.
How many days does it snow in Pierre?
In Pierre, South Dakota, during the entire year, snow falls for 41.4 days and aggregates up to 13.07" (332mm) of snow.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Pierre?
January has the least sunshine of the year, with an average of 4.6h of sunshine.
When does it snow the most in Pierre?
The month with the most snowfall in Pierre is February, when snow falls for 10 days and typically aggregates up to 3.66" (93mm) of snow.
What is the month with the lowest UV index in Pierre?
February and December, with an average maximum UV index of 1, are months with the lowest UV index.
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Pierre?
On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts, and the time zone changes from CST to CDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from CDT to CST.
What is the wettest month in Pierre?
May is the month with the most rainfall in Pierre, South Dakota. Rain falls for 13.6 days and accumulates 2.24" (57mm) of precipitation.
When it does not snow in Pierre?
In Pierre, snow does not fall in June through September.
When are the longest days in Pierre?
June has the longest days of the year, with an average of 15h and 30min of daylight.
What are the warmest months in Pierre?
July is Pierre's warmest month, registering average high temperatures of 88.7°F (31.5°C) and lows of 67.5°F (19.7°C).
What month has the most sunshine in Pierre?
The month with the most sunshine is July, with an average of 11.5h of sunshine.
What is the month with the highest UV index in Pierre?
The month with the highest UV index in Pierre, South Dakota, is July, with an average maximum UV index of 7.
What is the least humid month in Pierre?
August and September, with an average relative humidity of 52%, are the least humid months in Pierre.
What is the month with the shortest days in Pierre?
December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 8h and 54min of daylight.
Average temperature
Pierre, SD
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (88.7°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (26.2°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (67.5°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (12.6°F).
Average pressure
Pierre, SD
- Average pressure in January:
30.16"Hg - Average pressure in February:
30.15"Hg - Average pressure in March:
30.05"Hg - Average pressure in April:
29.94"Hg - Average pressure in May:
29.91"Hg - Average pressure in June:
29.84"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
29.9"Hg - Average pressure in August:
29.9"Hg - Average pressure in September:
29.94"Hg - Average pressure in October:
29.98"Hg - Average pressure in November:
30.06"Hg - Average pressure in December:
30.14"Hg
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (30.16"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.84"Hg).
Average wind speed
Pierre, SD
- Average wind speed in January:
10.3mph - Average wind speed in February:
9.9mph - Average wind speed in March:
10.8mph - Average wind speed in April:
11.9mph - Average wind speed in May:
11.1mph - Average wind speed in June:
10.6mph
- Average wind speed in July:
10mph - Average wind speed in August:
9.9mph - Average wind speed in September:
11.1mph - Average wind speed in October:
11.6mph - Average wind speed in November:
10.3mph - Average wind speed in December:
10mph
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is April (11.9mph).
The calmest months (with the lowest average wind speed) are February and August (9.9mph).
Average humidity
Pierre, SD
The month with the highest relative humidity is January (85%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are August and September (52%).
Average rainfall
Pierre, SD
- Average rainfall in January:
0.35" - Average rainfall in February:
0.55" - Average rainfall in March:
0.94" - Average rainfall in April:
1.38" - Average rainfall in May:
2.24" - Average rainfall in June:
2.17"
- Average rainfall in July:
1.93" - Average rainfall in August:
1.34" - Average rainfall in September:
0.67" - Average rainfall in October:
0.98" - Average rainfall in November:
0.47" - Average rainfall in December:
0.67"
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is May (2.24").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is January (0.35").
Average rainfall days
Pierre, SD
- Average rainfall days in January:
2.7 days - Average rainfall days in February:
2.4 days - Average rainfall days in March:
7.3 days - Average rainfall days in April:
10.8 days - Average rainfall days in May:
13.6 days - Average rainfall days in June:
14.2 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
12.3 days - Average rainfall days in August:
11.9 days - Average rainfall days in September:
8.9 days - Average rainfall days in October:
7.5 days - Average rainfall days in November:
4 days - Average rainfall days in December:
2.9 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is June (14.2 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (2.4 days).
Average snowfall
Pierre, SD
- Average snowfall in January:
1.97" - Average snowfall in February:
3.66" - Average snowfall in March:
2.13" - Average snowfall in April:
1.61" - Average snowfall in May:
0.08" - Average snowfall in June:
0"
The month with the highest snowfall is February (3.66").
The months with the least snowfall are June, July, August and September (0").
Average snowfall days
Pierre, SD
- Average snowfall days in January:
9.8 days - Average snowfall days in February:
10 days - Average snowfall days in March:
5.2 days - Average snowfall days in April:
3.1 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0.1 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0 days - Average snowfall days in October:
1.5 days - Average snowfall days in November:
3.5 days - Average snowfall days in December:
8.2 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is February (10 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July, August and September (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Pierre, SD
- Average daylight in January:
9h and 2min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 3min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 3min - Average daylight in May:
14h and 5min - Average daylight in June:
15h and 3min
- Average daylight in July:
15h and 1min - Average daylight in August:
14h and 0min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 3min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 0min - Average daylight in November:
9h and 4min - Average daylight in December:
8h and 5min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 30min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 8h and 54min).
- Average sunshine in January:
4h and 4min - Average sunshine in February:
5h and 5min - Average sunshine in March:
6h and 4min - Average sunshine in April:
8h and 1min - Average sunshine in May:
9h and 4min - Average sunshine in June:
11h and 0min
- Average sunshine in July:
11h and 3min - Average sunshine in August:
11h and 0min - Average sunshine in September:
9h and 0min - Average sunshine in October:
7h and 0min - Average sunshine in November:
6h and 1min - Average sunshine in December:
4h and 5min
The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 11h and 30min).
The month with the least sunshine is January (Average sunshine: 4h and 36min).
Average sunshine days
Pierre, SD
- Average sunshine days in January:
19.7 days - Average sunshine days in February:
17.7 days - Average sunshine days in March:
18.6 days - Average sunshine days in April:
14.3 days - Average sunshine days in May:
15.3 days - Average sunshine days in June:
13.7 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
15.1 days - Average sunshine days in August:
15 days - Average sunshine days in September:
18.8 days - Average sunshine days in October:
21.3 days - Average sunshine days in November:
22.3 days - Average sunshine days in December:
20.9 days
The month with the most sunshine days is November (22.3 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is June (13.7 days).
Average UV index
Pierre, SD
The month with the highest UV index is July (UV index 7).
The months with the lowest UV index are February and December (UV index 1).
Average cloud cover
Pierre, SD
The month with the most cloud cover is January (Cloud cover 50).
The months with the least cloud cover are July and August (Cloud cover 19).
Average visibility
Pierre, SD
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
Pierre, South Dakota, USA
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