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Contents
- The climate of Madison
- The best time to visit Madison
- The worst time to visit Madison
- Spring weather in Madison
- Summer weather in Madison
- Autumn weather in Madison
- Winter weather in Madison
- 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 climate of Madison
Madison, South Dakota, USA, falls under the Dfa category of the Köppen Climate Classification, signifying a humid continental climate with no dry season and a hot summer. The geographical positioning of Madison contributes to the significant annual variations in weather, with extreme temperature shifts ranging from a low 8.1°F (-13.3°C) in the colder months to a high 82.2°F (27.9°C) in peak summer.
Throughout the year, Madison exhibits a broad spectrum of climatological parameters, each presenting its distinct pattern. Comparative evaluation of these parameters reveals a major fluctuation in weather conditions from month to month. For instance, precipitation shifts from minimal rainfall in the colder months, with January reporting 0.67" (17mm), to considerable amounts during late spring and early summer, showcasing a peak at 3.23" (82mm) in June. Concurrently, snowfall is observed only from November through April, rendering around 4.76" (121mm) in February.
Uniquely, the daylight hours in Madison display pronounced seasonal change, reaching a peak of 15.4 hours in June before dwindling to a mere 9 hours in December. As expected, these long summer days bring with them an increased UV index of 6, creating a need for proper sun protection during outdoor activities.
Throughout the year, Madison exhibits a broad spectrum of climatological parameters, each presenting its distinct pattern. Comparative evaluation of these parameters reveals a major fluctuation in weather conditions from month to month. For instance, precipitation shifts from minimal rainfall in the colder months, with January reporting 0.67" (17mm), to considerable amounts during late spring and early summer, showcasing a peak at 3.23" (82mm) in June. Concurrently, snowfall is observed only from November through April, rendering around 4.76" (121mm) in February.
Uniquely, the daylight hours in Madison display pronounced seasonal change, reaching a peak of 15.4 hours in June before dwindling to a mere 9 hours in December. As expected, these long summer days bring with them an increased UV index of 6, creating a need for proper sun protection during outdoor activities.
The best time to visit Madison
Vacation planning often relies heavily on the climate in the intended destination, and Madison is no different. The notably warm and mild summertime from June through August offers the most pleasant weather in Madison. With temperatures soaring up to 76.5°F (24.7°C) to 82.2°F (27.9°C) and averaging over 9.6 hours of sunshine per day, it has, traditionally, been the preferred period for outdoor lovers to indulge in recreational activities, exploring the natural beauty of Madison.
The worst time to visit Madison
Travel to Madison is generally discouraged between November and March when the city is gripped by an intense winter. Average low temperatures during these months can descend to a chilling 8.1°F (-13.3°C), coupled with significant snowfall that can reach up to 4.21" (107mm) in December. Visibility during these months is also observed to drop, creating challenging travel conditions.
Spring weather in Madison
Spanning from March to May, Spring ushers in a hopeful respite after Madison's harsh winters. As the snow recedes, temperatures make a comfortable ascension from 41°F (5°C) to 66.4°F (19.1°C). Rainfall also begins to pick up during this season, going from 1.3" (33mm) in March to nearly double, 2.95" (75mm) by May, offering an enchanting bloom of local flora.
Summer weather in Madison
From June to August, Madison experiences long, warm, and humid summer days. The high temperatures, ranging from 73°F (22.8°C) to 82.2°F (27.9°C), cooperate with an average of 9.6 to 10.6 hours of sunshine per day to create a delightful ambiance. Despite being the wettest season, with rainfall peaking at 3.23" (82mm) in June, it does not tend to hinder outdoor activities.
Autumn weather in Madison
Autumn, from September to November, witnesses a slow fall in temperatures, starting from 73°F (22.8°C) in September and sliding to 41.9°F (5.5°C) in November. Rainfall also sees a decreasing trend, from 1.61" (41mm) in September to 0.59" (15mm) in November. This season's defining characteristic is the enchanting fall foliage that Madison offers, creating picturesque views coupled with mild weather conditions.
Winter weather in Madison
Winter in Madison, spanning December through February, is characterized by freezing conditions, snowfall and short daylight hours. The average high temperature drops drastically to hover between 22.3°F (-5.4°C) and 25.5°F (-3.6°C). Snowfall marks it's presence with an impressive range from 3.46" (88mm) in December to 4.76" (121mm) by February. Despite the cold, winter's arrival paints the city with a majestic white sheen, transforming it into a winter wonderland.
Weather in January
With the commencement of the year in Madison, South Dakota, a sharp coolness defines the month. The average high temperature hovers around a chilly 22.3°F (-5.4°C). The aftermath of the holiday season sees a high frequency of snow with snowfall occurring on 11.3 days. Weather in January »
Weather in February
February in Madison, South Dakota experiences a slight rise in average temperatures. Yet, February's crispness is still alive with average lows reaching 11.1°F (-11.6°C). The snowfall frequency begins to decrease as the month proceeds, paving the way for spring's eventual arrival. Weather in February »
Weather in March
March ushers in the beginnings of springtime in Madison, South Dakota. There's a considerable increase in temperatures from February with highs reaching an average of 41°F (5°C). Sunnier days begin to emerge, yet the chill of winter remains prominent, especially during the night. Weather in March »
Weather in April
As spring fully introduces itself in Madison, South Dakota, April sees noticeable changes in weather patterns. The weather turns considerably warmer with an average high of 54.1°F (12.3°C). Moreover, the prominence of snowfall diminishes significantly compared to previous months, making way for more regular rainfall. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May sees the full sway of spring engulf Madison, South Dakota. May's balmy air and increased sunlight make outdoor activities more attractive. The city enjoys the highest rainfall of the year with 2.95" (75mm) recorded. The month's longer days and greener landscapes characterize the refreshing spring weather. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June marks the start of summer in Madison, South Dakota with pleasantly warm temperatures. Daylight and sunshine hours peak during June, making it a great time for outdoor festivals and recreational activities. The warmth escalates to a comfortable high of 76.5°F (24.7°C). Weather in June »
Weather in July
Among all months, July is the warmest in Madison, South Dakota, signifying the heart of summer. The average high temperature peaks at a warm 82.2°F (27.9°C). Lengthy daylight hours coupled with maximum sunshine duration provide plenty of time for lakeside activities and picnics in the park. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August rounds off the summer season in Madison, South Dakota with warm and enjoyable weather. While temperatures remain high, the month experiences a slight cooling trend. Rainfall decreases, making outdoor activities popular amongst both locals and visitors. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September brings the onset of autumn to Madison, South Dakota with relatively cooler weather. Temperatures start to decrease, with night-time bringing a noticeable coolness. Precipitation further decreases, creating optimal conditions for exploring the city's parks and gardens adorned with fall foliage. Weather in September »
Weather in October
With October, Madison, South Dakota, is in full embrace of autumn, marked by cooler temperatures and bright fall foliage. The arrival of this charming season is visible in the city's tree-lined avenues and parks. Despite the cooling trend, high temperatures still reach a comfortable average of 55.9°F (13.3°C). Weather in October »
Weather in November
The gradual arrival of winter becomes evident in Madison, South Dakota during the month of November. The transformation is noticed in the trees, now bare, and the clear, frost-tipped mornings. Among colder months, November is relatively milder with daytime temperatures around a moderate 41.9°F (5.5°C). Weather in November »
Weather in December
December is a true winter month in Madison, South Dakota, characterized by chilly temperatures and frequent snowfall. December's weather creates a stunning spectacle of white landscapes and frost-tinged mornings, making it a magical time of year. Weather in December »
Updated: Aug 20, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
What are the coldest months?
Madison records the coldest temperatures in January, averaging a high of 22.3°F (-5.4°C) and a low of 8.1°F (-13.3°C).
What is the most humid month?
January is the most humid month, with an average relative humidity of 90%.
How much does it rain in Madison?
Throughout the year, there are 111.2 rainfall days, and 21.14" (537mm) of precipitation is accumulated.
When does it snow?
Months with snowfall are January through May, October through December.
How many days does it snow?
Throughout the year, there are 49.4 snowfall days, and 20.04" (509mm) of snow is accumulated.
What is the month with the least sunshine?
The month with the least sunshine is January, with an average of 3.8h of sunshine.
What is the month with the lowest UV index?
The months with the lowest UV index are January and December, with an average maximum UV index of 1.
When does it snow the most?
February is the month with the most snowfall. Snow falls for 10 days and accumulates 4.76" (121mm) of snow.
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST)?
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 Madison?
The month with the most rainfall is June, when the rain falls for 18.7 days and typically aggregates up to 3.23" (82mm) of precipitation.
When it does not snow?
In Madison, snow does not fall in June through September.
When are the longest days?
With an average of 15h and 24min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year.
What is the month with the highest UV index?
June and July, with an average maximum UV index of 6, are months with the highest UV index in Madison.
What month is the hottest in Madison?
July, noted for its average high-temperature of 82.2°F (27.9°C) and an average low-temperature of 62.4°F (16.9°C), is considered the warmest month.
What month has the most sunshine?
July has the most sunshine of the year, with an average of 10.6h of sunshine.
What is the least humid month?
The least humid month in Madison is October, with an average relative humidity of 67%.
What is the driest month?
The month with the least rainfall is November, when the rain falls for 4.4 days and typically collects 0.59" (15mm) of precipitation.
What is the month with the shortest days?
With an average of 9h and 0min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year.
Average temperature
Madison, SD
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (82.2°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (22.3°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (62.4°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (8.1°F).
Average pressure
Madison, SD
- Average pressure in January:
30.16"Hg - Average pressure in February:
30.16"Hg - Average pressure in March:
30.07"Hg - Average pressure in April:
29.94"Hg - Average pressure in May:
29.92"Hg - Average pressure in June:
29.85"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
29.92"Hg - Average pressure in August:
29.93"Hg - Average pressure in September:
29.97"Hg - Average pressure in October:
29.98"Hg - Average pressure in November:
30.06"Hg - Average pressure in December:
30.13"Hg
The months with the highest atmospheric pressure are January and February (30.16"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.85"Hg).
Average wind speed
Madison, SD
- Average wind speed in January:
10.8mph - Average wind speed in February:
10.9mph - Average wind speed in March:
11mph - Average wind speed in April:
11.6mph - Average wind speed in May:
10.1mph - Average wind speed in June:
9.4mph
- Average wind speed in July:
8.6mph - Average wind speed in August:
8.6mph - Average wind speed in September:
9.9mph - Average wind speed in October:
11.1mph - Average wind speed in November:
10.9mph - Average wind speed in December:
10.6mph
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is April (11.6mph).
The calmest months (with the lowest average wind speed) are July and August (8.6mph).
Average humidity
Madison, SD
The month with the highest relative humidity is January (90%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is October (67%).
Average rainfall
Madison, SD
- Average rainfall in January:
0.67" - Average rainfall in February:
0.75" - Average rainfall in March:
1.3" - Average rainfall in April:
2.4" - Average rainfall in May:
2.95" - Average rainfall in June:
3.23"
- Average rainfall in July:
2.64" - Average rainfall in August:
2.2" - Average rainfall in September:
1.61" - Average rainfall in October:
1.77" - Average rainfall in November:
0.59" - Average rainfall in December:
1.02"
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is June (3.23").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is November (0.59").
Average rainfall days
Madison, SD
- Average rainfall days in January:
1.6 days - Average rainfall days in February:
1.8 days - Average rainfall days in March:
8 days - Average rainfall days in April:
12.2 days - Average rainfall days in May:
16.3 days - Average rainfall days in June:
18.7 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
13.8 days - Average rainfall days in August:
12.3 days - Average rainfall days in September:
10.4 days - Average rainfall days in October:
8.4 days - Average rainfall days in November:
4.4 days - Average rainfall days in December:
3.3 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is June (18.7 days).
The month with the least rainy days is January (1.6 days).
Average snowfall
Madison, SD
- Average snowfall in January:
3.46" - Average snowfall in February:
4.76" - Average snowfall in March:
2.95" - Average snowfall in April:
2.24" - Average snowfall in May:
0.35" - Average snowfall in June:
0"
The month with the highest snowfall is February (4.76").
The months with the least snowfall are June, July, August and September (0").
Average snowfall days
Madison, SD
- Average snowfall days in January:
11.3 days - Average snowfall days in February:
10 days - Average snowfall days in March:
8.2 days - Average snowfall days in April:
3.8 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0.4 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:
1.4 days - Average snowfall days in November:
4 days - Average snowfall days in December:
10.3 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (11.3 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July, August and September (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Madison, 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 2min
- 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:
9h and 0min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 24min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 0min).
- Average sunshine in January:
3h and 5min - Average sunshine in February:
4h and 5min - Average sunshine in March:
5h and 5min - Average sunshine in April:
7h and 4min - Average sunshine in May:
8h and 4min - Average sunshine in June:
9h and 4min
- Average sunshine in July:
10h and 4min - Average sunshine in August:
10h and 0min - Average sunshine in September:
8h and 4min - Average sunshine in October:
6h and 0min - Average sunshine in November:
5h and 2min - Average sunshine in December:
4h and 1min
The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 10h and 36min).
The month with the least sunshine is January (Average sunshine: 3h and 48min).
Average sunshine days
Madison, SD
- Average sunshine days in January:
19.4 days - Average sunshine days in February:
17.1 days - Average sunshine days in March:
15.9 days - Average sunshine days in April:
13.3 days - Average sunshine days in May:
13.1 days - Average sunshine days in June:
9.5 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
15.2 days - Average sunshine days in August:
16.3 days - Average sunshine days in September:
18 days - Average sunshine days in October:
20.5 days - Average sunshine days in November:
22.4 days - Average sunshine days in December:
19.7 days
The month with the most sunshine days is November (22.4 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is June (9.5 days).
Average UV index
Madison, SD
The months with the highest UV index are June and July (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are January and December (UV index 1).
Average cloud cover
Madison, SD
The month with the most cloud cover is January (Cloud cover 60).
The month with the least cloud cover is July (Cloud cover 28).
Average visibility
Madison, SD
The months with the highest visibility are February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
The month with the lowest visibility is January (5mi).
Madison, South Dakota, USA
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