Climate and monthly weather forecast
Sioux Falls, SD

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The Sioux Falls in South Dakota, flowing downstream over rocks under the perfect evening skyline
The Sioux Falls in South Dakota, flowing downstream over rocks under the perfect evening skyline

The climate of Sioux Falls

According to the Köppen climate classification, Sioux Falls, South Dakota, falls under the predominate climate of Dfa - signifying a humid continental climate with no dry season and hot summers. Geographically, Sioux Falls lies in the Upper Midwest of the United States and lies under the direct influence of alternating air masses from the Arctic, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Pacific Northwest.

An analysis of climate data reveals variability in Sioux Falls's weather that exemplifies its classification as a humid continental climate. Temperatures over the year fluctuate widely, with the lowest average temperature recorded at 9.7°F (-12.4°C) in winter and the highest average temperature at 82.4°F (28°C) during summer. Similarly, rainfall amounts vary throughout the year, with the highest rainfall observed from May to June, and the driest months being January and February. A higher amount of rainfall coincides with the warmer months of the year, confirming the absence of a dry season.

Unique weather conditions appear in the form of frequent snowfall from November to April, with the highest amount of snow falling in January and February with average accumulation of 4.25" (108mm) and 3.35" (85mm) respectively. Another notable factor about Sioux Falls's weather is the significant drop in relative humidity during spring and autumn, while it peaks in winter and holds steady through the summer.

The Best Time to Visit Sioux Falls

In determining the best time to visit Sioux Falls, various factors come into play such as temperature, rainfall, and humidity. Considering these factors, the period from June to August seems to be the most favorable. During this period, temperatures range from a comfortable 77.5°F (25.3°C) to a warm 82.4°F (28°C), combined with relatively moderate rainfall ranging from 2.28" (58mm) to 3.27" (83mm). Furthermore, the hours of sunshine per day peak at a favorable 9.9 to 10.7 hours.

The Worst Time to Visit Sioux Falls

The winter months from December to February could be considered the least favorable time to visit Sioux Falls due to severe weather conditions. The average low temperatures dip to single digit degrees, going as low as 9.7°F (-12.4°C) along with frequent snowfall amounting up to 4.25" (108mm) in February. Moreover, daylight hours are at their shortest and sunlight is minimal, with daily sunshine hours decreasing to only 4 to 5.1 hours per day.

Spring Weather in Sioux Falls

As winter makes way for spring in Sioux Falls, the weather embodies transitional qualities. March sees temperatures rising from sub-freezing averages of 27.7°F (-2.4°C) to pleasant highs in May of 67.5°F (19.7°C). Corresponding to the rising temperatures, rainfall volume increases as well over this period, from 1.34" (34mm) in March to its highest annual volume of 3.27" (83mm) in May.

Summer Weather in Sioux Falls

Summer in Sioux Falls embraces warm temperatures, with average highs ranging from 77.5°F (25.3°C) in June to 82.4°F (28°C) in July. Concurrently, rainfall sees a slight decrease from spring levels but remains somewhat high through the summer, with a recorded average of 2.28" (58mm) to 2.24" (57mm) from June through August. Daily sunshine hours increase, offering between 9.9 to 10.7 hours of sunlight every day.

Autumn Weather in Sioux Falls

Autumn ushers in cooler temperatures in Sioux Falls, with temperatures falling from 74.3°F (23.5°C) in September to a noticeably colder 43.2°F (6.2°C) in November. Rainfall also decreases in this period, from 1.89" (48mm) in September to 0.67" (17mm) in November, indicating the onset of the dry season. Sunshine hours drop, and daylight hours start to reduce, signaling the arrival of winter.

Winter Weather in Sioux Falls

Winter in Sioux Falls is characterized by consistently cold temperatures and a substantial number of snowfall days. Average temperatures range from 27.5°F (-2.5°C) in December to 9.7°F (-12.4°C) in February. January and February also see the highest snowfall, ranging from 3.35" (85mm) to 4.25" (108mm). Sunshine hours are at their lowest in winter, with daily sunshine ranging from 4 to 5.1 hours.

Weather in January

The start of the new year in Sioux Falls, South Dakota ushers in chilly weather conditions that envelop the city in a cold blanket. Interestingly, snowfall is at a peak with up to 3.35" (85mm) of snow. This does not deter daylight from shining for up to 9.4 hours, casting an ethereal glow on the snowy landscape, particularly around lunchtime. Weather in January »

Weather in February

February continues the cold spell from January, but with a slight increase in sunshine, signalling a forthcoming thaw. Snowfall decreases to 4.25" (108mm), paving the way for the commencement of the transition to spring. The relative humidity drops from January, marking an end to the crystalline cityscape but continuing to keep the air crisp and refreshing. Weather in February »

Weather in March

By March, Sioux Falls commences its slow ascent from the depths of winter. The mercury begins to rise, and a notable decrease in relative humidity to 77% indicates the gradual receding of the winter chill. Rainfall measures at 1.34" (34mm), ushering in the moist spring season, leading to a sprouting of new growth, transforming the city into a lively green. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April in Sioux Falls marks the definitive arrival of spring. The weather conditions display considerable warmth compared to March, inviting citizens outdoors to enjoy nature's bounty. An increase to 2.13" (54mm) of rainfall fosters the blooming of flowers and trees, tingeing the city with vibrant colours. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May brings in the full vigour of spring in Sioux Falls with the city blossoming under the longer daylight hours. Rainfall increases slightly to 2.83" (72mm); the showers bring fresh nourishment to the thriving flora. The gentle rhythm of the rain bestows a sense of calm, making the city hum with life. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June marks the advent of summer in Sioux Falls. The general weather conditions swerve towards warmth and vibrancy, opening the season of breezy summer nights and balmy days. With the temperature climbing to 77.5°F (25.3°C), citizens flock to outdoor spaces to soak in the sun's golden rays. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July in Sioux Falls heralds the peak of the summer season. The city basks in the sun's warmth, reaching up to 82.4°F (28°C), rendering it the hottest month of the year. The parching heat is occasionally relieved by 2.28" (58mm) of rainfall, adding variety to the weather spectrum. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August in Sioux Falls offers a slight reprieve from the peak summer warmth prevalent in July. However, with the temperature dropping slightly to 81.1°F (27.3°C), the weather remains pleasantly warm. The mild decrease in rainfall to 2.24" (57mm) signifies the gradual easing into the autumnal cycle. Weather in August »

Weather in September

As the calendar flips over to September in Sioux Falls, a pleasant change in weather marks the transitioning into the enchanting fall season. With the temperature dipping to a comfortable 74.3°F (23.5°C), the city bids goodbye to the hot summer days. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October further intensifies the fall mood in Sioux Falls. The city is swathed in shades of crimson and gold, harking back to the rich tapestry of an autumn palette. As climate dials down to a moderate 57.4°F (14.1°C), Sioux Falls embraces the cool fall weather. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November is when Sioux Falls commences its progressive descent into winter, with temperatures dipping down to 43.2°F (6.2°C). A pronounced drop in daylight hours heralds the onset of longer, frosty nights. A minimal rainfall of 0.67" (17mm), complemented by a spike in snowfall, paves the way for the upcoming ice-capped wonderland. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December ushers Sioux Falls into the full swing of the winter season. As the frosty chill blankets the city, it harkens back to the conditions prevalent in the first month of the year. Snowfall rises again to 3.23" (82mm), reinstating Sioux Falls' crystal-edged picturesque winterscape. Weather in December »
Updated: Aug 22, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate

Frequently asked questions

What is the coldest time of year?

The lowest temperatures in Sioux Falls are recorded in January, with averages reaching a high of 23.4°F (-4.8°C) and a low of 9.7°F (-12.4°C).

What is the most humid month?

With an average relative humidity of 88%, January is the most humid month.

What is the driest month?

January, February and November are months with the least rain when the rain falls for 3.8 days and typically aggregates up to 0.67" (17mm) of rain.

How many days does it rain in Sioux Falls?

In Sioux Falls, South Dakota, during the entire year, the rain falls for 117.1 days and collects up to 20.71" (526mm) of precipitation.

When does it snow?

Months with snowfall are January through May, October through December.

How many days does it snow?

In Sioux Falls, South Dakota, during the entire year, snow falls for 48.7 days and aggregates up to 18.23" (463mm) of snow.

What is the month with the least sunshine in Sioux Falls?

With an average of 4h of sunshine, January has the least sunshine of the year.

What are the months with the lowest UV index?

The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2.

What is the snowiest month?

The month with the most snowfall is February, when snow falls for 8.9 days and typically aggregates up to 4.25" (108mm) of snow.

When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Sioux Falls?

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 rainiest month?

June is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 17.8 days and accumulates 3.27" (83mm) of precipitation.

When it does not snow?

In Sioux Falls, snow does not fall in June through September.

When are the longest days?

The month with the longest days is June, with an average of 15h and 24min of daylight.

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.

What is the warmest month?

Sioux Falls experiences its average highest temperatures in July, reaching a peak of 82.4°F (28°C) and a minimum of 63.1°F (17.3°C).

What month has the most sunshine?

The month with the most sunshine is July, with an average of 10.7h of sunshine.

What is the least humid month?

The least humid month is October, with an average relative humidity of 66%.

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 in Sioux Falls.

Average temperature
Sioux Falls, SD

Average temperature - Sioux Falls, SD

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (82.4°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (23.4°F).

The month with the highest average low temperature is July (63.1°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (9.7°F).

Average pressure
Sioux Falls, SD

Average pressure - Sioux Falls, SD

The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (30.16"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.86"Hg).

Average wind speed
Sioux Falls, SD

Average wind speed - Sioux Falls, SD

The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is April (11.3mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is July (8mph).

Average humidity
Sioux Falls, SD

Average humidity - Sioux Falls, SD

The month with the highest relative humidity is January (88%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is October (66%).

Average rainfall
Sioux Falls, SD

Average rainfall - Sioux Falls, SD

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is June (3.27").
The driest months (with the least rainfall) are January, February and November (0.67").

Average rainfall days
Sioux Falls, SD

Average rainfall days - Sioux Falls, SD

The month with the highest number of rainy days is June (17.8 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (3 days).

Average snowfall
Sioux Falls, SD

Average snowfall - Sioux Falls, SD

The month with the highest snowfall is February (4.25").
The months with the least snowfall are June, July, August and September (0").

Average snowfall days
Sioux Falls, SD

Average snowfall days - Sioux Falls, SD

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (11.8 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July, August and September (0 days).

Average daylight / Average sunshine
Sioux Falls, SD

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Sioux Falls, SD

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).

The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 10h and 42min).
The month with the least sunshine is January (Average sunshine: 4h and 0min).

Average sunshine days
Sioux Falls, SD

Average sunshine days - Sioux Falls, SD

The month with the most sunshine days is November (20.6 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is June (10 days).

Average UV index
Sioux Falls, SD

Average UV index - Sioux Falls, SD

The months with the highest UV index are June and July (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, November and December (UV index 2).

Average visibility
Sioux Falls, SD

Average visibility - Sioux Falls, 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).

Sioux Falls, South Dakota, USA

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