The climate of Yankton
Geographically positioned in the United States,
Yankton,
South Dakota, falls under the Dfa (Humid continental, no dry season, hot summer) zone of the Köppen climate classification. This climate classification is primarily characterized by significant temperature changes throughout the year and no distinct dry period.
The city experiences varying weather parameters throughout the year. Average temperatures fluctuate widely, with values ranging from a minimum of 12.9°F (-10.6°C) in
January to a maximum of 84.9°F (29.4°C) in
July. Humidity levels see a slightly downward trend as the year progresses, dropping from a high of 85% in January to a low of 64% in
October.
Remarkably, rainfall in Yankton reaches its peak in
May with an average of 3.78" (96mm), while the city observes minimal precipitation in
February with an average rainfall of just 0.59" (15mm). During winter, the city sees significant snowfall with peak values observed in January, recording an average of 2.6" (66mm). Meanwhile, from
June to
September, no snowfall is recorded.
The best time to visit Yankton
Considered comfortable for outdoor activities, the months from
June to
September have more sunshine hours compared to other periods of the year and little to no snowfall.
May is relatively the wettest month, receiving 3.78" (96mm) of rain, while September observes less rainfall with an average of 1.81" (46mm). Amid these months, the city witnesses average temperatures that range from a moderate 69.1°F (20.6°C) to a warm 84.9°F (29.4°C), offering a pleasant time for visitors.
The worst time to visit Yankton
Yankton, in the months from
January to
February and
November to
December, may not be the best for travel enthusiasts due to harsh temperatures and significant snowfall. January experiences extreme cold, with temperature values plunging to average lows of 12.9°F (-10.6°C) and snowfall peaking at an average of 2.6" (66mm). Meanwhile, December observes snowfalls averaging 2.95" (75mm) coupled with typically low temperatures averaging 18°F (-7.8°C).
Spring weather in Yankton
The onset of spring marks a transitional phase in
Yankton's weather.
March brings an end to winter's chill with an average high and low temperature measuring 46.9°F (8.3°C) and 30.2°F (-1°C), respectively. As the city moves into
April and
May, temperatures continue rising, with average highs reaching 57.9°F (14.4°C) and 69.1°F (20.6°C), respectively. Correspondingly, spring in Yankton is characterized by increasing rainfall levels, reaching up to 3.78" (96mm) in May.
Summer weather in Yankton
Summer in
Yankton encompasses the period from
June to
August. These months are marked by the highest temperatures reaching a peak of 84.9°F (29.4°C) in
July. Humidity remains comparatively consistent, with average values varying between 71% and 74%. Despite being the warmest season, Yankton still receives significant rainfall during summer, with rainfall volume dropping to 2.24" (57mm) in both July and August. Furthermore, daylight hours reach their maximum level of approximately 15 hours in June.
Autumn weather in Yankton
Average high temperatures in the autumn months of
September to
November show a declining trend with corresponding figures dropping from 76.1°F (24.5°C) to 45.9°F (7.7°C). Equally, average low temperatures follow a similar pattern, receding from 55°F (12.8°C) in September to 30.7°F (-0.7°C) in November. Notably, rainfall records a slight downfall during these months with an average volume of 1.73" (44mm) observed in
October.
Winter weather in Yankton
The winter months of
December to
February in
Yankton are notable for low temperatures and snow. During these months, average temperatures remain below freezing, with
January registering as the coldest month of the year, displaying average high and low temperatures of 26.8°F (-2.9°C) and 12.9°F (-10.6°C), respectively. Additionally, January also observes the heaviest snowfall with an average measurement of 2.6" (66mm). Furthermore, winter features the fewest daylight hours, reaching a low of approximately 9.1 hours in December.
Weather in January
January marks the beginning of the year in
Yankton,
South Dakota, ushering in colder temperatures and snow-covered landscapes. The weather turns relatively colder from
December, with temperatures delving into a minimum of 12.9°F (-10.6°C), making it the coldest month of the year.
Weather in January » Weather in February
Although
February still experiences winter weather conditions, including cold temperatures and minimal daylight, the climate begins a slow transition towards spring. There is a slight rise in temperature, reaching up to a maximum of 30.6°F (-0.8°C) from the
January's chill.
Weather in February »Weather in March
By
March, the heavy blankets of snow begin to thaw, giving way to warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours. Plaints and trees start to bloom again, showing signs of spring's arrival. Noteworthy is the jump in temperature to a maximum of 46.9°F (8.3°C) from the
February freeze.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April experiences a visible change in weather, with winter finally signing off and spring taking over. The city witnesses a significant escalation in temperature, which may rise up to 57.9°F (14.4°C), offering a more enjoyable weather.
Weather in April » Weather in May
With
May comes the chirping of birds, blooming flowers and a warming temperature, marking the onset of summer. There is a noticeable weather shift from
April, with temperatures soaring to a peak of 69.1°F (20.6°C). As trees regain their greenery, the city's landscapes and parks offer an aesthetic delight for photography lovers.
Weather in May »Weather in June
June ushers in the official start of summer in
Yankton,
South Dakota. With a considerable hike in temperature reaching up to 79.7°F (26.5°C), June starts drawing sun-seekers into the city. Locals and tourists can be found sunbathing along the beaches of the Missouri River, or sailing and fishing in its waters.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is the hottest month in
Yankton,
South Dakota, with the mercury level reaching a top of 84.9°F (29.4°C). While the heat may be intense during the day, the evenings offer a wonderful retreat with cooler breezes and beautiful sunsets.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August brings to
Yankton,
South Dakota, the peak of summer with plenty of sun, but temperatures slightly reduce as compared to
July, reaching up to 83.3°F (28.5°C). Recognized as a perfect time to visit the city's outdoor attractions, August gives patrons a chance to experience the best of nature.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September in
Yankton,
South Dakota, is a month of change, where summer transitions into fall. The weather turns milder from the
August heat, and the leaves start turning hues of brown, yellow, and red. Temperature ranges from slightly cooler 76.1°F (24.5°C), prompting locals and tourists to engage in more outdoor activities.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
Weather in November
November in
Yankton,
South Dakota, heralds the arrival of winter, with below-freezing temperatures and chances of early snowfall. Temperatures drop significantly from
October, reaching a frosty 45.9°F (7.7°C). Although the month sees less rainfall, occasional snow showers can be expected, giving an early taste of the upcoming snowy season.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December, the final month of the year, brings back the full vigor of the winter season.
Yankton turns into a winter wonderland as temperatures drop to a chilling 29.8°F (-1.2°C). The city gets blanketed in snow, and the landscapes glisten under a cover of white.
Weather in December »