Climate and monthly weather forecastLead, SD
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of Lead
Located in South Dakota, USA, Lead possesses a climate that falls within the Dfb category of the Köppen climate classification. This Humid continental, no dry season, warm summer classification dominates the area. The discerning characteristic of this climate is the marked variations in temperature, as well as a general presence of humidity, that are experienced throughout the 12-month cycle.Analysis of data points reveals fluctuations in air pressure; moving from lows of 29.84in in June to peaks of 30.14in in January. Visibility, a tenet of Lead's climate, remains constant at an average of 6 miles throughout the year. More fluctuations are evident in temperatures, with January and February representing the coldest months with high temperatures at a mere 30.6°F (-0.8°C) and 30.4°F (-0.9°C) respectively, accompanied by low temperatures dropping to 17.1°F (-8.3°C) and 15.4°F (-9.2°C). The warmest period stretches from June to August, with average high temperatures rising to 81.9°F (27.7°C) in July and tapering off to 80.1°F (26.7°C) in August.
In terms of precipitation, rainfall displays an escalating trend from January's 0.55in to May's peak of 1.93in, before gradually descending to 0.67in by December. Similarities can be observed in rainfall day patterns, increasing from January's 3.7 days to a high of 14.2 days in June, followed by a steady drop to 4.2 days by December. Snowfall also shows a noticeable yearly pattern, with January experiencing 2.87in, reaching a peak of 6.54in in April, and tapering off to 0in between June and August before another rise from 0.04in in September to 3.78in by December.
The best time to visit Lead
Given the climactic patterns and comfort considerations, the best time to visit Lead would be between June to August. During this time, the town experiences its warmest temperatures, reaching highs of 81.9°F (27.7°C) in July and lows of 58.5°F (14.7°C). Notably, this period also sees significant daylight hours, peaking at 15.5 hours in June to provide adequate time for sightseeing and other outdoor activities.The worst time to visit Lead
Shell-shocked visitors might want to avoid the cold snap that grips Lead between January and February. In these months, temperatures reach their nadir, hitting a high of 30.6°F (-0.8°C) and a low of an icy 15.4°F (-9.2°C) in February. Additionally, January registers hefty snowfall levels at 2.87in. Furthermore, short daylight hours during these months, curving as low as 9.3 hours in January, limit the hours available for exploration.Spring weather in Lead
Spring season in Lead, stretching from March to May, witnesses a slow but steady increase in temperature. During these months, average high temperatures range from 42.4°F (5.8°C) to 60.4°F (15.8°C) while low temperatures oscillate from 26.6°F (-3°C) to 42.4°F (5.8°C). Increased rainfall from 1.06in to 1.93in and longer days, varying from 12 hours in March to 14.8 hours in May, mark the spring season. A moderate average UV index of 3 in April underscores the need for sun protection.Summer weather in Lead
Summer in Lead, spanning from June to August, herald in the warmest temperatures. Highs scale the upper 70s to low 80s°F, while the lows meander in the lower to middle 50s°F. Rainfall levels taper off slightly from 1.77in to 1.5in across these months. Despite this variation, Lead enjoys its longest daylight hours, reaching up to 15.5 hours in June, while the UV index warns visitors to adopt the necessary sun safety precautions, particularly in July with the UV index peaking at 6.Autumn weather in Lead
From September to November, Autumn paints a chilly facade on Lead. Average high temperatures dip from 71.8°F (22.1°C) to a chilly 41.9°F (5.5°C) while average lows plunge from 51.3°F (10.7°C) to 27°F (-2.8°C). Rainfall levels remain on the lower side, fluctuating between 0.67in to 1.22in across these months. Sunlight starts declining during Autumn, moving from 12.5 hours in September to 9.6 hours in November.Winter weather in Lead
Winter in Lead commences in December, continuing through February. The season sees temperatures plummet, with high temperatures descending from 29.7°F (-1.3°C) to 30.6°F (-0.8°C) and low temperatures settling between 16.7°F (-8.5°C) to 17.1°F (-8.3°C). Alongside the chill, snowfall creates a Winter Wonderland with averages spanning from 2.87in to 4.49in. Shorter daylight hours characterize the winter months, ranging from 8.9 hours in December to 9.3 hours in January.Weather in January
In Lead, South Dakota, January typically brings a serene, cold landscape. In comparison, December sees slightly warmer conditions, while February carries on the chilly feel of January in full stride. January has the lowest average temperature of the entire year, dropping to 17.1°F (-8.3°C) at its coldest, making it a distinctive month. Weather in January »Weather in February
As the calendar moves to February, the winter chill in Lead continues its reign. Still colder than the approaching March, but with a slight increase in temperature compared to January. The city experiences a peak in snowfall during this month, depositing an average of 4.49" (114mm), which blankets the landscape. Weather in February »Weather in March
The arrival of March in Lead signifies the onset of subtle changes in weather. The freezing temperatures of February start to give way as the city transitions slowly into spring. This month also records a reasonably high level of precipitation, receiving 1.06" (27mm) of rainfall on average. Weather in March »Weather in April
April's weather showcases noticeable signs of spring breaking through winter's icy grip in Lead. A contrast is evident when compared to the cooler March and the warming trend continues into May. Despite being a transitional month, the weather characteristics during April lean more toward spring, with the rain beating the snowfall. Weather in April »Weather in May
Come May, warmer weather begins to take hold in the city of Lead. Although the mercury doesn't reach July's peak levels, the climb from April's temperatures is noticeable. Accompanied by an abundance of rainfall, reaching about 1.93" (49mm), one of the highest numbers across the year, underlines a transition from spring into early summer. Weather in May »Weather in June
June in Lead carries the flavor of an early-summer month. The weather in May starts giving way to a more summer-like pattern, hinting at the hotter days of July that are just around the corner. The sun becomes a more frequent visitor, providing ample daylight to enjoy various outdoor activities. Weather in June »Weather in July
The heart of summer beats vivaciously in Lead, South Dakota during July. While June sets the stage for summer's commencement, August continues the sunny narrative initiated in July. The month records the highest average temperature from 81.9°F (27.7°C) making it the hottest period of the year. Weather in July »Weather in August
In August, Lead is engulfed by summer's warm embrace. While temperatures drop a notch from July's peak, the weather remains warmer than the subsequent month of September. The month sees a decrease in rainfall, with a drop of 0.19" (5mm) from the previous month, marking a period of relative dryness. Weather in August »Weather in September
September marks the transition from summer to fall in this scenic town of Lead. This month is cooler when stacked against August, beginning the trend towards the chill of October. A remarkable shift in rainfall is witnessed as the average precipitation drops to 0.67" (17mm). Weather in September »Weather in October
October is the harbinger of autumn in Lead with the weather changing its course from September and pointing towards the colder November. The Fall foliage creates a colorful montage, painting the town in shades of orange, red, and yellow. Weather in October »Weather in November
As November commences, Lead, South Dakota, prepares to welcome winter. The weather takes a noticeable turn from the cooling October, towards the freezing December. The light precipitation of 0.63" (16mm) signifies impending shifts in the climatic pattern. Weather in November »Weather in December
December brings with it the recollection of a full-blown winter in the city of Lead. The weather turns colder compared to November, while January takes the reins of winter from December. The month records an average snowfall of 3.78" (96mm) ushering in the holiday spirit. Weather in December »Updated: Feb 14, 2024
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
The months with the highest humidity in Lead are January and February, with an average relative humidity of 79%.
The month with the least rainfall is January, when the rain falls for 3.7 days and typically collects 0.55" (14mm) of precipitation.
In Lead, during the entire year, the rain falls for 96.1 days and collects up to 14.02" (356mm) of precipitation.
Months with snowfall are January through June, September through December.
In Lead, during the entire year, snow falls for 66.6 days and aggregates up to 34.53" (877mm) of snow.
January through March, October through December, with an average maximum UV index of 2, are months with the lowest UV index in Lead, South Dakota.
February has the least sunshine of the year in Lead, with an average of 5.9h of sunshine.
On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts, and the time zone changes from MST to MDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from MDT to MST.
The month with the most snowfall in Lead is April, when snow falls for 7.8 days and typically aggregates up to 6.54" (166mm) of snow.
May is the month with the most rainfall in Lead, South Dakota. Rain falls for 13.5 days and accumulates 1.93" (49mm) of precipitation.
The month with the longest days is June, with an average of 15h and 30min of daylight.
Lead's July weather reaches an average high of 81.9°F (27.7°C) and an average low of 60.4°F (15.8°C), making it the warmest month.
In Lead, South Dakota, snow does not fall in July and August.
The month with the highest UV index in Lead, South Dakota, is July, with an average maximum UV index of 6.
The months with the lowest humidity are August and September, with an average relative humidity of 51%.
August has the most sunshine of the year in Lead, with an average of 11.7h of sunshine.
Lead, South Dakota, reaches its average lowest temperatures in December, measuring 29.7°F (-1.3°C) at the peak and 16.7°F (-8.5°C) at the lowest.
The month with the shortest days in Lead is December, with an average of 8h and 54min of daylight.
Average temperature
Lead, SD
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (81.9°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is December (29.7°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (60.4°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is February (15.4°F).
Average pressure
Lead, SD
- Average pressure in January:
30.14"Hg - Average pressure in February:
30.12"Hg - Average pressure in March:
30.01"Hg - Average pressure in April:
29.92"Hg - Average pressure in May:
29.91"Hg - Average pressure in June:
29.84"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
29.89"Hg - Average pressure in August:
29.89"Hg - Average pressure in September:
29.93"Hg - Average pressure in October:
29.98"Hg - Average pressure in November:
30.05"Hg - Average pressure in December:
30.13"Hg
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (30.14"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.84"Hg).
Average wind speed
Lead, SD
- Average wind speed in January:
9.8mph - Average wind speed in February:
9.1mph - Average wind speed in March:
9.1mph - Average wind speed in April:
9.6mph - Average wind speed in May:
9.1mph - Average wind speed in June:
8.7mph
- Average wind speed in July:
7.8mph - Average wind speed in August:
7.6mph - Average wind speed in September:
8.5mph - Average wind speed in October:
9.9mph - Average wind speed in November:
9.4mph - Average wind speed in December:
9.5mph
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is October (9.9mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (7.6mph).
Average humidity
Lead, SD
The months with the highest relative humidity are January and February (79%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are August and September (51%).
Average rainfall
Lead, SD
- Average rainfall in January:
0.55" - Average rainfall in February:
0.71" - Average rainfall in March:
1.06" - Average rainfall in April:
1.61" - Average rainfall in May:
1.93" - Average rainfall in June:
1.77"
- Average rainfall in July:
1.69" - Average rainfall in August:
1.5" - Average rainfall in September:
0.67" - Average rainfall in October:
1.22" - Average rainfall in November:
0.63" - Average rainfall in December:
0.67"
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is May (1.93").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is January (0.55").
Average rainfall days
Lead, SD
- Average rainfall days in January:
3.7 days - Average rainfall days in February:
3.8 days - Average rainfall days in March:
7.4 days - Average rainfall days in April:
10.1 days - Average rainfall days in May:
13.5 days - Average rainfall days in June:
14.2 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
11 days - Average rainfall days in August:
12.2 days - Average rainfall days in September:
6.8 days - Average rainfall days in October:
6.5 days - Average rainfall days in November:
2.7 days - Average rainfall days in December:
4.2 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is June (14.2 days).
The month with the least rainy days is November (2.7 days).
Average snowfall
Lead, SD
- Average snowfall in January:
2.87" - Average snowfall in February:
4.49" - Average snowfall in March:
5" - Average snowfall in April:
6.54" - Average snowfall in May:
4.69" - Average snowfall in June:
0.12"
The month with the highest snowfall is April (6.54").
The months with the least snowfall are July and August (0").
Average snowfall days
Lead, SD
- Average snowfall days in January:
11.7 days - Average snowfall days in February:
11.1 days - Average snowfall days in March:
10 days - Average snowfall days in April:
7.8 days - Average snowfall days in May:
3.6 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0.2 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0.3 days - Average snowfall days in October:
4.7 days - Average snowfall days in November:
7.1 days - Average snowfall days in December:
10.1 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (11.7 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are July and August (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Lead, SD
- Average daylight in January:
9h and 18min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 30min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 30min - Average daylight in May:
14h and 48min - Average daylight in June:
15h and 30min
- Average daylight in July:
15h and 6min - Average daylight in August:
14h and 0min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 30min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 0min - Average daylight in November:
9h and 36min - Average daylight in December:
8h and 54min
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:
6h and 0min - Average sunshine in February:
5h and 54min - Average sunshine in March:
7h and 36min - Average sunshine in April:
9h and 18min - Average sunshine in May:
10h and 6min - Average sunshine in June:
11h and 18min
- Average sunshine in July:
11h and 36min - Average sunshine in August:
11h and 42min - Average sunshine in September:
10h and 30min - Average sunshine in October:
7h and 0min - Average sunshine in November:
6h and 30min - Average sunshine in December:
6h and 0min
The month with the most sunshine is August (Average sunshine: 11h and 42min).
The month with the least sunshine is February (Average sunshine: 5h and 54min).
Average sunshine days
Lead, SD
- Average sunshine days in January:
17.8 days - Average sunshine days in February:
15.7 days - Average sunshine days in March:
16.1 days - Average sunshine days in April:
13.2 days - Average sunshine days in May:
12.8 days - Average sunshine days in June:
12.3 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
14.5 days - Average sunshine days in August:
13.2 days - Average sunshine days in September:
19.6 days - Average sunshine days in October:
18.4 days - Average sunshine days in November:
20.5 days - Average sunshine days in December:
19.5 days
The month with the most sunshine days is November (20.5 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is June (12.3 days).
Average UV index
Lead, SD
The month with the highest UV index is July (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, March, October, November and December (UV index 2).
Average cloud cover
Lead, SD
The months with the most cloud cover are February and April (Cloud cover 40).
The month with the least cloud cover is August (Cloud cover 16).
Average visibility
Lead, 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).
