Lead (SD) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Lead.
Climate overview of Lead
Lead, South Dakota, United States of America, sees big temperature differences between seasons, with July peaking at 27°C (81°F) and December dropping to 2°C (36°F).
Lead sees a moderate amount of rain/snowfall, totalling around 833 mm (33 in) per year. It experiences warm summers and very cold winters, creating some seasonal variation.
Lead Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Lead - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Lead
Visitors to Lead can expect significant temperature changes throughout the year. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 27°C (81°F) in July, the warmest time of the year, to a very cold 2°C (36°F) during cooler months like December.
At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 13°C (55°F) in July to around -10°C (14°F) during December.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Lead
Generally, Lead experiences moderate precipitation patterns, averaging 833 mm (33 in) yearly. Significant seasonal changes in precipitation occur throughout the year. In the wettest month, May it receives high rainfall, averaging 137 mm (5.4 in) of precipitation, recorded across 17 rainy days. In contrast, the driest month November brings less snow/rainfall, with 39 mm (1.5 in) over 9 snowy/rainy days. For more details, please visit our Lead Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Best Time to Visit Lead
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: July, August and September
- Warmest weather: July and August
- Fewest rainy days: September and November
- Wettest months: April, May and June, when rainfall is highest.
- Seasonal pattern: Warm summers and very cold winters
- Coldest conditions: December, with freezing nights around -10°C (14°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Lead
What is the best time to visit Lead?
July, August and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Lead. In contrast, January, February, March, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Lead has warm summers and very cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Lead?
Daytime highs range from 2°C (36°F) in December to 27°C (81°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -10°C (14°F) to 13°C (55°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Lead get?
Annual rainfall is around 833 mm (33 in). May is the wettest month with 137 mm (5.4 in), while November is the driest with 39 mm (1.5 in).
Lead 3-Day Forecast
Lead on the map
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