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Content by Laura Edwards

Color-coded map of the United States indicating the June through August 2023 precipitation outlook. For a detailed description of this graphic and data set, please call SDSU Extension at 605-688-6729.

June and Summer 2023 Climate Outlook

After an unusually cold spring, the growing season is now in full swing. Laura Edwards, SDSU Extension State Climatologist, shares what to expect for temperatures and precipitation as we approach Summer 2023.

Derecho storm approaching the SDSU campus in Brookings.

Remembering the May 12, 2022 Derecho

Roughly one year later, the catastrophic damage of the May 2022 derecho will not soon be forgotten. Take a look back at the storm's impact and gain some perspective on the environmental conditions that led up to it.

SDSU Extension Climate Outlook: Cool temperatures likely to continue in May

April 21, 2023

Temperatures are likely to remain cooler than average in May for northern South Dakota, according to a recent report from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center.

Color-coded temperature outlook map of the United States for February through April 2023. For an in-depth description of this graphic, please call SDSU Extension at 605-688-6729.

La Niña’s Third Year Concludes With Cold Temperatures

A rare, third consecutive year with La Niña conditions is coming to an end, but not without bringing cold temperatures in early February. See what to expect for the rest of winter and early spring with an analysis of the NOAA's latest climate outlook.

Color-coded map of South Dakota indicating the fiftieth percentile, for first fall occurrence of 32 degrees Fahrenheit. For assistance reading this graphic and data set, please call SDSU Extension at 605-688-4792.

First Fall Frost Dates

The first fall frost often marks the end of the growing season, and many garden plants may not survive the freezing temperatures. Learn about some available tools we can use to predict the first fall frost dates around the state.

Color-coded map of the United States showing October 2022 temperature outlook. Temperatures in South Dakota are leaning above average. For assistance reading this graphic and data set, please call SDSU Extension at 605-688-4792.

2022 Fall and Early Winter Climate Outlook

The warmth of September is likely to continue into October with odds leaning towards drier than average conditions according to the latest climate outlook released on September 15, 2022.

Map: Temperature outlook for September 2022

2022 Fall Climate Outlook

Summertime is coming to an end soon, and September is right around the corner. The questions we hear this time of year are often about fall harvest weather for corn and soybeans, planting for winter wheat and our first fall frost.

Drought-stressed corn field.

Drought and Heat Effects on Corn Production

Nearly every season in South Dakota there are periods of hot, dry weather in at least parts of the state. While we have no control over the weather, producers can prepare for drought stress by using proactive practices.

United States Map showing precipitation outlook for June through August 2022. For assistance reading this graphic and data set, please call SDSU Extension at 605-688-4792.

2022 Summer Climate and Drought Outlook

On May 19, the NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center released their temperature and precipitation outlooks for June and the summer season ahead. See a full report of what to expect for the summer of 2022.

Color-coded map showing the spring 2022 first-leaf return interval. For assistance reading this graphic and data set, please call SDSU Extension at 605-688-4792.

Late Spring Bloom in 2022

In South Dakota, with temperatures cooler than average in 2022, the arrival of spring has been later than usual. Indicators like the first leaf or bloom of some common plants can be used to define the arrival of spring.