Mount Rushmore Climate: Humid Continental with Cold Winters and Warm Summers

Mount Rushmore National Memorial, in the Black Hills of South Dakota, experiences a humid continental climate:

• Annual average temperature: 49°F (9.4°C)
• Warmest month (July): Average 68°F (20°C)
• Coldest month (January): Average 18°F (−8°C)
• Annual precipitation: 15 inches (38 cm), wettest in May (2.7 in), driest in December (0.35 in)

The Black Hills create a rain shadow (less precipitation east of the range) and buffer cold northern air, moderating winter temperatures. The jet stream brings rapid weather changes, including sudden storms.