Wisconsin’s climate is typically continental with some modification by Lakes Michigan and Superior. The cold, snowy winters favor a variety of winter sports, and the warm summers appeal to thousands of vacationers each year. About two-thirds of the annual precipitation falls during the growing season (freeze-free period). It is normally adequate for vegetation, although drought is occasionally reported. This climate is most favorable for dairy farming; the primary crops are corn, small grains, hay, and vegetables. The rapid succession of storms moving from west to east or southwest to northeast account for the stimulating climate.
Statewide Climate Data
Climate Normals by Location
View temperature, precipitation, and snowfall data for individual locations averaged over the 30-year period from 1991 to 2020.
Climate Normals by Division
View temperature, precipitation, and snowfall data for nine regions averaged over the 30-year period from 1991 to 2020.
Statewide Climate Normals
View statewide temperature, precipitation, and snowfall data averaged over the 30-year period from 1991 to 2020.
Statewide Extremes
View all-time records for highest and lowest temperatures, 24-hour precipitation and snowfall, and snow depth.
Long-Term Annual Variability
View averages and departures from average for different aspects of climate dating back to 1895.
Daily Climate Data by Location
View daily temperature, precipitation, snow, and heating/cooling degree day data from National Weather Service reporting stations across Wisconsin.
Divisional Modified Growing Degree Day Units
View regional modified growing degree day units for each year starting in 1895, and download spreadsheets with monthly, seasonal, and multi-year statistics.