Last updated: February 24, 2025
In February, Rapid City, United States, experiences a pronounced winter chill with an average temperature of -6°C (22°F), where it can dip as low as -29°C (-19°F) at times. Despite the frigid conditions, daily maximums can reach a surprisingly mild 21°C (69°F). The month also sees 27 mm (1.1 in) of precipitation spread across 7 days, contributing to the area's 78% humidity. This blend of temperatures and moisture creates a unique winter atmosphere, making it a noteworthy month for both residents and visitors alike.
In February, Rapid City experiences a sharp chill with temperatures dipping as low as -29°C (-19°F), marking one of the coldest months of the year. Despite the severe lows, a notable increase in warmth is apparent as the month progresses, with average temperatures rising to -6°C (22°F) and maximums reaching up to 21°C (69°F). This shift marks a transition as the city moves away from the biting cold of January, hinting at the early arrival of spring. As we look toward March, temperatures begin to climb further, demonstrating a gradual thaw and the onset of milder weather. This pattern underscores February's role as a pivotal month in the seasonal landscape of Rapid City, characterized by both extreme cold and emerging warmth.
In February, Rapid City experiences a noticeable increase in precipitation, with an average of 27 mm (1.1 in), up from 14 mm (0.5 in) in January. This month also sees a shift toward wetter conditions, marked by precipitation occurring on 7 days, which is more frequent than the 4 days recorded in January. As the winter chill begins to recede, the uptick in rainfall sets the stage for a gradual transition into the spring months. Following February, precipitation continues to rise sharply in March—jumping to 44 mm (1.7 in)—highlighting the emerging patterns of a wetter climate that typically characterizes the approaching spring. This steady increase in both the amount and frequency of rainfall points to a significant shift from the dry winter months, illustrating how February acts as a bridge toward the more saturated spring season ahead.
In February, Rapid City experiences a notable increase in humidity, rising to 78%, compared to 73% in January. This upward trend marks the beginning of a gradual shift towards higher humidity levels as the year progresses. Following February, the city sees humidity peak in the summer months, with June, July, and August all reaching 84% and above. Interestingly, after the peak of summer, humidity begins to decline again, highlighting a seasonal rhythm where the warmer months bring a palpable increase in moisture. This cyclical pattern underscores Rapid City's climate dynamics, making February a pivotal transition point in the journey from winter's crispness to the lush warmth of summer.
In February, Rapid City experiences a moderate UV Index of 5, reflecting a slight increase from January's 3. With a consistent burn time of 30 minutes, residents should remain vigilant about sun protection during outdoor activities, especially as spring approaches. As the winter months draw to a close, the UV Index will continue to rise, signaling a gradual shift towards higher levels of solar radiation in the coming months. This trend is evident as we move into March and beyond, where the UV Index climbs to 6 and 9 in April and May, emphasizing the need for greater sun safety as warmer days lead to increased outdoor exposure. For more detailed information on UV levels throughout the year, visit Rapid City UV Index.
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February in Rapid City ushers in an uplifting increase in sunshine as the days grow longer and brighter. With 213 hours of sunlight, February marks a noticeable shift from January's 169 hours, hinting at the promise of spring just around the corner. This trend of growing daylight continues into March, where the city basks in 260 hours of sunshine. As winter recedes, the increasing brightness not only enliven spirits but also signal a transition toward the full bloom of summer, which reaches its peak with the sun-soaked months of June and July, boasting over 370 hours each. Thus, February serves as an essential bridge, illuminating the path to warmer days and vibrant landscapes ahead.
In Rapid City, February sees a 46% chance of sunny weather, slightly lower than January's 52% but part of a broader trend of fluctuating sunshine in the winter months. As the year progresses, the likelihood of sunshine begins to rise, reaching 56% by March and peaking in the summer, where sun-soaked days dominate with chances above 60%. This seasonal pattern reflects a gradual transition from the chilly, cloudier days of winter to the bright and warmer days of summer, offering residents and visitors alike a glimpse of the sunnier weather to come. Despite February’s relatively modest sunshine outlook, it serves as a precursor to the vibrant months ahead.
In February, Rapid City experiences a delightful increase in daylight duration, averaging 10 hours per day, a notable jump from January's 9 hours. This gradual lengthening of daylight marks the beginning of a transition toward the longer days of spring, as daylight continues to expand heading into March, where it reaches 11 hours. The trend showcases a steady progression, with daylight peaking in the summer months of June and July at 15 hours, before gradually shortening as the year wanes. This rhythm of increasing and decreasing daylight not only enhances the beauty of Rapid City's changing seasons but also signals the arrival of warmer, more vibrant days ahead.
In February, Rapid City experiences a mild breeze, with an average wind speed of 3.2 m/s (7 mph), marking a slight decrease from the previous month. This transitional month often brings a calmness compared to the brisk winds of January, yet it foreshadows the upcoming seasonal changes. As the year progresses into March, the winds pick up again to 3.7 m/s (8 mph), highlighting a gentle but noticeable shift towards spring. Overall, the wind patterns throughout the winter and into early spring show a tendency for slightly quieter conditions in February, setting the stage for a gradual return to the more dynamic breezes of the months that follow.
The weather in Rapid City changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of February's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Rapid City and find detailed weather information for every month.
In February, temperatures in Rapid City range from a minimum of -29°C (-19°F) to a pleasant maximum of 21°C (69°F), with an average temperature of -6°C (22°F). In comparison, January experiences slightly milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from -26°C (-14°F) to a maximum of 16°C (61°F) and an average of -3°C (27°F). February sees more precipitation, totaling 27 mm (1.1 in) over 7 days compared to January's 14 mm (0.5 in) over just 4 days. Additionally, February's humidity is higher at 78%, making it feel colder than January's 73%. For more details on January weather, check out Rapid City weather in January.
February and March exhibit notable differences in weather patterns, with March showing a slight improvement in temperature. The average temperature in February is -6°C (22°F), whereas March warms up to an average of 2°C (36°F). Both months experience cold minimum temperatures, with February dipping to -29°C (-19°F) and March at -26°C (-14°F). Precipitation increases in March to 44 mm (1.7 in), compared to 27 mm (1.1 in) in February, with March also having one more day of precipitation (8 days). Additionally, humidity decreases from 78% in February to 64% in March, indicating a drier atmosphere as the seasons transition. For more details, you can check this link: Rapid City weather in March.
February and April present contrasting weather patterns. In February, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -29°C (-19°F), with an average of -6°C (22°F) and a maximum reaching only 21°C (69°F). This month also experiences a higher humidity level at 78%, with precipitation occurring on 7 days totaling 27 mm (1.1 in). In contrast, April's temperatures rise considerably, with minimums around -16°C (3°F) and averages of 5°C (41°F), peaking at 25°C (77°F). However, April sees increased precipitation, totaling 73 mm (2.9 in) across 11 days, and a decrease in humidity to 66%. For more details, check out Rapid City weather in April.
In comparison to February, when temperatures can plummet to a chilling -29°C (-19°F) with an average around -6°C (22°F), May brings a significant shift in climate. While February experiences relatively low precipitation of 27 mm (1.1 in) over 7 days, May sees a dramatic increase with 112 mm (4.4 in) and rain on 17 days. The average temperature in May rises to a more comfortable 11°C (53°F), peaking at about 30°C (86°F), significantly warmer than February's maximum of 21°C (69°F). Additionally, humidity levels are slightly lower in May at 74%, compared to February's 78%. For a more detailed look at May weather in Rapid City, you can check this link: Rapid City weather in May.
February and June present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In February, temperatures can plummet to a chilling minimum of -29°C (-19°F), with an average around -6°C (22°F) and occasional highs reaching 21°C (69°F). The month sees about 27 mm (1.1 in) of precipitation over roughly 7 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 78%. In comparison, June experiences a warmer climate with minimum temperatures around 4°C (40°F) and an average that rises to 19°C (67°F), peaking at a sweltering 36°C (97°F). The precipitation nearly triples to 72 mm (2.8 in) over about 13 days, and humidity increases slightly to 84%. For more specifics on the climate, check out Rapid City weather in June.
February and July present striking contrasts in weather patterns. In February, temperatures dip dramatically with a minimum of -29°C (-19°F) and an average of -6°C (22°F), while July shines with a much warmer minimum of 9°C (49°F) and an average of 22°C (72°F). Precipitation also varies significantly, as February sees 27 mm (1.1 in) over approximately 7 days, compared to July's 96 mm (3.8 in) spread over 16 days. Humidity levels remain high in both months, peaking at 78% in February and slightly rising to 85% in July. For a deeper look at the weather specifics, check out Rapid City weather in July.
February and August present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In February, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -29°C (-19°F), with an average of -6°C (22°F) and occasional peaks reaching 21°C (69°F). The month experiences precipitation on about 7 days, totaling 27 mm (1.1 in), and humidity levels hover around 78%. In sharp contrast, August showcases significantly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (44°F), an average of 20°C (69°F), and maximums soaring up to 37°C (98°F). This month is also wetter, receiving 57 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over approximately 12 days, alongside increased humidity at 85%. For a more detailed overview, check out Rapid City weather in August.
February and September present striking contrasts in weather patterns. In February, temperatures can plunge as low as -29°C (-19°F), with an average of -6°C (22°F) and occasional peaks up to 21°C (69°F). Meanwhile, September offers a more temperate climate, with minimums around -4°C (26°F) and averages reaching a comfortable 16°C (62°F), and maximums soaring to 37°C (100°F). While February experiences lower humidity levels at 78% and less precipitation (27 mm or 1.1 in over 7 days), September receives a bit more rainfall at 43 mm (1.7 in) but maintains a similar humidity level of 76%. For more detailed insights, check out Rapid City weather in September.
February and October present stark contrasts in weather conditions. While February features a chilling range of temperatures with a minimum of -29°C (-19°F) and an average of -6°C (22°F), October boasts a milder range, starting from a minimum of -18°C (-1°F) and averaging 7°C (45°F). Precipitation levels also differ, with October experiencing 52 mm (2.0 in) of rain over 8 days compared to February's 27 mm (1.1 in) across 7 days. Additionally, October's humidity at 71% is slightly lower than February's 78%, making the cooler autumn days feel comparatively more comfortable. For more details, visit Rapid City weather in October.
February and November present distinct atmospheric characteristics, with February typically being much colder. In February, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -29°C (-19°F), with an average around -6°C (22°F) and a maximum of 21°C (69°F). This month sees higher humidity levels at 78% and more precipitation, accumulating around 27 mm (1.1 in) over approximately seven days. In contrast, November averages a milder 3°C (37°F), with minimum temperatures of -19°C (-2°F) and maximums reaching up to 24°C (75°F). The precipitation is lower at 17 mm (0.7 in), occurring over just five days, and the humidity is slightly less at 73%. For a detailed look at the weather during November, you can refer to Rapid City weather in November.
February and December in Rapid City showcase noticeable differences in weather patterns. February experiences slightly colder temperatures, with a minimum of -29°C (-19°F) and an average of -6°C (22°F), compared to December's minimum of -23°C (-10°F) and an average of -1°C (30°F). Both months see similar maximum temperatures, peaking at around 21°C (69°F) in February and 21°C (70°F) in December. Precipitation is also comparable, with February receiving 27 mm (1.1 in) over 7 days and December bringing in 28 mm (1.1 in) over 6 days. Humidity levels are typically higher in February at 78%, compared to December's 75%. For more detailed insights, check out Rapid City weather in December.
February in Rapid City presents a unique weather profile compared to other months, characterized by a striking blend of cold extremes and sporadic precipitation. As winter gradually gives way to hints of spring, temperatures can swing dramatically, from chilly lows to relatively mild highs. With an average temperature hovering around a brisk -6°C, February stands out as one of the coldest months, while the moderate humidity and limited precipitation days contribute to a crisp atmosphere, offering a different experience than the wetter, warmer months ahead. For a deeper dive into what to expect year-round, check out Rapid City Climate.