Last updated: February 24, 2025
November in Rapid City, South Dakota presents a striking contrast of temperatures, with a maximum of 24°C (75°F) and a chilling minimum plunging to -19°C (-2°F). The average temperature settles around a brisk 3°C (37°F), hinting at the seasonal transition. This month also sees approximately 17 mm (0.7 in) of precipitation, spread over 5 days, contributing to the 73% humidity that can make the air feel particularly crisp. As autumn gives way to winter, residents and visitors alike experience a blend of mild days and frosty nights, showcasing the region's unique weather dynamics.
As November settles in Rapid City, residents begin to feel the chill of winter setting its sights on the region. With average temperatures hovering around 3°C (37°F), late autumn brings a noticeable drop from the milder days of October. Nighttime lows can plunge to -19°C (-2°F), ensuring that warm layers become essential for evening outings. Interestingly, daytime highs still flirt with warmer temperatures, peaking at 24°C (75°F), offering a stark contrast to the frigid nights. This month marks a transitional phase where the landscape shifts dramatically, hinting at the deep freeze that lies ahead while still holding onto fleeting autumn warmth.
In Rapid City, November brings a notable shift in precipitation, with an average of 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain falling over approximately 5 days. This marks a decrease from the wetter months preceding it, especially the high-point of May with 112 mm (4.4 in). The trend towards drier conditions continues as winter approaches, with November's precipitation serving as a gentle precursor to the more robust snowfall often seen in December, which typically sees 28 mm (1.1 in) of moisture. As the days grow shorter and colder, the city transitions into a quieter, more subdued climate, offering a serene contrast to the vibrant rainfall that characterizes earlier autumn months.
In November, Rapid City experiences a humidity level of 73%, which aligns closely with the year's average as it cools down into the late fall. This month marks a transition, maintaining the higher humidity trends set during the summer months, especially June through August, where levels peak at 84% and 85%. As temperatures drop, humidity begins to stabilize, showing a slight decrease from October's 71% but remaining consistent with early winter levels. Overall, November's moisture in the air hints at a lingering warmth from the preceding months, creating a balanced atmosphere as the city prepares for the chill of December.
As November rolls into Rapid City, residents can enjoy a notable dip in UV exposure, with the UV Index dropping to a comfortable 3, classifying it as moderate. This decline follows the intense highs of summer and early autumn, where the Index peaked at 11 during the scorching months of June and July. The trend reveals a steady decrease in UV levels as the year progresses, granting a burn time of 30 minutes this month—double that of October's 5. This seasonal shift not only signals the onset of cooler temperatures but also a welcome reprieve from the intense sun. For those curious about the UV Index throughout the year, details can be found in the comprehensive Rapid City UV Index.
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In Rapid City, November ushers in a gentle decline in sunshine, with 224 hours of daylight illuminating the month—a modest drop from the peak summer months. The trend reflects the gradual transition from the vibrant summer days, where sunshine peaked at 382 hours in July, to the more subdued light of late autumn. Compared to October's 247 hours, November sees a continued decrease, yet still offers ample opportunity to enjoy the crisp fall air. As days shorten further into winter, the city invites residents and visitors alike to embrace the beauty of November's softer glow.
As we transition into November, Rapid City experiences a 52% chance of sunny weather, which aligns closely with the earlier winter months like January and December. This figure suggests that, while the days might be getting shorter and cooler, there's still a decent opportunity for sunshine to break through the clouds. Observing the annual trend, November’s sun chance mirrors the transitional months of spring and fall, where sunshine is more common than in the depths of winter. This indicates that while it may not be the sunniest month, November offers a pleasant balance of bright days amidst the encroaching chill, preserving a sense of autumn's lingering warmth.
As November arrives in Rapid City, the days begin to shorten, providing just 9 hours of daylight—a continuation of the decline that started in October. This trend reflects the gradual fading of sunlight that began in the summer, where residents enjoyed a generous 15 hours of daylight in June and July. As autumn progresses, daylight hours steadily decrease, dipping to 13 hours in August and further to 10 hours in October, before November's twilight settles in. This seasonal shift not only impacts daily activities but also heralds the approach of winter, with December bringing even shorter days at 8 hours. Despite the shorter daylight, November still offers the chance to embrace the crisp fall air, making it a time to savor the remaining brightness before the long winter nights set in.
As November settles in Rapid City, the average wind speed remains a steady 3.9 m/s (9 mph), mirroring the breeziness of the previous month. This consistency in wind patterns reflects a transition from the gentle gusts of summer and early autumn, which hovered around 3.2 to 4.0 m/s, to a more robust chill in the air. While the winds are not at their peak, they are significant enough to remind residents that winter is approaching. By comparing November's wind speed to the earlier months, it's clear that the city experiences a notable stability in its windy conditions as it heads into the colder months, providing a fitting backdrop for autumn's farewell.
The weather in Rapid City changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of November'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.
November and January exhibit distinct temperature profiles and precipitation patterns. In November, temperatures range from a minimum of -19°C (-2°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F), with an average temperature around 3°C (37°F). The month typically sees about 17 mm (0.7 in) of precipitation over five days, all while maintaining a humidity level of 73%. In contrast, January is much colder, with temperatures dipping lower, featuring a minimum of -26°C (-14°F) and a maximum of 16°C (61°F), leading to an average of -3°C (27°F). Precipitation in January drops slightly to 14 mm (0.5 in) over four days, but the humidity remains consistent at 73%. Overall, January brings harsher winter conditions compared to the milder, albeit variable, weather of November. For more detailed insights into January weather, visit Rapid City weather in January.
November weather in Rapid City typically features a milder average temperature of 3°C (37°F), with highs reaching up to 24°C (75°F). In contrast, February experiences much colder conditions, with an average temperature of -6°C (22°F) and minimum temperatures dropping to -29°C (-19°F). While both months see some precipitation, February has a slightly higher total at 27 mm (1.1 in) over 7 days compared to November's 17 mm (0.7 in) over 5 days. Additionally, February tends to have higher humidity levels at 78% versus November's 73%. For more detailed information, you can visit Rapid City weather in February.
When comparing the weather in November and March, November tends to be milder, with average temperatures hovering around 3°C (37°F) and a maximum of 24°C (75°F). In contrast, March registers slightly cooler average temperatures at 2°C (36°F) and experiences its lowest minimum at -26°C (-14°F). Precipitation is higher in March, with 44 mm (1.7 in) spread over 8 days compared to November's 17 mm (0.7 in) over just 5 days. Additionally, November has a higher humidity level at 73%, while March's humidity drops to 64%. For more detailed information on the weather conditions during March, you can check Rapid City weather in March.
November and April present contrasting yet similar weather patterns. In November, temperatures fluctuate from a chilly minimum of -19°C (−2°F) to a comfortable maximum of 24°C (75°F), with an average of around 3°C (37°F). While the month sees relatively low precipitation at 17 mm (0.7 in) over just five days, the humidity remains high at 73%. In comparison, April experiences slightly milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from -16°C (3°F) to a peak of 25°C (77°F), and an average temperature of 5°C (41°F). However, it significantly increases precipitation to 73 mm (2.9 in) spread over 11 days, along with lower humidity at 66%. For a more detailed look at April's weather, visit Rapid City weather in April.
When comparing the weather in November and May, there is a notable contrast in temperatures and precipitation patterns. November exhibits a wider temperature range, with lows that can plummet to -19°C (-2°F) and highs reaching up to 24°C (75°F), averaging around 3°C (37°F). Conversely, May typically experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (24°F), an average of 11°C (53°F), and maximums that can soar to 30°C (86°F). Precipitation is markedly higher in May, with 112 mm (4.4 in) recorded over 17 days, compared to November's 17 mm (0.7 in) over just 5 days. Humidity levels are quite similar, hovering around 73% in November and 74% in May. For more specific details, you can check Rapid City weather in May.
Comparing the weather in November and June reveals significant differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. November experiences a wider temperature range, with minimums dropping to -19°C (–2°F) and average highs around 24°C (75°F). In contrast, June has milder temperatures, with minimums starting at a comfortable 4°C (40°F) and average highs reaching up to 36°C (97°F). Precipitation is also notably higher in June, with 72 mm (2.8 in) over 13 days, compared to just 17 mm (0.7 in) in November over 5 days. Additionally, humidity levels in June are higher at 84%, compared to November's 73%. For more detailed information, you can visit Rapid City weather in June.
November and July present strikingly different weather patterns. In November, temperatures can range from a chilly -19°C (−2°F) to a mild 24°C (75°F), with an average of 3°C (37°F). The month sees minimal precipitation of 17 mm (0.7 in) over approximately 5 days and a humidity level of 73%. In contrast, July boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (49°F), an average of 22°C (72°F), and a peak reaching 38°C (100°F). This summer month experiences significantly higher precipitation at 96 mm (3.8 in) across 16 days, coupled with a humidity of 85%. The variations between the two months highlight the stark seasonal shifts experienced in Rapid City. For more detailed weather information, you can check Rapid City weather in July.
November and August present contrasting weather conditions in Rapid City. In November, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -19°C (-2°F) to a mild maximum of 24°C (75°F), with an average around 3°C (37°F). The month sees relatively low precipitation of 17 mm (0.7 in) across about 5 days, combined with a moderate humidity level of 73%. In stark contrast, August experiences much warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a scorching maximum of 37°C (98°F), averaging 20°C (69°F). It also has higher precipitation at 57 mm (2.2 in) over 12 days and increased humidity at 85%. For more details on August weather, visit Rapid City weather in August.
In comparison between September and November weather, September features a significantly higher average temperature of 16°C (62°F), with maximums soaring up to 37°C (100°F), while November's temperatures are much cooler, averaging just 3°C (37°F) and peaking at 24°C (75°F). Precipitation levels are also higher in September, with 43 mm (1.7 in) spread over 7 days, compared to a much drier November with only 17 mm (0.7 in) over 5 days. Additionally, humidity remains quite similar, with September at 76% and November at 73%. For a detailed look at the weather patterns in September, check out Rapid City weather in September.
In comparing the weather between October and November, we notice a shift in temperatures and precipitation patterns. November experiences slightly colder temperatures, with a minimum of -19°C and an average of 3°C, compared to October's minimum of -18°C and a higher average of 7°C. Additionally, the maximum temperature in November is lower at 24°C than October's peak of 30°C. While November has less overall precipitation at 17 mm over 5 days, October sees more significant rainfall at 52 mm over 8 days. Humidity levels remain relatively consistent, with November at 73% and October at 71%. For a more detailed look at October weather, you can visit Rapid City weather in October.
In comparing the weather of November and December, it is evident that December typically experiences colder temperatures, with an average of -1°C (30°F) compared to November's milder 3°C (37°F). The minimum temperatures also drop significantly, reaching as low as -23°C (-10°F) in December, while November sees a minimum of -19°C (-2°F). Precipitation increases in December to 28 mm (1.1 in) over 6 days, up from November's 17 mm (0.7 in) over 5 days, and humidity also rises slightly to 75%. For more detailed information, check out Rapid City weather in December.
As November settles in, Rapid City's weather presents a striking transition from the temperate highs of earlier months. The average chill sets in, with temperatures dropping significantly, making this a time to embrace the seasonal shift. With only about five days of preceptible moisture and moderate humidity levels, the month tends to be a bit drier compared to the spring and summer seasons. However, the notable temperature range from balmy days to frigid nights reminds residents that winter is on the horizon. Whether you're gearing up for snowfall or enjoying the crisp air, November stands out as a month of contrasts. For more insights about the climate patterns, visit Rapid City Climate.