Average Snowfall in Rapid City, SD
53.7"
inches per year
Moderate Snow Area
Elevation: 3,251 ft
Based on the NOAA 1991–2020 Climate Normal — the official 30-year average of a typical winter, not any single season — from the nearest comparable-elevation weather station about 1 miles away.
Rapid City Snowfall by Month
Snow season in Rapid City typically runs from October through May, peaking in March with about 10.4" of snow.
Oct3.4"
Nov6.5"
Dec6.6"
Jan5.3"
Feb9.1"
Mar10.4"
Apr10"
May2.2"
Jun0.1"
Jul–
Aug–
Sep0.1"
Average monthly snowfall, NOAA 1991–2020 Climate Normals.
What to Expect
That is well above the US average annual snowfall of 28". At 53.7" per year, a solid snow shovel and windshield cover will get you through most storms. Keep ice melt and a scraper in the car.
Ohuhu Wheeled Snow Shovel, 30x12 Blade
Wide 30x12 inch steel blade with 8-inch jumbo wheels. Adjustable angle design clears snow efficiently from driveways and sidewalks.
Best sellerView on Amazon →
OxGord All-Weather Windshield Snow Cover
Doubles as a winter snow and ice shield and a summer sun shade. Protects against snow, frost, and UV. Fits cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs.
4-season useView on Amazon →
Zanch 27" Snow Brush & Ice Scraper
Detachable design with wider snow brush and ergonomic foam grip. Clears snow and ice without damaging your windshield.
2026 upgradeView on Amazon →
LYVANAS Ergonomic Ice Scraper
Ergonomic professional design for fast and efficient ice removal. Safe for windshields. Compact for easy car storage.
Top ratedView on Amazon →As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Snow in South Dakota
| City | Annual Snow |
|---|---|
| Deadwood | 183.9" |
| Lead | 183.9" |
| Saint Onge | 70.5" |
| Spearfish | 70.5" |
| Hill City | 66.6" |
| Nemo | 60.9" |
| Astoria | 60.7" |
| Brandt | 60.7" |
| Clear Lake | 60.7" |
| Estelline | 60.7" |
| Gary | 60.7" |
| Goodwin | 60.7" |
| Toronto | 60.7" |
| Keystone | 59.3" |
| Marvin | 58.6" |
| Ortley | 58.6" |
| Summit | 58.6" |
| Twin Brooks | 58.6" |
| Faith | 55.5" |
| Rapid City | 53.7" |
| Reva | 51.2" |
| Buffalo | 51.2" |
| Redig | 51.2" |
| Wilmot | 51" |
| Camp Crook | 50.5" |
| Okreek | 50.3" |
| Wood | 50.3" |
| Ellsworth Afb | 48.5" |
| Box Elder | 48.5" |
| Fort Meade | 47.6" |
| Sturgis | 47.6" |
| Whitewood | 47.6" |
| Custer | 45.9" |
| Pringle | 45.9" |
| Sioux Falls | 45.3" |
| Huron | 44.4" |
| Aberdeen | 42.7" |
| Belle Fourche | 42.2" |
| Watertown | 41.1" |
| Kranzburg | 41.1" |
| Yankton | 38.1" |
| Waubay | 35.6" |
Snowfall Near Rapid City
| City | Distance | Annual Snow |
|---|---|---|
| Ellsworth Afb, SD | 9 mi | 48.5" |
| Box Elder, SD | 9 mi | 48.5" |
| Keystone, SD | 16 mi | 59.3" |
| Nemo, SD | 18 mi | 60.9" |
| Hill City, SD | 20 mi | 66.6" |