Burlington, North Dakota Weather by Month

Burlington, located in Ward County, North Dakota, is a charming city situated in the north-central part of the state. Positioned along the scenic banks of the Souris River, Burlington offers residents and visitors alike access to beautiful natural landscapes, outdoor recreation, and a strong sense of community. Affiliated with the United States, Burlington is part of the state of North Dakota and lies within the Minot metropolitan area. With a population of approximately 1,200 residents, Burlington maintains a small-town atmosphere while being within easy reach of larger urban centers. The city is known for its friendly residents, outdoor activities, and rich history, making it a welcoming destination for tourists and nature enthusiasts alike.

Geographical Overview

Burlington is located in the north-central region of North Dakota, located along the banks of the Souris River. The city’s beautiful location provides access to a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities, including fishing, boating, and hiking. Burlington’s geography is characterized by rolling plains, fertile farmland, and the meandering Souris River, which adds to the city’s scenic beauty and natural charm. The nearby Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge offers opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife observation, and photography in a pristine natural setting. Burlington’s central location within North Dakota makes it an ideal base for exploring the region’s many attractions and outdoor adventures.

Population

Burlington has a small population of approximately 1,200 residents, making it a close-knit community where neighbors know each other by name. The city’s population has remained relatively stable over the years, with residents drawn to its peaceful atmosphere and quality of life. Burlington’s strong sense of community, family-friendly environment, and access to outdoor recreation contribute to its appeal as a place to live, work, and raise a family. The city’s downtown area features locally-owned businesses, restaurants, and shops, adding to its small-town charm and sense of community spirit.

Major Landmarks

While Burlington may be a small city, it boasts several major landmarks and attractions that showcase its unique character and heritage:

• Souris River: The Souris River is the lifeblood of Burlington, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation. Residents and visitors can enjoy scenic views of the river, as well as picnicking and wildlife watching along its shores. The Souris River Valley is also home to a variety of plant and animal species, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
• Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge: Located just a short drive from Burlington, the Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge offers a peaceful retreat into nature. Visitors can explore the refuge’s diverse habitats, including wetlands, grasslands, and forests, while enjoying opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife photography. The refuge is home to a variety of migratory birds, waterfowl, and other wildlife species, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and nature appreciation.
• Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway: The Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway has played a significant role in the history and development of Burlington. Originally established as a vital transportation route for goods and passengers, the railway continues to serve the community today, providing freight services and connecting Burlington to destinations across North Dakota and beyond. The railway’s historic depot, located in downtown Burlington, serves as a reminder of the city’s railroad heritage and significance in the region.

Climate and Weather Overview

Burlington experiences a continental climate, characterized by cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. The city typically sees four distinct seasons, with each offering its own unique weather patterns and outdoor activities. Winters in Burlington are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and heavy snowfall common from November through March. Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures reaching into the 80s°F and occasional thunderstorms bringing relief from the heat. Spring and fall bring milder temperatures and changing foliage, making them ideal times for outdoor exploration and recreation.

Average Monthly Climate Data

Weather by Month

January

January in Burlington is typically cold and snowy, with average temperatures around 12.3°F. The month sees an average precipitation of 0.39 inches, primarily in the form of snow, and 10 sunny days on average. Outdoor activities during this month are limited due to the cold weather and snow cover, but residents and visitors can still enjoy winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. Indoor activities such as visiting local museums, libraries, and community centers provide opportunities for staying warm and entertained during the winter months.

February

February brings continued cold temperatures to Burlington, with average temperatures around 18.5°F. The month sees a decrease in precipitation compared to January, with an average of 0.33 inches, and 11 sunny days on average. Outdoor activities may include ice fishing, sledding, and snowmobiling on nearby trails, as well as attending winter festivals and events in the city. Indoor activities such as movie nights, game nights, and cooking classes offer opportunities for residents and visitors to stay active and engaged during the winter season.

March

March marks the transition to spring in Burlington, with temperatures beginning to warm up and signs of new growth emerging. The average temperature is around 29.5°F, with an average precipitation of 0.52 inches and 13 sunny days on average. Outdoor activities may include hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife photography in the city’s parks and nature reserves, as well as attending maple syrup festivals and other spring events. March also offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water-related activities as the ice begins to melt on the Souris River.

April

April in Burlington brings milder temperatures and increasing precipitation, with an average temperature of 42.9°F and 0.68 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 14 sunny days on average, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing as the landscape comes to life with blooming flowers and budding trees. Residents and visitors can also enjoy exploring local parks and nature reserves, attending outdoor concerts and farmers’ markets, and participating in Earth Day events to celebrate the arrival of the new season.

May

May heralds the arrival of warmer temperatures and abundant sunshine in Burlington, with an average temperature of 54.9°F and 1.72 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 15 sunny days on average, providing perfect conditions for outdoor adventures. Residents and visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and birdwatching in the city’s parks and nature reserves, or take leisurely strolls along the Souris River. May also offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing on the river, as well as attending outdoor festivals and events to celebrate the arrival of spring.

June

June in Burlington is warm and sunny, with temperatures averaging 63.8°F and 2.31 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 15 sunny days on average, providing ideal conditions for outdoor activities. Residents and visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and kayaking on the Souris River, or explore the city’s parks and trails for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. June also offers opportunities for attending outdoor concerts, farmers’ markets, and community festivals, as well as camping, barbecues, and outdoor movie nights to enjoy the long summer days.

July

July is the peak of summer in Burlington, with hot temperatures and plenty of sunshine, averaging 68.7°F and 1.76 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 15 sunny days on average, providing ample opportunities for outdoor fun. Residents and visitors can cool off with a dip in the Souris River, relax on the sandy shores, or enjoy water sports such as tubing, rafting, and paddleboarding. July also offers opportunities for outdoor concerts, fireworks displays, and community festivals, as well as fishing tournaments and picnics in the park for residents of all ages to enjoy.

August

In August, summer continues in full swing in Burlington, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, averaging 67.6°F and 1.42 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 15 sunny days on average, providing perfect conditions for outdoor activities. Residents and visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and tubing on the Souris River, or explore the city’s parks and trails for hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting. August also offers opportunities for outdoor concerts, food festivals, and cultural events, as well as camping, bonfires, and stargazing under the summer sky.

September

September brings mild temperatures and decreasing precipitation to Burlington, with an average temperature of 57.6°F and 1.01 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 13 sunny days on average, providing ideal conditions for outdoor adventures. Residents and visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and leaf-peeping in the city’s parks and nature reserves, or take scenic drives to admire the changing foliage. September also offers opportunities for apple picking, pumpkin patches, and fall festivals, as well as outdoor concerts, art fairs, and historical tours to celebrate the arrival of autumn.

October

October in Burlington is characterized by cooler temperatures and colorful foliage, with an average temperature of 45.3°F and 0.72 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 12 sunny days on average, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Residents and visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and leaf-peeping in the city’s parks and nature reserves, or take leisurely drives through the countryside. October also offers opportunities for apple picking, hayrides, and fall festivals, as well as pumpkin carving, haunted hayrides, and Halloween celebrations to embrace the spirit of the season.

November

November marks the transition to winter in Burlington, with cooler temperatures and increasing precipitation, averaging 28.5°F and 0.44 inches respectively. The month sees 10 sunny days on average, providing opportunities for outdoor activities before the arrival of winter weather. Residents and visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography in the city’s parks and nature reserves, or take scenic drives to admire the changing foliage. November also offers opportunities for Thanksgiving celebrations, holiday markets, and craft fairs, as well as indoor activities such as cooking classes, art workshops.