Carrington is a small but vibrant city located in Foster County, North Dakota, United States. Situated in the central part of the state, Carrington is known for its agricultural heritage and close-knit community. The city covers an area of about 1.5 square miles and has a population of approximately 2,000 residents, according to the latest census data. Known as the “Central City” of North Dakota, Carrington offers a blend of rural charm and modern amenities, making it a welcoming place for both residents and visitors.
Geographically, Carrington is positioned in the Great Plains region, characterized by its flat terrain and fertile soil, ideal for farming and ranching. The city is surrounded by vast expanses of farmland, and its economy is largely driven by agriculture, particularly the cultivation of crops such as wheat, barley, corn, and soybeans. Livestock farming is also a significant part of the local economy.
While Carrington does not host major corporations or universities within its limits, it is home to several important institutions and landmarks. The Carrington Research Extension Center, affiliated with North Dakota State University, is a key agricultural research facility that contributes to the region’s farming advancements. Notable landmarks in and around Carrington include Putnam House, a historic Victorian-style home, and the Carrington City Park, which offers recreational opportunities and scenic beauty.
Climate and Weather Overview
Carrington experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. This type of climate is typical for the northern central United States, with significant seasonal variations in temperature and weather patterns. The city receives a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year, with peak rainfall occurring during the late spring and summer months.
Average Monthly Climate Data
| Month | Average Temperature (°F) | Average Precipitation (in) | Average Sunny Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10.0 | 0.7 | 19 |
| February | 15.0 | 0.6 | 19 |
| March | 26.0 | 0.9 | 22 |
| April | 42.0 | 1.4 | 23 |
| May | 55.0 | 2.3 | 24 |
| June | 65.0 | 3.3 | 24 |
| July | 71.0 | 2.8 | 26 |
| August | 69.0 | 2.3 | 25 |
| September | 59.0 | 1.6 | 23 |
| October | 45.0 | 1.2 | 21 |
| November | 28.0 | 0.8 | 19 |
| December | 14.0 | 0.6 | 18 |
Weather by Month
January
January in Carrington is characterized by very cold temperatures, with average lows around -6°F and highs reaching about 26°F. The month sees minimal precipitation, averaging around 0.7 inches, mostly in the form of snow.
Natural Disasters
Carrington occasionally experiences winter storms in January, which can lead to heavy snowfall and icy conditions, causing travel disruptions and power outages.
Activities
Inside Activities: Indoor activities such as visiting local libraries, enjoying performances at community theaters, and participating in indoor sports at local gyms are popular.
Outside Activities: Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy ice fishing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling in nearby trails and parks.
February
February remains very cold with similar temperature patterns to January. Average lows are around -4°F, and highs reach about 30°F. Precipitation averages 0.6 inches.
Natural Disasters
Winter storms continue to pose a threat, although they are less frequent than in January.
Activities
Inside Activities: Cultural events and workshops at local community centers, as well as library programs, offer indoor entertainment.
Outside Activities: Outdoor activities include cross-country skiing and ice skating at community rinks.
March
March marks the beginning of spring with temperatures starting to warm up. Average lows are around 14°F, and highs reach about 38°F. Precipitation increases to about 0.9 inches, primarily as snow and rain.
Natural Disasters
Flooding can occur due to melting snow and spring rains, although it is not a common occurrence.
Activities
Inside Activities: Spring crafts and indoor markets become popular as residents anticipate the warmer weather.
Outside Activities: Early spring hiking and bird watching at local parks are enjoyable as the flora begins to bloom.
April
April sees a more noticeable increase in temperatures, with lows around 29°F and highs averaging 52°F. Rainfall is more common, with an average precipitation of 1.4 inches.
Natural Disasters
The risk of natural disasters decreases, but heavy rains can still cause localized flooding.
Activities
Inside Activities: Art exhibits, cultural presentations, and indoor sports continue to draw crowds.
Outside Activities: Gardening, fishing, and visiting local parks are popular as the weather becomes more favorable.
May
May brings significantly warmer temperatures with lows around 42°F and highs reaching 67°F. Precipitation averages 2.3 inches, often in the form of showers and thunderstorms.
Natural Disasters
Thunderstorms are more frequent, sometimes accompanied by hail or strong winds.
Activities
Inside Activities: Indoor concerts, theater performances, and community events provide cultural experiences.
Outside Activities: Farmers’ markets, outdoor festivals, and picnics become common as the weather improves.
June
June is the start of summer with temperatures ranging from lows of 52°F to highs of 76°F. It is one of the wetter months, with an average precipitation of 3.3 inches.
Natural Disasters
Severe thunderstorms are possible, particularly in the first half of the month.
Activities
Inside Activities: Educational programs and community events continue to attract locals and visitors.
Outside Activities: Hiking, biking, and fishing are popular as residents take advantage of the warm weather.
July
July is the warmest month with average lows around 57°F and highs reaching 82°F. Precipitation is slightly lower at 2.8 inches, with frequent sunny days.
Natural Disasters
Heatwaves can occur, but severe weather such as thunderstorms is also possible.
Activities
Inside Activities: Visiting air-conditioned museums and attending indoor events are favored during hot spells.
Outside Activities: Swimming, boating, and attending outdoor concerts are popular summertime activities.
August
August remains warm with temperatures ranging from lows of 55°F to highs of 80°F. Precipitation averages 2.3 inches, mostly from thunderstorms.
Natural Disasters
Similar to July, thunderstorms and heatwaves are the primary weather concerns.
Activities
Inside Activities: Indoor sports and community center events provide relief from the summer heat.
Outside Activities: Hiking, camping, and participating in local fairs and festivals are common.
September
September sees a gradual cooling with lows around 46°F and highs of 70°F. Precipitation averages 1.6 inches.
Natural Disasters
The risk of severe weather decreases, but occasional thunderstorms can still occur.
Activities
Inside Activities: Fall arts and crafts fairs, along with cultural events, are popular.
Outside Activities: Apple picking, hiking, and enjoying the fall foliage at local parks and preserves are favored activities.
October
October brings cooler temperatures with lows around 35°F and highs reaching 57°F. Precipitation averages 1.2 inches.
Natural Disasters
The likelihood of natural disasters is low, although early frost can impact agriculture.
Activities
Inside Activities: Halloween events and indoor fall festivals attract families.
Outside Activities: Leaf peeping, hayrides, and visiting pumpkin patches are popular outdoor activities.
November
November sees further cooling with lows around 22°F and highs averaging 41°F. Precipitation averages 0.8 inches, transitioning from rain to occasional snow by the end of the month.
Natural Disasters
Early winter storms can occur, but they are generally mild.
Activities
Inside Activities: Holiday craft fairs and indoor community gatherings begin to take place.
Outside Activities: Hiking and preparing for winter sports are common as residents enjoy the last of the fall weather.
December
December is characterized by very cold temperatures with lows around 9°F and highs of 29°F. Precipitation averages 0.6 inches, mostly as snow.
Natural Disasters
Winter storms and heavy snowfall can disrupt travel and daily activities.
Activities
Inside Activities: Holiday events, indoor markets, and family gatherings are prevalent during the festive season.
Outside Activities: Ice skating, snowmobiling, and winter hiking in nearby parks provide outdoor entertainment.