4-Inch Soil Temperature in South Dakota
The current average 4-inch soil temperature across South Dakota is 61°F, measured at 5 USDA and NOAA monitoring stations. Readings range from 57°F to 63°F. Soil across South Dakota is right at the seasonal normal of 62°F for late September, based on 5 of 5 stations with historical records. Last updated September 23, 2026.
Why the 4-Inch Reading
Every reading here is measured at native 4-inch depth by USDA SCAN (Soil Climate Analysis Network) and NOAA USCRN (US Climate Reference Network) stations, not modeled. The 4-inch root-zone temperature changes more slowly than the surface, making it the steadier signal for established-lawn and garden timing: pre-emergent and broadleaf herbicide windows, fertilizer applications, and core aeration.
Stations Measuring 4-Inch Depth in South Dakota (5)
| Station | 4" Temp | Last Reading |
|---|---|---|
| Eros Data Center (Minnehaha) | 62°F | 2026-09-23 |
| Sioux Falls 14 NNE | 62°F | 2026-09-23 |
| Aberdeen 35 WNW | 57°F | 2026-09-23 |
| Buffalo 13 ESE | 63°F | 2026-09-23 |
| Pierre 24 S | 62°F | 2026-09-23 |
Cities in South Dakota (9)
| City | ZIP | Current Temp |
|---|---|---|
| Aberdeen | 57401 | 57°F |
| Brandon | 57005 | 62°F |
| Brookings | 57006 | 62°F |
| Chamberlain | 57325 | 62°F |
| Huron | 57350 | 62°F |
| Milbank | 57252 | — |
| Rapid City | 57701 | 63°F |
| Sioux Falls | 57101 | 62°F |
| Spearfish | 57783 | 63°F |
4-Inch Soil Temperature FAQ for South Dakota
What is the current 4-inch soil temperature in South Dakota?
The current average 4-inch soil temperature across South Dakota is 61°F, measured at 5 USDA and NOAA stations. Readings range from 57°F to 63°F depending on location and elevation. Soil across South Dakota is right at the seasonal normal of 62°F for late September, based on 5 of 5 stations with historical records.
What does the 4 inch soil temperature mean?
The 4 inch soil temperature shows conditions deeper in the root zone than the 2 inch germination reading. It is commonly used for established lawn, garden, and agricultural timing because it changes more slowly than the surface layer, so it is a steadier signal for fertilizer, aeration, and weed-control decisions.
Why use 4-inch soil temperature instead of 2-inch?
Use 2 inches for germination decisions, since that is where seeds sit. Use the 4 inch soil temperature for established lawn and garden timing: it reads the root zone, changes more slowly than the surface, and is the depth most fertilizer, aeration, and disease guidance references.
See the national 4-inch soil temperature map, the full South Dakota soil temperature directory (all depths), the national soil temperature by depth comparison, or the live national soil temperature map.