Aurora, located in Brookings County, South Dakota, is a charming small town situated in the eastern part of the state. With its tranquil rural setting, friendly community atmosphere, and access to outdoor recreational opportunities, Aurora offers residents and visitors alike a peaceful and idyllic lifestyle. Situated approximately 20 miles northwest of Brookings, Aurora is surrounded by vast farmland, gently rolling hills, and scenic prairies, providing a beautiful backdrop for outdoor activities and relaxation. The town’s rich agricultural heritage, combined with its small-town charm and close-knit community, make it a desirable place to live and visit in South Dakota.
Geography and Location
Aurora is situated in eastern South Dakota, within the Great Plains region of the United States. The town is located approximately 20 miles northwest of Brookings, the county seat of Brookings County, and is easily accessible via Interstate 29 and State Highway 324. Located amidst the vast prairies of eastern South Dakota, Aurora enjoys a serene and rural setting, surrounded by fertile farmland, expansive skies, and wide-open spaces. The town’s location provides easy access to outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, hunting, and birdwatching, as well as opportunities for agricultural pursuits and rural living.
Affiliation and Population
As part of Brookings County, Aurora is governed by the laws and regulations of the county and the state of South Dakota. The town has a population of approximately 700 residents, making it a close-knit community where neighbors know each other by name. Aurora prides itself on its strong sense of community spirit, with residents actively involved in local events, organizations, and initiatives aimed at preserving the town’s heritage and promoting its growth and development. With its friendly atmosphere, safe neighborhoods, and quality schools, Aurora offers a welcoming environment for families, retirees, and individuals seeking a peaceful and affordable place to call home in South Dakota.
Major Landmarks
Despite its small size, Aurora boasts several notable landmarks and attractions that showcase its rich history and cultural heritage. One such landmark is the Aurora City Park, a scenic outdoor recreation area located in the heart of town. The park features playgrounds, picnic areas, walking paths, and sports facilities, providing residents and visitors with opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Another prominent landmark in Aurora is the historic Aurora Opera House, a beloved community theater and cultural venue dating back to the late 19th century. The Opera House hosts a variety of performances, events, and gatherings throughout the year, showcasing local talent and providing entertainment for all ages.
Climate and Weather Overview
Aurora experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons with variable weather patterns throughout the year. Summers are warm and humid, while winters are cold and snowy. Spring and fall bring milder temperatures and occasional rainfall. The region’s climate is influenced by its inland location and proximity to the Great Lakes, with weather patterns often shaped by prevailing winds and atmospheric conditions.
Average Climate Data
The table below provides average temperature, precipitation, and sunny days for each month in Aurora:
| Month | Average Temperature (Fahrenheit) | Precipitation (inches) | Sunny Days |
| January | 20.6 | 0.69 | 20 |
| February | 24.8 | 0.66 | 21 |
| March | 35.8 | 1.25 | 25 |
| April | 49.2 | 2.09 | 28 |
| May | 61.5 | 3.03 | 30 |
| June | 71.2 | 3.39 | 30 |
| July | 76.8 | 3.13 | 31 |
| August | 75.1 | 2.64 | 30 |
| September | 65.7 | 2.16 | 28 |
| October | 52.4 | 1.59 | 26 |
| November | 36.6 | 1.04 | 21 |
| December | 24.6 | 0.83 | 19 |
Weather by Month
January
January in Aurora is characterized by cold temperatures and occasional snowfall. Average highs hover around 20.6°F, while average lows dip below freezing, ranging from 5°F to 10°F. Precipitation levels are relatively low, with an average of 0.69 inches of snowfall. Residents may engage in indoor activities such as reading, cooking, and crafting, or venture outdoors for winter sports such as ice skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
February
February brings continued cold temperatures and occasional snowfall to Aurora. Average highs rise slightly to 24.8°F, while average lows range from 8°F to 14°F. Precipitation levels remain low, with an average of 0.66 inches of snowfall. Residents may embrace the winter weather by attending local events such as ice fishing tournaments, snowman-building contests, and winter carnivals, or stay cozy indoors with hot cocoa, board games, and movie nights.
March
As winter transitions into spring, March sees milder temperatures and increasing precipitation in Aurora. Average highs rise to 35.8°F, while average lows range from 18°F to 24°F. Precipitation levels increase, with an average of 1.25 inches of rainfall. Residents may welcome the arrival of spring by planting gardens, cleaning up outdoor spaces, or attending local events and festivals celebrating the season’s renewal and the community’s resilience.
April
April is characterized by mild temperatures and frequent rainfall in Aurora, with average highs averaging around 49.2°F. Average lows range from 31°F to 36°F. Precipitation levels peak, with an average of 2.09 inches of rainfall. Residents may take advantage of the warmer weather to engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and birdwatching, or participate in community clean-up events and Earth Day celebrations.
May
May brings warmer temperatures and abundant sunshine to Aurora, with average highs averaging around 61.5°F. Average lows range from 41°F to 46°F. Precipitation levels remain high, with an average of 3.03 inches of rainfall. Residents may enjoy outdoor activities such as picnics, barbecues, and outdoor concerts, or explore local parks and nature reserves bursting with spring blooms and wildlife.
June
June is characterized by warm temperatures and increasing humidity in Aurora, with average highs reaching 71.2°F. Average lows range from 50°F to 54°F. Precipitation levels continue to rise, with an average of 3.39 inches of rainfall. Residents may cool off by visiting local swimming holes, lakes, and water parks, or spend time indoors with air conditioning and fans, enjoying hobbies and leisurely activities.
July
July is the hottest month of the year in Aurora, with average highs peaking at 76.8°F. Average lows range from 57°F to 61°F. Despite the heat, precipitation levels decrease slightly compared to June, with an average of 3.13 inches of rainfall. Residents may seek relief from the heat by visiting local swimming pools, lakes, and water parks, or spending time indoors with air conditioning and fans, engaging in hobbies, and enjoying quality time with family and friends.
August
August brings continued heat and occasional thunderstorms to Aurora, with average highs averaging around 75.1°F. Average lows range from 59°F to 63°F. Precipitation levels remain relatively high, with an average of 2.64 inches of rainfall. Residents may stay cool and hydrated by drinking plenty of water, seeking shade, and wearing light clothing, or take advantage of the warm weather to enjoy outdoor activities such as picnics, fishing, and stargazing.
September
As summer transitions into fall, September brings cooler temperatures and decreasing rainfall to Aurora. Average highs drop to 65.7°F, while average lows range from 42°F to 46°F. Precipitation levels decrease, with an average of 2.16 inches of rainfall. Residents may embrace the arrival of fall by participating in outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and camping, or attending local events and festivals celebrating the harvest season and the natural beauty of the region.
October
October is characterized by mild temperatures and decreasing rainfall in Aurora, with average highs averaging around 52.4°F. Average lows range from 29°F to 33°F. Precipitation levels remain low, with an average of 1.59 inches of rainfall. Residents may take advantage of the pleasant weather to explore local parks and nature reserves, go on scenic drives to admire the fall foliage, or attend seasonal events and festivals celebrating Halloween and the autumn harvest.
November
November brings cooler temperatures and increasing rainfall to Aurora, with average highs averaging around 36.6°F. Average lows range from 16°F to 20°F. Precipitation levels rise, with an average of 1.04 inches of rainfall. Residents may prepare for the winter season by completing outdoor chores such as raking leaves, cleaning gutters, and storing outdoor furniture, or spend time indoors cooking comfort foods, crafting holiday decorations, and enjoying quality time with loved ones.
December
December marks the onset of winter in Aurora, with cold temperatures and occasional snowfall. Average highs drop to 24.6°F, while average lows range from 1°F to 5°F. Precipitation levels decrease slightly compared to November, with an average of 0.83 inches of snowfall. Despite the cooler weather, residents may embrace the holiday spirit by decorating their homes, attending festive events and concerts, or participating in outdoor activities such as ice skating, sledding, and winter hikes in the nearby hillsides and forests.
Natural Disasters
While Aurora is relatively sheltered from major natural disasters, the region is susceptible to occasional severe weather events such as thunderstorms, tornadoes, and winter storms. These events can disrupt transportation, cause power outages, and pose risks to public safety. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about weather alerts and warnings, as well as to have emergency supplies and evacuation plans in place to ensure their safety and well-being.
Recommended Activities
Throughout the year, Aurora offers residents and visitors a variety of indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy amidst its scenic landscapes and changing seasons. From exploring local parks and nature trails to fishing, hunting, and attending community events and festivals, there is something for everyone to experience and enjoy in this charming South Dakota town. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, cultural enrichment, or simply a relaxing retreat, Aurora promises an authentic and memorable experience in the heart of the Great Plains.