Weather

Minnesota State University Moorhead is often named one of the coldest colleges in the country, but we just think that makes us cooler! Though we’re often recognized for our chilly winters, Fargo-Moorhead has four distinct seasons.

Temperatures range widely throughout the year. The temperature during winter months (December, January, February) averages -12° C, but can drop to -30° C occasionally. Around 0.5 meters of snowfall during these months is typical.

It might seem daunting to step into a freezer-like atmosphere when you go outdoors during winter months, but that doesn’t stop us from having fun. We embrace the cold by bundling up in jackets, hats, mittens and scarves and participating in some of our favorite activities, like hockey, ice skating, cross country and downhill skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and more! Plus, it’s hard to pass up delicious hot chocolate after spending time outdoors.

If you do not have winter clothing, you should plan on spending about $200.00 USD to purchase those items.

Summer months (June, July, August) have an average temperature around 20° C, and it’s the sunniest time of year. Our students enjoy spending time at Minnesota’s lakes (there are more than 10,000), canoeing, kayaking, biking, hiking and more.

Spring (March, April, May) and fall (September, October, November) tend to have milder weather, with the average temperature hovering at 15° C.

We strongly recommend that you bring clothes for all four seasons here in Moorhead, MN or buy clothes once you arrive. In the United States, students dress casually for classes. It is not unusual to find every kind of apparel imaginable. Men wear slacks or jeans and shirts or sweaters. They also wear shorts or cut-off jeans in warm weather. The majority of women on campus wear slacks or jeans, and blouses or sweaters, but some wear dresses and skirts as well. Sweatshirts are also common for both men and women.

Check out the latest weather forecast for Moorhead.