Bowbells is a small city located in Burke County in the northwestern part of North Dakota. Geographically, it is located at approximately 48.8022° N latitude and 101.5298° W longitude, located amidst the vast plains of the state. Affiliated with the United States, Bowbells has a population of approximately 336 residents and covers an area of 0.49 square miles (1.26 km²), making it a cozy but close-knit community in North Dakota.
The city of Bowbells is known for its tranquil surroundings, with expansive fields, rolling hills, and big skies defining the landscape. Major landmarks in Bowbells include the historic downtown area, Bowbells Public School, and the nearby Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge, which offers opportunities for outdoor recreation and wildlife viewing. Additionally, Bowbells is renowned for its agricultural heritage, with farming and ranching playing a vital role in the local economy and culture.
Climate and Weather Overview
Bowbells experiences a continental climate with four distinct seasons characterized by cold, snowy winters and warm, sunny summers. Located in the northern Great Plains region, the city’s climate is influenced by its proximity to the Canadian border and the Rocky Mountains. Winters are typically cold and dry, while summers are warm and relatively humid, providing residents with a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year.
Monthly Climate Data
The following table provides average temperature, precipitation, and sunny days for each month in Bowbells:
| Month | Average Temperature (°F) | Average Precipitation (inches) | Sunny Days |
| January | 8°F | 0.38 inches | 13 |
| February | 13°F | 0.36 inches | 13 |
| March | 25°F | 0.51 inches | 15 |
| April | 42°F | 0.73 inches | 17 |
| May | 57°F | 1.81 inches | 19 |
| June | 68°F | 2.60 inches | 20 |
| July | 75°F | 2.32 inches | 21 |
| August | 74°F | 1.65 inches | 21 |
| September | 63°F | 1.31 inches | 19 |
| October | 49°F | 0.94 inches | 16 |
| November | 29°F | 0.51 inches | 14 |
| December | 14°F | 0.35 inches | 12 |
Weather by Month
January
January in Bowbells brings cold temperatures and occasional snowfall, with average highs around 8°F (-13°C). The month is one of the coldest of the year, with precipitation averaging 0.38 inches (10 mm), most of which falls as snow. Sunny days are limited, making indoor activities such as reading, cooking, and crafting popular choices for residents. January also offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing on nearby lakes.
February
February continues the cold weather in Bowbells, with average temperatures similar to January. Snowfall remains significant, although precipitation levels decrease slightly compared to January, averaging 0.36 inches (9 mm). Sunny days become slightly more frequent, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as sledding, snowmobiling, and winter hiking. February also offers opportunities for attending winter festivals, ice skating, and enjoying hot cocoa by the fireplace.
March
March marks the transition to spring in Bowbells, with milder temperatures and increasing daylight hours. Average highs rise to around 25°F (-4°C), but snowfall can still occur, contributing to the month’s average precipitation of 0.51 inches (13 mm). Sunny days become more frequent as winter gives way to spring, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as maple syrup tapping, birdwatching, and hiking. March also offers opportunities for attending spring fairs, craft markets, and celebrating the arrival of warmer weather.
April
April brings mild spring weather to Bowbells, with average temperatures reaching around 42°F (6°C) during the day. Rainfall increases compared to March, averaging 0.73 inches (19 mm), but sunny days also become more prevalent. Outdoor activities such as gardening, hiking, and birdwatching become popular as the snow melts and nature begins to awaken from winter dormancy. April also marks the beginning of the farming season, with opportunities for planting crops and tending to livestock on local farms.
May
May signals the arrival of warmer temperatures in Bowbells, with average highs reaching around 57°F (14°C). Rainfall continues to increase compared to April, averaging 1.81 inches (46 mm), but sunny days continue to prevail. Outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and picnicking are enjoyable as the landscape bursts into bloom with colorful flowers and lush greenery. May also offers opportunities for birdwatching, visiting farmers’ markets, and attending outdoor concerts and festivals celebrating the arrival of spring.
June
June brings the onset of summer in Bowbells, with warm temperatures and occasional rainfall. Average highs reach around 68°F (20°C), creating ideal conditions for outdoor recreation. Rainfall increases compared to May, averaging 2.60 inches (66 mm), but sunny days continue to be prevalent. Outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and fishing are popular choices for residents and visitors looking to enjoy the longer days and warmer weather. June also offers opportunities for attending summer solstice events, exploring local trails, and enjoying scenic drives through the countryside.
July
July is the warmest month of the year in Bowbells, with average highs reaching around 75°F (24°C). Afternoon showers become more frequent, contributing to the month’s average precipitation of 2.32 inches (59 mm). Despite the rain, sunny days are still possible, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as swimming, boating, and picnicking at local parks and lakes. July also offers opportunities for attending Fourth of July celebrations, outdoor barbecues, and enjoying live music at local venues.
August
August continues the warm, humid weather in Bowbells, with average temperatures similar to those in July. Afternoon showers remain common, contributing to the month’s average precipitation of 1.65 inches (42 mm). Despite the rain, sunny days continue to prevail, providing opportunities for outdoor recreation such as fishing, kayaking, and hiking. August also offers opportunities for attending agricultural fairs, outdoor movie nights, and enjoying locally grown produce at farmers’ markets.
September
September marks the transition to fall in Bowbells, with gradually decreasing temperatures and changing foliage. Average highs drop to around 63°F (17°C), creating more comfortable conditions for outdoor activities. Rainfall remains consistent with the summer months, averaging 1.31 inches (33 mm), but sunny days still abound. Residents and visitors can enjoy outdoor recreation such as hiking, leaf peeping, and birdwatching amidst the vibrant colors of autumn in North Dakota. September also offers opportunities for attending fall festivals, harvest celebrations, and exploring the town’s historic sites and museums.
October
October brings cooler temperatures to Bowbells, with average highs reaching around 49°F (9°C) during the day. Rainfall increases compared to the summer months, averaging 0.94 inches (24 mm), but sunny days are still prevalent. Outdoor activities such as leaf peeping, pumpkin picking, and exploring nature trails are popular choices for residents and visitors looking to embrace the autumn season. October also offers opportunities for attending Halloween events, haunted hayrides, and cider tastings at local orchards.
November
November signals the arrival of colder temperatures and increased rainfall in Bowbells, with average highs reaching around 29°F (-2°C). Rainfall peaks during this month, averaging 0.51 inches (13 mm), while sunny days continue to be interspersed throughout the month. Outdoor activities such as hunting, ice fishing, and snowshoeing are still enjoyable during breaks in the rain. November also offers opportunities for attending Thanksgiving feasts, holiday craft fairs, and preparing for the upcoming winter season.
December
December brings cold, snowy weather to Bowbells, with average temperatures around 14°F (-10°C). Snowfall becomes more common, contributing to the month’s average precipitation of 0.35 inches (9 mm). Despite the cold, sunny days are still possible, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as sledding, snowmobiling, and building snowmen. Indoor activities such as ice skating, visiting holiday light displays, and attending seasonal concerts offer entertainment options for those seeking shelter from the winter weather.