Busby, Montana Weather by Month

Busby, Montana, is a small unincorporated community located in Big Horn County in the southeastern part of the state. Nestled in the vast and scenic plains of the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation, Busby is part of the United States and is known for its rich Native American heritage and rural charm. The community is situated approximately 50 miles northwest of the city of Sheridan, Wyoming, and about 90 miles southeast of Billings, Montana, offering a peaceful and remote setting amidst the picturesque landscapes of Montana.

With a population of around 700 residents, Busby covers a relatively small area, fostering a close-knit community atmosphere. The local economy is primarily based on agriculture, livestock farming, and small businesses, with many residents engaged in traditional practices and crafts. Busby’s cultural significance is deeply rooted in the traditions and history of the Northern Cheyenne people.

Busby does not host any major universities or large corporations, but it benefits from the presence of nearby educational institutions such as Chief Dull Knife College in Lame Deer and the Little Big Horn College in Crow Agency, both of which serve the local Native American communities. The area is also supported by various tribal programs and initiatives aimed at promoting education, health, and economic development.

One of the notable landmarks in Busby is the St. Labre Indian School, which has been providing education and support to Native American children since its founding in 1884. The school is an integral part of the community, offering educational opportunities and fostering cultural preservation. Another significant site is the nearby Rosebud Battlefield State Park, a historic site commemorating the Battle of the Rosebud, which played a crucial role in the Great Sioux War of 1876.

Busby’s location within the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, hunting, and exploring the vast natural landscapes that characterize this region. The community’s blend of historical significance, cultural richness, and natural beauty makes it a unique and inviting destination in southeastern Montana.

Climate and Weather Overview

Busby experiences a semi-arid climate, characterized by cold winters and warm, dry summers. The area receives relatively low precipitation throughout the year, with significant seasonal variations in temperature. The weather in Busby is influenced by its elevation and location within the Great Plains, leading to significant temperature fluctuations between day and night.

January

January in Busby is typically very cold, with average temperatures around 20°F. Precipitation is relatively low at 0.5 inches, mostly in the form of snow. The month typically sees about 20 sunny days.

Natural Disasters: Severe winter storms and blizzards can occur, leading to heavy snowfall, icy conditions, and potential disruptions in daily activities.

Recommended Activities:

• Indoor: Visiting local cultural centers, enjoying the warmth of community gatherings.
• Outdoor: Snowshoeing, winter hiking, and participating in winter sports such as skiing and snowmobiling.

February

February remains cold, with average temperatures around 25°F. Precipitation is slightly lower at 0.4 inches, primarily snow. The month averages about 20 sunny days.

Natural Disasters: Snowstorms and icy conditions are still possible, affecting travel and outdoor activities.

Recommended Activities:

• Indoor: Participating in community workshops and local events.
• Outdoor: Winter sports such as ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.

March

March brings milder weather, with average temperatures around 35°F. Precipitation increases to 0.8 inches, with a mix of snow and rain. The month has about 22 sunny days.

Natural Disasters: Spring storms can bring heavy snow or rain, but severe weather is uncommon.

Recommended Activities:

• Indoor: Visiting local art galleries and cultural exhibits.
• Outdoor: Early spring hiking, bird watching, and preparing for gardening projects.

April

April sees a further warming trend, with average temperatures around 45°F. Precipitation increases to 1.1 inches, mostly as rain. The month averages about 24 sunny days.

Natural Disasters: Spring storms can be frequent, sometimes bringing heavy rain and occasional thunderstorms.

Recommended Activities:

• Indoor: Exploring local historical sites and cultural centers.
• Outdoor: Hiking, participating in community clean-up events, and enjoying the blossoming spring flora.

May

May is warmer, with average temperatures around 55°F. It is one of the wetter months, with 2.1 inches of precipitation. The month typically sees about 26 sunny days.

Natural Disasters: Thunderstorms can occur more frequently, with occasional heavy rainfall.

Recommended Activities:

• Indoor: Attending local cultural events and community gatherings.
• Outdoor: Gardening, hiking, fishing, and attending outdoor markets and festivals.

June

June brings warm temperatures, averaging 65°F. Precipitation is slightly higher at 2.3 inches, with plenty of sunshine (28 days on average).

Natural Disasters: While severe weather can still occur, it is less frequent than in spring.

Recommended Activities:

• Indoor: Visiting local history museums and community centers.
• Outdoor: Camping, hiking, fishing, and enjoying local outdoor concerts and events.

July

July is the warmest month, with average temperatures around 75°F. Precipitation is relatively low at 1.2 inches, and the month averages 30 sunny days.

Natural Disasters: Severe weather is uncommon, but thunderstorms and heatwaves can occur, making sun protection and hydration important.

Recommended Activities:

• Indoor: Participating in indoor community events and workshops.
• Outdoor: Swimming, hiking, boating, and attending summer festivals and farmers’ markets.

August

August remains warm with average temperatures around 73°F. Precipitation is slightly lower at 1.1 inches, and the month averages 29 sunny days.

Natural Disasters: Thunderstorms can occur, but severe weather is rare.

Recommended Activities:

• Indoor: Exploring local cultural institutions and historical sites.
• Outdoor: Hiking, fishing, attending outdoor fairs, and participating in community sports events.

September

September brings cooler temperatures, averaging 63°F. Precipitation remains steady at 1.3 inches, and the month has about 27 sunny days.

Natural Disasters: Natural disasters are unlikely, though autumn storms can bring brief, heavy rain.

Recommended Activities:

• Indoor: Participating in educational workshops and local community events.
• Outdoor: Enjoying the fall foliage through hiking, attending harvest festivals, and outdoor photography.

October

October sees further cooling with average temperatures around 50°F. Precipitation is around 0.9 inches, and the month averages 25 sunny days.

Natural Disasters: Early frosts and occasional storms can occur, but severe weather is rare.

Recommended Activities:

• Indoor: Exploring local arts and crafts fairs and community events.
• Outdoor: Hiking in cooler weather, preparing for winter activities, and enjoying fall festivals and Halloween events.

November

November temperatures drop to an average of 35°F. Precipitation is 0.6 inches, often as rain with occasional snow. The month averages 22 sunny days.

Natural Disasters: Early winter weather conditions can impact travel, but natural disasters are rare.

Recommended Activities:

• Indoor: Enjoying local cafes and libraries, attending holiday markets and community gatherings.
• Outdoor: Early winter sports like hiking in the brisk weather, exploring local parks, and preparing for winter.

December

December is cold with average temperatures around 25°F. Precipitation averages 0.6 inches, mostly as snow. The month has about 20 sunny days.

Natural Disasters: Snowstorms can occur, leading to cold temperatures and occasional disruptions, but severe weather is uncommon.

Recommended Activities:

• Indoor: Participating in holiday events and indoor community activities.
• Outdoor: Enjoying winter sports, exploring the winter landscapes, and holiday shopping at local markets.