Located in Saunders County, Nebraska, Ashland is a picturesque city with a rich history and vibrant community spirit. Located along the banks of the Platte River, Ashland offers residents and visitors alike a blend of small-town charm and natural beauty. With a population of approximately 2,700 residents and covering an area of 2.36 square miles, Ashland boasts a welcoming atmosphere and a variety of recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Geography and Location
Ashland is located at the coordinates 41.0392° N latitude and 96.3676° W longitude. The city lies in eastern Nebraska, about 25 miles west of Omaha, the state’s largest city. Ashland is surrounded by rolling hills, fertile farmland, and the scenic Platte River Valley, providing residents with stunning views and abundant outdoor recreational options. The area’s natural beauty and convenient location make Ashland an attractive destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat close to urban amenities.
Affiliation and Major Landmarks
Ashland is affiliated with Saunders County and serves as one of its vibrant communities. While the city may not have many major landmarks, it is known for its historic downtown district, which features charming shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Additionally, Ashland is home to the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum, a popular tourist destination showcasing a vast collection of aircraft and artifacts highlighting the history of aviation and military defense.
Climate Overview
Ashland experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by hot summers, cold winters, and moderate precipitation throughout the year. The area’s climate is influenced by its inland location and proximity to the Great Plains, resulting in distinct seasonal variations in temperature and weather patterns. Understanding the climate of Ashland is essential for residents and visitors to plan outdoor activities and prepare for seasonal changes.
Climate and Weather Overview
The climate and weather in Ashland, Nebraska, exhibit distinct seasonal variations, with hot summers, cold winters, and moderate precipitation levels throughout the year. Understanding these weather patterns can help residents and visitors make the most of outdoor activities and recreational opportunities in the area.
Monthly Weather Statistics
To provide a comprehensive overview of the weather in Ashland, let’s examine the average temperature, precipitation, and number of sunny days for each month of the year.
| Month | Average Temperature (°F) | Precipitation (inches) | Sunny Days |
| January | 30°F | 0.62 inches | 17 days |
| February | 34°F | 0.76 inches | 15 days |
| March | 46°F | 1.96 inches | 17 days |
| April | 59°F | 3.08 inches | 18 days |
| May | 70°F | 4.31 inches | 20 days |
| June | 79°F | 4.27 inches | 22 days |
| July | 85°F | 3.73 inches | 23 days |
| August | 84°F | 3.73 inches | 23 days |
| September | 76°F | 2.88 inches | 20 days |
| October | 64°F | 2.26 inches | 19 days |
| November | 46°F | 1.44 inches | 16 days |
| December | 33°F | 0.84 inches | 15 days |
Weather by Month
January
January brings cold temperatures to Ashland, with an average of 30°F. It is one of the driest months of the year, with 0.62 inches of precipitation. Despite the cold weather, January offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as ice fishing, snowshoeing, or sledding in nearby parks. Indoor activities include visiting museums, attending cultural events, or enjoying cozy evenings by the fireplace.
February
February sees similar temperatures to January, with an average of 34°F. Precipitation levels increase slightly to 0.76 inches, but snowfall may occur intermittently throughout the month. February is perfect for winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, or ice skating at local rinks. Additionally, residents can enjoy indoor activities such as art classes, cooking workshops, or book club meetings.
March
As winter transitions to spring, March brings milder temperatures averaging around 46°F. With 1.96 inches of precipitation, occasional rain showers may occur, signaling the arrival of warmer weather. March is an excellent time for outdoor activities such as hiking in nearby nature reserves, birdwatching, or starting spring gardening projects. Indoor activities include attending concerts, joining fitness classes, or visiting art galleries.
April
April marks the arrival of spring in Ashland, with temperatures averaging 59°F. While precipitation levels increase to 3.08 inches, the weather becomes increasingly mild, and signs of new growth emerge across the landscape. April is perfect for outdoor activities such as biking along scenic trails, picnicking in local parks, or attending outdoor festivals and events. Indoor activities include visiting historical sites, attending craft workshops, or participating in community clean-up projects.
May
May brings warmer temperatures to Ashland, with an average of 70°F. With 4.31 inches of precipitation, occasional showers may occur, but sunny days abound. May is an ideal time for outdoor activities such as fishing in nearby lakes and rivers, camping in state parks, or taking nature walks to observe wildflowers in bloom. Indoor activities include attending local markets, participating in fitness classes, or joining community gardening projects.
June
June heralds the arrival of summer in Ashland, with temperatures averaging around 79°F. With 4.27 inches of precipitation, the weather becomes warm and pleasant, perfect for outdoor adventures. June is an excellent time for hiking in nearby nature reserves, kayaking or canoeing on the Platte River, or attending outdoor concerts and festivals. Indoor activities include visiting museums, attending art classes, or joining community theater productions.
July
July is one of the warmest months in Ashland, with average temperatures reaching 85°F. Despite the heat, precipitation levels remain moderate at 3.73 inches, and sunny days offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun. Visitors can enjoy swimming and tubing on the Platte River, camping in local parks, or attending Fourth of July celebrations and fireworks displays. Indoor activities include visiting air-conditioned malls, attending movie screenings, or hosting summer barbecues with friends and family.
August
August brings similar temperatures to July, with an average of 84°F. While precipitation levels remain at 3.73 inches, sunny days still provide ideal conditions for outdoor activities. August is perfect for camping in nearby forests, fishing in local lakes, or taking scenic drives to explore the countryside. Indoor activities include attending county fairs, visiting art galleries, or participating in cooking classes featuring seasonal produce.
September
As summer transitions to fall, September sees mild temperatures averaging around 76°F. With 2.88 inches of precipitation, occasional rain showers may occur, but sunny days are still plentiful. September is an ideal time for outdoor activities such as apple picking at local orchards, hiking in scenic parks, or attending harvest festivals. Indoor activities include visiting pumpkin patches, attending fall concerts, or taking yoga classes to unwind after a busy summer.
October
October marks the arrival of fall in Ashland, with temperatures dropping to an average of 64°F. With 2.26 inches of precipitation, the weather becomes cooler, and fall foliage begins to appear in the surrounding forests. October is perfect for outdoor activities such as pumpkin carving, hayrides, or visiting haunted attractions for Halloween. Indoor activities include baking seasonal treats, attending craft fairs, or hosting cozy gatherings with friends and family.
November
November brings colder temperatures to Ashland, with an average of 46°F. While precipitation levels increase to 1.44 inches, occasional snow showers may occur, signaling the onset of winter. November is an excellent time for outdoor activities such as hunting for deer and turkey in nearby forests, gathering firewood for the winter, or taking leisurely walks to enjoy the crisp autumn air. Indoor activities include attending holiday markets, crafting homemade gifts, or cozying up by the fireplace with a good book.
December
December ushers in the winter season in Ashland, with temperatures averaging 33°F. With 0.84 inches of precipitation, the town experiences cold temperatures and occasional snowfall. Outdoor activities may include building snowmen, ice skating on frozen ponds, or taking horse-drawn sleigh rides through snowy fields. Indoor activities include attending holiday concerts, baking cookies, or gathering with loved ones for festive celebrations.