Bismarck is located on the east bank of the Missouri River in south-central North Dakota. It is situated on butte-like hills overlooking the river, and lies within one of the country's leading wheat-producing areas. North Dakota's climate is continental and fairly uniform throughout; the Bismarck region is temperate with moderate rainfall. Winters are long and severe; summers are short but favorable for agriculture because of the long hours of sunshine.
Area: 27.0 square miles (2000)
Elevation: 1,700 feet above sea level
Average Temperatures: January, 20.0° F; July, 84.4° F; annual average, 53.8° F
Average Annual Precipitation: 15.47 inches of rain; 44 inches of snow