Madison lies in the path of the frequent cyclones and anticyclones which move eastward over this area during fall, winter and spring. In summer, the cyclones tend to pass farther north. The most frequent air masses are of polar origin. Occasional outbreaks of artic air affect the area during the winter months. Although northward moving tropical air masses contribute considerable cloudiness and precipitation, the true Gulf air mass does not reach this area in winter, and only occasionally at other seasons. Summers are pleasant, with only occasional periods of extreme heat or high humidity.
There are no dry and wet seasons, but about 60 percent of the annual precipitation falls in the five months of May through September. Cold season precipitation is lighter, but lasts longer. Soil moisture is usually adequate in the first part of the growing season. During July, August and September, the crops depend on current rainfall, which is mostly from thunderstorms and tends to be erratic and variable. Average occurance of thunderstorms is just under 7 days per month during this period.
March and November are the windiest months. Tornadoes are infrequent. Dane County has about one tornado in every three to five years.
The ground is covered with 1 inch or more of snow about 60 percent of the time from December through February in an average winter. The soil is usually frozen from the first of December through most of March with an average frost penetration of 25 to 30 inches. The growing season averages 175 days.
Farming is diversified with the main emphasis on dairy farming. Field crops are mainly corn, oats, clover, and alfalfa, but barley, wheat, rye, and tobacco are also raised. Canning factories pack peas, sweet corn, and lima beans. Fruits are mainly apples, strawberries, and raspberries.