Vegetation on the District is as variable as the geologic features and produces forage for livestock and wildlife. The climate in northern Nevada is quite variable. Summer temperatures range in the high 90's while winter temperatures seldom go below zero degrees. Daily temperature fluctuations of 50 degrees are not uncommon. Precipitation occurs mainly during winter and spring months but scattered showers or thunderstorms during July, August, and September can result in localized flash flooding.
Winters are moderate, with heavy snow in the mountains and rain or light snow in the valleys.
Sudden changes in weather often occur in the Santa Rosas. Visitors should come prepared for these extreme changes in temperature and weather by bringing a variety of clothing and carrying chains and shovels in their vehicles. Visitors to the area who are unprepared run the risk of hypothermia. Information on hypothermia is available at the District Office in Winnemucca. Although most fires are caused by lightning, there has been a significant increase in the number of human-caused fires.