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Benton County Climate

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec47.1°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

47.1°F

Annual Precip

37.0"

Annual Snowfall

30.8"

Extreme Heat Days

12

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
1.1"
1.3"
2.0"
3.8"
4.7"
5.4"
4.1"
4.2"
3.6"
3.0"
2.1"
1.6"
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Growing Season & Gardening

USDA Hardiness Zone

5a

Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival

Growing Degree Days

2,785

Supports most vegetables & fruits

Last spring frost (32°F): 05/03
First fall frost (32°F): 10/10

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring35°59°10.6"Summer69°72°13.7"Fall36°63°8.7"Winter18°24°4.0"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 20% of US counties
Wetter than 38% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 90% of US counties

7-Day Outlook

Forecast

Current Conditions

Air Quality

Safety

Weather Alerts

Climate Advisory: Benton County

Climate Verdict

Benton County has a cool, averaging 47.1°F annually, moderate rainfall of 37.0 inches per year, rare extreme heat with only 12.4 days above 90°F annually, moderate snowfall of 30.8 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.

Seasonal Breakdown

Winters are very cold — January averages 18.1°F. summers are warm — July averages 72.0°F. Residents experience a substantial 54°F difference between winter and summer.

Outdoor & Gardening Guidance

Growing season and gardening data is currently limited for Benton County. Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and local extension office for specific guidance.

Regional Context

Benton County closely matches the Iowa statewide average temperature of 48.0°F.

Climate Profile

About Benton County Weather

Benton Experiences a Traditional Four-Season Climate

Benton County averages 47.1°F, trailing the national median by nearly 6 degrees. The county experiences moderate annual precipitation of 37.0 inches.

Representative of Central Iowa Weather

It sits just below the Iowa state average of 48.0°F. This makes it highly representative of the central Iowa climate corridor.

Similar Temperatures with Higher Rainfall

Benton closely mirrors Audubon in temperature but receives more rain at 37.0 inches. This precipitation level is higher than the state average of 36.1 inches.

Moderate Snowfall and Summer Heat

Residents see 12 days of 90-degree heat and 30.8 inches of annual snow. January is the coldest month, averaging 18.1°F.

Tires and Drainage for Damp Conditions

Winter tires are advisable to manage the 30-plus inches of snow. Homeowners should prepare for a damp climate with 37 inches of annual precipitation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Benton County?
The average annual temperature in Benton County, IA is 47.1°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Benton County get?
Benton County receives an average of 37.0 inches of precipitation per year, including both rain and meltwater from snow. This is based on NOAA 30-year climate normals.
Does it snow in Benton County?
Yes, Benton County receives an average of 30.8 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Benton County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Benton County is 70.2°F. The county experiences an average of 12 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Benton County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Benton County is 21.5°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 18.1°F.

Track your own weather in Benton County

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Data sources: NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), U.S. Climate Normals 1991-2020. Forecast and alert data from National Weather Service API. Air quality data from Open-Meteo.

Climate normals are 30-year averages of weather variables. Station data is aggregated to county level. Forecasts and alerts are fetched live and may change frequently. Data is informational only — not a substitute for official National Weather Service forecasts or emergency weather warnings.

By Evan Brooks, Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
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