Buchanan County Climate
Buchanan County, Iowa
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
46.2°F
Annual Precip
38.0"
Annual Snowfall
33.9"
Extreme Heat Days
10
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
5a
Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival
2,702
Supports most vegetables & fruits
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: Buchanan County
Climate Verdict
Buchanan County has a cool, averaging 46.2°F annually, moderate rainfall of 38.0 inches per year, rare extreme heat with only 10.1 days above 90°F annually, moderate snowfall of 33.9 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal Breakdown
Winters are very cold — January averages 16.6°F. summers are warm — July averages 71.5°F. Residents experience a substantial 55°F difference between winter and summer.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
Growing season and gardening data is currently limited for Buchanan County. Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and local extension office for specific guidance.
Regional Context
Buchanan County closely matches the Iowa statewide average temperature of 48.0°F.
Climate Profile
About Buchanan County Weather
A Classic Upper Midwest Climate
Buchanan County's annual average temperature of 46.2°F falls well below the national median of 53°F. This humid continental region experiences the wide temperature swings characteristic of the American heartland.
Chillier Than the Iowa Average
Averaging 1.8 degrees cooler than the Iowa state mean of 48.0°F, Buchanan is one of the state's more temperate northern counties. This cooler baseline affects everything from the growing season to home energy costs.
Mirroring Eastern Iowa Trends
The county's climate is nearly identical to Bremer County's 46.4°F average. It receives 38.0 inches of annual precipitation, which is roughly two inches more than the state average of 36.1 inches.
Balanced Heat and Winter Snow
Residents enjoy mild summers with an average of 69.9°F and only 10 days of extreme heat over 90°F. Winter brings a steady 33.9 inches of snowfall and a frigid January average of 16.6°F.
Gear Up for Winter Transitions
The combination of nearly 34 inches of snow and a 19.9°F winter average makes a reliable snowblower a local essential. Residents should also plan for a wet spring, as the county receives more precipitation than much of western Iowa.
Frequently Asked Questions
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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.