weatherbycounty

Buena Vista County Climate

Buena Vista County, Iowa

NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate Normals
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec46.8°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

46.8°F

Annual Precip

32.9"

Annual Snowfall

35.2"

Extreme Heat Days

11

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
0.7"
0.9"
1.8"
3.6"
4.5"
5.2"
3.6"
4.4"
3.2"
2.5"
1.6"
1.0"
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

2,842

Supports most vegetables & fruits

Last spring frost (32°F): 04/30
First fall frost (32°F): 10/13

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring34°59°9.8"Summer70°73°13.2"Fall35°63°7.2"Winter17°23°2.6"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 19% of US counties
Wetter than 30% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 93% of US counties

7-Day Outlook

Forecast

Current Conditions

Air Quality

Safety

Weather Alerts

Climate Advisory: Buena Vista County

Climate Verdict

Buena Vista County has a cool, averaging 46.8°F annually, moderate rainfall of 32.9 inches per year, rare extreme heat with only 10.65 days above 90°F annually, moderate snowfall of 35.2 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.

Seasonal Breakdown

Winters are very cold — January averages 17.0°F. summers are warm — July averages 72.5°F. Residents experience a substantial 56°F difference between winter and summer.

Outdoor & Gardening Guidance

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

Regional Context

Buena Vista County closely matches the Iowa statewide average temperature of 48.0°F, it is somewhat drier than average for Iowa.

Climate Profile

About Buena Vista County Weather

Lower Temperatures in Northwest Iowa

Buena Vista County averages 46.8°F annually, trailing the national median temperature of 53°F. The local climate is defined by long, cold winters and moderate, humid summers.

Colder and Drier than Average

The county sits 1.2 degrees below the state average temperature of 48.0°F. It also receives 3.2 inches less precipitation than the state average of 36.1 inches, marking it as a drier region of Iowa.

Typical Regional Climate Profiles

Buena Vista is slightly warmer than neighboring Buchanan County but remains cooler than the central Iowa average. Its 35.2 inches of annual snowfall is typical for the northwestern part of the state.

Snowy Winters and Brief Heat

January is cold with a 17.0°F average, contributing to an annual snowfall of 35.2 inches. July brings an average of 72.5°F, though the county only faces 11 days per year above 90°F.

Winter Resilience is Key

Significant snowfall requires residents to keep winter emergency kits in their vehicles at all times. Homeowners should ensure proper insulation to manage the 20.4°F average winter temperatures effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Buena Vista County?
The average annual temperature in Buena Vista County, IA is 46.8°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Buena Vista County get?
Buena Vista County receives an average of 32.9 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 Buena Vista County?
Yes, Buena Vista County receives an average of 35.2 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Buena Vista County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Buena Vista County is 70.7°F. The county experiences an average of 11 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Buena Vista County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Buena Vista County is 20.4°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 17.0°F.

Track your own weather in Buena Vista County

Ambient Weather personal weather stations give you hyperlocal climate data.

Shop Weather Stations →

Sponsored

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
← Back to Iowa