weatherbycounty

Cherokee County Climate

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec46.7°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

46.7°F

Annual Precip

31.2"

Annual Snowfall

37.8"

Extreme Heat Days

17

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
0.7"
0.8"
1.7"
3.2"
4.3"
5.2"
3.4"
4.1"
3.3"
2.3"
1.5"
0.9"
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

2,850

Supports most vegetables & fruits

Last spring frost (32°F): 05/04
First fall frost (32°F): 10/04

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring34°59°9.1"Summer69°73°12.7"Fall35°63°7.0"Winter17°22°2.4"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 18% of US counties
Wetter than 28% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 94% of US counties

7-Day Outlook

Forecast

Current Conditions

Air Quality

Safety

Weather Alerts

Climate Advisory: Cherokee County

Climate Verdict

Cherokee County has a cool, averaging 46.7°F annually, moderate rainfall of 31.2 inches per year, rare extreme heat with only 16.7 days above 90°F annually, moderate snowfall of 37.8 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.

Seasonal Breakdown

Winters are very cold — January averages 16.9°F. summers are warm — July averages 73.2°F. Residents experience a substantial 56°F difference between winter and summer.

Outdoor & Gardening Guidance

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

Regional Context

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

Climate Profile

About Cherokee County Weather

A typical humid continental climate in Cherokee

Cherokee County maintains an annual average temperature of 46.7°F, placing it well below the national median. This region is characterized by cold winters and warm, humid summers common in the upper Midwest.

Slightly cooler and drier than state norms

The county's 46.7°F average temperature sits below the Iowa state average of 48.0°F. Additionally, its 31.2 inches of annual precipitation is roughly 5 inches lower than the state average of 36.1 inches.

Drier conditions compared to eastern Iowa counties

Cherokee is notably drier than its eastern neighbors, receiving only 31.2 inches of total annual precipitation. However, it sees more extreme heat with 17 days above 90°F compared to more northern counties like Cerro Gordo.

Warm summer peaks and snowy winter stretches

July averages 73.2°F, supported by 17 days of extreme heat reaching at least 90°F. Winter brings a sharp contrast, with an average temperature of 20.2°F and 37.8 inches of annual snowfall.

Focus on summer cooling and moisture management

With 17 extreme heat days, reliable air conditioning is essential for summer comfort in Cherokee. Residents should also prepare for 37.8 inches of snow, though the overall lower precipitation means fewer heavy rain events than the state average.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Cherokee County?
The average annual temperature in Cherokee County, IA is 46.7°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Cherokee County get?
Cherokee County receives an average of 31.2 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 Cherokee County?
Yes, Cherokee County receives an average of 37.8 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Cherokee County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Cherokee County is 71.1°F. The county experiences an average of 17 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Cherokee County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Cherokee County is 20.2°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 16.9°F.

Track your own weather in Cherokee 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