Dickinson County Climate
Dickinson County, Iowa
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
45.9°F
Annual Precip
30.0"
Annual Snowfall
40.2"
Extreme Heat Days
14
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
5a
Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival
2,821
Supports most vegetables & fruits
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: Dickinson County
Climate Verdict
Dickinson County has a cool, averaging 45.9°F annually, moderate rainfall of 30.0 inches per year, rare extreme heat with only 14.333333333333334 days above 90°F annually, moderate snowfall of 40.2 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal Breakdown
Winters are very cold — January averages 15.5°F. summers are warm — July averages 73.1°F. Residents experience a substantial 58°F difference between winter and summer.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
Winter sports enthusiasts benefit from reliable snow cover for 3-4 months annually.
Regional Context
Dickinson County closely matches the Iowa statewide average temperature of 48.0°F, it is also noticeably drier, receiving 6.1 inches less precipitation than the state average.
Climate Profile
About Dickinson County Weather
A True Northern Continental Climate
Dickinson County’s 45.9°F annual average is well below the national median, placing it firmly in the cold northern tier of the U.S. It receives 30.0 inches of precipitation, making it one of the drier regions in the Midwest. This climate is defined by long, frigid winters and short, vibrant summers.
Colder and Drier Than Average
Dickinson County is significantly cooler than the Iowa average of 48.0°F and drier than the state average of 36.1 inches. With an average temperature of 45.9°F, it is among the coldest counties in the state. The 30.0 inches of annual precipitation reflects the more arid conditions of northwest Iowa.
Frigid Northwest Regional Climate
Dickinson is slightly warmer than its neighbor Emmet County (44.7°F) but remains one of the coldest spots in Iowa. It is much colder than central counties like Dallas, which averages nearly 3 degrees warmer. This region is known for its harsh winter winds and heavy snow accumulation.
Vast Snowfall and Deep Winter Chill
Winter is the dominant season here, with a staggering 40.2 inches of annual snowfall and a January average of 15.5°F. Summers are brief but warm, with 14 days hitting 90°F and a July average of 73.1°F. The winter average of 18.7°F makes this one of the most challenging winter climates in the state.
Equip for Serious Winter
Heavy-duty snow removal equipment and elite-rated winter clothing are non-negotiable for the 40-inch snow season. While summers are pleasant, the 14 days of 90-degree heat still require functional cooling systems. Homeowners should prioritize high-efficiency heating and thick insulation to withstand the 15-degree January lows.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average temperature in Dickinson County?
How much rain does Dickinson County get?
Does it snow in Dickinson County?
How hot does Dickinson County get in summer?
How cold are winters in Dickinson County?
Track your own weather in Dickinson County
Ambient Weather personal weather stations give you hyperlocal climate data.
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.