Dickinson County Climate
Dickinson County, Iowa
Avg Annual Temp
45.9°F
Annual Precip
30.0"
Annual Snowfall
40.2"
Extreme Heat Days
14.333333333333334
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
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
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Data source: NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), U.S. Climate Normals 1991-2020.
Climate normals are 30-year averages of weather variables computed from 1991 to 2020. Station data is aggregated to county level using spatial averaging. Data is informational only — not a substitute for official National Weather Service forecasts or emergency weather warnings.