Dubuque County Climate
Dubuque County, Iowa
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
47.8°F
Annual Precip
38.8"
Annual Snowfall
36.6"
Extreme Heat Days
12
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
5a
Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival
2,906
Supports most vegetables & fruits
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: Dubuque County
Climate Verdict
Dubuque County has a cool, averaging 47.8°F annually, moderate rainfall of 38.8 inches per year, rare extreme heat with only 11.666666666666666 days above 90°F annually, moderate snowfall of 36.6 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal Breakdown
Winters are very cold — January averages 19.0°F. summers are warm — July averages 72.9°F. Residents experience a substantial 54°F difference between winter and summer.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
Growing season and gardening data is currently limited for Dubuque County. Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and local extension office for specific guidance.
Regional Context
Dubuque County closely matches the Iowa statewide average temperature of 48.0°F, it is somewhat wetter than average for Iowa.
Climate Profile
About Dubuque County Weather
Mississippi River Valley Climate
Dubuque County’s 47.8°F average annual temperature is cooler than the national median, typical for its latitude along the Mississippi River. The county is quite moist, receiving 38.8 inches of precipitation annually. This creates a lush landscape with dramatic seasonal changes and frequent winter weather.
Mirroring the State Average
Dubuque County sits almost exactly at the Iowa state average for temperature, averaging 47.8°F compared to the state's 48.0°F. It is wetter than average, however, receiving nearly 3 inches more precipitation than the 36.1-inch state norm. This makes it a prototypical but damp example of the Iowa climate.
The Most Moderate in the North
Dubuque is notably warmer than its western neighbor Delaware County (46.3°F) and far more temperate than Dickinson County (45.9°F). Its location along the river helps moderate temperatures compared to the more exposed plains of northwest Iowa. It offers a balanced climate within the colder northern half of the state.
Heavy Snow and Mild Heat
Winter is active in Dubuque, delivering 36.6 inches of snow and a January average of 19.0°F. Summers are relatively mild for the region, with only 12 days exceeding 90°F and a 72.9°F July average. The winter season average remains cold at 22.3°F, requiring consistent heating for several months.
Prepare for Snowy River Bluffs
The 36.6 inches of snowfall requires robust snow tires and reliable plowing service for those navigating the county's hilly terrain. Residents should also invest in moisture control for homes due to the high 38.8-inch precipitation levels. Winter heating bills will be a significant factor given the sub-20-degree January averages.
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.