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Mahaska County Climate

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec50.1°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

50.1°F

Annual Precip

38.7"

Annual Snowfall

Extreme Heat Days

15

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet
1.8"
1.7"
2.1"
3.9"
4.7"
5.2"
4.4"
5.1"
3.6"
2.7"
2.2"
1.4"
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Growing Season & Gardening

USDA Hardiness Zone

5b

Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival

Growing Degree Days

3,296

Supports most vegetables & fruits

Last spring frost (32°F): 04/21
First fall frost (32°F): 10/16

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring38°62°10.8"Summer71°75°14.7"Fall39°65°8.4"Winter22°27°4.8"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 30% of US counties
Wetter than 42% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 90% of US counties

7-Day Outlook

Forecast

Current Conditions

Air Quality

Safety

Weather Alerts

Climate Advisory: Mahaska County

Climate Verdict

Mahaska County has a mild, with an average annual temperature of 50.1°F, moderate rainfall of 38.7 inches per year, rare extreme heat with only 15.4 days above 90°F annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.

Seasonal Breakdown

Winters are very cold — January averages 21.5°F. summers are warm — July averages 75.2°F. Residents experience a substantial 54°F difference between winter and summer.

Outdoor & Gardening Guidance

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

Regional Context

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

Climate Profile

About Mahaska County Weather

One of Iowa's warmer regions

Mahaska County's annual average of 50.1°F is higher than many other Iowa counties, though still below the national median. This climate supports a long growing season with ample summer warmth.

Surpassing the state warmth average

At 50.1°F, Mahaska is significantly warmer than the Iowa state average of 48.0°F. It is also wetter than the state average, receiving 38.7 inches of annual precipitation.

The warm spot of the region

Mahaska is warmer than neighboring Madison and Lucas counties, exceeding their averages by roughly 2 degrees. It matches Madison's heat frequency with 15 days over 90°F per year.

Hot summers and moist air

July is quite warm here, averaging 75.2°F with frequent humidity. While annual snowfall data is currently unavailable, winter temperatures remain chilly with a December-February average of 24.9°F.

Focus on cooling and moisture

With 38.7 inches of precipitation and high July temperatures, moisture control and air conditioning are priorities. Residents should plan for a January average of 21.5°F when maintaining home heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Mahaska County?
The average annual temperature in Mahaska County, IA is 50.1°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Mahaska County get?
Mahaska County receives an average of 38.7 inches of precipitation per year, including both rain and meltwater from snow. This is based on NOAA 30-year climate normals.
How hot does Mahaska County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Mahaska County is 73.1°F. The county experiences an average of 15 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Mahaska County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Mahaska County is 24.9°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 21.5°F.

Track your own weather in Mahaska County

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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.

By Evan Brooks, Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
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