weatherbycounty

Marion County Climate

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec49.9°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

49.9°F

Annual Precip

36.9"

Annual Snowfall

Extreme Heat Days

20

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet
1.1"
1.4"
1.9"
3.9"
4.8"
5.5"
4.3"
4.1"
3.7"
2.9"
1.9"
1.5"
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

3,279

Supports most vegetables & fruits

Last spring frost (32°F): 04/20
First fall frost (32°F): 10/19

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring38°61°10.6"Summer71°75°13.9"Fall39°65°8.4"Winter21°27°4.0"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 30% of US counties
Wetter than 38% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 90% of US counties

7-Day Outlook

Forecast

Current Conditions

Air Quality

Safety

Weather Alerts

Climate Advisory: Marion County

Climate Verdict

Marion County has a cool, averaging 49.9°F annually, moderate rainfall of 36.9 inches per year, occasional hot days — 20.1 per year above 90°F. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.

Seasonal Breakdown

Winters are very cold — January averages 21.2°F. summers are warm — July averages 75.1°F. Residents experience a substantial 54°F difference between winter and summer.

Outdoor & Gardening Guidance

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

Regional Context

Marion County closely matches the Iowa statewide average temperature of 48.0°F.

Climate Profile

About Marion County Weather

A warm pocket in the Midwest

Marion County averages 49.9°F annually, which is on the higher end for Iowa but remains below the national median. The area experiences a robust humid continental climate with frequent summer heatwaves.

Leading the state in heat

Marion's 49.9°F average is nearly two degrees higher than the Iowa state average. It also sees 20 days of extreme heat annually, which is significantly higher than many northern counties.

More extreme heat than neighbors

Marion records 20 days above 90°F, surpassing neighbors like Mahaska and Madison. While its temperature is high, its 36.9 inches of rain is very close to the state average.

Intense summers and cold winters

Summer is a major factor here, with a July average of 75.1°F. Although specific snowfall totals are currently unlisted, winter temperatures average 24.8°F, providing a sharp contrast to the summer heat.

Prioritize high-efficiency cooling

With 20 days of extreme heat, a robust cooling system is essential for resident safety and comfort. Homeowners should also prepare for a 21.2°F January, the coldest month of the year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Marion County?
The average annual temperature in Marion County, IA is 49.9°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Marion County get?
Marion County receives an average of 36.9 inches of precipitation per year, including both rain and meltwater from snow. This is based on NOAA 30-year climate normals.
How hot does Marion County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Marion County is 73.0°F. The county experiences an average of 20 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Marion County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Marion County is 24.8°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 21.2°F.

Track your own weather in Marion 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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