Palo Alto County Climate
Palo Alto County, Iowa
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
47.3°F
Annual Precip
33.6"
Annual Snowfall
37.1"
Extreme Heat Days
15
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
5a
Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival
3,001
Supports most vegetables & fruits
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: Palo Alto County
Climate Verdict
Palo Alto County has a cool, averaging 47.3°F annually, moderate rainfall of 33.6 inches per year, rare extreme heat with only 14.7 days above 90°F annually, moderate snowfall of 37.1 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal Breakdown
Winters are very cold — January averages 16.8°F. summers are warm — July averages 74.1°F. Residents experience a substantial 57°F difference between winter and summer.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
Growing season and gardening data is currently limited for Palo Alto County. Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and local extension office for specific guidance.
Regional Context
Palo Alto County closely matches the Iowa statewide average temperature of 48.0°F, it is somewhat drier than average for Iowa.
Climate Profile
About Palo Alto County Weather
Cool Continental Climate with Significant Snow
Palo Alto County averages 47.3°F annually, reflecting a cooler humid continental profile compared to the national median. The region sees 33.6 inches of precipitation, largely concentrated in the spring and summer months.
Cooler and Snowier Than the State Average
The county's 47.3°F annual average sits slightly below the Iowa state average of 48.0°F. It is also significantly snowier, recording 37.1 inches compared to the lighter totals seen in southern Iowa.
The Snow Capital of the Local Region
Palo Alto County receives 37.1 inches of snow, nearly 4 inches more than neighboring Plymouth County. Despite the extra snow, it shares a similar annual temperature profile with Pocahontas County to the south.
Frigid Januaries and Moderate Summer Heat
Winter is the dominant season here, with January temperatures averaging a chilly 16.8°F. Summers are pleasant but warm, featuring a July average of 74.1°F and 15 days of extreme heat above 90°F.
Prioritize Insulation and Heavy Snow Gear
Residents need high-capacity snow blowers to manage the 37.1 inches of annual snowfall. Home insulation is critical to counter the winter average temperature of just 20.3°F.
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.