weatherbycounty

Pocahontas County Climate

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec46.9°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

46.9°F

Annual Precip

32.8"

Annual Snowfall

38.8"

Extreme Heat Days

18

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
1.0"
1.0"
2.0"
3.4"
4.6"
4.7"
4.0"
4.3"
2.6"
2.3"
1.6"
1.2"
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Growing Season & Gardening

USDA Hardiness Zone

5a

Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival

Growing Degree Days

2,942

Supports most vegetables & fruits

Last spring frost (32°F): 04/26
First fall frost (32°F): 10/07

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring34°60°10.0"Summer70°73°13.0"Fall35°63°6.5"Winter17°22°3.3"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 19% of US counties
Wetter than 30% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 94% of US counties

7-Day Outlook

Forecast

Current Conditions

Air Quality

Safety

Weather Alerts

Climate Advisory: Pocahontas County

Climate Verdict

Pocahontas County has a cool, averaging 46.9°F annually, moderate rainfall of 32.8 inches per year, rare extreme heat with only 17.6 days above 90°F annually, moderate snowfall of 38.8 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.

Seasonal Breakdown

Winters are very cold — January averages 16.6°F. summers are warm — July averages 73.4°F. Residents experience a substantial 57°F difference between winter and summer.

Outdoor & Gardening Guidance

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

Regional Context

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

Climate Profile

About Pocahontas County Weather

High Snowfall and Cool Annual Temps

Pocahontas County averages 46.9°F annually, falling below the national median in a classic humid continental zone. The county is notable for receiving 38.8 inches of snow, which is high by national standards.

Leading the Region in Winter Snow

With 38.8 inches of snow annually, Pocahontas County is one of the snowier spots in Iowa. Its 46.9°F average temperature makes it roughly 1.1 degrees cooler than the state average.

Snowier Than Its Western Neighbors

Pocahontas County records 38.8 inches of snow, which is 5 inches more than Plymouth County to the west. It shares nearly identical annual temperatures with its neighbors, despite the difference in winter accumulation.

Severe Winters and Brief Heat Waves

The county faces a cold winter average of 20.0°F, with January being the coldest point at 16.6°F. Summer offers a July average of 73.4°F, though residents must still navigate 18 days of extreme heat.

Prepare for Significant Snow Removal

Reliable snow removal service or high-end equipment is a must for the 38.8 inches of annual snow. Residents should also winterize homes early to prepare for the 16.6°F January lows.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Pocahontas County?
The average annual temperature in Pocahontas County, IA is 46.9°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Pocahontas County get?
Pocahontas County receives an average of 32.8 inches of precipitation per year, including both rain and meltwater from snow. This is based on NOAA 30-year climate normals.
Does it snow in Pocahontas County?
Yes, Pocahontas County receives an average of 38.8 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Pocahontas County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Pocahontas County is 71.5°F. The county experiences an average of 18 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Pocahontas County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Pocahontas County is 20.0°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 16.6°F.

Track your own weather in Pocahontas County

Ambient Weather personal weather stations give you hyperlocal climate data.

Shop Weather Stations →

Sponsored

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
← Back to Iowa