Polk County Climate
Polk County, Iowa
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
50.2°F
Annual Precip
36.6"
Annual Snowfall
33.1"
Extreme Heat Days
21
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
5b
Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival
3,366
Supports most vegetables & fruits
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: Polk County
Climate Verdict
Polk County has a mild, with an average annual temperature of 50.2°F, moderate rainfall of 36.6 inches per year, occasional hot days — 20.833333333333332 per year above 90°F, moderate snowfall of 33.1 inches 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 75.5°F. Residents experience a substantial 54°F difference between winter and summer.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
Growing season and gardening data is currently limited for Polk County. Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and local extension office for specific guidance.
Regional Context
Polk County closely matches the Iowa statewide average temperature of 48.0°F.
Climate Profile
About Polk County Weather
A Balanced Mid-Continent Climate Profile
Polk County closely mirrors the national temperature median with an annual average of 50.2°F. Its 36.6 inches of precipitation are typical for the humid continental climate of the American Midwest.
Warmer and Wetter Than Iowa Norms
Polk County is 2.2 degrees warmer than the state average of 48.0°F. It also receives slightly more precipitation than the statewide mean, recording 36.6 inches annually.
A Warm Hub in Central Iowa
Compared to Poweshiek County to the east, Polk is significantly warmer, averaging 50.2°F versus 47.5°F. It also experiences 10 more days of extreme heat annually than its eastern neighbor.
Hot Summers and Steady Snowfall
July averages a warm 75.5°F, contributing to 21 days of extreme heat per year. Winter brings a consistent 33.1 inches of snow and a January average of 21.5°F.
Plan for High Summer Energy Demands
Residents should expect high cooling costs during the 21 days of 90°F+ weather. All-season tires and standard snow tools are sufficient for the 33.1 inches of winter snowfall.
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.