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Pottawattamie County Climate

Pottawattamie County, Iowa

NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate Normals
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec49.4°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

49.4°F

Annual Precip

35.3"

Annual Snowfall

27.6"

Extreme Heat Days

20

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
0.8"
0.9"
1.9"
3.8"
5.3"
5.2"
3.7"
4.5"
3.4"
2.8"
1.5"
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

3,216

Supports most vegetables & fruits

Last spring frost (32°F): 04/23
First fall frost (32°F): 10/14

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring38°61°11.0"Summer71°74°13.4"Fall38°65°7.8"Winter21°26°3.1"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 28% of US counties
Wetter than 35% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 90% of US counties

7-Day Outlook

Forecast

Current Conditions

Air Quality

Safety

Weather Alerts

Climate Advisory: Pottawattamie County

Climate Verdict

Pottawattamie County has a cool, averaging 49.4°F annually, moderate rainfall of 35.3 inches per year, rare extreme heat with only 19.7 days above 90°F annually, moderate snowfall of 27.6 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.

Seasonal Breakdown

Winters are very cold — January averages 20.9°F. summers are warm — July averages 74.4°F. Residents experience a substantial 54°F difference between winter and summer.

Outdoor & Gardening Guidance

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

Regional Context

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

Climate Profile

About Pottawattamie County Weather

Mild Temperatures with Standard Precipitation

Pottawattamie County averages 49.4°F annually, slightly below the national median. The 35.3 inches of annual precipitation reflect a typical continental climate with moisture-rich summers.

Warming Above the Iowa State Average

At 49.4°F, this county is 1.4 degrees warmer than the Iowa state average of 48.0°F. Its annual precipitation of 35.3 inches sits just below the statewide average of 36.1 inches.

Snowier and Cooler Than Southern Page

Pottawattamie is cooler than Page County to its south, which averages 51.0°F. However, Pottawattamie receives 3 more inches of snow annually, making for a slightly more rigorous winter.

Steamy Summers and Moderate Winter Cold

The county experiences 20 days of extreme heat annually, with July temperatures averaging 74.4°F. Winter is characterized by 27.6 inches of snow and a 20.9°F January average.

Expect Variable Winter and Summer Peaks

HVAC systems must be prepared for both the 20 days of extreme heat and the 24.1°F winter average. Proper attic ventilation is recommended to manage the consistent summer humidity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Pottawattamie County?
The average annual temperature in Pottawattamie County, IA is 49.4°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Pottawattamie County get?
Pottawattamie County receives an average of 35.3 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 Pottawattamie County?
Yes, Pottawattamie County receives an average of 27.6 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Pottawattamie County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Pottawattamie County is 72.6°F. The county experiences an average of 20 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Pottawattamie County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Pottawattamie County is 24.1°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 20.9°F.

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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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