weatherbycounty

Tama County Climate

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec47.3°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

47.3°F

Annual Precip

37.1"

Annual Snowfall

31.5"

Extreme Heat Days

12

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
1.1"
1.1"
1.9"
3.8"
4.8"
5.8"
4.3"
4.1"
3.8"
2.9"
2.1"
1.4"
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

2,849

Supports most vegetables & fruits

Last spring frost (32°F): 04/30
First fall frost (32°F): 10/09

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring35°59°10.5"Summer69°73°14.1"Fall36°63°8.8"Winter18°24°3.6"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 20% of US counties
Wetter than 38% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 91% of US counties

7-Day Outlook

Forecast

Current Conditions

Air Quality

Safety

Weather Alerts

Climate Advisory: Tama County

Climate Verdict

Tama County has a cool, averaging 47.3°F annually, moderate rainfall of 37.1 inches per year, rare extreme heat with only 12.4 days above 90°F annually, moderate snowfall of 31.5 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.

Seasonal Breakdown

Winters are very cold — January averages 18.1°F. summers are warm — July averages 72.5°F. Residents experience a substantial 54°F difference between winter and summer.

Outdoor & Gardening Guidance

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

Regional Context

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

Climate Profile

About Tama County Weather

Tama County Experiences Classic Continental Extremes

An annual average of 47.3°F places Tama County in the cooler bracket of the United States. Its weather is characterized by significant variations between the freezing winter and warm summer months.

Slightly Cooler Than the Iowa Median

Tama County's average temperature of 47.3°F sits 0.7 degrees below the Iowa state average of 48.0°F. While typical for the state, it leans toward the cooler side of the central Iowa region.

Higher Precipitation Than Western Neighbors

The county receives 37.1 inches of precipitation annually, exceeding the state average of 36.1 inches. This makes Tama slightly wetter than counties further west, favoring robust agricultural cycles.

Heavy Snow and Mild Summer Peaks

Winter brings a significant 31.5 inches of snow and a January average of 18.1°F. Summers are relatively comfortable, with only 12 days of extreme heat reaching 90°F or higher.

Winter Preparedness is Top Priority

The 31.5 inches of annual snow requires reliable clearing equipment and weather-tight home sealing. Because extreme heat is limited to 12 days, residents can focus more on winterizing than summer cooling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Tama County?
The average annual temperature in Tama County, IA is 47.3°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Tama County get?
Tama County receives an average of 37.1 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 Tama County?
Yes, Tama County receives an average of 31.5 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Tama County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Tama County is 70.6°F. The county experiences an average of 12 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Tama County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Tama County is 21.6°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 18.1°F.

Track your own weather in Tama 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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