Climate

Northwest Iowa has a continental climate. Summers are very warm and winters cold. Temperatures in late May and early June can be chilly with nighttime temperatures falling to 2° or 3° C. During July and August, maximum daytime temperatures are usually pleasant (30° C) but can be hot (35° C or higher). Temperatures during the winter can drop to -20°C or more during cold spells.

Most of the precipitation falls as rain during the warmer months of the year. Mean total annual precipitation is 736 mm (about 29"). From December through March, there is about 150 mm (6") to 200 mm (8") of snow per month.