Climate and monthly weather forecast
Altoona, IA

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The climate of Altoona

Altoona, Iowa, USA exhibits a humid continental climate, with no dry season and hot summers, as per the Köppen climate classification (Dfa). Geographically, this town is located in the central part of the United States. The climate here is characterized by significant temperature differences throughout the year, with hot summers and cold winters. A noticeable feature of Altoona's climate is its high relative humidity, which remains fairly steady throughout the year, ranging between 70% and 83%.

The town receives a moderate amount of rainfall, with monthly averages varying from 0.24" (6mm) to 0.98" (25mm). The months from April to September record more rain, with May receiving the highest precipitation of 0.98" (25mm). Correspondingly, the highest number of rainy days are also registered in this period of high precipitation. Snowfall occurs primarily in the winter months, with a peak in December of 0.24" (6mm).

The daylight hours, as expected, are longest in June with 15.2 hours, and shortest in December with 9.2 hours. Both sunlight hours and UV index follow a similar trend, peaking in summer and dipping in winter, indicating longer and sunnier days during the warmer months. Wind speeds show little variation through the year, generally remaining within 6.9 to 10.4mph (16.7km/h), with gustlings hitting a maximum of 16.5mph (26.6km/h).

The best time to visit Altoona

The best time to visit Altoona depends largely on visitor preferences. However, the period from late spring to early autumn, specifically May to September, provides favorable conditions for outdoor activities. During these months, daily high temperatures are between 69.6°F (20.9°C) and 82.4°F (28°C), and the prospects of rainfall are comparatively low. The longer daylight hours and optimal sunshine also add value to this period, making it ideal for a variety of outdoor and sightseeing activities.

The worst time to visit Altoona

The unfavorable times to visit Altoona would be the colder months from November to February, when temperatures can drop quite drastically. In these months, average low temperatures range from 14.4°F (-9.8°C) to 32.7°F (0.4°C), making it less than ideal for most outdoor activities. Additionally, the reduced daylight hours and sunshine bring in gloomy weather, while the increased precipitation in the form of snow further restricts outdoor excursions.

Spring weather in Altoona

Spring in Altoona, between March and May, sees a rapid increase in daily high temperatures, from a moderate 46.8°F (8.2°C) in March to a warm 69.6°F (20.9°C) by May. Correspondingly, the lows also increase from 32.2°F (0.1°C) to 52.9°F (11.6°C). This period also welcomes a significant increase in rainfall, rising from 0.31" (8mm) in March to the yearly peak of 0.98" (25mm) in May.

Summer weather in Altoona

Summers in Altoona, from June to August, are characterized by warm to hot daily high temperatures, consistently above 79.3°F (26.3°C), while the nighttime lows stay comfortably between 62.2°F (16.8°C) to 65.1°F (18.4°C). Rainfall levels drop post-May, balancing around 0.94" (24mm) to 0.47" (12mm) during these months. The long hours of sunshine, averaging 9.8 to 10.4 hours, along with the longest daylight duration of the year makes it a vibrant season.

Autumn weather in Altoona

Autumn, from September to November in Altoona, witnesses a comfortable drop in temperature, with daily highs decreasing from 75.4°F (24.1°C) in September to a cool 46.9°F (8.3°C) by November. Correspondingly, the lows also decrease from 55.9°F (13.3°C) to 32.7°F (0.4°C). The rainfall during this period moderately increases, balancing around 0.63" (16mm) to 0.31" (8mm).

Winter weather in Altoona

The winter season in Altoona is usually chilly and cold. From December to February, the town experiences a low average temperature from 14.4°F (-9.8°C) to 31.6°F (-0.2°C). High temperatures remain subdued, varying between 27.5°F (-2.5°C) and 34°F (1.1°C). It is during these months when Altoona experiences snow, with December witnessing the highest snowfall of 0.24" (6mm). These months also have relatively lower daylight hours and barely any sunshine, thus creating a cold, wintery atmosphere.

Weather in January

January presents Altoona's coldest weather condition with average highs and lows between 27.5°F (-2.5°C) and 14.4°F (-9.8°C). During this period, chilly winds are prevalent with an average speed of 10.3mph (16.6km/h) coupled with a high probability of snowfall. Weather in January »

Weather in February

As the year progresses, February in Altoona experiences a minor increase in temperature compared to January. However, the climate remains frosty, especially in the early mornings and at night-time. Precipitation, although still minimal, slightly increases and continues as snowfall, rendering the city a perfect spot for winter activities. Weather in February »

Weather in March

A transition into spring is recognized in March, where Altoona experiences a considerable rise in temperature from February. The advent of warmer days is accompanied by an increase in relative humidity, leading to a higher probability of rainfall. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April brings a significant weather shift with temperatures elevating to an average high of 59.5°F (15.3°C). As the grip of winter loosens, the snow completely disappears from the city while rainfall shifts from sparse to moderate. Weather in April »

Weather in May

In Altoona, May marks the onset of summer with an average high temperature rising to 69.6°F (20.9°C). Along with this notable increase in heat, the city also witnesses its highest amount of rainfall for the year at 0.98" (25mm). The end of spring and beginning of summer bring out blooming landscapes thanks to the abundant rainfall. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June experiences a further enhancement of summer temperatures as Altoona warms to an average high of 79.3°F (26.3°C). The warm weather is coupled with heightened humidity, resulting in somewhat stuffy conditions. Despite the heat, there is an overall decrease in precipitation compared to May, though rainfall still occurs frequently enough to keep the landscape lush and verdant. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July is the hottest month of the year in Altoona with temperatures reaching a peak average of 82.4°F (28°C). This period also showcases decreased rainfall and lower wind speeds, contributing to the significantly warm conditions. Weather in July »

Weather in August

A slight dip in temperature makes August slightly more tolerable than July in Altoona. The decrease allows for comfortable weather conditions suitable for various outdoor adventures. Rainfall remains comparatively lesser during this period though humidity levels stay uniform, contributing to slightly muggy conditions. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September introduces subtle autumn vibes to Altoona weather, with average temperatures dropping to 75.4°F (24.1°C). Despite being the start of fall, occasional spells of warmth from the preceding summer persist. The frequency of rainfall remains moderate, ensuring the city's greenery remains vibrant. Weather in September »

Weather in October

In October, Altoona is fully immersed in the fall season marked by a significant drop in temperature to an average high of 60.3°F (15.7°C). The mild and cool conditions are punctuated by autumn foliage, contributing to a picturesque landscape. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November registers a further decrease in temperature in Altoona, making the weather noticeably cooler. The fall-colored leaves start to drop, indicating the close approach of winter. The rainfall during this month reduces significantly and the humidity levels dip. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December welcomes winter season to Altoona as temperatures plummet to between an average high of 34°F (1.1°C) and an average low of 22.1°F (-5.5°C). Light snowfall is often observed, adding a festive touch in the run-up to the holiday season. Weather in December »
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Frequently asked questions

What is the coldest month in Altoona?

With average temperatures fluctuating between a high of 27.5°F (-2.5°C) and a low of 14.4°F (-9.8°C), January stands out as the coldest month in Altoona, Iowa.

What is the most humid month in Altoona?

The most humid month in Altoona, Iowa, is January, with an average relative humidity of 83%.

What is the driest month in Altoona?

The months with the least rainfall are January, February and December Rain falls for 1.8 days and accumulates 0.24" (6mm) of rain.

How many days does it rain in Altoona?

In Altoona, Iowa, during the entire year, the rain falls for 79 days and collects up to 5.94" (151mm) of precipitation.

When does it snow in Altoona?

January through April, October through December are months with snowfall in Altoona.

When does it snow the most in Altoona?

The month with the most snowfall in Altoona, Iowa, is January, when snow falls for 6.2 days and typically aggregates up to 0.91" (23mm) of snow.

How many days does it snow in Altoona?

Throughout the year, in Altoona, there are 22 snowfall days, and 2.44" (62mm) of snow is accumulated.

What is the month with the least sunshine in Altoona?

January has the least sunshine of the year in Altoona, with an average of 4.2h of sunshine.

When is the lowest UV index in Altoona?

The month with the lowest UV index in Altoona, Iowa, is January, with an average maximum UV index of 1.

When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Altoona?

On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts, and the time zone changes from CST to CDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from CDT to CST.

What is the rainiest month in Altoona?

The month with the most rainfall is May, when the rain falls for 11.6 days and typically aggregates up to 0.98" (25mm) of precipitation.

When it does not snow in Altoona?

In Altoona, Iowa, snow does not fall in May through September.

When are the longest days in Altoona?

The month with the longest days is June, with an average of 15h and 6min of daylight.

When is the highest UV index in Altoona?

The months with the highest UV index are June through August, with an average maximum UV index of 6.

What are the warmest months in Altoona?

July, recording an average high temperature of 82.4°F (28°C) and a low temperature of 65.1°F (18.4°C), is Altoona's warmest month.

What month has the most sunshine in Altoona?

The month with the most sunshine is July, with an average of 10.4h of sunshine.

What is the least humid month in Altoona?

The least humid month in Altoona, Iowa, is October, with an average relative humidity of 70%.

What is the month with the shortest days in Altoona?

The month with the shortest days in Altoona is December, with an average of 9h and 12min of daylight.

Average temperature
Altoona, IA

Average temperature - Altoona, IA

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (82.4°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (27.5°F).

The month with the highest average low temperature is July (65.1°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (14.4°F).

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Average pressure
Altoona, IA

Average pressure - Altoona, IA

The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (30.16"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.89"Hg).

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Average wind speed
Altoona, IA

Average wind speed - Altoona, IA

The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is April (10.4mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (6.9mph).

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Average rainfall
Altoona, IA

Average rainfall - Altoona, IA

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is May (0.98").
The driest months (with the least rainfall) are January, February and December (0.24").

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Average rainfall days
Altoona, IA

Average rainfall days - Altoona, IA

The month with the highest number of rainy days is May (11.6 days).
The month with the least rainy days is January (1.8 days).

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Average snowfall
Altoona, IA

Average snowfall - Altoona, IA

The month with the highest snowfall is January (0.91").
The months with the least snowfall are May, June, July, August and September (0").

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Average snowfall days
Altoona, IA

Average snowfall days - Altoona, IA

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (6.2 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July, August and September (0 days).

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Average daylight / Average sunshine
Altoona, IA

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Altoona, IA

The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 6min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 12min).

The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 10h and 24min).
The month with the least sunshine is January (Average sunshine: 4h and 12min).

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Average sunshine days
Altoona, IA

Average sunshine days - Altoona, IA

The month with the most sunshine days is December (25.5 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is June (15.5 days).

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Average visibility
Altoona, IA

Average visibility - Altoona, IA

The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, September, October, November and December (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are July and August (5mi).

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Altoona, Iowa, USA

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