Climate and monthly weather forecastCresco, IA

The climate of Cresco

Located in the Midwest region of the United States, Cresco, Iowa, falls within the Dfa category of the Köppen climate classification system. This classification signifies a humid continental climate, characterized by no dry season and hot summers. Throughout the year, Cresco experiences wide-ranging temperature fluctuations, significant rainfall, and notable snowfall.

In terms of thermal conditions, inhabitants witness average high temperatures from 21.6°F (-5.8°C) in January, steadily climbing to a scorching 78.3°F (25.7°C) by July, with a gentle retreat back to cooler temperatures towards the end of the year. In contrast, average low temperatures follow a similar pattern, commencing at 9°F (-12.8°C) in January and peaking at 62.1°F (16.7°C) in July.

The region's relative humidity hovers mainly in the 80th percentile, with slightly higher spikes in winter and slightly lower in the warmer months. Precipitation, both in the form of rainfall and snowfall, is a consistent occurrence. Monthly averaged rainfall ranges from 1.06" (27mm) in January to 4.8" (122mm) in June, with the latter part of spring and early summer experiencing the most rainfall. Concurrently, snowfall records show a peak in January with 5.51" (140mm), tapering off to negligible amounts from May to September.

Daylight hours, a key factor for both tourism and agriculture, fluctuate from a short 9 hours in the winter months, extending to a maximum of 15.4 hours during the height of summer. Likewise, sunshine duration follows a similar trend, varying between 7.1 hours per day in June up to 16 hours per day in November and December. The annual cloud coverage tends to be quite high, which impacts the visibility, ranging from 5 to 6 miles.

The best time to visit Cresco

Considering the varying climate parameters, the optimal time to visit Cresco would be from May to September. During this period, residents and visitors can enjoy moderate to high temperatures, between 53.4°F (11.9°C) to 78.3°F (25.7°C), and the highest amount of daylight, from 14.7 hours to 15.4 hours. Weather conditions during these months typically display low chances of snowfall combined with a significant increase in the duration of sunshine, averaging between 8.2 hours to 9.6 hours a day.

The worst time to visit Cresco

The least favorable period for visiting Cresco would be from November to February. With plummeting temperatures, from 27.7°F (-2.4°C) to 21.6°F (-5.8°C), combined with high relative humidity and frequent snowfalls, indoor activities are the preferable choice. Moreover, the shorter days, delivering only about 9 hours of daylight, further limit outdoor activities. Also, the cloud coverage increases, reducing visibility to just 5 miles.

Spring weather in Cresco

Spring in Cresco, occurring from March to May, sees temperatures climbing from an average low of 26.6°F (-3°C) to a much more pleasant 48.7°F (9.3°C), while average highs similarly ascend from 40.5°F (4.7°C) to 65.3°F (18.5°C). Rainfall increases during this period, from 1.69" (43mm) in March to 3.94" (100mm) in May. Combined with the diminishing snowfall records and steadily rising daylight hours, spring often brings a noticeable change in the city's atmospheric conditions.

Summer weather in Cresco

Summers in Cresco, spanning from June to August are typically hot, with average high temperatures peaking at 78.3°F (25.7°C) in July. The weather remains humid with an average relative humidity around 84%. Downpours are also common, with the highest rainfall recorded at 4.8" (122mm) in June. Despite these conditions, sunshine duration is at its peak, providing long, sunny days.

Autumn weather in Cresco

Autumn, encompassing September to November, exhibits a noticeable cooling progression. Average high temperatures clamp down from 70.7°F (21.5°C) in September to a crisp 41.4°F (5.2°C) in November. Rainfall decreases slowly, from 2.32" (59mm) to a mild 1.42" (36mm) by November's end. The daylight hours and sunshine also decline, making the days shorter and often less vibrant.

Winter weather in Cresco

Winters in Cresco, extending from December to February, are often harsh. Average high temperatures hover around the freezing point, from 27.7°F (-2.4°C) in December and stooping to 21.6°F (-5.8°C) in January, while low temperatures remain chillier still. This period sees the maximum snowfall, with 5.51" (140mm) in January. A cloud-laden sky coupled with minimal sunshine and daylight hours, further contributes to the severity of Cresco's winter. Hence, preparation against cold, icy conditions remains vital during these months.

Weather in January

January embodies a typical Midwest winter in Cresco, Iowa. Frosts are frequent with overnight temperatures commonly falling below freezing. A significant weather trait is noticeable with a high level of humidity, despite the month's freezing environment, characterized by a relative humidity of 90. Weather in January »

Weather in February

In Cresco, the transition from January to February is subtle in terms of weather changes. Temperatures slightly rise, yet snow remains a likely feature of the weather. As the winter continues, the ground stays adequately blanketed—snowfall records up to 5.87" (149mm) in February. Weather in February »

Weather in March

The anticipation for a change in weather condition picks up with the arrival of March in Cresco. Increases in daylight and sunshine hours usher in a sense of spring fever. However, it is worth noticing that March boasts one of the highest rainfall numbers, with precipitation reaching up to 1.69" (43mm). Weather in March »

Weather in April

By the time April comes around, things become more spring-like in Cresco, as the snow melts away, replaced by rainfall. With this transition comes a weather pattern that sees an increase in relative humidity, sunshine hours, rainfall, and daylight hours. Weather in April »

Weather in May

In May, Cresco welcomes the full brunt of Spring. The climatic condition leans towards warmer temperatures, with rainfall still playing a significant role. This period exhibits a month with high precipitation, with rainfall amounts of up to 3.94" (100mm). Weather in May »

Weather in June

June marks the onset of summer for Cresco. It's a welcome change from the moister months, and one that ranks as the warmest of the year. Despite its reputation, it records the highest rainfall, culminating in a monthly volume of 4.8" (122mm). Weather in June »

Weather in July

July takes over from June, keeping up the warm temperature pattern in Cresco. It does, however, witness a dip in the amount of rainfall. A distinguishing factor about July is that it hits the maximum UV index value of 6. The ensuing beautiful weather condition is taken advantage of by residents who tend to spend more time outdoors. Weather in July »

Weather in August

As Cresco moves into August, there is slight relief from July's heat with marginally lower temperatures. Though there is still ample sunshine, August sees a decrease in the UV index. Regardless, this month is characterized by detailed climatic conditions, with rainfall averaging around 2.76" (70mm). Weather in August »

Weather in September

With September comes a distinct shift in Cresco’s mood, ushering in the Autumn season. The high summer heat begins to simmer down with milder but still warm days on the roll. Rainfall continues to drop from its peak summer levels, recorded at around 2.32" (59mm). Weather in September »

Weather in October

October in Cresco brings about a noticeable change with lower temperatures and shorter days. Falling leaves are a common sight, and autumn is in full swing. Importantly, the climate sees a resurgence in relative humidity during October. Weather in October »

Weather in November

Cresco’s November is marked by a significant drop in temperature, short days, and an ambiance that anticipates the winter season. Moreover, the average wind speed rises, making outdoor activities a little less comfortable than in the previous months. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December in Cresco IS the embodiment of a classic Midwestern winter, characterized by short daylight hours and very low temperatures. From a meteorological perspective, December registers a considerable increase in terms of snowfall at 4.49" (114mm). Weather in December »