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Contents
- The climate of Altoona
- The best time to visit Altoona
- The worst time to visit Altoona
- Spring weather in Altoona
- Summer weather in Altoona
- Autumn weather in Altoona
- Winter weather in Altoona
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average snowfall
- Average snowfall days
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
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 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 »
Updated: Aug 21, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
What part of the year is the coldest?
The month of January, characterized by an average high of 27.5°F (-2.5°C) and a low of 14.4°F (-9.8°C), is recognized as the coldest.
What is the most humid month?
January is the most humid month, with an average relative humidity of 83%.
What is the driest month?
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 much does it rain?
In Altoona, during the entire year, the rain falls for 79 days and collects up to 5.94" (151mm) of precipitation.
When does it snow?
January through April, October through December are months with snowfall.
What is the snowiest month?
January is the month with the most snowfall. Snow falls for 6.2 days and accumulates 0.91" (23mm) of snow.
How many days does it snow?
Throughout the year, there are 22 snowfall days, and 2.44" (62mm) of snow is accumulated.
What is the month with the least sunshine?
The month with the least sunshine in Altoona is January, with an average of 4.2h of sunshine.
What is the month with the lowest UV index?
January is the month with the lowest UV index, 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 wettest month?
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?
May through September are months without snowfall.
When are the longest days?
With an average of 15h and 6min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year.
What are the months with the highest UV index?
The months with the highest UV index are June through August, with an average maximum UV index of 6.
What part of the year is the hottest in Altoona?
July, with its high-temperature average of 82.4°F (28°C) and a low-temperature average of 65.1°F (18.4°C), is the warmest month.
What month has the most sunshine?
The month with the most sunshine is July, with an average of 10.4h of sunshine.
What is the least humid month?
The least humid month is October, with an average relative humidity of 70%.
What is the month with the shortest days?
With an average of 9h and 12min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year.
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).
Average pressure
Altoona, IA
- Average pressure in January:
30.16"Hg - Average pressure in February:
30.14"Hg - Average pressure in March:
30.07"Hg - Average pressure in April:
29.93"Hg - Average pressure in May:
29.93"Hg - Average pressure in June:
29.89"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
29.96"Hg - Average pressure in August:
29.97"Hg - Average pressure in September:
30.02"Hg - Average pressure in October:
30.01"Hg - Average pressure in November:
30.09"Hg - Average pressure in December:
30.12"Hg
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (30.16"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.89"Hg).
Average wind speed
Altoona, IA
- Average wind speed in January:
10.3mph - Average wind speed in February:
10.2mph - Average wind speed in March:
10.3mph - Average wind speed in April:
10.4mph - Average wind speed in May:
8.8mph - Average wind speed in June:
8mph
- Average wind speed in July:
7mph - Average wind speed in August:
6.9mph - Average wind speed in September:
8mph - Average wind speed in October:
9.4mph - Average wind speed in November:
10.1mph - Average wind speed in December:
9.9mph
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).
Average humidity
Altoona, IA
The month with the highest relative humidity is January (83%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is October (70%).
Average rainfall
Altoona, IA
- Average rainfall in January:
0.24" - Average rainfall in February:
0.24" - Average rainfall in March:
0.31" - Average rainfall in April:
0.47" - Average rainfall in May:
0.98" - Average rainfall in June:
0.94"
- Average rainfall in July:
0.55" - Average rainfall in August:
0.47" - Average rainfall in September:
0.63" - Average rainfall in October:
0.55" - Average rainfall in November:
0.31" - Average rainfall in December:
0.24"
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").
Average rainfall days
Altoona, IA
- Average rainfall days in January:
1.8 days - Average rainfall days in February:
1.9 days - Average rainfall days in March:
6.3 days - Average rainfall days in April:
9.2 days - Average rainfall days in May:
11.6 days - Average rainfall days in June:
11.1 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
9.5 days - Average rainfall days in August:
8.4 days - Average rainfall days in September:
7.2 days - Average rainfall days in October:
5.5 days - Average rainfall days in November:
4 days - Average rainfall days in December:
2.5 days
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).
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").
Average snowfall days
Altoona, IA
- Average snowfall days in January:
6.2 days - Average snowfall days in February:
6 days - Average snowfall days in March:
2.6 days - Average snowfall days in April:
0.8 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0.1 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0 days - Average snowfall days in October:
0.6 days - Average snowfall days in November:
1.5 days - Average snowfall days in December:
4.2 days
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).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Altoona, IA
- Average daylight in January:
9h and 4min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 4min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 2min - Average daylight in May:
14h and 4min - Average daylight in June:
15h and 1min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 5min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 5min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 3min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 1min - Average daylight in November:
9h and 5min - Average daylight in December:
9h and 1min
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).
- Average sunshine in January:
4h and 1min - Average sunshine in February:
4h and 4min - Average sunshine in March:
6h and 1min - Average sunshine in April:
8h and 0min - Average sunshine in May:
8h and 4min - Average sunshine in June:
9h and 5min
- Average sunshine in July:
10h and 2min - Average sunshine in August:
9h and 5min - Average sunshine in September:
9h and 2min - Average sunshine in October:
5h and 4min - Average sunshine in November:
5h and 3min - Average sunshine in December:
4h and 4min
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).
Average sunshine days
Altoona, IA
- Average sunshine days in January:
25.4 days - Average sunshine days in February:
21.8 days - Average sunshine days in March:
22.9 days - Average sunshine days in April:
18.8 days - Average sunshine days in May:
16.6 days - Average sunshine days in June:
15.5 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
18.5 days - Average sunshine days in August:
20.1 days - Average sunshine days in September:
21 days - Average sunshine days in October:
23.5 days - Average sunshine days in November:
24.8 days - Average sunshine days in December:
25.5 days
The month with the most sunshine days is December (25.5 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is June (15.5 days).
Average UV index
Altoona, IA
The months with the highest UV index are June, July and August (UV index 6).
The month with the lowest UV index is January (UV index 1).
Average cloud cover
Altoona, IA
The month with the most cloud cover is January (Cloud cover 54).
The months with the least cloud cover are July and September (Cloud cover 29).
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).
Altoona, Iowa, USA
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