Climate and monthly weather forecast
Fort Madison, IA

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The climate of Fort Madison

Fort Madison, Iowa is characterized by a Dfa climate under the Köppen climate classification. This represents a humid continental climate with no dry season and hot summers. Positioned geographically in the United States' Midwest, temperature variations throughout the year are pronounced.

Going into the specific parameters, it can be seen that monthly averages of high temperatures range from 30.4°F (-0.9°C) in January to a peak of 82.9°F (28.3°C) in July. This speaks to the broad climatic transition from biting winter cold to heated summers. Similarly, the low temperature averages also exhibit significant variations from 18.5°F (-7.5°C) in January to 66.2°F (19°C) in July. Together, these metrics embody the essence of Fort Madison's humid continental climate.

Significant shifts are also witnessed in the relative humidity which ranges from 71% in October to 82% in July. Alongside this, rainfall varies from 0.47" (12mm) in January to an apex of 1.46" (37mm) in May. This pattern of rainfall adds an element of moisture to the humid continental climate. Correspondingly, the number of rainfall days also varies from 3.5 in February to 14.4 in May.

It's noteworthy that snow is a feature in Fort Madison's climate with snowfall witnessed from 0.91" (23mm) in February down to none from May to September, picking up again in October. Accordingly, snowfall days range from 7.7 in January to 0 from May to September, before increasing again in October.

The best time to visit Fort Madison

As the phrase goes, "timing is everything" and this holds when planning to visit Fort Madison. For visitors drawn by the appeal of fair weather and sunshine, June registers an average of 15 daylight hours, while July and August flaunt 10.4 and 10.1 sunshine hours respectively. Surprisingly, relative humidity seems to be at its peak during this period averaging around 81% in June and 82% in July. High temperatures of about 80.2°F (26.8°C) in June, reaching 82.9°F (28.3°C) in July and settling to 82.2°F (27.9°C) in August provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities and exploration.

The worst time to visit Fort Madison

Contrarily, if you're sensitive to cold, then travelling to Fort Madison in winter might be a challenge. Low temperatures can get as chilling as 18.5°F (-7.5°C) in January, making it the most frigid month of the year. Snowfall in January averages 1.1" (28mm) coupled with 7.7 snowfall days, enhancing the starkness of winter. Additionally, January offers only 9.7 daylight hours, the shortest of the whole year.

Spring weather in Fort Madison

Spring manifests itself in Fort Madison with a substantial updip in temperatures that invites all to revel in its bloom. High temperatures go from 49.5°F (9.7°C) in March to a comforting 71.1°F (21.7°C) in May, while lows float between 34.2°F (1.2°C) and 54.3°F (12.4°C) during the same period. Rainfall during this time is notably higher, increasing from 0.71" (18mm) in March to peak at 1.46" (37mm) in May, accompanied by a similar increase in rainfall days.

Summer weather in Fort Madison

A typical summer in Fort Madison is characterized by heat with high temperatures ranging from 80.2°F (26.8°C) in June to 82.2°F (27.9°C) in August, while low temperatures vary from 63.7°F (17.6°C) to 63.9°F (17.7°C). There's no shortage of light with daylight hours exceeding 14.5 daily, and sunshine remains plentiful from June through August with an average of above 10 sunshine hours. Refreshingly, summer rainfall reduces from 1.46" (37mm) in May to 1.02" (26mm) in July and further to 0.83" (21mm) in August.

Autumn weather in Fort Madison

Commencing the transition from summer to winter, autumn in Fort Madison witnesses a progressive cool down. High temperatures drop from September's 77°F (25°C) to October's 62.6°F (17°C) and further to a mild 48.7°F (9.3°C) in November. Low temperatures follow suit descending from 57.4°F (14.1°C) to 34.7°F (1.5°C) within the same period. Rainfall dwindles from 0.83" (21mm) in both September and October to a mere 0.59" (15mm) in November.

Winter weather in Fort Madison

In Fort Madison, winter is the harbinger of low temperatures, limited sunshine, and snowfall. High temperatures register a slump from 48.7°F (9.3°C) in November to 30.4°F (-0.9°C) in January, accompanied by corresponding low temperatures dropping from 34.7°F (1.5°C) to a chilling 18.5°F (-7.5°C). Days are shorter, with daylight hours shrinking to 9.3 hours in December. As expected, there is an inception of snowfall, ranging from 0.28" (7mm) in November to 1.1" (28mm) in January, culminating in nearly two weeks of snowfall days in those three months.

Weather in January

January in Fort Madison marks the beginning of a new year with the subfreezing temperatures typically ranging from 18.5°F (-7.5°C) to 30.4°F (-0.9°C). Touches of snow are not uncommon during this month, adding to the drastic decrease in temperatures. Weather in January »

Weather in February

In February, Fort Madison experiences a slight increase in temperature but remains decidedly cold. The incidence of snowfall decreases compared to January, providing some respite. However, the winds continue to blow persistently, keeping the chill intact. Weather in February »

Weather in March

March marks a significant seasonal shift in weather conditions in Fort Madison. The uptick in temperature becomes more noticeable, signaling the arrival of spring. An interesting aspect of this month is the phenomenon of melting snow, leading to a wetter ambiance. Weather in March »

Weather in April

The arrival of April in Fort Madison brings with it a noticeable change in weather parameters. The city welcomes spring with balmier temperatures, increased daylight hours, and diminished snowfall. The wind still persists, but at a lower speed compared to the harsh gusts witnessed in the previous months. Weather in April »

Weather in May

In May, Fort Madison enjoys a refreshing spring climate before the onset of summer. The rise in temperature is complemented by increased sunshine hours. As nature fully embraces spring, the rainfall becomes more frequent, contributing to the city's lush landscapes. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June in Fort Madison marks the commencement of summer with temperatures soaring. The days get longer, and sunlight seems to paint the city's landscapes for more hours. Simultaneously, the wind speed sees a significant downgrade compared to the previous months, thus minimizing the cooling effect. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July is the peak of summer in Fort Madison and is typically the hottest month. With heat levels reaching their zenith, it's crucial to stay hydrated and avoid extended bouts under the sun. The humidity also intensifies, which can often give the sensation of the temperature being higher than the actual reading. Weather in July »

Weather in August

In August, the heat anchor's grip somewhat releases on Fort Madison, though it remains high. The intensity of heat gradually diminishes, laying the ground for the onset of autumn. Longer daylight hours persist, continuing to support outdoor activities. Weather in August »

Weather in September

In September, the city of Fort Madison transitions to Autumn with a noticeable dip in temperature. The humidity levels drop, offering the residents the first signs of relief after the prolonged summer heat. The duration of sunlight reduces, and the leaves start changing colors, making the surroundings picturesque. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October in Fort Madison is marked by the complete arrival of autumn. Temperatures notably drop, and the golden hues of the season take hold. The first instances of light frost could be experienced during the late nights and early mornings. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November in Fort Madison is characterized by a significant drop in temperature, indicating the initial signs of winter. Overt autumn leaves give way to barren trees and the possibility of snowfall can't be ruled out. The daylight hours continue to decrease, allowing for colder evenings. Weather in November »

Weather in December

The final month, December, in Fort Madison ushers in a full-fledged winter. The snowfall, coupled with a consistent drop in temperatures, results in a wintry ambiance. The days become shorter, and the city witnesses an increased frequency of cloudy days. Weather in December »
Updated: Jul 25, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate

Frequently asked questions

What time of the year is the coldest?

In Fort Madison, January is the coldest month, with temperatures averaging a high of 30.4°F (-0.9°C) and a low of 18.5°F (-7.5°C).

What is the driest month?

January and December are months with the least rain when the rain falls for 3.7 days and typically aggregates up to 0.47" (12mm) of rain.

How many days does it rain?

Throughout the year, there are 101.8 rainfall days, and 9.92" (252mm) of precipitation is accumulated.

When does it snow?

Months with snowfall are January through April, October through December.

What is the snowiest month?

The month with the most snowfall is January, when snow falls for 7.7 days and typically aggregates up to 1.1" (28mm) of snow.

How many days does it snow?

In Fort Madison, during the entire year, snow falls for 24.5 days and aggregates up to 4.25" (108mm) of snow.

What is the month with the least sunshine?

The month with the least sunshine is January, with an average of 4.3h of sunshine.

When is the lowest UV index?

January, February, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2, are months with the lowest UV index.

When is Daylight Saving Time (DST)?

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 in Fort Madison?

May is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 14.4 days and accumulates 1.46" (37mm) of precipitation.

When it does not snow?

May through September are months without snowfall in Fort Madison.

When are the longest days?

June has the longest days of the year, with an average of 15h and 0min of daylight.

What are the months with the highest UV index in Fort Madison?

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

What month is the hottest in Fort Madison?

July is the warmest month, with an average high-temperature of 82.9°F (28.3°C) and an average low-temperature of 66.2°F (19°C).

What is the most humid month?

The most humid month is July, with an average relative humidity of 82%.

What month has the most sunshine?

With an average of 10.4h of sunshine, July has the most sunshine of the year.

What is the least humid month?

The least humid month is October, with an average relative humidity of 71%.

What is the month with the shortest days?

December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 9h and 18min of daylight.

Average temperature
Fort Madison, IA

Average temperature - Fort Madison, IA

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (82.9°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (30.4°F).

The month with the highest average low temperature is July (66.2°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (18.5°F).

Average pressure
Fort Madison, IA

Average pressure - Fort Madison, IA

The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (30.15"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.9"Hg).

Average wind speed
Fort Madison, IA

Average wind speed - Fort Madison, IA

The windiest months (with the highest average wind speed) are January, February, March and April (10.4mph).
The calmest months (with the lowest average wind speed) are July and August (6.7mph).

Average humidity
Fort Madison, IA

Average humidity - Fort Madison, IA

The month with the highest relative humidity is July (82%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is October (71%).

Average rainfall
Fort Madison, IA

Average rainfall - Fort Madison, IA

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is May (1.46").
The driest months (with the least rainfall) are January and December (0.47").

Average rainfall days
Fort Madison, IA

Average rainfall days - Fort Madison, IA

The month with the highest number of rainy days is May (14.4 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (3.5 days).

Average snowfall
Fort Madison, IA

Average snowfall - Fort Madison, IA

The month with the highest snowfall is January (1.1").
The months with the least snowfall are May, June, July, August and September (0").

Average snowfall days
Fort Madison, IA

Average snowfall days - Fort Madison, IA

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (7.7 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are May, June, July, August and September (0 days).

Average daylight / Average sunshine
Fort Madison, IA

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Fort Madison, IA

The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 0min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 18min).

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 18min).

Average sunshine days
Fort Madison, IA

Average sunshine days - Fort Madison, IA

The month with the most sunshine days is December (22.9 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is May (14 days).

Average UV index
Fort Madison, IA

Average UV index - Fort Madison, IA

The months with the highest UV index are June, July and August (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, November and December (UV index 2).

Average cloud cover
Fort Madison, IA

Average cloud cover - Fort Madison, IA

The month with the most cloud cover is January (Cloud cover 54).
The months with the least cloud cover are July, August and September (Cloud cover 28).

Average visibility
Fort Madison, IA

Average visibility - Fort Madison, IA

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

Fort Madison, Iowa, USA

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