The climate of Waterloo
Waterloo is a city situated in northeastern
Iowa. Its weather is governed by its geographical position and falls under the Dfa category of the Köppen climate classification, denoting humid continental conditions with no dry season and hot summers. This classification translates into varying weather conditions throughout the year, with significant changes across seasons in the key climatic parameters.
Looking at the temperatures, the warmest month in Waterloo generally is
July, when highs reach an average of 80.1°F (26.7°C), while the lowest temperatures are seen in
January with an average low of 12°F (-11.1°C). The city witnesses seasonal fluctuations in humidity too, with the most humid month being January (87% relative humidity) and the least humid being
April (73% relative humidity).
Apart from temperature and humidity, precipitation is another vital weather element in this region. Highest average rainfall occurs in
May and
June with 4.21in and 4.29in respectively. Conversely, least rainfall can be noticed in January and
February with an average of 1.02in. June seems to hold the supremacy in terms of rainfall days, recording approximately 18.1 days of rainfall uptick.
It is important to note that Waterloo also gets its share of snowfall. Snowfall typically occurs from late
October through early April, with the most snowfall recorded in January (4.21in) and
December comes second (2.8in).
The best time to visit Waterloo
Considering the various weather parameters, the best time to visit
Waterloo would ideally be between
May and
September. This period marks the warm season with pleasant temperatures ranging from 56.8°F (13.8°C) to 78.6°F (25.9°C). The rainfall during this period is scattered and usually does not disrupt outdoor activities. Furthermore, the city basks in the sunlight for approximately 9.5h to 9.7h per day, making it perfect for sightseeing and other outdoor pursuits.
The worst time to visit Waterloo
The months from
December to
February could be construed as the worst time to visit
Waterloo. During this period, the city experiences its coldest weather with average low temperatures dropping down to 12°F (-11.1°C) and maximums barely reaching 28.4°F (-2°C). Besides, significant snowfall occurs during these months, recording up to 4.21in in
January. Traveling conditions could be hindered due to heavy snow and icy roads.
Spring weather in Waterloo
Spring in
Waterloo is characterized by a slow yet steady rise in temperatures. During this season, average highs range from 44.1°F (6.7°C) in
March to 68.2°F (20.1°C) in
May, while lows migrate from a chilly 29.7°F (-1.3°C) to a more comfortable 51.6°F (10.9°C) in the same period. March and
April bring moderate rainfall with an average of 1.73in and 3.19in respectively, while May witnesses the peak with 4.21in.
Summer weather in Waterloo
Summers in
Waterloo, encompassing
June through
August, are typically warm and humid. The mercury hovers between an average high of 77.7°F (25.4°C) in June and 78.6°F (25.9°C) in August. Minimum temperatures during this season are quite pleasant, fluctuating between 61.3°F (16.3°C) to 63.1°F (17.3°C). Despite the high temperatures, the city has an ample amount of rain with June being the wettest month (4.29in) of the year.
Autumn weather in Waterloo
Autumn in
Waterloo brings a significant drop in temperatures, particularly between
September and
November. Maximum temperatures drop from 73.2°F (22.9°C) in September to 44.1°F (6.7°C) in November, while average lows plunge from 54.5°F (12.5°C) to a chilly 31.1°F (-0.5°C) in the same period. This season also sees a moderate decrease in rainfall with November being the driest (1.54in).
Winter weather in Waterloo
Winter in
Waterloo is characterized by cold temperatures and snowfall.
December to
February sees average highs range from 31.1°F (-0.5°C) to 24.3°F (-4.3°C) while the corresponding lows grapple between 20.5°F (-6.4°C) to 12°F (-11.1°C). Both
January and February host a substantial average snowfall of 4.21in and 4.17in respectively, contributing to challenging road conditions and providing scenic white landscapes.
Weather in January
Iowa residents all know that
January in
Waterloo is defined by snowfall and cold temperatures. Snow blankets the city while the wind blows the white, icy powder around. This month experiences the coldest temperatures, with the high barely reaching 24.3°F (-4.3°C) and the low plummeting to 12°F (-11.1°C).
Weather in January » Weather in February
February brings slightly warmer temperatures to
Waterloo. While it is still the height of winter, the worst of the year's cold is typically in the rearview mirror. Although snowfall and cold temperatures persist, they are less intense compared to the previous month.
Weather in February » Weather in March
As winter fades and spring emerges,
March experiences a noticeable increase in temperature, presenting more opportunity for outdoor activities. The city beholds a significant reduction in snowfall and an increase in rainfall, indicating the commencement of the spring melting period.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
By the time
April arrives in
Waterloo, the city is under the full influence of spring. Flowering trees and shrubs are welcoming additional sunlight and warmer temperatures each day. Rainfall is more frequent in April than in the previous month, which contributes to the vibrancy of awakening plant life.
Weather in April »Weather in May
In
May,
Waterloo leaves behind the freshness of the spring season and transitions into the first hints of summer warmth. A significant increase in the average high and low temperatures means that residents spend more time outdoors.
Weather in May »Weather in June
Waterloo experiences mild and pleasant weather through much of
June. The shift into summer is unmistakable as abundant sunshine graces the city. The skyline is typically clear, with cloud coverage at its lowest of the year. While high temperatures average a comfortable 77.7°F (25.4°C), the amount of relative humidity begins to rise, paving the way for sultry summer days ahead.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July in
Waterloo is defined by the peak of summer with the warmest weather of the year. The temperature routinely rises above average with high temperatures reaching an average of 80.1°F (26.7°C). The citizens of Waterloo can spend their days enjoying various outdoor activities due to lengthy daylight hours, despite the relatively high humidity.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August sees the continuation of summery weather patterns in
Waterloo- warm temperatures, long days, and abundance of sunshine. Nevertheless, compared to
July, there's a slight decrease in temperature, offering relief to residents.
Weather in August » Weather in September
With the end of summer,
September in
Waterloo comes with more moderate temperatures and the first hints of fall. An unmistakable onset of the autumn season is experienced this month as the landscape begins to transform. The average high temperature drops to 73.2°F (22.9°C), a noticeable decrease from
August.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in
Waterloo signals the full arrival of fall with a clear drop in temperature and the foliage's vibrant colors. The city witnesses a surge in wind speed, averaging 9.8mph (15.8km/h) along with a reduction in average high temperatures which dip to 58.5°F (14.7°C).
Weather in October » Weather in November
November in
Waterloo introduces the upcoming winter with a sharp decline in temperature. Despite the cold, clear days with vibrant sunshine are quite usual. The first snowflakes may start to appear, setting the stage for the winter wonderland that ensues.
Weather in November » Weather in December
As the year wraps up,
December in
Waterloo is characterized by winter's full onset, with snowfall and chilly temperatures being the norm. The holidays bring a magical touch to the snow-covered city, enhancing its charm. The lowest high temperatures of the year occur in December, with an average high of 31.1°F (-0.5°C).
Weather in December »