Yosemite National Park is definitely worth a visit
Vast forests, blue lakes, towering sequoias, and majestic waterfalls hint at the beauty of Yosemite National Park—a true natural masterpiece.
Altoona (IA) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Altoona.
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Climate overview of Altoona
Temperatures in Altoona, Iowa, United States of America, vary greatly throughout the year. July is the hottest month at 30°C (86°F), while January is the coldest at -1°C (30°F).
Altoona sees a moderate amount of rain/snowfall, totalling around 976 mm (38 in) per year. It experiences a distinct dry season from January to February, with warm summers and very cold winters, creating some seasonal variation. Sunshine peaks in July, when the city sees around 11.2 hours of sunshine per day.
Altoona Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Altoona - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Altoona
The climate in Altoona is known for significant temperature differences throughout the year, making the weather dynamic. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 30°C (86°F) in July, the warmest time of the year, to a very cold -1°C (30°F) during cooler months like January.
At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 18°C (64°F) in July to around -11°C (12°F) during January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Altoona
Generally, Altoona receives mid-range precipitation levels, with 976 mm (38 in) annually. Significant seasonal changes in precipitation occur throughout the year. In the wettest month, June it receives heavy rainfall, averaging 162 mm (6.4 in) of precipitation, recorded across 13 rainy days. In contrast, the driest month January brings less snowfall, with 19 mm (0.7 in) over 6 snowy days. For more details, please visit our Altoona Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Altoona
Seasonal changes in sunshine hours are quite dramatic in Altoona. While July receives considerable daily sunshine with up to 11.2 hours, December marks the darkest time of the year, where sunshine is scarce with only 4.3 hours of sunlight per day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Data from: Des Moines, the United States of America (19 KM, 12 Miles).
Daily hours of sunshine
Data from: Des Moines, the United States of America (19 KM, 12 Miles).
Daily percentage of sunshine
Data from: Des Moines, the United States of America (19 KM, 12 Miles).
Humidity in Altoona by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Altoona.
The city experiences its highest humidity in January, reaching 72%. In May, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 60%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Data from: Des Moines, the United States of America (19 KM, 12 Miles).
Wind Speed in Altoona
The average wind speed over the year ranges from 3 m/s (6 knots) to 5 m/s (10 knots). It is lower in July, August and September and higher in March and April. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Data from: Des Moines, the United States of America (19 KM, 12 Miles).
Best Time to Visit Altoona
For comfortable weather, consider visiting Altoona in September. Conditions are usually least favourable in January, February, March, November and December.
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
Jan
very cold
Feb
cold
Mar
cold
Apr
mixed
May
very good
Jun
very good
Jul
mixed
Aug
very good
Sep
excellent
Oct
very good
Nov
cold
Dec
cold
- Best overall: September
- Warmest weather: July and August
- Most sunshine: July
- Fewest rainy days: January, February and November
- Wettest months: April, May, June, July, August and September, when rainfall is highest.
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from January to February, with warm summers and very cold winters
- Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -11°C (12°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Altoona
What is the best time to visit Altoona?
September typically offers the most optimal weather in Altoona. In contrast, January, February, March, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Altoona has a distinct dry season from January to February, with warm summers and very cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Altoona?
Daytime highs range from -1°C (30°F) in January to 30°C (86°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -11°C (12°F) to 18°C (64°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Altoona get?
Annual rainfall is around 976 mm (38 in). June is the wettest month with 162 mm (6.4 in), while January is the driest with 19 mm (0.7 in).
How sunny is Altoona?
Altoona receives around 2,700 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 335 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 129 hours. Overall, Altoona enjoys abundant sunshine.
Altoona 3-Day Forecast
Altoona on the map
Altoona is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
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Where to go in October - average daytime high across popular destinations.
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