Altoona (IA) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Altoona.
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
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
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
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)
Best Time to Visit Altoona
Each month is rated for comfortable sightseeing weather — mild temperatures and low rainfall. Tap a month for its full averages; your ideal time may differ for a beach or winter trip (see below).
- Best overall: September
- Warmest weather: July and August
- Most sunshine: July
- Fewest rainy days: January, February and November
- Wettest period: April, May, June, July, August and September, when rainfall peaks.
- Climate seasons: a distinct dry season from January to February, with warm summers and very cold winters
- Best for winter weather: 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 (IA) 3-Day Forecast
Altoona on the map
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