Dubuque (IA) Monthly Rainfall & Precipitation

This page shows both the average monthly rainfall and the number of rainy days in Dubuque, Iowa, United States of America. These values are calculated using 30 years of data (1990–2020) to ensure accuracy. Let's now guide you through the details for a complete overview.

Generally, Dubuque has a moderate amount of precipitation, averaging 978 mm (39 in) of rain/snowfall annually. However, it does experience a distinct dry season during certain months. Take a look at our detailed charts below to see the seasonal variation.

Monthly Precipitation Levels

The average number of days each month with precipitation (> 0.2 mm (0.01 in))

The climate in Dubuque shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect 144 mm (5.7 in) of precipitation during the wettest month July, distributed over 10 rainy days.

In contrast, January offers drier and sunnier days, with around 28 mm (1.1 in) of snowfall over 9 snowy days.

July, the wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 29°C (84°F). The city receives 301 hours of sunshine in this period. During the driest month January you can expect a temperature of -3°C (27°F). For more detailed insights into the city's temperatures, visit our Dubuque Temperature page.

Dubuque's average annual precipitation is 978 mm (39 in). Let's compare this to some popular worldwide tourist destinations:

Seville, Spain, experiences 541 mm (21 in) of rainfall annually, with wet winters and dry summers typical of southern Spain.

In Seoul, South Korea, the average annual precipitation is 1237 mm (49 in), with most rain falling during the summer monsoon season.

Adelaide, Australia, enjoys 511 mm (20 in) of annual precipitation, with dry summers and wet winters.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, receives 2529 mm (100 in) of annual rainfall, characteristic of its equatorial tropical rainforest climate, with consistent rainfall throughout the year and peak months during March and November.

Precipitation amounts are measured using specific gauges installed at weather stations, collecting both rain and snow and any other type of precipitation. Rainfall is measured directly in millimeters, while that from snow and ice is obtained by melting it. Automated systems often incorporate heaters to make this easier.

Information from these stations is transmitted via Wi-Fi, satellite, GPS, or telephone connections to central monitoring networks. This information is immediately updated and integrated into weather models and forecasts.

Climate change is affecting precipitation patterns worldwide, including Dubuque (IA):

• Changing Rainfall Patterns: Global warming causes drastic changes in the patterns of rainfall. Some areas have been experiencing increased frequency and intensity of rainfall, while other areas experience longer dry spells or even droughts.
• Local Impacts: Many regions are experiencing heavier rainfall in the winter months and drier, hotter summers. This affects agriculture, water resources, and ecosystems.

• Mawsynram in India is noted as being the wettest place on earth, with over 11 meters (36 feet) of rain falling every year.
• In contrast, Antofagasta in Chile is among the driest places on the planet, getting less than 0.1mm (0.004 inches) per year, with some years recording virtually no rainfall.
• Nearly 1,650 thunderstorm cells are estimated over the planet at any given time.

For more detailed information about Dubuque (IA)'s weather, including sunshine hours, humidity levels, and temperature data, visit our Dubuque (IA) Climate page.