Climate and monthly weather forecastDubuque, IA
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of Dubuque
Dubuque, Iowa is characterized by a Humid Continental climate according to the Köppen climate classification. This implies the presence of hot summers with no dry season and noticeable temperature fluctuation throughout the year. Besides, its geographical position in the midwest of the United States contributes to the variation of weather elements.The weather trends in Dubuque experience significant changes, impacted primarily by temperature and precipitation. Monthly average temperatures range from 12.4°F (-10.9°C) in January to a peak of 79.7°F (26.5°C) in July. Winters are cold while summers are hot, demonstrating the diversity of the climate. Rainfall occurs chiefly between March and August, with May registering the highest amount of rainfall at 3.7" (94mm). Yet, the rainfall pattern is consistent, with a relatively moderate rain falling through the year.
Dubuque's weather uniqueness includes maximum snowfall and daylight duration disparity. Snowfall is exclusive to the cold months, specifically between November and April, peaking at 4.88" (124mm) in January. The daylight duration sees a high of 15.3 hours in June and drops to a mere 9.1 hours in December. This indicates that the hours of daylight directly correspond to the hot and cold seasons.
The best time to visit Dubuque
Consider planning a trip to Dubuque between May and September. During this period, the weather is warm and accommodating, with average temperatures lying between 66.9°F (19.4°C) and 79.7°F (26.5°C). These months not only promise longer days, with daylight amounting to between 14.6 and 15.3 hours but also higher amounts of sunshine, up to 9.7 hours per day. Despite the presence of rainfall, the humidity is manageable, making it a favorable time for outdoor explorations and other leisure activities.The worst time to visit Dubuque
January and February come out as the least favorable months to visit Dubuque. These months have much colder temperatures, falling between 12.4°F (-10.9°C) to 15.3°F (-9.3°C) that would potentially impact touring agendas negatively by limiting outdoor activities. Additionally, days are much shorter, averaging 9 hours of daylight, reducing the hours for sightseeing. Furthermore, snowfall amounts rise to 4.17" (106mm), increasing the possibility of disruptions in travel plans.Spring Weather in Dubuque
Springtime in Dubuque features a transition from cold to warmer weather, spanning from March until May. Temperature averages swing from 43.3°F (6.3°C) to 66.9°F (19.4°C). In terms of precipitation, rainfall increases significantly during this period, reaching the annual high of 3.7" (94mm) in May alongside a comparative increase in the number of rainy days, hitting 17.7 in May from 11.1 in March.Summer Weather in Dubuque
From June to August, Dubuque enjoys hot summer days. Average temperatures hover between 76.3°F (24.6°C) and 79.7°F (26.5°C), with relative humidity ranging from 81% to 84%. Rainfall begins its descending curve but still remains relatively high, especially in June with an average of 3.7" (94mm). Accompanying these are longer daylight durations, reaching up to 15.3 hours, and higher sunshine hours, peaking at 9.7 hours daily.Autumn Weather in Dubuque
Autumn is Dubuque's transition from hot summer to cold winter, and it stretches from September to November. Temperatures fall gradually, decreasing from 72.5°F (22.5°C) in September to 43.9°F (6.6°C) in November. Precipitation also decreases, and November records significantly lower rainfall at 1.65" (42mm). The relatively mild weather and beautiful fall foliage make it a great time for outdoor activities.Winter Weather in Dubuque
Winter sets in Dubuque from December to February and is generally cold. The temperature averages swing between 21°F (-6.1°C) to 12.4°F (-10.9°C). Snowfall is typical, peaking at 4.88" (124mm) in January, and thus, road conditions can be challenging. Winter also sees shorter daylight durations, falling to a minimum of 9.1 hours, and lower sunshine durations, reducing to 4 hours daily. Despite the cold, winter sports enthusiasts may enjoy this season.Weather in January
Dubuque weather in January is characterized by harsh wind chill and cold conditions due to low temperatures. The drastic plunge from December to 12.4°F (-10.9°C) is noticeable at the month's onset. Occasional flurries hit the area with a total snowfall at a high of 4.88" (124mm). Weather in January »Weather in February
Snow enthusiasts should consider February for a visit to Dubuque, Iowa. The temperatures begin to crawl up slightly from the freezing January lows, setting a gradual transition to spring. The snowfall reduces to 4.17" (106mm) and there's a noticeable increase in daylight hours of 10.6 in comparison to January. Weather in February »Weather in March
Weather in March indicates the onset of spring in Dubuque, Iowa. The city experiences a remarkable rise in maximum temperatures to 43.3°F (6.3°C). Outdoor activity becomes more achievable as the snowfall decreases significantly to a mere 1.73" (44mm). Weather in March »Weather in April
As Dubuque marches towards summer, April comes with a reassuring rise in temperature. The city bids goodbye to the last of the snow, which scales down to 1.22" (31mm) and welcomes more daylight hours, setting the stage for more vibrant and energetic activities. Weather in April »Weather in May
The splendid Dubuque weather in May is a treat for both residents and visitors. As the city inches further into spring, a significant increase in average temperatures up to a high of 66.9°F (19.4°C), introduces more comfortable and warm conditions. Weather in May »Weather in June
June brings the warm embrace of summer to Dubuque, Iowa. With virtually no snowfall, June is all about clear blue skies, warm temperatures and a notably longer sunshine of 9.3 hours daily. Enjoyable weather conditions facilitate a wide range of activities, from water sports on the Mississippi River to picnics in the city parks. Weather in June »Weather in July
Summertime in the city is at its zenith in July, touting the highest average temperature for the year in Dubuque at 79.7°F (26.5°C). While daytime temperatures can be quite high, evenings offer a pleasing respite with cooler temperatures and a gentle breeze. Weather in July »Weather in August
August maintains the warm summer conditions in Dubuque, with temperatures slightly falling from the July highs to 78.6°F (25.9°C). Due to the remaining heat and pleasant conditions, outdoor activities remain widespread and enjoyable. Weather in August »Weather in September
September brings a soothing transition from summer to fall in Dubuque, Iowa. The temperatures witness a moderate drop to 72.5°F (22.5°C) from the August highs, making it an idyllic month for exploring the city and its surroundings. Weather in September »Weather in October
October sees a considerable dip in temperatures as Dubuque fully embraces the fall season. The temperatures slide to 58.1°F (14.5°C), marking a stark departure from the prior month's warmth. The onset of the cooler season is complemented by the rich palette of fall foliage splashed across the city. Weather in October »Weather in November
Dubuque, Iowa, faces a significant drop in temperatures in November. The fall season is on its way out with temperatures falling to a chilling 43.9°F (6.6°C). Traditional fall colors give way to barren trees, and the city prepares for winter. Weather in November »Weather in December
December represents the return of wintry conditions in Dubuque, Iowa. An evident drop in maximum temperatures to 31.5°F (-0.3°C) from November sets the tone for the festive season. The city wears a blanket of snow in most areas, giving it a traditionally festive look. Weather in December »Updated: Aug 5, 2024
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
January, noted for its average high-temperature of 25°F (-3.9°C) and an average low-temperature of 12.4°F (-10.9°C), is considered the coldest month in Dubuque.
The months with the highest humidity are January and February, with an average relative humidity of 87%.
January and February are months with the least rain when the rain falls for 4.8 days and typically aggregates up to 1.14" (29mm) of rain.
In Dubuque, during the entire year, the rain falls for 135.3 days and collects up to 27.4" (696mm) of precipitation.
January through April, October through December are months with snowfall.
The month with the most snowfall is January, when snow falls for 12.8 days and typically aggregates up to 4.88" (124mm) of snow.
In Dubuque, during the entire year, snow falls for 43.9 days and aggregates up to 17.09" (434mm) of snow.
The month with the least sunshine is January, with an average of 3.5h of sunshine.
The months with the lowest UV index are January, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 1.
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.
The wettest months are May and June, with an average 3.7" (94mm) of rainfall.
May through September are months without snowfall.
The month with the longest days is June, with an average of 15h and 12min of daylight.
The month with the highest UV index in Dubuque is June, with an average maximum UV index of 6.
July, having an average high-temperature of 79.7°F (26.5°C) and an average low-temperature of 62.8°F (17.1°C), is the warmest month.
The months with the most sunshine are July and August, with an average of 9.7h of sunshine.
With an average relative humidity of 76%, October is the least humid month.
With an average of 9h and 6min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year.
Average temperature
Dubuque, IA
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (79.7°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (25°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (62.8°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (12.4°F).
Average pressure
Dubuque, IA
- Average pressure in January:
30.13"Hg - Average pressure in February:
30.12"Hg - Average pressure in March:
30.08"Hg - Average pressure in April:
29.94"Hg - Average pressure in May:
29.95"Hg - Average pressure in June:
29.9"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
29.96"Hg - Average pressure in August:
29.97"Hg - Average pressure in September:
30.02"Hg - Average pressure in October:
30"Hg - Average pressure in November:
30.08"Hg - Average pressure in December:
30.1"Hg
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (30.13"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.9"Hg).
Average wind speed
Dubuque, IA
- Average wind speed in January:
10.2mph - Average wind speed in February:
10.1mph - Average wind speed in March:
10.1mph - Average wind speed in April:
10.4mph - Average wind speed in May:
8.9mph - Average wind speed in June:
7.6mph
- Average wind speed in July:
6.8mph - Average wind speed in August:
6.8mph - Average wind speed in September:
7.8mph - Average wind speed in October:
9.4mph - Average wind speed in November:
10.1mph - Average wind speed in December:
9.8mph
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is April (10.4mph).
The calmest months (with the lowest average wind speed) are July and August (6.8mph).
Average humidity
Dubuque, IA
The months with the highest relative humidity are January and February (87%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is October (76%).
Average rainfall
Dubuque, IA
- Average rainfall in January:
1.14" - Average rainfall in February:
1.14" - Average rainfall in March:
1.61" - Average rainfall in April:
2.91" - Average rainfall in May:
3.7" - Average rainfall in June:
3.7"
- Average rainfall in July:
3.27" - Average rainfall in August:
1.73" - Average rainfall in September:
2.6" - Average rainfall in October:
2.56" - Average rainfall in November:
1.65" - Average rainfall in December:
1.38"
The wettest months (with the highest rainfall) are May and June (3.7").
The driest months (with the least rainfall) are January and February (1.14").
Average rainfall days
Dubuque, IA
- Average rainfall days in January:
4.8 days - Average rainfall days in February:
4.4 days - Average rainfall days in March:
11.1 days - Average rainfall days in April:
15.1 days - Average rainfall days in May:
17.7 days - Average rainfall days in June:
17.3 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
15 days - Average rainfall days in August:
12.1 days - Average rainfall days in September:
11.4 days - Average rainfall days in October:
11.7 days - Average rainfall days in November:
8.4 days - Average rainfall days in December:
6.3 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is May (17.7 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (4.4 days).
Average snowfall
Dubuque, IA
The month with the highest snowfall is January (4.88").
The months with the least snowfall are May, June, July, August and September (0").
Average snowfall days
Dubuque, IA
- Average snowfall days in January:
12.8 days - Average snowfall days in February:
10 days - Average snowfall days in March:
5.8 days - Average snowfall days in April:
2 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0 days - Average snowfall days in October:
0.6 days - Average snowfall days in November:
3.7 days - Average snowfall days in December:
9 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (12.8 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are May, June, July, August and September (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Dubuque, IA
- Average daylight in January:
9h and 30min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 36min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 24min - Average daylight in May:
14h and 36min - Average daylight in June:
15h and 12min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 54min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 54min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 30min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 0min - Average daylight in November:
9h and 48min - Average daylight in December:
9h and 6min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 12min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 6min).
- Average sunshine in January:
3h and 30min - Average sunshine in February:
3h and 42min - Average sunshine in March:
6h and 6min - Average sunshine in April:
7h and 12min - Average sunshine in May:
8h and 12min - Average sunshine in June:
9h and 18min
- Average sunshine in July:
9h and 42min - Average sunshine in August:
9h and 42min - Average sunshine in September:
8h and 54min - Average sunshine in October:
5h and 6min - Average sunshine in November:
4h and 54min - Average sunshine in December:
4h and 0min
The months with the most sunshine are July and August (Average sunshine: 9h and 42min).
The month with the least sunshine is January (Average sunshine: 3h and 30min).
Average sunshine days
Dubuque, IA
- Average sunshine days in January:
15.7 days - Average sunshine days in February:
14.7 days - Average sunshine days in March:
14.8 days - Average sunshine days in April:
11.8 days - Average sunshine days in May:
12.1 days - Average sunshine days in June:
10.3 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
13.8 days - Average sunshine days in August:
17.4 days - Average sunshine days in September:
17.2 days - Average sunshine days in October:
17 days - Average sunshine days in November:
17.5 days - Average sunshine days in December:
17.5 days
The months with the most sunshine days are November and December (17.5 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is June (10.3 days).
Average UV index
Dubuque, IA
The month with the highest UV index is June (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, November and December (UV index 1).
Average cloud cover
Dubuque, IA
The month with the most cloud cover is January (Cloud cover 63).
The month with the least cloud cover is August (Cloud cover 32).
Average visibility
Dubuque, IA
The months with the highest visibility are February, March, April, May, June, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January and July (5mi).
