Climate

Iowa lies on the humid continental zone and generally has hot summers, cold winters, and wet springs. Summers are warm and humid, with daytime temperatures averaging 74°F (23°C) in July but varying from region to region. Tropical air masses from the Gulf of Mexico bring frequent thunderstorms, with persistent rain in June. Winters are cold, with January temperatures averaging about 14°F (-10°C) in the northwest and 22°F (-6°C) in the southeast. Snowfall is light compared to other states.