Geographic Context
Greenfield iowa weather – Greenfield, Iowa, is a city situated in the southwestern part of the state, nestled within Adair County. This charming city holds the distinction of being the county seat.
Greenfield’s geographic coordinates are 41.3061° N, 94.4492° W. It lies approximately 50 miles southwest of Des Moines, the state capital, and 10 miles east of the Missouri border.
Nearby Landmarks
Greenfield is surrounded by several notable landmarks that contribute to its regional significance:
- Lake Anita State Park: Located just 10 miles to the north, this scenic park offers recreational opportunities such as camping, fishing, and boating.
- Wilson Island State Recreation Area: Situated 20 miles to the southeast, this island park provides a tranquil retreat with hiking trails and wildlife viewing.
- Nodaway Valley Historical Museum: Housed in a historic schoolhouse in nearby Corning, this museum showcases the rich history of the Nodaway Valley region.
Climate Overview
Greenfield, Iowa, experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by warm, humid summers and cold, dry winters. The city’s climate is influenced by its location in the Midwestern United States, where it is subject to both continental and maritime air masses.
Temperature Ranges
Greenfield’s average annual temperature is 50.4°F (10.2°C). The warmest month is July, with an average temperature of 76.6°F (24.8°C), while the coldest month is January, with an average temperature of 22.6°F (-5.2°C). The city experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with extreme lows reaching below -20°F (-29°C) in the winter and extreme highs reaching above 100°F (38°C) in the summer.
Precipitation Levels
Greenfield receives an average of 34.8 inches (884 mm) of precipitation annually, which is evenly distributed throughout the year. The wettest month is May, with an average of 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rainfall, while the driest month is February, with an average of 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rainfall. The city experiences occasional thunderstorms during the summer months and snowfall during the winter months.
Humidity
Greenfield’s climate is characterized by high humidity levels, especially during the summer months. The average relative humidity in the city is 72%, with higher humidity levels in the morning and lower humidity levels in the afternoon. The high humidity levels can make the summer months feel even warmer than they actually are.
Comparison to Nearby Areas
Greenfield’s climate is similar to that of other cities in the Midwestern United States. However, the city’s climate is slightly milder than that of cities in the northern Midwest and slightly more humid than that of cities in the southern Midwest. Overall, Greenfield’s climate is typical of the humid continental climate region of the United States.
Seasonal Variations
Greenfield, Iowa, experiences distinct weather patterns throughout the year, influenced by its location in the Midwest. Each season brings unique characteristics, affecting the daily lives and activities of its residents.
Spring (March – May)
Spring in Greenfield arrives with a burst of warmth, bringing average temperatures ranging from 35°F to 65°F. As the days grow longer, precipitation increases, averaging around 3 inches per month. Occasional thunderstorms and showers characterize the season, providing moisture for the blossoming flora. The landscape transforms into a vibrant tapestry of colors as trees and flowers bloom, signaling the renewal of life.
Summer (June – August)
Summer in Greenfield is marked by hot and humid conditions. Average temperatures soar to the mid-80s, with highs occasionally reaching into the 90s. Precipitation levels remain steady, averaging around 3 inches per month. The season is prone to severe thunderstorms, sometimes accompanied by hail, strong winds, and heavy rainfall. Despite the occasional storms, summer evenings offer respite with comfortable temperatures, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and community gatherings.
Fall (September – November)
As autumn approaches, Greenfield experiences a gradual decline in temperatures. Average temperatures range from 55°F to 75°F, creating a crisp and refreshing atmosphere. Precipitation levels decrease slightly, averaging around 2 inches per month. The foliage transforms into a breathtaking display of reds, oranges, and yellows, signaling the arrival of fall. The season is often characterized by calm and sunny days, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and scenic drives.
Winter (December – February), Greenfield iowa weather
Winter in Greenfield brings a blanket of snow and frigid temperatures. Average temperatures hover around 20°F, with lows dipping below zero. Precipitation levels decrease significantly, averaging around 1 inch per month, primarily in the form of snow. The season is known for its harsh conditions, including snowstorms, icy roads, and wind chills. However, the snow-covered landscapes create a picturesque winter wonderland, inviting residents to embrace cozy indoor activities and winter sports.
Weather Forecasting: Greenfield Iowa Weather
Weather forecasting in Greenfield, Iowa, utilizes advanced meteorological techniques to predict upcoming weather conditions. The National Weather Service (NWS) is the primary source of weather forecasts for the area, employing a combination of data collection and numerical weather prediction models.
The NWS operates a network of weather stations and radar systems throughout Iowa, which continuously collect real-time data on temperature, humidity, wind speed, and precipitation. This data is fed into computer models that simulate atmospheric conditions and generate forecasts for specific locations.
Accuracy and Reliability
The accuracy and reliability of weather forecasts in Greenfield, Iowa, vary depending on the forecast period. Short-term forecasts (up to 3 days) are generally more accurate than long-term forecasts (over 7 days), as they rely on more recent data and are less susceptible to changes in atmospheric conditions.
According to the NWS, the average accuracy of 3-day forecasts in Greenfield, Iowa, is around 85%, while the accuracy of 7-day forecasts is around 70%. These accuracy rates are comparable to those of other regions in the United States.
Impact on Local Activities
Weather conditions play a crucial role in shaping the outdoor activities and local economy of Greenfield, Iowa. Agriculture, recreation, and tourism are heavily influenced by the city’s climate and weather patterns.
Greenfield’s rich agricultural heritage is closely tied to its weather conditions. Farmers rely on favorable weather for planting, growing, and harvesting crops. Adequate rainfall and warm temperatures during the growing season are essential for crop yields. Extreme weather events, such as droughts, floods, or hailstorms, can cause significant crop damage and economic losses for local farmers.
Tourism
Greenfield’s tourism industry is also impacted by weather conditions. The city is home to several historical sites, parks, and outdoor recreation areas that attract visitors from around the region. Pleasant weather during the summer months encourages outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and biking. Conversely, severe weather events or prolonged periods of extreme heat or cold can deter tourism and negatively affect local businesses.
Historical Weather Data
Greenfield, Iowa’s weather patterns have been meticulously recorded and analyzed over the years, providing valuable insights into the city’s climate history.
Temperature records indicate that Greenfield experiences warm summers with average temperatures in July reaching up to 77°F (25°C). Winters, on the other hand, are cold with average January temperatures dropping to 21°F (-6°C). The city receives an average of 34 inches (86 cm) of precipitation annually, distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
Extreme Weather Events
Greenfield has not been immune to extreme weather events. In the past, the city has experienced tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, and floods.
- In 1968, a tornado struck Greenfield, causing significant damage to the city’s infrastructure.
- In 2008, a severe thunderstorm brought heavy rainfall and hail to Greenfield, resulting in flash flooding that damaged homes and businesses.
- In 2019, the Raccoon River flooded, causing damage to property and infrastructure in Greenfield.
Long-Term Trends
Long-term weather data for Greenfield indicates a slight increase in average temperatures over the past century. The city has also experienced an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events.
Weather Resources
Greenfield, Iowa, residents have access to a variety of resources for obtaining up-to-date and accurate weather information. These resources include websites, mobile applications, and local weather stations.
Websites such as the National Weather Service (NWS) and AccuWeather provide detailed weather forecasts, radar images, and severe weather alerts. Mobile applications like The Weather Channel and Weather Underground offer similar features and allow users to customize their weather experience based on their location and preferences.
Local Weather Stations
In addition to these online resources, Greenfield is home to several local weather stations that provide real-time weather data. These stations are typically operated by volunteers and enthusiasts and provide valuable information for the local community.