Here's a breakdown:
Temperature:
* March and early April: Expect cold mornings and evenings, with temperatures often below freezing. Daytime temperatures can reach the 40s and 50s (°F).
* Mid to late April and May: Temperatures gradually warm up, with average highs in the 60s and 70s (°F). There are occasional warm days, but also the possibility of late frosts.
Precipitation:
* March: Averages around 2.5 inches of precipitation, with snow still possible.
* April: Precipitation increases to around 3.5 inches, transitioning from snow to rain.
* May: Precipitation averages around 4 inches, with thunderstorms becoming more common.
Other factors:
* Winds: Spring winds can be unpredictable and sometimes gusty, especially in March and April.
* Sunshine: Sunshine hours increase as the season progresses, though there are still cloudy days.
* Allergy season: Spring in Iowa is peak allergy season, with tree pollen being a major trigger.
Overall:
Iowa's spring climate is a mixed bag, with a blend of chilly mornings, warm afternoons, and occasional showers. It's a time of great change as the landscape transitions from winter dormancy to vibrant life.
It's important to be prepared for changing weather conditions, and to dress in layers to adapt to temperature fluctuations.
