Discover Indian Hills Community College weather in Ottumwa, Iowa, where a humid continental climate shapes campus life with distinct seasons. Summers bring warm days averaging 86°F (30°C) and mild evenings around 65°F (18°C), ideal for outdoor activities, while winters feature cold snaps dipping to 17°F (-8°C) with snowfall totaling about 28 inches annually. Precipitation averages 39 inches yearly, peaking in spring and summer, influencing everything from class schedules to commuting. Environmental factors like good air quality (average AQI 35) and low pollution support healthy living, though occasional floods and tornadoes from the nearby Des Moines River pose risks. Liveability scores around 78/100 highlight affordability and comfort for students and faculty. Whether you're a prospective student, parent, or job seeker eyeing higher ed jobs at Indian Hills Community College, understanding Ottumwa's environment in Ottumwa aids informed decisions. Check Academic Jobs in Iowa or Academic Jobs in United States for opportunities, and explore professor insights via Rate My Professor.
Weather Overview in Ottumwa
The weather in Ottumwa features a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Annual average temperatures hover around 52°F (11°C), with July highs reaching 86°F (30°C) and January lows at 17°F (-8°C). Extremes include a record high of 109°F (43°C) and low of -26°F (-32°C). Precipitation totals 39 inches yearly, including 28 inches of snow, with spring thunderstorms common. These patterns affect daily life at Indian Hills Community College, from snowy campus walks to humid summer lectures. For more on Ottumwa weather, prospective faculty can review options in community college jobs.
Seasonal Weather Patterns at Indian Hills Community College
Spring (March-May) sees temperatures rising from 45°F (7°C) to 70°F (21°C) with heavy rain, prompting university alerts for flooding. Summer (June-August) offers 80-86°F (27-30°C) days, low precipitation manageability requiring hydration. Fall (September-November) cools to 60°F (16°C) averages with colorful foliage. Winter demands preparation for 33°F (1°C) highs and blizzards, with campus closures possible. Extra costs include $200-400 yearly for winter clothing and utilities spiking 20-30% in cold months. Safety gear like insulated boots is essential; the college provides emergency protocols. Explore higher ed career advice for relocation tips.
Spring
45-70°F (7-21°C), 12 inches rain. Flood risks.
Summer
80-86°F (27-30°C), humid. AC recommended.
Fall
60°F (16°C) avg, dry. Mild for studies.
Winter
33-17°F (1--8°C), 28 inches snow. Heaters needed.
Environmental Factors in Ottumwa
Ottumwa sits at 702 feet elevation on glacial plains with no volcanic activity. Geology features fertile loess soils along the Des Moines River. Air quality is good with AQI averaging 35 (good), PM2.5 at 8 µg/m³ yearly—lower than national averages. Low pollution density benefits health, though occasional industrial emissions occur. Indian Hills Community College supports sustainability with green initiatives. For job seekers, this clean Ottumwa environment pairs well with adjunct professor jobs.
Natural Hazards and Safety at Indian Hills Community College
Ottumwa faces floods (Des Moines River overflows), tornadoes (10-15/year in Iowa), severe thunderstorms, blizzards, and rare droughts. Flooding impacted the area in 2019; tornadoes strike every few years. The college follows Iowa emergency plans with campus alerts, evacuation drills, and shelters. Safety measures include weather radios and apps.
| Hazard | Frequency | College Response |
|---|---|---|
| Floods | Occasional | Evacuation, sandbags |
| Tornadoes | Every 2-3 years | Sirens, basements |
| Blizzards | Annual | Closures, plowing |
Review Rate My Professor at Indian Hills Community College for hazard experiences.
Liveability and Comfort Ratings for Ottumwa
Ottumwa's ratings reflect a balanced climate for campus life, aiding focus for students despite seasonal extremes. Faculty appreciate low costs offsetting winter challenges.
High ratings support studies; link to university salaries for cost context or higher ed jobs faculty positions.
Costs and Equipment for Weather in Ottumwa
Expect $150-300 annually for winter coats, boots, gloves; summer AC adds $100 to utilities. Flood insurance may cost $500/year. Essentials: umbrellas for rain, snow tires ($400/set), de-icer. Budget for these in professor salaries planning at Indian Hills Community College.
Health and Living Conditions at Indian Hills Community College
Cold winters increase flu risks, countered by campus clinics. Good air quality minimizes respiratory issues; pollen in spring affects allergies. Reliable buses handle snow, supporting campus life. University resources include wellness centers. Parents note comfort for research assistant jobs.
Resources for Weather Preparedness in Ottumwa
- National Weather Service alerts for Ottumwa.
- Apps like Weather Underground for radar.
- 🌤️ College emergency app for closures.
- Iowa DOT for road conditions.
- Higher ed career advice on regional living.
Student Perspectives on Ottumwa Environment
Students at Indian Hills Community College often share how Ottumwa's weather influences daily routines, with harsh winters challenging commutes but fostering community during blizzards. Many discuss the crisp fall air boosting outdoor study sessions, while humid summers prompt indoor AC reliance. The overall environment, including clean air and low pollution, supports health, though tornado watches add vigilance. Read real student reviews on Rate My Professor at Indian Hills Community College to see how climate impacts focus and productivity alongside professor ratings. Job seekers value these insights before applying via higher ed jobs.

