Marshalltown Community College weather features a humid continental climate typical of the Midwest, with four distinct seasons that influence campus life in Marshalltown, Iowa. Summers bring warm days averaging 86°F (30°C) with high humidity, perfect for outdoor activities but requiring hydration during classes. Winters are cold, with January lows around 13°F (-11°C) and snowfall totaling about 30 inches annually, prompting students and faculty to bundle up for commutes. Spring sees thunderstorms and tornado risks, while fall offers mild 60°F (16°C) temperatures ideal for studying outdoors. This weather in Marshalltown impacts daily routines, from slippery sidewalks in winter to pollen in spring affecting focus. Environmental factors like good air quality and low altitude enhance comfort, though natural hazards such as floods and severe storms require preparedness. Liveability ratings highlight solid overall appeal for families and professionals. For those eyeing faculty positions, explore higher ed jobs at Marshalltown Community College on AcademicJobs.com. Compare with Academic Jobs in Marshalltown, Iowa, or broader United States opportunities. Students often share how the Marshalltown Community College climate shapes productivity—check Rate My Professor for real insights alongside professor reviews.
Weather Overview in Marshalltown
The weather at Marshalltown Community College reflects central Iowa's patterns: annual average temperature of 49°F (9.5°C), 36 inches of precipitation, and frequent thunderstorms. Extremes include a record high of 112°F (44°C) and low of -33°F (-36°C). These conditions affect campus events, with sunny days averaging 200 per year supporting outdoor learning, while windy winters challenge biking to classes. Links to Marshalltown resources help job seekers plan ahead.
Seasonal Weather Patterns at Marshalltown Community College
Seasonal shifts at Marshalltown Community College demand versatile wardrobes and awareness of university snow day policies. Extra costs include $200-400 for winter gear and higher utility bills up to $250/month in peak heating season. Safety tips emphasize ice melt for paths and insulated boots for staff commuting in blizzards.
Spring ☀️🌧️
March-May: Highs 50-70°F (10-21°C), risky thunderstorms and tornado watches. College alerts via app.
Summer ☀️
June-August: 75-86°F (24-30°C), humid; AC in dorms essential, occasional heat advisories.
Fall 🍂
September-November: 55-75°F (13-24°C), crisp; ideal for tailgates, light jackets needed.
Winter ❄️
December-February: 20-35°F (-7-2°C), 30" snow; plowed paths, remote classes during storms.
Environmental Factors in Marshalltown
Marshalltown sits at 1,017 ft (310 m) elevation on glacial plains with no volcanic activity. Air quality is generally good, averaging AQI 35, supporting healthy campus life though occasional farm dust or inversions occur. Low pollution levels benefit respiratory health for students; the college promotes green initiatives like bike paths. Marshalltown air quality rarely exceeds moderate levels, making it welcoming for faculty relocating from urban areas—see higher ed career advice for tips.
Natural Hazards and Safety at Marshalltown Community College
Marshalltown faces tornadoes, floods from the Iowa River, blizzards, and droughts. A 2018 EF3 tornado caused significant damage, highlighting risks. The college has emergency sirens, basement shelters, and annual drills.
| Hazard | Frequency | University Measures |
|---|---|---|
| Tornadoes ⚠️ | Annual risk | Sirens, apps, evac plans |
| Floods 🌊 | Every 5-10 years | Barriers, remote learning |
| Blizzards ❄️ | 2-3/year | Plows, closures |
| Droughts 🔥 | Occasional | Water conservation |
Review Rate My Professor at Marshalltown Community College for student safety experiences.
Liveability and Comfort Ratings for Marshalltown
Ratings for liveability in Marshalltown guide decisions for students and job seekers at Marshalltown Community College. Cold winters lower temperature comfort, but clean air and manageable precip boost scores. Low disaster risks relative to coasts enhance appeal, impacting study focus and family life positively overall.
Cold snaps challenge but build resilience.
Balanced rain/snow, good drainage.
Excellent for health.
Tornado prep mitigates risks.
Affordable, safe for Midwest living. Links to university salaries show value.
Costs and Equipment for Weather in Marshalltown
Expect $150-300 for coats, boots, and gloves yearly; snow tires add $800. Summer AC units $200, insurance premiums rise 10% for storm coverage. Essential gear: umbrellas for spring rains, de-icers for cars. Budget-savvy tips in higher ed career advice; search community college jobs.
Health and Living Conditions at Marshalltown Community College
Environment at Marshalltown Community College features low pollen in fall but high in spring, affecting allergies—counseling center aids. Winter dryness prompts humidifiers; transportation reliable except blizzards. Campus life thrives with indoor facilities. Faculty praise work-life balance; explore professor jobs.
Resources for Weather Preparedness in Marshalltown
- National Weather Service alerts for Marshalltown weather.
- College emergency app for closures.
- Iowa DOT road conditions ❄️.
- AirNow.gov for AQI.
Integrate with academic calendar planning.
Student Perspectives on Marshalltown Environment
Students at Marshalltown Community College frequently discuss how the local climate impacts focus and productivity, with harsh winters limiting outdoor study but fostering close-knit groups indoors. Many appreciate the fresh air for runs, though tornado drills interrupt occasionally. Marshalltown environment suits those preferring seasons over extremes; read their detailed experiences alongside professor reviews on Rate My Professor. Feedback highlights resilience built from weather challenges, aiding academic success. For more, visit Rate My Professor at Marshalltown Community College or Rate My Professor insights. Job seekers note it influences interviews—check adjunct professor jobs.