Altoona, Wisconsin, located in Eau Claire County, is a charming city known for its scenic beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and strong sense of community. Situated in the western part of the state, Altoona is affiliated with the United States and is part of the greater Eau Claire metropolitan area. With a population of approximately 8,500 residents, Altoona covers an area of 6.57 square miles. The city’s geography is characterized by rolling hills, lush forests, and the beautiful Eau Claire River winding through its center. Major landmarks include Lake Altoona, a popular destination for boating and fishing, and the River Prairie Park, a vibrant outdoor space featuring trails, playgrounds, and event venues.
Climate and Weather Overview
Altoona, Wisconsin experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. The city enjoys warm summers, cold winters, and relatively consistent precipitation throughout the year. Situated in the Upper Midwest, Altoona is known for its changing weather patterns and occasional severe storms.
Average Climate Data
Below is a table detailing the average temperature, precipitation, and number of sunny days for each month in Altoona, Wisconsin:
| Month | Average Temperature (°F) | Precipitation (inches) | Sunny Days |
| January | 22 | 1.00 | 12 |
| February | 26 | 0.86 | 12 |
| March | 37 | 1.99 | 14 |
| April | 51 | 2.68 | 16 |
| May | 64 | 3.78 | 17 |
| June | 73 | 4.27 | 18 |
| July | 78 | 4.42 | 18 |
| August | 76 | 4.21 | 17 |
| September | 67 | 3.51 | 15 |
| October | 54 | 2.62 | 13 |
| November | 38 | 1.88 | 11 |
| December | 26 | 1.14 | 10 |
Weather by Month
January
January in Altoona brings cold temperatures, with an average high of 22°F. Snowfall is common during this month, with an average precipitation of 1.00 inch. Outdoor activities such as ice skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing are popular in nearby parks and trails. Indoor activities such as visiting museums or attending concerts offer enjoyable alternatives during the colder days.
February
February sees continued cold temperatures in Altoona, with an average high of 26°F. Snowfall may persist, although precipitation levels decrease slightly to 0.86 inch on average. Outdoor enthusiasts can still enjoy winter sports like sledding or ice fishing on Lake Altoona. For those seeking indoor activities, art galleries and community theaters provide cultural experiences to enjoy during the snowy days.
March
As spring approaches, March brings milder temperatures to Altoona, with an average high of 37°F. While snowfall is still possible early in the month, it gradually transitions to rain as temperatures rise. Outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching become more enjoyable as the landscape begins to awaken from winter dormancy. Visitors can also explore local parks or take scenic drives through the countryside.
April
April marks the arrival of spring in Altoona, with temperatures warming up to an average high of 51°F. While rain showers are common, with an average precipitation of 2.68 inches, sunny days also increase in frequency. Outdoor activities such as gardening, biking, and picnicking in Lake Altoona Park offer opportunities to enjoy the burgeoning beauty of the season. Additionally, local parks and nature reserves provide ideal settings for wildlife viewing and nature walks.
May
May brings even warmer temperatures to Altoona, with an average high of 64°F. While rainfall remains steady at an average of 3.78 inches, sunny days become more prevalent, providing ideal conditions for outdoor adventures. Hiking trails in nearby parks and forests offer stunning views of blooming wildflowers and wildlife sightings. Visitors can also participate in outdoor festivals and farmers’ markets celebrating the arrival of spring produce.
June
June heralds the arrival of summer in Altoona, with temperatures averaging around 73°F. While rain showers are less frequent, with precipitation decreasing to 4.27 inches on average, sunny days dominate the weather forecast. Outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and kayaking on the Eau Claire River become popular as residents and visitors alike seek to enjoy the warmth of the season. Local attractions such as historical sites and scenic overlooks provide opportunities for exploration and relaxation.
July
July is characterized by warm temperatures and increased outdoor recreation opportunities in Altoona, with an average high of 78°F. Rainfall is minimal during this month, with an average precipitation of 4.42 inches. Residents and visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, boating, and picnicking at Lake Altoona or the River Prairie Park. Additionally, summer festivals and outdoor concerts offer entertainment options for families and individuals of all ages.
August
Similar to July, August maintains warm temperatures in Altoona, with an average high of 76°F. While rainfall remains consistent at 4.21 inches on average, sunny days provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Residents and visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing in nearby natural areas. Local farmers’ markets and food festivals offer opportunities to sample regional cuisine and artisanal products.
September
As summer transitions to fall, September brings mild temperatures to Altoona, with an average high of 67°F. While still warm, the weather becomes more comfortable for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and picnicking. With relatively low precipitation of 3.51 inches on average, sunny days still prevail, providing ideal conditions for exploring the city’s parks and outdoor recreational areas. Visitors can also enjoy fall foliage drives or attend local harvest festivals celebrating the season’s bounty.
October
October showcases the beauty of autumn in Altoona, with cooler temperatures averaging around 54°F. While rainfall decreases to 2.62 inches on average, the changing leaves create a beautiful backdrop for outdoor adventures. Scenic drives along the Eau Claire River and visits to pumpkin patches and apple orchards offer quintessential fall experiences for families and nature enthusiasts. Indoor activities such as wine tastings and cozying up by the fireplace provide additional options for leisurely pursuits.
November
November brings cooler temperatures and occasional frost to Altoona, with an average high of 38°F. Rainfall levels remain steady at 1.88 inches on average, signaling the transition to the winter season. Outdoor activities such as hiking and wildlife watching continue to be popular, albeit with warmer attire. Visitors can also explore local museums and historical sites to learn about the region’s Native American heritage and pioneer history.
December
December marks the arrival of winter in Altoona, with cold temperatures averaging around 26°F. While snowfall is possible, precipitation levels decrease slightly to 1.14 inches on average. Outdoor activities such as ice skating, sledding, and holiday light displays offer festive experiences for residents and visitors alike. Indoor attractions such as holiday concerts, craft fairs, and seasonal markets provide opportunities for shopping and entertainment during the holiday season.