By RYAN SKAITH
According to State Climatologist Justin Glisan, snowfall was the defining weather feature for Iowa this December. A broad swath stretching from the southeastern to the northwestern parts of the state received above-average totals, with accumulations ranging from four to eight inches.
In contrast, the corners of the state missed out on the heavier totals. Both the northeast and southwest regions recorded below-average snowfall for the month.
These snow-covered landscapes had a direct impact on regional temperatures. Glisan noted that December temperatures averaged about 1.7 degrees below normal.
Despite the notable snow, overall precipitation—which includes the liquid equivalent of frozen moisture—was slightly lacking. The state recorded approximately one inch of precipitation, which is about four-tenths of an inch below the monthly average. Ultimately, Glisan characterized the month as pretty ordinary on most accounts.
