Alma, Missouri, is a beautiful town located in Lafayette County, in the heart of the Midwest region of the United States. Situated along the banks of the Missouri River, Alma boasts a serene and idyllic setting surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills. The town is located approximately 55 miles east of Kansas City, Missouri, and is easily accessible via Interstate 70. With a population of around 400 residents, Alma exudes small-town charm and a close-knit community atmosphere.
Climate and Weather Overview
Alma, Missouri, experiences a temperate climate characterized by four distinct seasons: spring, summer, fall, and winter. The region enjoys moderately warm summers, mild winters, and ample rainfall throughout the year. The climate is influenced by its inland location and proximity to the Missouri River, which helps moderate temperatures and provides moisture to the area.
Climate Data Table
| Month | Average Temperature (°F) | Precipitation (inches) | Sunny Days |
| January | 34 | 1.2 | 12 |
| February | 39 | 1.4 | 13 |
| March | 51 | 2.8 | 14 |
| April | 62 | 3.7 | 15 |
| May | 72 | 5.2 | 16 |
| June | 81 | 5.1 | 16 |
| July | 86 | 4.4 | 17 |
| August | 85 | 4.0 | 16 |
| September | 78 | 3.4 | 14 |
| October | 66 | 2.6 | 13 |
| November | 52 | 2.1 | 12 |
| December | 39 | 1.5 | 11 |
Weather by Month
January
January in Alma brings chilly temperatures with an average high of 34°F (1.1°C) and an average low of 18°F (-7.8°C). It is the coldest month of the year, with occasional snowfall and frosty mornings. Precipitation is relatively low, with an average of 1.2 inches (30 mm) of rainfall spread throughout the month. Despite the cold weather, there are still plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as sledding, ice skating, and winter hikes in the surrounding countryside.
Natural Disasters:
- Potential for winter storms bringing heavy snowfall and icy conditions.
- Risk of freezing rain leading to slippery roadways and hazardous travel conditions.
Recommended Activities:
- Embrace the winter wonderland with outdoor activities like sledding and ice skating.
- Cozy up indoors with hot cocoa and a good book by the fireplace.
- Explore nearby historical landmarks and museums for a glimpse into Alma’s past.
February
February sees a slight increase in temperatures compared to January, with an average high of 39°F (3.9°C) and an average low of 22°F (-5.6°C). While snow is still possible, it becomes less frequent as the month progresses. Precipitation remains relatively low, with an average of 1.4 inches (36 mm) of rainfall. As winter begins to wane, residents can start looking forward to the arrival of spring with outdoor activities like birdwatching and nature walks.
Natural Disasters:
- Continued risk of winter storms, though less severe than in January.
- Potential for freezing rain and icy conditions on roadways.
Recommended Activities:
- Take advantage of the quieter winter months with peaceful walks along the Missouri River.
- Attend local community events and social gatherings to connect with neighbors.
- Plan a day trip to nearby attractions such as wineries or nature reserves.
March
As spring approaches, March brings milder temperatures to Alma, with an average high of 51°F (10.6°C) and an average low of 31°F (-0.6°C). The weather becomes more pleasant, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and gardening. March also sees an increase in precipitation, with an average of 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rainfall. Despite the occasional showers, there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and witness the beauty of nature awakening from its winter slumber.
Natural Disasters:
- Transition period with potential for both winter storms and early spring thunderstorms.
- Risk of flooding from melting snow and increased rainfall.
Recommended Activities:
- Explore local parks and nature trails to observe the first signs of spring.
- Plant a garden and enjoy the satisfaction of watching it bloom throughout the season.
- Attend seasonal events such as farmers’ markets and spring festivals in neighboring towns.
April
April heralds the arrival of spring in full force, with blooming flowers and warmer temperatures. The average high in April is 62°F (16.7°C), while the average low is 41°F (5°C). Rainfall increases slightly, with an average of 3.7 inches (94 mm) spread throughout the month. With the pleasant weather, outdoor activities such as picnics, fishing, and nature photography become popular choices for residents. April also marks the beginning of the growing season, making it an excellent time for gardening and outdoor projects.
Natural Disasters:
- Potential for severe thunderstorms with hail, high winds, and localized flooding.
- Risk of tornadoes as spring weather patterns become more volatile.
Recommended Activities:
- Spend time outdoors enjoying the vibrant colors of spring flowers and blossoming trees.
- Plan a day trip to explore nearby hiking trails and nature preserves.
- Participate in community clean-up events to help beautify the town for spring.
May
May brings warmer temperatures to Alma, with an average high of 72°F (22.2°C) and an average low of 51°F (10.6°C). The weather is generally sunny and pleasant, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping. However, May also sees an increase in rainfall, with an average of 5.2 inches (132 mm) throughout the month. Despite the occasional showers, there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, from exploring local parks to attending outdoor concerts and events.
Natural Disasters:
- Continued risk of severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, and flash flooding.
- Potential for hail, damaging winds, and lightning strikes during severe weather events.
Recommended Activities:
- Take advantage of the warmer weather to explore outdoor recreational opportunities.
- Plan a camping trip or weekend getaway to nearby lakes or state parks.
- Attend local festivals and events celebrating the arrival of spring and the outdoor season.
June
June marks the beginning of summer in Alma, with temperatures on the rise and longer daylight hours. The average high in June is 81°F (27.2°C), while the average low is 61°F (16.1°C). Rainfall remains moderate, with an average of 5.1 inches (130 mm) spread throughout the month. With school out for the summer, families often take advantage of the warm weather to enjoy activities such as swimming, boating, and picnicking at local parks. However, it’s essential to stay hydrated and protect against the sun’s rays during outdoor activities.
Natural Disasters:
- Heightened risk of severe thunderstorms and tornadoes during the peak of tornado season.
- Potential for heatwaves and high humidity, leading to heat-related illnesses.
Recommended Activities:
- Beat the heat with water activities like swimming, tubing, or kayaking on the Missouri River.
- Attend outdoor concerts and movie nights hosted by local parks and community centers.
- Explore nearby trails and nature reserves for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting.
July
July brings the peak of summer heat to Alma, with temperatures reaching their highest levels of the year. The average high in July is 86°F (30°C), while the average low is 65°F (18.3°C). Despite the heat, outdoor activities such as barbecues, outdoor concerts, and Fourth of July celebrations are popular among residents. July also sees an average of 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rainfall, providing some relief from the heat. However, it’s important to stay hydrated and seek shade during outdoor activities to avoid heat-related illnesses.
Natural Disasters:
- Continued risk of severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, and flash flooding.
- Potential for extended periods of extreme heat and humidity.
Recommended Activities:
- Cool off with a refreshing swim in the Missouri River or a local swimming pool.
- Enjoy outdoor festivals and events celebrating the summer season.
- Plan evening stargazing sessions or bonfires with friends and family.
August
August continues to be hot and humid in Alma, with temperatures remaining high throughout the month. The average high is 85°F (29.4°C), while the average low is 64°F (17.8°C). Rainfall decreases slightly compared to July, with an average of 4.0 inches (102 mm) spread throughout the month. Despite the heat, there are still plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, from visiting water parks to exploring local trails and parks. However, it’s essential to stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade to avoid overheating.
Natural Disasters:
- Persistence of summer thunderstorms with the potential for severe weather events.
- Risk of heatwaves and heat-related illnesses, especially for vulnerable populations.
Recommended Activities:
- Seek out water-based activities to stay cool, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, or fishing.
- Take advantage of early morning or late evening hours for outdoor exercise and recreation.
- Explore indoor attractions like museums, art galleries, and historical sites during the hottest part of the day.
September
As summer transitions to fall, September brings slightly cooler temperatures to Alma, with an average high of 78°F (25.6°C) and an average low of 56°F (13.3°C). The weather remains warm and pleasant, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing. September also sees a decrease in rainfall, with an average of 3.4 inches (86 mm) throughout the month. With the changing of the seasons, residents can enjoy the natural beauty of Alma’s parks and outdoor spaces without the summer crowds.
Natural Disasters:
- Transition period with potential for both lingering summer storms and early fall weather systems.
- Risk of localized flooding from heavy rainfall associated with slow-moving thunderstorms.
Recommended Activities:
- Take scenic drives through the countryside to admire the changing colors of fall foliage.
- Attend local harvest festivals and farmers’ markets to sample seasonal produce.
- Plan outdoor adventures like camping trips and nature hikes to soak up the mild autumn weather.
October
October marks the arrival of fall in Alma, with cooler temperatures and changing leaves. The average high in October is 66°F (18.9°C), while the average low is 41°F (5°C). Rainfall remains moderate, with an average of 2.6 inches (66 mm) spread throughout the month. With the pleasant weather, outdoor activities such as pumpkin picking, hayrides, and fall festivals become popular choices for residents. October also provides excellent opportunities for hiking and exploring Alma’s scenic trails and parks.
Natural Disasters:
- Potential for severe weather events including thunderstorms and tornadoes.
- Transition period with the risk of early season frost and freezing temperatures.
Recommended Activities:
- Embrace the spirit of fall with visits to pumpkin patches and apple orchards.
- Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and leaf-peeping in nearby state parks.
- Attend seasonal events such as haunted hayrides and corn mazes for family-friendly fun.
November
November brings crisp fall weather to Alma, with temperatures continuing to cool as winter approaches. The average high in November is 52°F (11.1°C), while the average low is 31°F (-0.6°C). Rainfall increases slightly compared to October, with an average of 2.1 inches (53 mm) spread throughout the month. Despite the cooler weather, there are still plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, from hiking and birdwatching to attending fall events and festivals. November also marks the start of the holiday season, with festive events and decorations popping up around the town.
Natural Disasters:
- Potential for early-season snowfall and wintry weather events.
- Risk of gusty winds and falling leaves causing hazards for motorists and pedestrians.
Recommended Activities:
- Take scenic drives through the countryside to admire the vibrant hues of autumn leaves.
- Gather with friends and family for outdoor bonfires and cozy evenings under the stars.
- Start holiday preparations with visits to local markets and craft fairs for unique gifts and decorations.
December
December in Alma brings cold temperatures and the possibility of snowfall as winter takes hold. The average high in December is 39°F (3.9°C), while the average low is 22°F (-5.6°C). Rainfall remains moderate, with an average of 1.5 inches (38 mm) throughout the month. With the holiday season in full swing, residents can enjoy festive activities such as tree lightings, holiday markets, and carriage rides. Despite the colder weather, there are still opportunities for outdoor activities such as ice skating, sledding, and winter hikes in nearby parks.
Natural Disasters:
- Potential for winter storms bringing heavy snowfall and icy conditions.
- Risk of freezing rain leading to slippery roadways and hazardous travel conditions.
Recommended Activities:
- Embrace the holiday spirit with visits to local Christmas light displays and holiday concerts.
- Bundle up for outdoor activities like ice skating, sledding, and building snowmen.
- Cozy up indoors with hot cocoa and holiday movie marathons for a festive season finale.