Decorah Sees Second-Wettest August Ever, With New 24-Hour Rainfall Record

Act now—your donation to local news ensures a brighter, more informed tomorrow. DECORAH — August 2025 in Decorah was defined by a significant and record-setting amount of rainfall, while temperatures remained consistently above average, if only slightly. Temperatures for the month were mild, according to local meteorologist and Luther College faculty member Richard Bernatz, with an average of 71.4 degrees, which is 1 degree warmer than the historical average. This makes August 2025 the 41st warmest August on record. The warmest temperatures of the month reached 91 degrees on Aug. 8 and 9. The lowest temperatures were recorded on Aug. 26 and 27, dipping to 49 degrees. The consistent warmth meant more cooling degree days, with the total exceeding the average. The most dramatic aspect of August 2025 was the precipitation. With a staggering 13.61 inches of rain, the month was exceptionally wet, receiving 9.50 inches more than the historical average. This ranks August 2025 as the second-wettest August on record in Decorah, with only August 2007 being wetter. August 2025 Precipitation Photo by Richard Bernatz The most notable event was the measured rainfall of 8.64 inches on Aug. 18, which set a new record for the greatest 24-hour rainfall in Decorah's history, surpassing the previous record of 8.06 inches on Aug. 24, 2016. June 8, 2008, holds third place with 6.60 inches. Despite the immense total rainfall, there were only eight days with measurable precipitation, which is just below the average of nine, indicating that the month's precipitation came in a few very heavy downpours rather than frequent, light showers. Looking at the broader 12-month trend, August's weather reinforces a pattern of above-average temperatures and a shift toward significantly wetter conditions. Eleven of the last 12 months have been warmer than average, with September and October 2024 and March and June 2025 all ranking among the top 10 warmest on record for their respective months. In terms of the last 12 months and precipitation, August's immense rainfall has erased recent deficits (September 2024 was the second-driest September on record and January 2025 was the driest January on record) and created a substantial surplus. The last three months have seen a precipitation surplus of 12.10 inches, and the past 12 months are now 10.89 inches above average. This month's record-breaking rainfall event is a stark reminder of the extreme weather that has characterized the past year in Decorah. Stay informed, stay inspired! Newsletter sign up is free and join hundreds of free subscribers who rely on DecorahNews.com for trusted information and fresh perspectives.