December weather forecast
Iowa, USA

December ushers in the heart of winter for Iowa, characterized by a distinct coldness and the landscape often blanketed in snow. Daytime temperatures during this month predominantly linger between 30°F (-1.1°C) and 40°F (4.4°C). As darkness sets in earlier, nighttime temperatures plunge further, frequently ranging from 20°F (-6.7°C) to 30°F (-1.1°C).

Snowfall becomes more prevalent as December progresses, transforming the state into a winter wonderland. The snow, at times accompanied by icy conditions, has the potential to impact travel and daily activities. Northern regions, including towns like Mason City, can expect more significant snow accumulation compared to their southern counterparts.

When juxtaposed with November, December showcases a deeper cold and more consistent snowfall patterns. The sun, while still offering its light, appears less frequently, giving way to overcast skies on many days. This results in shorter daylight hours, with the landscape often illuminated by the soft glow of holiday lights.

Areas close to major rivers, such as Dubuque along the Mississippi, might witness slightly milder conditions due to the moderating influence of the water bodies. However, the essence of December remains consistent across Iowa: it's a month of wintry landscapes, holiday celebrations, and the wrap-up of the calendar year. The chill in the air is not just indicative of the season but also serves as a precursor to the even colder months that follow.

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• Des Moines - December »
  In Des Moines, Iowa, during December, snow falls for 5.7 days and regularly aggregates up to 0.91" (23mm) of snow. In Des Moines in December, during 4.1 rainfall days, 0.55" (14mm) of precipitation is typically accumulated.
• Cedar Rapids - December »
  In Cedar Rapids in December, during 8.2 snowfall days, 1.46" (37mm) of snow is typically accumulated. In Cedar Rapids, Iowa, in December, during 5.9 rainfall days, 0.79" (20mm) of precipitation is typically accumulated.
• Davenport - December »
  In Davenport, Iowa, during December, snow falls for 6.9 days and regularly aggregates up to 1.89" (48mm) of snow. In Davenport during December, the rain falls for 6.9 days and regularly aggregates up to 1.26" (32mm) of precipitation.
• Sioux City - December »
  In Sioux City during December, the rain falls for 3.2 days and regularly aggregates up to 0.59" (15mm) of precipitation. In Sioux City, during December, the rain falls for 3.2 days and regularly aggregates up to 0.59" (15mm) of precipitation.
• Iowa City - December »
  In Iowa City in December, during 8.4 snowfall days, 2.28" (58mm) of snow is typically accumulated. December has the shortest days of the year in Iowa City, with an average of 9h and 12min of daylight.
• Waterloo - December »
  December has the shortest days of the year in Waterloo with an average of 9h and 6min of daylight. In Waterloo, in December, during 8.9 snowfall days, 2.8" (71mm) of snow is typically accumulated.
• Ames - December »
  In Ames in December, snow falls for 8.4 days, with typically accumulated 2.64" (67mm) of snow. December has the shortest days of the year in Ames with an average of 9h and 12min of daylight.
• West Des Moines - December »
  With an average of 9h and 12min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year in West Des Moines, Iowa. In West Des Moines in December, it is raining for 5.8 days, with typically 1.06" (27mm) of accumulated precipitation.
• Council Bluffs - December »
  In Council Bluffs during December, snow falls for 6.9 days and regularly aggregates up to 2.05" (52mm) of snow. In Council Bluffs, in December, snow falls for 6.9 days, with typically accumulated 2.05" (52mm) of snow.
• Dubuque - December »
  In Dubuque, in December, during 9 snowfall days, 2.68" (68mm) of snow is typically accumulated. The months with the lowest UV index in Dubuque are January, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 1.
• Ankeny - December »
  In Ankeny during December, snow falls for 7.7 days and regularly aggregates up to 1.97" (50mm) of snow. In Ankeny in December, it is raining for 5.2 days, with typically 1.26" (32mm) of accumulated precipitation.
• Urbandale - December »
  In Urbandale in December, snow falls for 5.5 days, with typically accumulated 0.83" (21mm) of snow. In Urbandale, in December, snow falls for 5.5 days, with typically accumulated 0.83" (21mm) of snow.