Expand
Contents
- The climate of Des Moines
- The Best Time to Visit Des Moines
- The Worst Time to Visit Des Moines
- Spring Weather in Des Moines
- Summer Weather in Des Moines
- Autumn Weather in Des Moines
- Winter Weather in Des Moines
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average snowfall
- Average snowfall days
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
City buildings in Des Moines, Iowa
The climate of Des Moines
Sitting in the heartland of the United States, the climate of Des Moines, Iowa, is best classified as Dfa or humid continental under the Köppen climate classification. This climate label signifies a substantial seasonal variation, with hot summers and cold, often snowy winters. Throughout the year, Des Moines undergoes distinct shifts in climate parameters - air pressure, sunlight hours, and levels of humidity, precipation, and temperature, each having a unique pattern.
Temperature oscillates markedly throught the year: it commences from a chilly 15.1°F (-9.4°C) in January, surges up to a summery 83.1°F (28.4°C) in July, and then descents back down for the winter. Rain patterns show a corresponding rhythm, with the highest rainfall from 2.64" (67mm) to 2.76" (70mm) occuring during the warmer months, from May to June. It is noticeable that relative humidity stays more or less constant, fluctuating between 70% to 82% year around.
In an average year, Des Moines observes snowfall from November to April peaking at 2.24" (57mm) in January. January and February certainly paint a winter wonderland scene, with snowfall observed for 8.7 days and 7.8 days respectively. On the other hand, the sunniest period spreads from June to August, with daylight hours stretching from 14.5 to 15.2, and sunshine duration extending from 9.7 hours to 10.3 hours. The city also experiences gusty conditions throughout the year with winds peaking at 16.5mph (26.6km/h) in January.
Temperature oscillates markedly throught the year: it commences from a chilly 15.1°F (-9.4°C) in January, surges up to a summery 83.1°F (28.4°C) in July, and then descents back down for the winter. Rain patterns show a corresponding rhythm, with the highest rainfall from 2.64" (67mm) to 2.76" (70mm) occuring during the warmer months, from May to June. It is noticeable that relative humidity stays more or less constant, fluctuating between 70% to 82% year around.
In an average year, Des Moines observes snowfall from November to April peaking at 2.24" (57mm) in January. January and February certainly paint a winter wonderland scene, with snowfall observed for 8.7 days and 7.8 days respectively. On the other hand, the sunniest period spreads from June to August, with daylight hours stretching from 14.5 to 15.2, and sunshine duration extending from 9.7 hours to 10.3 hours. The city also experiences gusty conditions throughout the year with winds peaking at 16.5mph (26.6km/h) in January.
The Best Time to Visit Des Moines
Sun seekers and warmth lovers would relish the summer months in Des Moines when the temperature typically tops between 79.5°F (26.4°C) and 83.1°F (28.4°C) from June to August. These three months also contain the most considerable amount of sunshine, with daily averages ranging from 8.6 hours to 10.3 hours. Visitors can enjoy long and generally dry days with comparatively lower rainfall levels. Add the fact that these months generally see fewer clouds, with cloud coverage less than 34%, and it is clear why summer is the optimal season to visit.
The Worst Time to Visit Des Moines
Winter could be a challenging time to visit and explore Des Moines. From December to February, average high temperatures range from 28.2°F (-2.1°C) to 34.2°F (1.2°C) and can plunge to frigid lows between 15.1°F (-9.4°C) to 22.5°F (-5.3°C). Additionally, Des Moines sees an increased number of snowfall days, with 8.7 days in January and 5.7 days in December, which might add difficulty to travel plans. Hence, travelers who cannot handle very cold and snowy conditions might want to avoid Des Moines in winter.
Spring Weather in Des Moines
Spring in Des Moines is a time of warming temperatures and incremental increase in rainfall. From March to May, high temperatures move from 47.5°F (8.6°C) to 69.6°F (20.9°C), while lows rise from 32.2°F (0.1°C) to 53.1°F (11.7°C). While March witnesses smaller amounts of rainfall at 1.02" (26mm), the precipitation sees a significant jump to 2.76" (70mm) in May. It is a season of transformation as the snow melts away, and blooming flowers replace it.
Summer Weather in Des Moines
The summer in Des Moines manifests high temperatures, extended daylight hours and moderate rainfall. The mercury often soars into the high 70s, peaking at 83.1°F (28.4°C) in July. Daylight conditions are ideal during this time, with the length of the day ranging from 14.5 hours in June to 14.8 hours in July. Rainfall fluctuates within a narrower band, from 1.5" (38mm) in July to 2.64" (67mm) in June. A mixed bag of weather, the summer can be hot, cheerful or drenched in moments.
Autumn Weather in Des Moines
Autumn sees a marked cooling from the summer's heat. Temperatures decrease from a high of 75.6°F (24.2°C) in September to 47.1°F (8.4°C) in November, while lows slide from 55.9°F (13.3°C) to 32.7°F (0.4°C). Rainfall also declines during autumn, progressively reducing from 1.73" (44mm) in September to 0.71" (18mm) in November. The days get visibly shorter with daylight hours dropping from 12.5 hours in September to 9.9 hours by November. Autumn is a serene time with crisp air, clear days, and impressive color change in foliage.
Winter Weather in Des Moines
Winter gradually sets in Des Moines, snowfall commences and temperatures plunge. December through February records the lowest temperatures, dipping between a low 22.5°F (-5.3°C) to a high 34.2°F (1.2°C). The period also marks the peak of snowfall, hitting almost an inch in December and cresting at 2.24" (57mm) in January. However, the season's saving grace might be the clear visibility, unaffected despite the snow, at a steady 6 miles. The winter season might be cold, but the city decked in a blanket of snow can be a fascinating sight.
Weather in January
Weather conditions in Des Moines, Iowa commence the year with a blend of cold temperatures, reasonably high humidity, and snow. The first month witnesses a modest change in daylight hours, and the modest sunshine hours indicate a relatively cloud-covered sky most of the time. Weather in January »
Weather in February
The city of Des Moines experiences a slight lift in temperature in February, hinting at the arrival of the spring season soon. Yet, the city continues to witness snowfall, making outdoor winter activities a lure for enthusiasts. Weather in February »
Weather in March
March recognizes a significant change in weather, marking the transition from winter to spring in Des Moines. Temperature increases get accompanied by a notable rise in rainfall: the melting snow and rain contribute to increased relative humidity. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April in Des Moines signifies the complete onset of spring, with a substantial rise in temperature and extended daylight hours. It fosters an environment for the blooming of flora and the greening of fauna, as the rainfall intensifies. Weather in April »
Weather in May
As May arrives to Des Moines, the weather gets closer to summer, with obvious increases in temperature and a substantial rise in rainfall often leading to the growth of lush landscapes. The city shines under high sunshine hours and longer daylight hours, hinting at the arrival of the longest day of the year. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June brings the summer season to Des Moines, showcasing peak daylight hours and high sunshine hours that encourage outdoor activities. A decrease in relative humidity offers the perfect environment for summer cookouts and picnics. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July, often considered the peak of summer in Des Moines, is characterized by the greatest warmth and longest daylight hours of the year. Thundery showers sporadically balance out the generally high temperature. Despite the tropical nature of the month, a dip in wind gusts provides some respite from the heat. Weather in July »
Weather in August
In August, Des Moines experiences a continuation of the summer with a slight downtrend in temperature and shorter daylight hours. Sunshine hours reduce gradually, hinting at the autumn season lurking around the corner. Additionally, the UV Index starts to drop, indicating less harsh sunlight. Weather in August »
Weather in September
The transition from summer to autumn becomes evident in Des Moines during September. The daylight hours reduce further, and slight dips in temperature make the weather more comfortable. A decrease in humidity coupled with a relatively balanced rain and sunshine duration, ensures an enjoyable outdoor ambiance. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in Des Moines signifies the full swing of autumn. Temperatures spiral down further compared to September, and daylight hours continue to wane. The beautiful fall foliage becomes vibrant, with yellow, orange, and red dominating the landscape. Weather in October »
Weather in November
As November arrives, the city of Des Moines prepares for winter, with further falls in temperature and shortened daylight hours. With a noticeable dip in sunshine hours and a rise in cloud coverage, November experiences the first flurries of snow. Weather in November »
Weather in December
With the arrival of December, winter officially begins in Des Moines. Temperature levels continue to drop, causing a palpable rise in the humidity. The shrinking daylight and sunshine hours indicate the approach of the winter solstice. Weather in December »
Updated: Aug 9, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
What is the coldest month in Des Moines?
January is the coldest month of the year, registering average temperatures as high as 28.2°F (-2.1°C) and as low as 15.1°F (-9.4°C).
What is the most humid month in Des Moines?
The months with the highest humidity are January and June, with an average relative humidity of 82%.
What is the driest month?
The month with the least rainfall is January, when the rain falls for 4 days and typically collects 0.47" (12mm) of precipitation.
How much does it rain?
In Des Moines, during the entire year, the rain falls for 114.4 days and collects up to 16.38" (416mm) of precipitation.
When does it snow?
Months with snowfall are January through May, October through December.
When does it snow the most?
The month with the most snowfall is January, when snow falls for 8.7 days and typically aggregates up to 2.24" (57mm) of snow.
How many days does it snow?
Throughout the year, there are 30.9 snowfall days, and 7.36" (187mm) of snow is accumulated.
What is the month with the least sunshine?
The month with the least sunshine is January, with an average of 4.3h of sunshine.
When is the lowest UV index?
January is the month with the lowest UV index, with an average maximum UV index of 1.
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST)?
On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts in Des Moines, and the time zone changes from CST to CDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from CDT to CST.
What is the rainiest month?
May is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 15.3 days and accumulates 2.76" (70mm) of precipitation.
When it does not snow?
In Des Moines, snow does not fall in June through September.
When are the longest days?
June has the longest days of the year, with an average of 15h and 6min of daylight.
What is the month with the highest UV index?
June through August, with an average maximum UV index of 6, are months with the highest UV index.
What are the warmest months?
July is the warmest month, with an average high-temperature of 83.1°F (28.4°C) and an average low-temperature of 65.5°F (18.6°C).
What month has the most sunshine?
The month with the most sunshine is July, with an average of 10.3h of sunshine.
What is the least humid month?
October is the least humid month in Des Moines, with an average relative humidity of 70%.
What is the month with the shortest days?
With an average of 9h and 12min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year.
Average temperature
Des Moines, IA
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (83.1°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (28.2°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (65.5°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (15.1°F).
Average pressure
Des Moines, IA
- Average pressure in January:
30.16"Hg - Average pressure in February:
30.14"Hg - Average pressure in March:
30.07"Hg - Average pressure in April:
29.92"Hg - Average pressure in May:
29.93"Hg - Average pressure in June:
29.88"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
29.96"Hg - Average pressure in August:
29.97"Hg - Average pressure in September:
30.01"Hg - Average pressure in October:
30.01"Hg - Average pressure in November:
30.09"Hg - Average pressure in December:
30.12"Hg
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (30.16"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.88"Hg).
Average wind speed
Des Moines, IA
- Average wind speed in January:
10.3mph - Average wind speed in February:
10.3mph - Average wind speed in March:
10.3mph - Average wind speed in April:
10.3mph - Average wind speed in May:
8.8mph - Average wind speed in June:
8mph
The windiest months (with the highest average wind speed) are January, February, March and April (10.3mph).
The calmest months (with the lowest average wind speed) are July and August (7mph).
Average humidity
Des Moines, IA
The months with the highest relative humidity are January and June (82%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is October (70%).
Average rainfall
Des Moines, IA
- Average rainfall in January:
0.47" - Average rainfall in February:
0.51" - Average rainfall in March:
1.02" - Average rainfall in April:
1.46" - Average rainfall in May:
2.76" - Average rainfall in June:
2.64"
- Average rainfall in July:
1.5" - Average rainfall in August:
1.85" - Average rainfall in September:
1.73" - Average rainfall in October:
1.18" - Average rainfall in November:
0.71" - Average rainfall in December:
0.55"
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is May (2.76").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is January (0.47").
Average rainfall days
Des Moines, IA
- Average rainfall days in January:
4 days - Average rainfall days in February:
3 days - Average rainfall days in March:
8.7 days - Average rainfall days in April:
13.4 days - Average rainfall days in May:
15.3 days - Average rainfall days in June:
15.9 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
12.9 days - Average rainfall days in August:
11.8 days - Average rainfall days in September:
10.5 days - Average rainfall days in October:
8.5 days - Average rainfall days in November:
6.3 days - Average rainfall days in December:
4.1 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is June (15.9 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (3 days).
Average snowfall
Des Moines, IA
- Average snowfall in January:
2.24" - Average snowfall in February:
2.2" - Average snowfall in March:
0.98" - Average snowfall in April:
0.35" - Average snowfall in May:
0.08" - Average snowfall in June:
0"
The month with the highest snowfall is January (2.24").
The months with the least snowfall are June, July, August and September (0").
Average snowfall days
Des Moines, IA
- Average snowfall days in January:
8.7 days - Average snowfall days in February:
7.8 days - Average snowfall days in March:
4.6 days - Average snowfall days in April:
1.1 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0.2 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0 days - Average snowfall days in October:
0.6 days - Average snowfall days in November:
2.2 days - Average snowfall days in December:
5.7 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (8.7 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July, August and September (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Des Moines, IA
- Average daylight in January:
9h and 4min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 4min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 2min - Average daylight in May:
14h and 3min - Average daylight in June:
15h and 1min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 5min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 5min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 3min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 1min - Average daylight in November:
9h and 5min - Average daylight in December:
9h and 1min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 6min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 12min).
- Average sunshine in January:
4h and 2min - Average sunshine in February:
4h and 5min - Average sunshine in March:
6h and 0min - Average sunshine in April:
8h and 0min - Average sunshine in May:
8h and 4min - Average sunshine in June:
9h and 4min
- Average sunshine in July:
10h and 2min - Average sunshine in August:
9h and 5min - Average sunshine in September:
9h and 2min - Average sunshine in October:
5h and 4min - Average sunshine in November:
5h and 4min - Average sunshine in December:
4h and 4min
The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 10h and 18min).
The month with the least sunshine is January (Average sunshine: 4h and 18min).
Average sunshine days
Des Moines, IA
- Average sunshine days in January:
20.3 days - Average sunshine days in February:
17.8 days - Average sunshine days in March:
18 days - Average sunshine days in April:
15.1 days - Average sunshine days in May:
12.4 days - Average sunshine days in June:
12.2 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
15.5 days - Average sunshine days in August:
16.7 days - Average sunshine days in September:
17.5 days - Average sunshine days in October:
21.2 days - Average sunshine days in November:
21.9 days - Average sunshine days in December:
22.3 days
The month with the most sunshine days is December (22.3 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is June (12.2 days).
Average UV index
Des Moines, IA
The months with the highest UV index are June, July and August (UV index 6).
The month with the lowest UV index is January (UV index 1).
Average cloud cover
Des Moines, IA
The month with the most cloud cover is January (Cloud cover 54).
The months with the least cloud cover are July and September (Cloud cover 29).
Average visibility
Des Moines, IA
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
Des Moines, Iowa, USA
Weather forecast for your location
1. Click Locate me button
2. Allow the app to use your location
2. Allow the app to use your location