Climate and monthly weather forecastWest Des Moines, IA
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of West Des Moines
West Des Moines, located in the state of Iowa, the USA, has a climate classified as Dfa by the Köppen climate classification system, signifying a humid continental climate with no dry season and hot summers. This characterisation showcases hot to warm temperatures in the summer months, while winters range from cool to freezing. This diversity in temperatures offers both the thrill of seasonal changes, and the comfort of a year-round humid atmosphere, with average relative humidity ranging from 70% to 82%.Temperatures throughout the year in West Des Moines show a drastic fluctuation. The warmest time of the year between June and August sees average high temperatures from 79.5°F (26.4°C) to 82.9°F (28.3°C), while the coldest months between December and February see a considerable dip, with low temperatures from 14.9°F (-9.5°C) to 18°F (-7.8°C). Sunlight hours experience similar seasonal shifts from a bustling 15.1 hour peak in June to a relative low of 9.2 hours in December.
Precipitation patterns in West Des Moines remain fairly even throughout the year, but the wettest month of May contributes 4.33" (110mm) to annual rainfall. In terms of snowfall, winter months receive a maximum of 4.37" (111mm) in January and a minimum of 1.54" (39mm) in December. Notably, the wind speeds in West Des Moines do not show drastic variation, maintaining an average speed from 7mph (11.3km/h) to 10.3mph (16.6km/h) monthly, offering a persistently mild breeze throughout the year.
The best time to visit West Des Moines
Considering the temperature, sunlight hours, and low rainfall, the best time to visit West Des Moines would be between May and September. Average high temperatures during these months range from 69.8°F (21°C) to 82.9°F (28.3°C) and the average sunlight per day hovers from 14.5 hours to 15.1 hours, guaranteeing warm and long sunny days.The worst time to visit West Des Moines
The harshness of winter months in West Des Moines could potentially deter visitors. With the lowest temperatures drop from 14.9°F (-9.5°C) to 18°F (-7.8°C) between December and February, and decreasing sunlight hours from 9.6 hours to 9.2 hours, these chilly months framed with shorter days may unnerve visitors not accustomed to harsh winters.Spring weather in West Des Moines
Beginning with a rather cool March, with average low temperatures of 32.2°F (0.1°C), spring in West Des Moines steadily warms up through April and May, up to a high of 69.8°F (21°C). Precipitation increases significantly, contributing to the rejuvenation of the natural scenery in the city, as rainfall ranges from 1.77" (45mm) to a spring peak of 4.33" (110mm) in May.Summer weather in West Des Moines
Summers in West Des Moines bring hot and humid conditions with high temperatures ranging between 79.5°F (26.4°C) and 82.9°F (28.3°C) from June to August. The summer months also bring an abundance of sunlight, with daylight hours peaking at 15.1 hours in June. Despite the humidity, rainfall is moderately low, ranging from 2.05" (52mm) to 3.58" (91mm) during the summer months.Autumn weather in West Des Moines
Autumn presents mild weather in West Des Moines. The average high temperatures step down from 75.6°F (24.2°C) in September to a cooler 47.1°F (8.4°C) by November. Rainfall remains fairly consistent, with averages from 2.13" (54mm) in October to 1.38" (35mm) by November.Winter weather in West Des Moines
Winters in West Des Moines are quite cold. Average high temperatures fall to 34°F (1.1°C) in December and average low temperatures drop to a chilly 14.9°F (-9.5°C) in January. The city experiences its highest snowfall in January, with an accumulation of 4.37" (111mm). Despite the cold, winter in West Des Moines can be a beautiful sight to witness with the snow-covered cityscape.Weather in January
The new year starts with chilly January weather in West Des Moines, Iowa, often characterized by a thick, white snow blanket. Average temperatures hover around 14.9°F (-9.5°C) at night and rise only up to 27.9°F (-2.3°C) during daytime, which marks January as the coldest month of the year. Weather in January »Weather in February
In February, West Des Moines, Iowa experiences a similar weather pattern to January. There is a slight increase in temperature, giving some respite from the freezing cold of the previous month. The amount of snow decreases to 3.9" (99mm) across 8.8 days, signifying a gradual shift towards Spring. Weather in February »Weather in March
The transition to Spring sets in during March, which results in a noticeable escalation in temperatures in West Des Moines, Iowa. The rainfall nearly doubles, reaching up to 1.77" (45mm), a clear sign of winter’s end. Snowfall also reduces significantly, usually about 1.46" (37mm) total, making this month an indicator of the approaching warmer season. Weather in March »Weather in April
West Des Moines, Iowa in April signifies the full arrival of spring. An increase in rainfall to 2.68" (68mm) is evidence of this change. Temperatures rise consistently, inviting blooming flowers and flourishing vegetation, transforming the city into a colorful spectacle. Weather in April »Weather in May
May weather in West Des Moines, Iowa is characterized by significant warming, consistent with the late Spring season. There’s a surge in the amount of rainfall as it reaches a high of 4.33" (110mm). The city enlivens with the chirping of migrating birds, people flocking to parks, and barbecues filling the air with mouth-watering aromas. Weather in May »Weather in June
June in West Des Moines, Iowa welcomes the vibrant summer season. The temperatures steadily increase, bringing warmth to cool evenings and early mornings. Beach visits and poolside activities reach their prime in June, coupled with increased daylight hours for extended outdoor fun. Weather in June »Weather in July
July is the peak of summer in West Des Moines, Iowa, with highs reaching up to 82.9°F (28.3°C). Leisurely strolls in the city parks and gatherings in backyards become more frequent due to extended daylight hours. The weather remains warm throughout the evening, facilitating outdoor concerts and late-night walks under the stars. Weather in July »Weather in August
In August, the hot summer temperature in West Des Moines, Iowa slightly cools down. Fun water activities continue, taking advantage of higher temperatures before Autumn sets in. The wind picks up slightly, creating a pleasant environment for sailers and windsurfers. Weather in August »Weather in September
September announces the arrival of Fall in West Des Moines, Iowa. Temperatures become milder, making the climate comfortable for residents. The decrease in daylight hour signals that the days are getting shorter, paving the way for the coming winter. Weather in September »Weather in October
In October, the Fall season fully descends on West Des Moines, Iowa, reflecting in cooling temperatures and the beautiful fall foliage. Winds increase to 9.4mph (15.1km/h), adding a noticeable chill to the air. The crisp air is perfect for apple picking or attending outdoor festivals. Weather in October »Weather in November
The transition towards winter becomes apparent in November in West Des Moines, Iowa, as temperatures continue to drop. The first timid signs of snowfall appear, with 0.83" (21mm) spread across 2.6 days. The naked trees and barren parks exhibit a striking contrast to the flamboyant colors of the previous months. Weather in November »Weather in December
Closing the year, December in West Des Moines, Iowa, sees the true onset of winter. The festive season is often accompanied by a beautiful white blanket of snow measuring 1.54" (39mm). The chilly aura and AM-PM average temperatures from 22.3°F (-5.4°C) to 34°F (1.1°C) make room for winter sports and activities. Weather in December »Updated: Feb 12, 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
January is West Des Moines's coldest month, registering average high temperatures of 27.9°F (-2.3°C) and lows of 14.9°F (-9.5°C).
The months with the highest humidity in West Des Moines, Iowa, are January, February and June, with an average relative humidity of 82%.
The month with the least rainfall in West Des Moines, Iowa, is January, when the rain falls for 4.9 days and typically collects 0.91" (23mm) of precipitation.
In West Des Moines, during the entire year, the rain falls for 130.3 days and collects up to 25.91" (658mm) of precipitation.
Months with snowfall in West Des Moines, Iowa, are January through May, October through December.
The month with the most snowfall in West Des Moines, Iowa, is January, when snow falls for 10.4 days and typically aggregates up to 4.37" (111mm) of snow.
In West Des Moines, during the entire year, snow falls for 35.4 days and aggregates up to 12.99" (330mm) of snow.
The month with the least sunshine in West Des Moines is January, with an average of 4.3h of sunshine.
The month with the lowest UV index in West Des Moines, Iowa, is January, with an average maximum UV index of 1.
On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts in West Des Moines, Iowa, 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.
May is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 16.9 days and accumulates 4.33" (110mm) of precipitation.
In West Des Moines, Iowa, snow does not fall in June through September.
With an average of 15h and 6min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year in West Des Moines.
The months with the highest UV index are June through August, with an average maximum UV index of 6.
In West Des Moines, July is known for its average highest temperatures, reaching a high of 82.9°F (28.3°C) and a low of 65.3°F (18.5°C).
July has the most sunshine of the year, with an average of 10.4h of sunshine.
October is the least humid month in West Des Moines, with an average relative humidity of 70%.
With an average of 9h and 12min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year in West Des Moines.
Average temperature
West Des Moines, IA
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (82.9°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (27.9°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (65.3°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (14.9°F).
Average pressure
West 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:
29.93"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:
29.96"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
West Des Moines, IA
- Average wind speed in January:
10.3mph - Average wind speed in February:
10.2mph - 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, March and April (10.3mph).
The calmest months (with the lowest average wind speed) are July and August (7mph).
Average humidity
West Des Moines, IA
The months with the highest relative humidity are January, February and June (82%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is October (70%).
Average rainfall
West Des Moines, IA
- Average rainfall in January:
0.91" - Average rainfall in February:
0.98" - Average rainfall in March:
1.77" - Average rainfall in April:
2.68" - Average rainfall in May:
4.33" - Average rainfall in June:
3.58"
- Average rainfall in July:
2.05" - Average rainfall in August:
2.36" - Average rainfall in September:
2.68" - Average rainfall in October:
2.13" - Average rainfall in November:
1.38" - Average rainfall in December:
1.06"
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is May (4.33").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is January (0.91").
Average rainfall days
West Des Moines, IA
- Average rainfall days in January:
4.9 days - Average rainfall days in February:
4.3 days - Average rainfall days in March:
10.7 days - Average rainfall days in April:
14.4 days - Average rainfall days in May:
16.9 days - Average rainfall days in June:
17.3 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
14.2 days - Average rainfall days in August:
12.3 days - Average rainfall days in September:
11.5 days - Average rainfall days in October:
10.3 days - Average rainfall days in November:
7.7 days - Average rainfall days in December:
5.8 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is June (17.3 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (4.3 days).
Average snowfall
West Des Moines, IA
- Average snowfall in January:
4.37" - Average snowfall in February:
3.9" - Average snowfall in March:
1.46" - Average snowfall in April:
0.51" - Average snowfall in May:
0.24" - Average snowfall in June:
0"
The month with the highest snowfall is January (4.37").
The months with the least snowfall are June, July, August and September (0").
Average snowfall days
West Des Moines, IA
- Average snowfall days in January:
10.4 days - Average snowfall days in February:
8.8 days - Average snowfall days in March:
4.6 days - Average snowfall days in April:
1.3 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:
0.8 days - Average snowfall days in November:
2.6 days - Average snowfall days in December:
6.7 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (10.4 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July, August and September (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
West Des Moines, IA
- Average daylight in January:
9h and 36min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 36min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 24min - Average daylight in May:
14h and 30min - Average daylight in June:
15h and 6min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 48min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 48min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 30min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 6min - Average daylight in November:
9h and 54min - Average daylight in December:
9h and 12min
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 18min - Average sunshine in February:
4h and 54min - Average sunshine in March:
6h and 6min - Average sunshine in April:
8h and 0min - Average sunshine in May:
8h and 42min - Average sunshine in June:
9h and 42min
- Average sunshine in July:
10h and 24min - Average sunshine in August:
9h and 54min - Average sunshine in September:
9h and 18min - Average sunshine in October:
5h and 42min - Average sunshine in November:
5h and 36min - Average sunshine in December:
4h and 42min
The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 10h and 24min).
The month with the least sunshine is January (Average sunshine: 4h and 18min).
Average sunshine days
West Des Moines, IA
- Average sunshine days in January:
17.3 days - Average sunshine days in February:
16.4 days - Average sunshine days in March:
16.3 days - Average sunshine days in April:
13 days - Average sunshine days in May:
12.1 days - Average sunshine days in June:
11.3 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
14.3 days - Average sunshine days in August:
16.8 days - Average sunshine days in September:
17 days - Average sunshine days in October:
17.9 days - Average sunshine days in November:
18.7 days - Average sunshine days in December:
18.7 days
The months with the most sunshine days are November and December (18.7 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is June (11.3 days).
Average UV index
West 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
West Des Moines, IA
The month with the most cloud cover is January (Cloud cover 53).
The months with the least cloud cover are July and September (Cloud cover 29).
Average visibility
West Des Moines, IA
The months with the highest visibility are February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
The month with the lowest visibility is January (5mi).
