Des Moines (WA) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Des Moines.
Climate overview of Des Moines
The climate in Des Moines, Washington State, United States of America, is marked by large temperature swings across the seasons, ranging from 25°C (77°F) in July to 7°C (45°F) in December.
The city receives considerable rain/snowfall, with around 1079 mm (42 in) annually. November is the wettest month. It has a distinct dry season from July to August. Sunshine peaks in July, when the city sees around 10.4 hours of sunshine per day.
Des Moines Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Des Moines — and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Des Moines
In Des Moines, temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 25°C (77°F) in July to a chilly 7°C (45°F) in the coolest month, December.
Nights vary from 14°C (57°F) in July to around 2°C (36°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Des Moines
Des Moines experiences significant rain/snowfall throughout the year, averaging 1079 mm (42 in) of precipitation annually. The climate in Des Moines shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect heavy rainfall in November, the wettest month, with an average of 177 mm (7 in) of precipitation over 21 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month July offers drier and sunnier days, with around 14 mm (0.6 in) of rainfall over 4 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Des Moines Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Des Moines
For those who appreciate different seasons, Des Moines serves as an ideal destination. Expect longer, more sun-filled days in July with an average of 10.4 hours of sunshine daily, and embrace the darker days in December, offering only 1.8 hours of daily sunlight.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Humidity in Des Moines by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Des Moines.
The city experiences its highest humidity in December, reaching 80%. In July, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 65%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Des Moines
The mean wind speed varies between 4 m/s (8 knots) and 5 m/s (10 knots) throughout the year. It is lowest in February, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December and highest during January and March. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Des Moines
Be prepared for heavier rainfall during November, the wettest period of the year. Ready to plan your travels but need destination ideas? Our smart tool recommends places based on the climate conditions you prefer. Start planning with our destination weather tool.
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Des Moines
What is the best time to visit Des Moines?
June, July, August and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Des Moines. In contrast, January, February, March, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Des Moines has a distinct dry season from July to August.
What temperatures can I expect in Des Moines?
Daytime highs range from 7°C (45°F) in December to 25°C (77°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from 2°C (36°F) to 14°C (57°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Des Moines get?
Annual rainfall is around 1079 mm (42 in). November is the wettest month with 177 mm (7 in), while July is the driest with 14 mm (0.6 in).
How sunny is Des Moines?
Des Moines receives around 2,171 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 312 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 54 hours. Overall, Des Moines enjoys abundant sunshine.
Des Moines 3-Day Forecast
Des Moines (WA) 3-Day Forecast
Des Moines on the map
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