West Des Moines (IA) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit West Des Moines.
Climate overview of West Des Moines
The climate in West Des Moines, Iowa, United States of America, is marked by large temperature swings across the seasons, ranging from 30°C (86°F) in July to -1°C (30°F) in January.
With around 933 mm (37 in) of annual rain/snowfall, the city has moderate precipitation levels. June is the wettest month and January the driest. It also has a distinct dry season from January to February, with warm summers and very cold winters. July is the sunniest month, averaging 11.2 hours of sunshine per day.
West Des Moines Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in West Des Moines - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in West Des Moines
In West Des Moines, temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 30°C (86°F) in July to a very cold -1°C (30°F) in the coolest month, January.
Nights vary from 19°C (66°F) in July to around -11°C (12°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in West Des Moines
On average, West Des Moines receives a reasonable amount of rain/snowfall, with an annual precipitation of 933 mm (37 in). The climate in West Des Moines shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect high rainfall in June, the wettest month, with an average of 154 mm (6.1 in) of precipitation over 12 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month January offers drier and sunnier days, with around 21 mm (0.8 in) of snowfall over 7 snowy days. For more details, please visit our West 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 West Des Moines
For those who appreciate different seasons, West Des Moines serves as an ideal destination. Expect longer, more sun-filled days in July with an average of 11.2 hours of sunshine daily, and embrace the darker days in December, offering only 4.3 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 West Des Moines by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in West Des Moines.
The city experiences its highest humidity in January, reaching 72%. In May, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 60%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in West Des Moines
The mean wind speed varies between 3 m/s (6 knots) and 5 m/s (10 knots) throughout the year. It is lowest in July, August and September and highest during March and April. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit West Des Moines
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: September
- Warmest weather: July and August
- Most sunshine: July
- Wettest months: April, May, June, July, August and September, when rainfall is highest.
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from January to February, with warm summers and very cold winters
- Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -11°C (12°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in West Des Moines
What is the best time to visit West Des Moines?
September typically offers the most optimal weather in West Des Moines. In contrast, January, February, March, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. West Des Moines has a distinct dry season from January to February, with warm summers and very cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in West Des Moines?
Daytime highs range from -1°C (30°F) in January to 30°C (86°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -11°C (12°F) to 19°C (66°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does West Des Moines get?
Annual rainfall is around 933 mm (37 in). June is the wettest month with 154 mm (6.1 in), while January is the driest with 21 mm (0.8 in).
How sunny is West Des Moines?
West Des Moines receives around 2,700 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 335 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 129 hours. Overall, West Des Moines enjoys abundant sunshine.
West Des Moines 3-Day Forecast
West Des Moines (IA) 3-Day Forecast
West Des Moines on the map
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