Des Moines
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Des Moines Weather in May

May in Des Moines brings pleasant temperatures around 19°C (66°F) during the day, dropping to 8°C (46°F) at night, with some rainfall expected.

Rainfall in Des Moines in May

Historically, the month has about 12 days of rain, averaging 59 mm (2.3 in) in total. Rain this month is fairly typical, a standard mix of wet and dry days with no particularly heavy or persistent showers.

Temperature in Des Moines in May

May in Des Moines brings typical temperatures with highs around 19°C (66°F) and lows of 8°C (46°F). Conditions are often most pleasant around the middle of the day. With overnight lows of 8°C (46°F), nights are cold. The cold air does make for deep, comfortable sleep if you have enough blankets.

Sunshine in Des Moines in May

Expect a lot of sunshine this month, with about 254 hours of sun. These sunny conditions add to the overall experience.

Wind Speed in Des Moines in May

In May, average wind speeds reach 4 m/s (8 knots), leading to light to moderate breezes. Conditions vary from day to day, with both calm and windier periods.

If you prefer dry days with pleasant temperatures, June, July, August and September typically offer the best circumstances. If you're seeking pleasant, dry and sunny weather somewhere else in the world, our weather planner can help you explore other options.

Des Moines Temperature in May

Min Temperature
8°C (46°F)
Max Temperature
19°C (66°F)
Chance of Rain
40%
Precipitation
59 mm (2.3 in)
Rainy days
12 days
Humidity
68% *
Windspeed
4 m/s (8 knots) *
Sunshine
254 hours *
Percentage Sunshine
54% *
* Data from: Seattle, the United States of America (5 KM, 3 Miles).

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.

Best Places in the United States of America in May

Find out more about the weather in the United States of America and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of the United States of America in May →

perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor

Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).

What to Wear in Des Moines in May

For Des Moines in May, you'll want flexible clothing. It's wise to pack cotton shirts, comfortable shorts, and a pair of jeans for cooler evenings. A light sweater or jacket is useful for air-conditioned spaces (like buses) or unexpected cool moments. Rain is likely on several days, so bring a good rain jacket. And with plenty of sunshine hours, don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and maybe a sun hat.

What To Do in Des Moines in May

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

  • Cycling
    10/10
  • Walking
    10/10
  • Camping
    4/10
  • Outdoor sports
    10/10

Des Moines 3-Day Forecast

Popular in May

Where to go in May - average daytime high across popular destinations.

Bucket list

Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.