West Des Moines
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West Des Moines Weather in January

West Des Moines in January averages -1°C (30°F) during the day and -11°C (12°F) at night. This is the driest month of the year, and part of the winter season.

Rainfall in West Des Moines in January

With the lowest rainfall figures of the year, conditions are ideal for exploring the outdoors, even if the temperatures require a jacket. Past climate data indicates that roughly 7 days will see snow, totalling around 21 mm (0.8 in) for the month. Neither particularly heavy nor particularly frequent, the rain this month is about average. A light jacket should be enough on most wet days.

Temperature in West Des Moines in January

In January, West Des Moines sees very low temperatures, with highs of -1°C (30°F). Nights drop to around -11°C (12°F). January is a notable month of the winter season. Expect a distinctly cold feel throughout the day, not just overnight. With overnight lows of -11°C (12°F), temperatures fall below freezing at night. An extra thick blanket can make a real difference if your accommodation runs cold. Being the coldest month of the year, it's a good idea to bring your heaviest winter gear.

Sunshine in West Des Moines in January

The area enjoys a moderate level of sunlight, with around 155 hours. It's a good balance between sunny and cloudy days.

Wind Speed in West Des Moines in January

Wind speeds average 4 m/s (8 knots) during January. At this speed, expect moderate winds that can raise dust and move small branches. Since this is an average, some days have gentle light winds while others experience stronger breezes that are quite noticeable.

If you prefer dry days with pleasant temperatures, January may not be the ideal month to visit West Des Moines. Our weather planner can help you explore destinations with more pleasant weather conditions.

West Des Moines Temperature in January

Min Temperature
-11°C (12°F)
Max Temperature
-1°C (30°F)
Chance of Rain
23%
Precipitation
21 mm (0.8 in)
Rainy days
7 days
Humidity
72% *
Windspeed
4 m/s (8 knots) *
Sunshine
155 hours *
Percentage Sunshine
53% *
* Data from: Des Moines, the United States of America (9 KM, 6 Miles).

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.

Best Places in the United States of America in January

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 January →

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 West Des Moines in January

We recommend you pack up your warm winter gear for West Des Moines in January. If you have insulated boots, thermal layers, and a heavy winter coat that can handle snow and freezing temperatures it's smart to bring them. Don't forget gloves, a warm hat, and a scarf. Some rain is possible, so pack something to handle light showers. It won't hurt to bring your sunglasses along, as you'll see some sunny periods.

What To Do in West Des Moines in January

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

  • Swimming
    5/10
  • Cycling
    1/10
  • Walking
    1/10
  • Camping
    2/10
  • Outdoor sports
    1/10

West Des Moines 3-Day Forecast

Popular in January

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

Bucket list

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