Des Moines Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – United States

Summer

Des Moines experiences warm, humid summers with average high temperatures in the low 80s (Fahrenheit) and average low temperatures in the mid-60s. The hottest month is July, with an average high temperature of 84°F. Humidity can be high, especially in the evenings. Rain is common during the summer months, with an average of 9 inches of rain per month. Thunderstorms are also frequent, and can produce heavy rain, lightning, and hail.

Winter

Winters in Des Moines are cold and snowy, with average high temperatures in the mid-30s and average low temperatures in the teens. The coldest month is January, with an average high temperature of 32°F. Snowfall is common, with an average of 14 inches per month. Wind chills can make it feel even colder. However, the city does experience some sunny days during the winter months, especially in December and March.

Seasonal Variations

Des Moines experiences significant seasonal temperature variations throughout the year. During the summer months (June, July, and August), average temperatures range from 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C). The hottest month is July, with an average high of 85°F (29°C). Winters in Des Moines are cold, with average temperatures hovering around 20°F to 30°F (-7°C to -1°C) from December to February. The coldest month is January, with an average low of 20°F (-7°C).

Annual Temperature Range

The annual temperature range in Des Moines is substantial, with average high temperatures varying from 85°F (29°C) in July to 20°F (-7°C) in January. The average low temperatures range from 65°F (18°C) in July to 1°F (-17°C) in January. This wide temperature range reflects the city’s location in the Midwestern United States, which experiences both hot and humid summers and cold and snowy winters. The presence of the nearby Mississippi River also contributes to the region’s variable climate.

Cloud Cover and Types

Des Moines experiences a variety of cloud cover throughout the year. During the winter months, the city is often under a layer of stratus or stratocumulus clouds, which can bring overcast skies and precipitation. Cumulus clouds are common during the summer, especially during the afternoon hours. These clouds can develop into towering cumulonimbus clouds, which can produce thunderstorms. Cirrus clouds, which are made of ice crystals, are often seen in the high sky. They are thin and feathery and indicate stable weather conditions.

Seasonal Variations

The amount of cloud cover in Des Moines varies seasonally. Winter is the cloudiest season, with an average of 65% of the sky covered in clouds. Spring is slightly less cloudy, with an average cloud cover of 60%. Summer is the sunniest season, with an average cloud cover of 55%. Cloud cover increases again in the fall, reaching an average of 60%. The number of days with precipitation also varies seasonally, with the most precipitation occurring in the summer months.

Precipitation Patterns

Des Moines experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by distinct seasons and moderate precipitation levels. Throughout the year, the city receives approximately 33 inches of precipitation, distributed fairly evenly across all 12 months. However, seasonal variations do occur. Summer and early fall (May-October) tend to be wetter, with the highest precipitation occurring in June (4.4 inches) and July (4 inches). During this period, frequent thunderstorms and occasional heavy rain events can bring significant amounts of rainfall.

Interannual Variability and Extremes

The amount of precipitation in Des Moines can vary significantly from year to year, influenced by global climate patterns and local weather conditions. In recent decades, the city has experienced both wet and dry years. For instance, 2018 was a particularly wet year, with over 45 inches of precipitation recorded. Conversely, 2012 was a very dry year, with only 20 inches of precipitation. Extreme rainfall events, such as heavy downpours or flash floods, can occasionally occur and cause localized flooding. Additionally, Des Moines is susceptible to droughts during extended periods of below-average precipitation, which can impact water resources and agriculture.

Seasonal Rainfall Patterns

Des Moines experiences a humid continental climate characterized by significant seasonal variations in precipitation. The city experiences its wettest months from May to August, with an average monthly rainfall of over 4 inches (100 mm). During this period, rainfall is frequent and often associated with thunderstorms and heavy downpours. In contrast, the driest months occur during winter, with average monthly rainfall below 2 inches (50 mm). Snowfall is also a factor during winter, contributing to the city’s annual precipitation.

Average Annual Rainfall and Distribution

On average, Des Moines receives approximately 34 inches (860 mm) of rainfall per year. This rainfall is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly higher amounts during the spring and summer months. The city’s rainfall patterns are influenced by its location in the Midwestern United States, where prevailing winds carry moisture from the Gulf of Mexico and the Great Lakes. The topography of the region also contributes to the distribution of rainfall, with higher elevations receiving slightly more precipitation than lower areas.

Seasonal Patterns and Variability

Des Moines, located in the Midwest, experiences distinct seasonal snowfall patterns. Winter storms typically bring snow to the city from November through April, with the heaviest snowfall occurring in January and February. Annual snowfall totals vary significantly from year to year, influenced by factors such as the position of the jet stream and the occurrence of atmospheric blocking patterns. In average seasons, Des Moines receives approximately 25 inches of snowfall, but it can range from minimal to excessive in certain years.

Impacts of Snowfall on the City

Snowfall in Des Moines has a range of impacts on the city and its residents. It can disrupt transportation, leading to traffic delays and the closure of roads and schools. Sidewalks and driveways require clearing, presenting challenges for pedestrians and motorists alike. Accumulation of heavy snow can strain infrastructure, weighing down power lines and causing outages. Snowfall also affects the economy, impacting businesses that depend on winter tourism and transportation. Snow removal and emergency response efforts require significant resources from the city and utility companies.

Sunrise and Sunset Times

In Des Moines, Iowa, the sun rises and sets at different times throughout the year due to the Earth’s axial tilt and the planet’s orbit around the sun. During the summer months (June to August), sunrise occurs between 5:30 AM and 6:00 AM, and sunset takes place between 7:45 PM and 8:30 PM. This extended daylight allows for ample time to enjoy outdoor activities and evening events.

Average Sunlight Hours

Des Moines receives an average of 2,500 hours of sunlight annually. The cloudiest months are typically December and January, with an average of 160 hours of sunshine each. Conversely, July and August are the sunniest months, offering an average of 300 hours of sunlight each. This seasonal variation in sunlight hours affects the city’s weather patterns and residents’ daily routines, as sunlight exposure influences temperature, mood, and vitamin D production.

Sunrise and Sunset Times

The Moon’s appearance and visibility in Des Moines, United States, vary depending on the lunar phase and the time of day. During the new moon phase, the Moon is not visible in the night sky. As the Moon waxes, it appears as a thin crescent and gradually becomes more illuminated. During the full moon phase, the Moon is fully visible at night.

The Moon’s position in the sky also changes throughout the night. It typically rises in the southeastern sky and sets in the southwestern sky. The exact time of sunrise and sunset for the Moon varies from day to day due to the Moon’s elliptical orbit around the Earth. The time of moonrise and moonset can be found in local newspapers, online lunar calendars, or by using astronomical software.

Climate and Humidity Trends

Des Moines, Iowa, experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters. The city’s average annual humidity is around 70%, which is higher than the national average of 58%. The highest humidity levels are typically observed during the summer months, when the air becomes saturated with moisture and can lead to uncomfortable conditions. Conversely, the lowest humidity levels are typically experienced during the winter months, when the air is colder and holds less moisture.

Day-to-Day Fluctuations

Within the broader seasonal trends, humidity in Des Moines can fluctuate significantly on a day-to-day basis. Factors such as temperature, wind speed, and precipitation can all influence the humidity levels. On particularly hot and still days, humidity can reach upwards of 90%, creating an oppressive and muggy atmosphere. In contrast, on cooler and breezier days, humidity levels can drop to as low as 40%, providing a more comfortable and refreshing environment.

Wind Speed and Direction

Des Moines, the capital city of Iowa, experiences relatively steady wind patterns throughout the year. The prevailing wind direction is predominantly from the northwest, characterized by winds that originate from the cold, dry air masses of the Canadian Prairies. These winds typically carry clear skies and low humidity. During the late afternoon and evening hours, the wind direction may shift to the southwest or south as a result of local temperature differences and atmospheric convection. This shift can bring warmer and more humid air from the southern plains.

Seasonal Variations

Seasonal variations in wind speed and direction are observed in Des Moines. During the winter months, the city experiences strong winds associated with the general circulation of the atmosphere and the passage of strong weather fronts. These winds can reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour, with occasional gusts exceeding 50 miles per hour. In contrast, the summer months are generally characterized by lighter winds, with average speeds ranging from 10 to 15 miles per hour. The prevailing wind direction remains predominantly from the northwest throughout the year, but occasional shifts to the south or east can occur during warm and humid weather.

Spring (March-May):

Spring in Des Moines offers a vibrant canvas of colors as flowers bloom and nature awakens. The average temperatures range from 40-65°F (4-18°C), making it ideal for outdoor activities. The city hosts its renowned Iowa State Fair in August, showcasing the best of agriculture, entertainment, and food. The fairgrounds transform into a bustling hub of exhibits, concerts, and culinary delights.

Fall (September-November):

Autumn in Des Moines paints the city in hues of gold, orange, and crimson. Temperatures gradually cool from 70-30°F (21-1°C), providing a comfortable atmosphere for exploring the city’s parks and trails. The Des Moines Art Center holds an annual Pumpkin Walk, where thousands of hand-carved pumpkins illuminate the grounds with an enchanting spectacle. The Iowa Cubs also have their home games at Principal Park during this time, offering a lively baseball experience.

Benefits and Challenges of Solar Energy in Des Moines

Des Moines enjoys abundant sunlight, making it ideal for solar energy. Solar panels can significantly reduce energy costs for homeowners and businesses, promoting energy independence. However, initial installation costs can be substantial, and cloudy weather conditions can affect energy production. Nevertheless, the city’s growing focus on renewable energy initiatives and incentives make solar energy an increasingly viable option.

Current Initiatives and Future Outlook

Des Moines has implemented various policies to encourage solar energy adoption. The city offers rebates for solar panel installations and has designated several “Solar Development Zones” to facilitate large-scale solar projects. Additionally, the “Des Moines 2040: Climate Action Plan” aims to make the city carbon neutral by 2040, with solar energy playing a crucial role in achieving this goal. Des Moines’ partnership with MidAmerican Energy further ensures continued investment in solar infrastructure, promoting future growth and accessibility of solar energy within the city.

Geography and Landforms

Des Moines, the capital city of Iowa, is situated in the central part of the state, nestled within the Iowa Plains. The topography of Des Moines is predominantly flat, with only subtle variations in elevation. The city is located at the confluence of the Des Moines and Raccoon Rivers, which have carved gentle valleys into the landscape. Several creeks and tributaries also meander through the area, contributing to the overall drainage pattern.

Elevation and Slope

The elevation of Des Moines ranges from around 820 feet (250 meters) above sea level in the southern part of the city to approximately 920 feet (280 meters) in the northern suburbs. The highest point within the city limits is Union Park, which sits at an elevation of 948 feet (289 meters). The city’s slope is generally gradual, with the lowest elevations found along the riverbanks and the highest elevations occurring in the northern and eastern parts of the city. Overall, the topography of Des Moines provides a relatively uniform and manageable landscape, making it an ideal location for development and infrastructure.

Des Moines’ History and Culture:

Des Moines, the capital city of Iowa, boasts a rich history dating back to the 1840s. Once a bustling frontier town, Des Moines evolved into a thriving metropolis and a cultural hub for the Midwest. The city is home to several museums, including the Des Moines Art Center and the Iowa Historical Museum, showcasing an eclectic collection of art, history, and culture. Des Moines’ vibrant arts scene also manifests in its numerous theaters, including the Des Moines Civic Center and the Des Moines Community Playhouse, presenting a wide range of performances.

Des Moines’ Economy and Infrastructure:

Des Moines is a thriving economic center in the Midwest. The city is home to a diverse range of industries, including finance, insurance, and technology. Des Moines is also a major hub for agriculture and food processing. The city’s strong economy has resulted in a well-developed infrastructure, with excellent transportation links by road, rail, and air. Des Moines International Airport connects the city to major destinations worldwide. The city also boasts a comprehensive public transportation system, making it easy to navigate and explore its various neighborhoods.