The Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA Metro Area has a humid continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Summers are generally very humid with temperatures in the mid-80s and the occasional heatwave pushing temperatures into the 90s. Winters, on the other hand, can be bitterly cold with temperatures averaging around 20°F and snowfall ranging from 10 to 15 inches per year. The area also experiences four distinct seasons which bring along their own unique weather patterns. Spring is usually wet and cool, while autumn brings a warm and pleasant climate.
Des Moines-West Des Moines Metro Area, Iowa gets 36 inches of rain, on average, per year. The US average is 38 inches of rain per year.
Des Moines-West Des Moines Metro Area averages 31 inches of snow per year. The US average is 28 inches of snow per year.
On average, there are 199 sunny days per year in Des Moines-West Des Moines Metro Area. The US average is 205 sunny days.
Des Moines-West Des Moines Metro Area gets some kind of precipitation, on average, 103 days per year. Precipitation is rain, snow, sleet, or hail that falls to the ground. In order for precipitation to be counted you have to get at least .01 inches on the ground to measure.
Weather Highlights
Summer High: the July high is around 85 degrees
Winter Low: the January low is 12
Rain: averages 36 inches of rain a year
Snow: averages 31 inches of snow a year