Des Moines County Climate
Des Moines County, Iowa
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
51.5°F
Annual Precip
39.4"
Annual Snowfall
21.8"
Extreme Heat Days
22
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
6a
Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival
3,499
Supports most vegetables & fruits
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: Des Moines County
Climate Verdict
Des Moines County has a mild, with an average annual temperature of 51.5°F, moderate rainfall of 39.4 inches per year, occasional hot days — 22.35 per year above 90°F, moderate snowfall of 21.8 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal Breakdown
Winters are very cold — January averages 23.9°F. summers are warm — July averages 75.4°F. Residents experience a substantial 52°F difference between winter and summer.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
Growing season and gardening data is currently limited for Des Moines County. Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and local extension office for specific guidance.
Regional Context
Des Moines County is 3.5°F warmer than the Iowa statewide average of 48.0°F, it is somewhat wetter than average for Iowa.
Climate Profile
About Des Moines County Weather
Temperate and Humid Near the River
Des Moines County averages 51.5°F annually, making it one of the more temperate locations in the Midwest. The county is quite wet, receiving 39.4 inches of precipitation each year, which far exceeds the national average for most inland counties. This combination creates a humid environment with lush vegetation along the Mississippi River.
The Warmest Corner of Iowa
At 51.5°F, Des Moines County is significantly warmer than the Iowa state average of 48.0°F. It also records higher annual precipitation at 39.4 inches compared to the state's 36.1-inch average. This makes it a leader in heat and moisture for the entire state of Iowa.
Southeastern Warmth and Moisture
Des Moines County is the warmest in this regional set, edging out Davis (51.2°F) and Decatur (50.9°F). It is drastically warmer than northern counties like Dickinson, which stays nearly 6 degrees cooler on average. This makes it a regional outlier for those seeking a less harsh Iowa winter.
High Heat and Manageable Snow
Summers are hot, with 22 days reaching 90°F or higher and a July average of 75.4°F. Winter is relatively mild for Iowa, with a January average of 23.9°F and only 21.8 inches of annual snowfall. The winter season average of 27.2°F is one of the highest in the state.
Focus on Cooling and Humidity Control
With 22 extreme heat days and high precipitation, air conditioning and dehumidifiers are vital for comfort and home maintenance. The lower snowfall of 21.8 inches makes winter travel easier than in northern counties, though ice is still a seasonal risk. Residents should prepare for a climate that feels more like the lower Midwest than the Great Lakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Data sources: NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), U.S. Climate Normals 1991-2020. Forecast and alert data from National Weather Service API. Air quality data from Open-Meteo.
Climate normals are 30-year averages of weather variables. Station data is aggregated to county level. Forecasts and alerts are fetched live and may change frequently. Data is informational only — not a substitute for official National Weather Service forecasts or emergency weather warnings.