January Weather in Des Moines, United States

Last updated: June 24, 2025

In January, the average temperature in Des Moines, United States hovers around -5°C (23°F). While temperatures can dip as low as -31°C (-24°F), the mercury can rise to a maximum of 15°C (59°F). Expect about 40 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation spread over 6 days, with an average humidity level of 78%.

January Temperature in Des Moines

In January in Des Moines, the average temperature is -5°C (23°F), with a maximum that can reach 15°C (59°F) and a minimum that can plummet to -31°C (-24°F). Travelers should be prepared for a wide range of temperatures and pack accordingly for both chilly and milder conditions.

January Weather in Des Moines: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Des Moines, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Des Moines, January typically has an average temperature of -5°C (23°F), with highs reaching up to 15°C (59°F) and lows dropping to around -31°C (-24°F).

Data source: Temperature data for Des Moines generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January Precipitation in Des Moines

In Des Moines in January, the precipitation amount is 40 mm (1.6 in) over the course of 6 days.

January Precipitation Trends in Des Moines

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Des Moines, with values for each month alongside January’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how January’s conditions compare to those of other months. In Des Moines, January typically receives around 40 mm (1.6 inches) of precipitation spread over approximately 6 days.

Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

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Millimeters (mm) Inches (in)

January Humidity in Des Moines

In Des Moines in January, humidity is 78%. With an average temperature of -5°C (23°F), this humidity feels like a biting chill that penetrates your clothes, making outdoor activities uncomfortable and necessitating extra layers to stay warm while exploring the area.

January Average Humidity in Des Moines

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Des Moines, with January’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In January, average humidity in Des Moines is approximately 78%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.

Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Des Moines

In Des Moines in January, the maximum UV index is 3, which corresponds to a moderate Exposure Category. The time to burn is approximately 30 minutes. For more details on the hourly UV index in Des Moines, you can check the information here.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Des Moines for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Des Moines in January, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues. In January, the maximum UV index in Des Moines typically reaches 3, which falls under the moderate exposure category.

Data source: Des Moines January UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

How January Weather in Des Moines Compares to Other Months

Weather in Des Moines varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares January’s weather to other months in Des Moines, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

This table compares monthly weather conditions in Des Moines, showing how January’s temperature, precipitation, humidity, and UV index levels differ from those of other months.
	Temperature	Precipitation	Humidity	UV
January Weather	-5°C (23°F)	40 mm (1.6 inches)	78%	moderate
February Weather	-4°C (24°F)	41 mm (1.6 inches)	80%	moderate
March Weather	4°C (40°F)	83 mm (3.3 inches)	77%	high
April Weather	10°C (50°F)	73 mm (2.9 inches)	77%	very high
May Weather	17°C (63°F)	166 mm (6.5 inches)	77%	very high
June Weather	24°C (75°F)	125 mm (4.9 inches)	81%	extreme
July Weather	25°C (78°F)	69 mm (2.7 inches)	81%	very high
August Weather	24°C (75°F)	76 mm (3.0 inches)	77%	very high
September Weather	20°C (69°F)	118 mm (4.6 inches)	73%	very high
October Weather	12°C (53°F)	131 mm (5.2 inches)	75%	high
November Weather	4°C (39°F)	42 mm (1.6 inches)	85%	moderate
December Weather	0°C (31°F)	37 mm (1.4 inches)	83%	moderate