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May Weather in Des Moines, United States

Last updated: June 24, 2025

In Des Moines, United States, the average temperature in May hovers around 17°C (63°F). Visitors can expect a range in temperature, with lows dropping to 2°C (35°F) and highs soaring to 36°C (97°F). During this month, precipitation amounts average 166 mm (6.5 in) spread over 16 days, while the average humidity levels remain comfortably high at 77%.

May Temperature in Des Moines

In May in Des Moines, the average temperature is 17°C (63°F), with maximums reaching up to 36°C (97°F) and minimums dropping as low as 2°C (35°F). Travelers should be prepared for a wide range of temperatures, making layered clothing essential for enjoying all that Des Moines has to offer.

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

The chart illustrates May 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, May typically has an average temperature of 17°C (63°F), with highs reaching up to 36°C (97°F) and lows dropping to around 2°C (35°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec232440506375777469533931
Data source: Temperature data for Des Moines generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

May Precipitation in Des Moines

In Des Moines in May, the total precipitation amount is 166 mm (6.5 in) spread over 16 days.

May Precipitation Trends in Des Moines

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Des Moines, with values for each month alongside May’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how May’s conditions compare to those of other months. In Des Moines, May typically receives around 166 mm (6.5 inches) of precipitation spread over approximately 16 days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4041837316612569761181314237
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Des Moines

In Des Moines in May, humidity is 77%. With an average temperature of 17°C (63°F), this humidity feels like a cozy blanket wrapped around you, creating a muggy atmosphere that can be a bit uncomfortable for traveling, making you want to seek shade and hydration as you explore.

May Average Humidity in Des Moines

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Des Moines, with May’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In May, average humidity in Des Moines is approximately 77%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec78%80%77%78%77%81%81%77%73%75%85%83%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Des Moines

In Des Moines in May, the maximum UV index is 9, which corresponds to a very high Exposure Category. The time to burn is just 15 minutes, so it's essential to take precautions. For detailed information, you can check the Hourly UV Index in Des Moines.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Des Moines for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Des Moines in May, 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 May, the maximum UV index in Des Moines typically reaches 9, which falls under the very high exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec35689111098643
Data source: Des Moines May 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 May 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 May’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 May’s temperature, precipitation, humidity, and UV index levels differ from those of other months.
 TemperaturePrecipitationHumidityUV
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 Weather4°C (40°F)83 mm (3.3 inches)77%high
April Weather10°C (50°F)73 mm (2.9 inches)77%very high
May Weather17°C (63°F)166 mm (6.5 inches)77%very high
June Weather24°C (75°F)125 mm (4.9 inches)81%extreme
July Weather25°C (78°F)69 mm (2.7 inches)81%very high
August Weather24°C (75°F)76 mm (3.0 inches)77%very high
September Weather20°C (69°F)118 mm (4.6 inches)73%very high
October Weather12°C (53°F)131 mm (5.2 inches)75%high
November Weather4°C (39°F)42 mm (1.6 inches)85%moderate
December Weather0°C (31°F)37 mm (1.4 inches)83%moderate

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