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October Weather in Des Moines, United States

Last updated: June 24, 2025

In October, the average temperature in Des Moines, United States hovers around 12°C (53°F). Expect a range of conditions, with minimums dipping to -5°C (23°F) and maximums soaring to 31°C (89°F). During this time, 131 mm (5.2 in) of precipitation is likely to fall over 11 days, contributing to an average humidity of 75%.

October Temperature in Des Moines

In October in Des Moines, the average temperature is 12°C (53°F). Maximum temperatures can reach 31°C (89°F), while minimums can dip as low as -5°C (23°F). Pack both light and warm clothing to enjoy your trip comfortably, as the weather can vary significantly.

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

The chart illustrates October 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, October typically has an average temperature of 12°C (53°F), with highs reaching up to 31°C (89°F) and lows dropping to around -5°C (23°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.

October Precipitation in Des Moines

In Des Moines in October, the precipitation amount is 131 mm (5.2 in) distributed over 11 days.

October Precipitation Trends in Des Moines

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Des Moines, with values for each month alongside October’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how October’s conditions compare to those of other months. In Des Moines, October typically receives around 131 mm (5.2 inches) of precipitation spread over approximately 11 days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4041837316612569761181314237
Data source: Precipitation data for October generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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October Humidity in Des Moines

In Des Moines in October, humidity is 75%. With an average temperature of 12°C (53°F), this humidity feels like a damp chill that clings to your skin, making leisurely exploration feel sluggish and heavy, perhaps leaving you yearning for cozy indoor retreats.

October Average Humidity in Des Moines

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Des Moines, with October’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In October, average humidity in Des Moines is approximately 75%, 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 October generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

October UV Index in Des Moines

In Des Moines in October, the maximum UV index is 6, which corresponds to a high Exposure Category. The time to burn is approximately 25 minutes. To find the hourly UV index in Des Moines, you can refer to this Hourly UV Index in Des Moines.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Des Moines for October

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Des Moines in October, 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 October, the maximum UV index in Des Moines typically reaches 6, which falls under the high exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec35689111098643
Data source: Des Moines October 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 October 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 October’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 October’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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