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December Weather in Iowa, United States

Last updated: June 24, 2025

In December, the average temperature in Iowa, United States hovers around 14°C (57°F). However, temperatures can be as low as -3°C (27°F) and soar to a warm 28°C (82°F). This month also sees 119 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation spread over 10 days, contributing to an average humidity level of 88%.

December Temperature in Iowa

In December in Iowa, the average temperature is 14°C (57°F). Maximum temperatures can reach 28°C (82°F), while the minimum can drop as low as -3°C (27°F). Overall, travelers should prepare for a wide range of temperatures during this time.

December Weather in Iowa: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Iowa, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Iowa, December typically has an average temperature of 14°C (57°F), with highs reaching up to 28°C (82°F) and lows dropping to around -3°C (27°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec535865687781828279726057
Data source: Temperature data for Iowa 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.

December Precipitation in Iowa

In Iowa in December, the total precipitation amount is 119 mm (4.7 in) over the span of 10 days.

December Precipitation Trends in Iowa

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Iowa, with values for each month alongside December’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how December’s conditions compare to those of other months. In Iowa, December typically receives around 119 mm (4.7 inches) of precipitation spread over approximately 10 days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1171077015519316315817916312275119
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Iowa

In Iowa in December humidity is 88%. With an average temperature of 14°C (57°F), this humidity feels like a thick blanket enveloping you, making every step feel heavier and giving a sense of stickiness that can drain your energy quickly while exploring.

December Average Humidity in Iowa

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Iowa, with December’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In December, average humidity in Iowa is approximately 88%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec81%81%79%80%81%76%73%72%72%73%83%88%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Iowa

In Iowa in December, the maximum UV index reaches 5, which corresponds to a moderate Exposure Category. Under these conditions, the estimated time to burn is approximately 30 minutes. For more details, you can check the Hourly UV Index in Iowa.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Iowa for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Iowa in December, 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 December, the maximum UV index in Iowa typically reaches 5, which falls under the moderate exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec589101112121110865
Data source: Iowa December 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 December Weather in Iowa Compares to Other Months

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

This table compares monthly weather conditions in Iowa, showing how December’s temperature, precipitation, humidity, and UV index levels differ from those of other months.
 TemperaturePrecipitationHumidityUV
January Weather12°C (53°F)117 mm (4.6 inches)81%moderate
February Weather14°C (58°F)107 mm (4.2 inches)81%very high
March Weather18°C (65°F)70 mm (2.7 inches)79%very high
April Weather20°C (69°F)155 mm (6.1 inches)80%very high
May Weather25°C (77°F)193 mm (7.6 inches)81%extreme
June Weather27°C (81°F)163 mm (6.4 inches)76%extreme
July Weather28°C (83°F)158 mm (6.2 inches)73%extreme
August Weather28°C (83°F)179 mm (7.1 inches)71%extreme
September Weather26°C (80°F)163 mm (6.4 inches)72%very high
October Weather22°C (72°F)122 mm (4.8 inches)73%very high
November Weather16°C (60°F)75 mm (2.9 inches)83%high
December Weather14°C (57°F)119 mm (4.7 inches)88%moderate

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