Discover Highline College weather in Des Moines, Washington, where the mild Pacific Northwest climate shapes campus life for students, faculty, staff, parents, and job seekers. Nestled near Puget Sound, Des Moines offers temperate conditions with average annual temperatures around 52°F (11°C), cool, wet winters, and pleasant summers rarely exceeding 80°F (27°C). Rainfall totals about 40 inches (102 cm) yearly, concentrated from fall to spring, influencing everything from outdoor classes to commuting. Environmental factors like good air quality and low altitude enhance liveability, though occasional floods and earthquake risks require preparedness. Highline College supports its community with emergency protocols and resources for rainy days. Ratings highlight comfort in temperature (4/5 stars) and overall liveability (4/5 stars), making it appealing for studies and careers. While extra costs for rain gear and heating arise, the scenery boosts productivity. Explore jobs at Higher Ed Jobs on AcademicJobs.com to join this vibrant community. Learn about Academic Jobs in Des Moines, Academic Jobs in Washington, and opportunities across the United States.
Weather Overview in Des Moines
Des Moines weather features a marine west coast climate, with mild temperatures year-round. January averages 41°F (5°C) highs and 36°F (2°C) lows, while July reaches 76°F (24°C) highs and 55°F (13°C) lows. Extremes rarely dip below 20°F (-7°C) or top 90°F (32°C). Precipitation averages 40 inches annually, with over 150 rainy days, mostly November to March. Summers are dry and sunny, ideal for campus events at Highline College. This pattern supports comfortable daily life, though frequent drizzle impacts walking to classes. Faculty and students appreciate the lack of harsh winters, aligning with community college jobs in the region.
Seasonal Weather Patterns at Highline College
Seasonal shifts at Highline College demand preparation for rain and mild temps. Winters bring frequent showers, requiring waterproof clothing; summers offer sunny days for outdoor study.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Highs 47°F (8°C), lows 36°F (2°C), 15-20 rainy days/month. Extra utility costs for heating ~$150/month. Safety: Campus slip-prevention measures.
Spring (Mar-May)
Highs 60°F (16°C), lows 42°F (6°C), decreasing rain. Blooming landscapes enhance mood for exams.
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Highs 76°F (24°C), lows 55°F (13°C), dry with <10 rainy days. No AC needed typically; fans suffice.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Highs 65°F (18°C), lows 45°F (7°C), increasing rain. Prepare boots for wet paths to adjunct professor jobs interviews.
Environmental Factors in Des Moines
🌳 At sea level in Puget Sound lowlands, Des Moines has stable geology with glacial deposits, no active volcanoes nearby. Air quality is good, AQI averaging 30-50, supporting health for Highline College runners and cyclists. Low pollution from urban proximity aids focus, though occasional wildfire smoke from eastern WA drifts in. University promotes green initiatives like bike paths.
Natural Hazards and Safety at Highline College
Risks are moderate; Highline College has robust plans.
| Hazard | Frequency | University Prep |
|---|---|---|
| Floods (Green River) | Occasional (1-2/decade) | Evacuation routes, alerts |
| Earthquakes | Moderate (Cascadia risk) | Drills, retrofitted buildings |
| Wildfire Smoke | Summer occasional | Indoor air filters |
| Severe Storms | Rare | Weather closings |
Check Higher Ed Career Advice for relocation safety tips.
Liveability and Comfort Ratings for Des Moines
Ratings for Highline College location aid decisions for professor jobs.
These boost productivity; see Rate My Professor for Highline College insights.
Costs and Equipment for Weather in Des Moines
Budget $200-300/year for rain jackets, boots, umbrellas. Winter utilities add $100-200/month. No major insurance hikes. Equip with layered clothing for variable days. Links to University Salaries help financial planning near Highline College.
Health and Living Conditions at Highline College
Mild weather reduces respiratory issues, but dampness prompts dehumidifiers. Transportation: Buses handle rain; biking popular. Campus life thrives with indoor facilities. University health services monitor air quality. Ideal for faculty eyeing higher ed jobs faculty roles.
Resources for Weather Preparedness in Des Moines
- NOAA alerts for Puget Sound rain events.
- Highline College emergency app for campus closings.
- ☔ Local apps like Weather Underground for hyperlocal forecasts.
- Washington State alerts for floods/earthquakes.
Explore recruitment resources on AcademicJobs.com.
Student Perspectives on Des Moines Environment
Students at Highline College often praise the mild weather in Des Moines for year-round outdoor activities, though constant rain challenges focus during midterms. Many discuss how the local climate impacts productivity, with foggy mornings slowing commutes but scenic views inspiring creativity. Environment at Highline College includes clean air supporting health, per reviews. Read real student experiences alongside professor ratings on Rate My Professor at Highline College. Feedback highlights Des Moines air quality as a plus for athletes, and low hazards easing worries. Another common note: Rainy seasons build resilience, perfect for research assistant jobs. Dive into Rate My Professor for Highline College to see how Highline College climate affects daily life. For more, check Rate My Professor threads on campus vibe.
Frequently Asked Questions
☀️What is the average weather in Des Moines?
Average highs 47°F (8°C) winter, 76°F (24°C) summer; 40 inches rain yearly. Mild marine climate suits Highline College life. See Higher Ed Jobs.
🌫️How does pollution affect life at Highline College?
Good AQI (30-50) minimally impacts health; occasional smoke. University provides indoor options. Check Rate My Professor for Highline College views.
⚠️What natural hazards are common in Des Moines?
Floods, earthquakes, rare smoke. Highline College has drills & alerts. Prep via Higher Ed Career Advice.
🏙️What is the liveability rating for Des Moines?
4/5 overall: Mild temps, good air, low risks. Great for studies at Highline College. Visit University Salaries.
💰What extra costs come with Des Moines weather?
$200-300/year rain gear, higher winter utilities. Plan with Higher Ed Jobs at AcademicJobs.com.
📚Is Des Moines weather good for studying at Highline College?
Mild climate aids focus; rain manageable. Students share on Rate My Professor.
❄️How often does it snow in Des Moines?
Rarely; trace amounts 1-2 times/year. Campus rarely closes. More at Community College Jobs.
