Last updated: August 21, 2025
December in Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan offers a dynamic blend of winter weather, characterized by maximum temperatures reaching 22°C (72°F) and a striking average of 6°C (44°F). As the month progresses, temperatures can dip to a chilly minimum of -6°C (22°F), highlighting the stark contrasts that December brings. Despite the cool air, the region experiences a modest precipitation amount of 16 mm (0.6 in) over just 3 days, contributing to a relative humidity of 71% that can add to the crispness of the atmosphere. This unique combination of temperatures and moisture creates a distinctive climate that defines winter in Mazar-e Sharif.
In Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan, December ushers in a noticeable chill, with temperatures hovering around -6°C (22°F) at night and peaking at 22°C (72°F) during the day. This month represents a transition as the region shifts from the harsher cold of late autumn toward the mild beginnings of winter. The average daily temperature rests at 6°C (44°F), highlighting a distinct drop compared to the earlier months. As the year closes, the cool nights serve as a stark contrast to the warmer daytime highs, showcasing the diverse climate of this vibrant city. With these temperature fluctuations, December sets the stage for cozy gatherings and protective layers, inviting both locals and visitors to enjoy the season’s quiet charm amidst the scenic landscapes.
In December, Mazar-e Sharif experiences a noticeable shift in precipitation patterns as the year comes to a close. With 16 mm (0.6 in) of rainfall over three days, it marks a significant decrease from the wetter months of November and earlier in the fall. This time of year, precipitation typically becomes less frequent, as evidenced by the six days of rain seen in November, stepping down to just three days in December. Despite the reduced rainfall, December's amounts reflect a consistent transition toward the drier conditions observed in the summer months. As winter approaches, the climate takes on a more stable character, hinting at the generally dry spell that lies just ahead.
In December, Mazar-e Sharif experiences a notable increase in humidity, reaching 71%. This uptick marks a return to the higher humidity levels observed earlier in the year, particularly after the significant drop during the scorching summer months, where it plummeted to a mere 21% in July and 20% in August. As the year progresses, humidity levels in Mazar-e Sharif fluctuate significantly, with the late months, particularly November and December, showcasing a moisture-laden air that contrasts sharply with the dry heat of mid-summer. Interestingly, December's humidity surpasses that of January, which sits at 69%, suggesting a trend of increased moisture as winter sets in. The gradual shift from the dry heat of summer to the cooler, more humid conditions of late fall and winter highlights the unique climatic transitions experienced in this region of Afghanistan.
As December arrives in Mazar-e Sharif, the UV Index drops back to 3, placing it within the moderate exposure category, which allows for a burn time of 30 minutes without protection. This decline in UV intensity follows several months of extreme and very high readings, particularly from May through August, when values peaked at 11. The transition from the scorching summer to a cooler winter means residents can enjoy outdoor activities with less risk of sunburn during December. Nevertheless, it’s still wise to stay vigilant about sun safety, especially during midday hours. For a comprehensive view of the UV trends throughout the year, check out the Mazar-e Sharif UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
As the year draws to a close, December in Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan, enjoys a generous 262 hours of sunshine, a comforting wrap-up to the sunlit months that precede it. This month stands as a reminder of the gradual decline in daylight hours, following a peak in June with 407 hours. While December may feel less radiant compared to the vibrant May and July, with their impressive totals of 393 and 411 hours respectively, it still holds its charm, providing a warm glow that softens the onset of winter. Each month unfolds a unique tapestry of sunlight, with the transition from lush summer brightness to the more muted tones of December highlighting the region's shifting seasons.
In Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan, the likelihood of sunny weather in December reflects a distinct downward trend as the year progresses. With a 61% chance of sun, December marks a shift from the higher probabilities seen in the peak summer months, like August's remarkable 99% and June's 98%. As autumn transitions into winter, the sun becomes less frequent, though it still outshines earlier months such as March, which dips to 39%. This seasonal ebb indicates that while December may bring some clouds, the sun is still likely to break through occasionally, offering a glimmer of brightness amid the crisp winter air. Overall, December retains a moderate chance of sunny days compared to the vibrant summer peaks, showcasing the region's variability in weather patterns throughout the year.
In Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan, the daylight duration showcases a distinctive seasonal rhythm throughout the year. Starting in December, residents experience the year's shortest days with just 9 hours of sunlight, reflecting the gradual descent of daylight that begins to wane in November. This trend continues into the winter months, where daylight remains consistent at its lowest before beginning a steady ascent. As January rolls in, daylight holds at 9 hours before a consistent climb to 10 hours in February, signaling the promise of spring. By March and April, the days stretch luxuriously to 11 and 13 hours respectively, culminating in the longest days of the year during May and June, reaching a peak of 14 hours. As summer transitions to autumn, the daylight gradually recedes, with a noteworthy drop back to 10 hours by November. Thus, Mazar-e Sharif experiences a vibrant cycle of light and dark, reflecting the broader seasonal changes that accompany life in this region.
In Mazar-e Sharif, December ushers in a gentle breath of wind with an average speed of 2.5 m/s (6 mph), marking a slight increase from the calmer conditions of November. This subtle uptick reflects the typical trend as the year winds down, where wind speeds often fluctuate around the low to moderate range. From the warmer summer months, where July peaks at 3.4 m/s (8 mph), the progression into winter shows a consistent return to milder winds. Interestingly, December's winds signify a brief respite from the stronger gusts of summer, providing a serene atmosphere that complements the cooler temperatures. While the winds remain modest, they bring a refreshing quality to the crisp air of winter in this historic city.
Weather in Mazar-e Sharif varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Mazar-e Sharif, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In December, Mazar-e Sharif experiences milder temperatures with an average of 6°C (44°F), a maximum of 22°C (72°F), and a minimum of -6°C (22°F). This month typically sees about 16 mm (0.6 in) of precipitation over approximately 3 days, with a humidity level around 71%. In contrast, January brings slightly cooler conditions, including a lower average temperature of 5°C (42°F) and a maximum of 20°C (68°F), with the minimum dropping to -9°C (16°F). Precipitation increases significantly to 28 mm (1.1 in) spread over 6 days, while humidity remains relatively stable at 69%. For more detailed information, you can check the Mazar-e Sharif weather in January.
December and February present contrasting weather patterns, despite the similar minimum temperatures, both hovering around -6°C (22°F). In December, average temperatures are slightly cooler at 6°C (44°F), with a maximum of 22°C (72°F), while February warms up a bit more, with an average of 8°C (47°F) and peaking at 25°C (78°F). Precipitation also varies significantly; December sees just 16 mm (0.6 in) over three days, while February experiences a substantial increase with 40 mm (1.6 in) of rainfall spread over six days. Additionally, February's humidity is slightly lower at 67% compared to December's 71%. For a detailed look at the conditions in February, check out Mazar-e Sharif weather in February.
December and March present contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -6°C (22°F) to a mild 22°C (72°F), with an average of 6°C (44°F). The month sees limited precipitation, totaling just 16 mm (0.6 in) over about 3 days, coupled with a humidity level of 71%. In contrast, March experiences a broader temperature range, with minimums at -1°C (31°F) and highs soaring up to 31°C (89°F), providing a much warmer average of 14°C (57°F). Precipitation increases significantly to 35 mm (1.4 in) over 7 days, while humidity remains slightly lower at 67%. For more detailed information about March weather specifically in Mazar-e Sharif, you can check out Mazar-e Sharif weather in March.
In comparing the weather between December and April, it is evident that April is significantly warmer and more humid. December experiences temperatures ranging from a chilly -6°C (22°F) to a moderate 22°C (72°F), with an average of 6°C (44°F). The month sees light precipitation, with just 16 mm (0.6 in) over three rainy days and a humidity level of 71%. In contrast, April boasts a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures around 1°C (34°F) and highs soaring up to 36°C (97°F), leading to an average of 19°C (66°F). Rainfall increases to 38 mm (1.5 in) spread over six days, while humidity drops to a more comfortable 57%. For more details on the weather in Mazar-e Sharif during this month, refer to Mazar-e Sharif weather in April.
December and May present contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -6°C (22°F) at night to a mild 22°C (72°F) during the day, with an average of 6°C (44°F). The month experiences more humidity at 71%, along with light precipitation of 16 mm (0.6 in) over about three days. In stark contrast, May boasts warmer temperatures, with minimums of 10°C (50°F) and highs reaching up to 39°C (103°F), averaging 25°C (77°F). It also sees less humidity, dropping to 47%, and lower rainfall at 11 mm (0.4 in) over just two days. For more detailed information on the May weather, you can visit Mazar-e Sharif weather in May.
The weather in December contrasts sharply with that of June. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -6°C (22°F) at night to a mild 22°C (72°F) during the day, with an average of 6°C (44°F). Humidity is relatively high at 71%, and the month experiences a modest 16 mm (0.6 in) of precipitation over about three days. In stark comparison, June brings much warmer conditions, with nighttime lows of 15°C (60°F) and daytime highs soaring to 42°C (108°F), averaging around 30°C (85°F). This month sees minimal precipitation—only 1 mm (0.0 in)—and a much lower humidity level of 33%. For a detailed look at June weather trends, check out Mazar-e Sharif weather in June.
December and July present a stark contrast in weather conditions. December experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (22°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F), while July sees minimums of 21°C (70°F) and averages around 32°C (89°F). Precipitation is more common in December, with about 16 mm (0.6 in) falling over three days, compared to July, which boasts completely dry conditions with no recorded precipitation. Additionally, humidity levels are notably higher in December at 71%, compared to only 21% in the sweltering heat of July. For specific details about the July weather in Mazar-e Sharif, please refer to this link: Mazar-e Sharif weather in July.
December and August present strikingly different weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -6°C (22°F) at night to a mild 22°C (72°F) during the day, with an average of 6°C (44°F). The month sees some precipitation, with about 16 mm (0.6 in) falling over three days, and a relatively high humidity of 71%. In contrast, August boasts significantly warmer weather, with temperatures starting at a comfortable 15°C (59°F) and soaring to a scorching maximum of 42°C (108°F), averaging 28°C (83°F). This month is notably dry, with no recorded precipitation and a much lower humidity level of 20%. For more detailed insights on the weather patterns during this time, you can check Mazar-e Sharif weather in August.
In December, temperatures are notably cooler, with a minimum of -6°C (22°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F), while September enjoys much warmer weather, featuring a minimum of 11°C (52°F) and an average of 23°C (74°F). December also brings a few days of precipitation totaling 16 mm (0.6 in), contrasting sharply with the dry conditions of September, which records no precipitation at all. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in December at 71%, compared to a much lower 31% in September, making September feel significantly more comfortable overall. For a detailed look at September's weather patterns, you can visit Mazar-e Sharif weather in September.
In December, temperatures in the region drop significantly compared to October, with a minimum of -6°C (22°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F), while October experiences milder conditions with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F). The maximum temperatures also show a stark contrast, reaching up to 22°C (72°F) in December versus 30°C (86°F) in October. Additionally, December sees more precipitation, averaging 16 mm (0.6 in) over three days, while October is relatively dry with only 4 mm (0.2 in) over one day. The humidity is higher in December at 71%, compared to October's 48%. For a closer look at the conditions during October, you can check out the details here: Mazar-e Sharif weather in October.
December weather shows a notable drop in temperatures compared to November, with average highs of 22°C (72°F) in December versus 30°C (86°F) in November. While both months experience low humidity levels around 70-71%, December is characterized by cooler lows of -6°C (22°F) compared to November’s minimum of -2°C (29°F). Additionally, December has less precipitation, totaling 16 mm (0.6 in) over just 3 days, unlike November, which sees 26 mm (1.0 in) across 6 days. For more information on November weather specifics, check out Mazar-e Sharif weather in November.
In December, Mazar-e Sharif experiences a distinct shift in weather, marked by a noticeable drop in temperatures compared to the milder autumn months. With days peaking at a comfortable 22°C, the evenings can cool significantly, dipping down to an average of 6°C and even falling to a brisk -6°C. This month also sees a light increase in humidity at 71%, coupled with a few rainy days that contribute to a total of 16 mm of precipitation. The contrast from the warmer months is palpable, making December a time for layered clothing and cozy indoor activities. For a deeper dive into the climate of this fascinating city, visit Mazar-e Sharif Climate.