Last updated: February 26, 2025
Experience the vibrant December weather in Cairns, Australia, where the tropical climate brings an average temperature of 26°C (78°F). Expect maximum highs of 33°C (92°F), perfect for soaking up the sun, while minimums drop to a comfortable 21°C (70°F) during the night. With 75% humidity complementing the warm temperatures, the atmosphere feels lush and invigorating. However, be prepared for the 15 rainy days, contributing to a total precipitation of 166 mm (6.5 in), ensuring the landscape is as rich and beautiful as the weather is dynamic. Whether you're indulging in outdoor adventures or relaxing by the coast, Cairns in December offers a truly enchanting tropical experience.
In Cairns, Australia, December marks the transition into summer, bringing warm and humid conditions perfect for enjoying the great outdoors. The temperatures during this month range from a minimum of 21°C (70°F) to a comfortable average of 26°C (78°F), peaking at a sizzling maximum of 33°C (92°F). This trend of rising temperatures from the cooler months is evident, with December mirroring the warmer conditions of November and hinting at the swelter of January. As the heat intensifies, residents and visitors alike can bask in the sun or seek refuge in the inviting waters of the Great Barrier Reef, making it an ideal time for beach lovers and adventure seekers to experience all that this tropical paradise has to offer.
In December, Cairns experiences a notable shift in precipitation patterns as the wet season begins to assert itself, bringing an average of 166 mm (6.5 in) of rain across 15 days. This monthly total marks a significant increase compared to the drier months preceding it, such as July and August, where rainfall drops to a mere 33 mm (1.3 in) and 19 mm (0.7 in) respectively. The consistent rise in precipitation from late spring through early summer is evident, with December's figures closely aligning with the seasonal peak expected in January, where the rainfall soars to 400 mm (15.7 in). This transition not only revitalizes the region's lush landscapes but also highlights the dramatic shift in weather patterns as Cairns fully embraces its tropical identity.
In Cairns, Australia, December ushers in a humidity level of 75%, marking a slight decrease from the higher averages seen in the preceding months. The trend indicates a gradual decline from the peak humidity of 83% in March, with the most noticeable drop occurring during the cooler winter months of July and August, where humidity dips to 71% and 75%, respectively. As the year progresses towards the end, humidity begins to stabilize around the mid-seventy percent mark. This consistent climate, punctuated by the tropical warmth characteristic of Cairns, makes December a pleasant yet slightly humid month, perfect for enjoying the region's lush landscapes and beautiful beaches.
Cairns, Australia, experiences consistently high UV Index levels throughout the year, with December peaking at an intense UV Index of 16, classified as extreme. This trend of extreme exposure is evident, as both January and February also record a UV index of 16, signaling a critical need for sun protection. The burn time remains alarmingly short at just 10 minutes across these peak months. Transitioning into the cooler months, the UV Index dips slightly, with May to July varying between 8 and 10 but retains a very high exposure category. As we approach the end of the year, the November figure holds steady at 15, leading us back to December's extremes, urging residents and visitors to take necessary precautions. For more detailed insights, check out the comprehensive data at Cairns UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In Cairns, Australia, December shines brightly with an impressive 324 hours of sunshine, mirroring the abundant light of the preceding month. This vibrant end to the year is part of a noticeable trend, as Cairns consistently basks in increasing daylight from the cooler months of June and July, which feature around 255 hours and 276 hours, respectively. As spring blooms into summer, the sunshine escalates, peaking in October and November before stabilizing in December. This gradual but steady ascent showcases a delightful transition into the festive season, making Cairns an enticing destination for sun-seekers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Whether you're diving into the Great Barrier Reef or lounging on the beach, the December sun guarantees a warm, unforgettable experience.
In Cairns, Australia, the likelihood of sunny weather shows remarkable variation throughout the year, peaking in May and October at 57% and 58%, respectively. Moving into the end of the year, December offers a 45% chance of sunshine, which is comparable to November's 44%. This positioning suggests a slight decline in sunny days as the wet season approaches. Interestingly, while December experiences more sunshine than the earlier months such as January (11%) and February (16%), it's part of a broader trend where the likelihood of sunshine gradually increases from the beginning of the year, reaching its zenith in the mid-year months before tapering off again. Therefore, while December maintains a decent probability of clear skies, travelers should still be prepared for the occasional tropical downpour.
In Cairns, Australia, December marks a vibrant peak in daylight hours, with 13 hours of sunshine illuminating the tropical landscape. This trend of extended daylight begins in January and tapers slightly in the cooler months, where from April to September, the days feature a consistent 11 hours of light. As spring unfolds into October and November, the duration gently rises again to 12 hours before reaching its zenith in December. This consistent pattern not only highlights the region's warm climate but also invites outdoor enthusiasts to revel in the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and lush rainforests, making Cairns a perfect summer getaway.
As December rolls into Cairns, the average wind speed settles at a gentle 2.8 m/s (6 mph), marking a slight decrease from the busier months of September and May, which saw peaks of 4.3 m/s (10 mph) and 4.1 m/s (9 mph), respectively. This trend indicates a gradual wind slowdown as the year draws to a close, transitioning from the more vigorous breezes of spring and early summer into the calmer, balmy days of late spring. Notably, December's winds are also softer than the preceding months, reflecting the region's characteristic shift towards a more serene summer atmosphere. This seasonal change provides a delightful backdrop for holiday festivities, inviting both locals and visitors to bask in the warm, leisurely breezes that define Cairns during this vibrant time of year.
The weather in Cairns changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of December's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Cairns and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January exhibit similar temperature ranges, with both months featuring minimums of 21°C (70°F), average highs of 26°C (78°F), and maximums reaching 33°C (92°F). However, January tends to be wetter, experiencing significantly higher precipitation of 400 mm (15.7 in) over 21 days compared to December's 166 mm (6.5 in) across 15 days. Additionally, humidity slightly rises from 75% in December to 79% in January, contributing to a more tropical feel as the new year begins. For more detailed information, you can check out the Cairns weather in January.
In comparison to December, February experiences slightly cooler minimum temperatures, with a low of 18°C (65°F) compared to December's minimum of 21°C (70°F). However, February can reach higher maximum temperatures, peaking at 35°C (95°F) against December's maximum of 33°C (92°F). Precipitation levels also increase significantly in February, with 287 mm (11.3 in) of rainfall over 21 days, compared to December's 166 mm (6.5 in) over 15 days. Humidity rises as well, reaching 81% in February, compared to 75% in December. For more details on February weather, visit Cairns weather in February.
December and March in Cairns offer warm temperatures, but there are notable differences in weather patterns. Both months maintain a minimum temperature around 21°C (69-70°F) and maximums reaching 33°C (91-92°F), with average temperatures slightly higher in December at 26°C (78°F) compared to 25°C (78°F) in March. However, March sees a significant increase in precipitation, receiving 289 mm (11.4 in) over 24 days, compared to December's 166 mm (6.5 in) over 15 days. This leads to higher humidity levels in March at 83%, compared to 75% in December. For those interested in more details, you can check out Cairns weather in March.
When comparing December and April weather, December typically experiences slightly warmer temperatures, with averages around 26°C (78°F) and maximums reaching 33°C (92°F), while April's averages drop to 24°C (75°F) and maximums to 31°C (88°F). Both months feature similar levels of precipitation, with December at 166 mm (6.5 in) and April slightly lower at 163 mm (6.4 in), and they both see rainfall on approximately 15 days. However, April tends to have a higher humidity level of 80%, compared to December's 75%. For more detailed insights into April weather, you can check Cairns weather in April.
In December, the weather is marked by higher temperatures, with minimums reaching 21°C (70°F) and average highs of 33°C (92°F), creating a warm and humid atmosphere with an average humidity of 75%. In contrast, May experiences cooler temperatures, averaging around 22°C (72°F), with a maximum of 27°C (81°F) and a minimum of 13°C (56°F). Precipitation is also significantly lower in May, totaling 51 mm (2.0 in) across 13 days compared to December’s 166 mm (6.5 in) over 15 days. For a more detailed look at the conditions in May, you can check Cairns weather in May.
December and June present distinct weather profiles. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 21°C (70°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F), with an average of 26°C (78°F). This month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 166 mm (6.5 in) over about 15 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 75%. In contrast, June is noticeably cooler, with temperatures spanning from a minimum of 13°C (56°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F), and an average of 20°C (68°F). During this month, rainfall is much lighter, with only 37 mm (1.5 in) recorded over approximately 11 days, while humidity remains relatively high at 78%. For more details, check out Cairns weather in June.
In December, the weather is significantly warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 21°C (70°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F) and an average of 26°C (78°F). This month also experiences higher humidity at 75% and considerable rainfall, with 166 mm (6.5 in) of precipitation over 15 days. In contrast, July offers a cooler climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 14°C (57°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F) and an average of 20°C (68°F). Rainfall is much lighter in July, totaling just 33 mm (1.3 in) over 7 days, and the humidity is slightly lower at 71%. For more detailed information, check out Cairns weather in July.
In December, the weather is notably warmer compared to August, with temperatures soaring from a minimum of 21°C (70°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F), resulting in a higher average of 26°C (78°F). The month experiences significant rainfall, with 166 mm (6.5 in) of precipitation over approximately 15 days, maintaining a consistent humidity level of 75%. In contrast, August sees much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 13°C (56°F) and a maximum of 29°C (84°F), averaging at 20°C (68°F). Additionally, rainfall is minimal during August, with only 19 mm (0.7 in) of precipitation over just 4 days. For more detailed information, you can check Cairns weather in August.
In comparing the weather between December and September, December tends to be significantly warmer and more humid. December's average temperature is around 26°C (78°F), peaking at a high of 33°C (92°F), while September averages a cooler 21°C (70°F) with a maximum of 27°C (80°F). Additionally, December experiences heavier rainfall, with 166 mm (6.5 in) of precipitation over 15 days, compared to September's modest 21 mm (0.8 in) across just 5 days. While both months have high humidity, December's 75% is slightly higher than September's 72%. For more details, you can check Cairns weather in September.
In comparing the weather between October and December, it's clear that December is noticeably warmer, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 21°C (70°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F), in contrast to October's range of 15°C (59°F) to 29°C (84°F). December also brings significantly more rainfall, with 166 mm (6.5 in) over approximately 15 days, compared to just 35 mm (1.4 in) over 5 days in October. Humidity levels remain relatively close, with December at 75% and October at 73%. For more details on October's climate specifics, you can visit Cairns weather in October.
In comparing the weather of December and November, December tends to be warmer, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 21°C (70°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F), while November records slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 19°C (66°F) and a maximum of 34°C (94°F). Additionally, December experiences significantly higher precipitation, totaling 166 mm (6.5 in) over 15 days compared to November's 38 mm (1.5 in) over 11 days. Humidity levels remain similar, with December at 75% and November slightly lower at 74%. For more details on November weather, you can check Cairns weather in November.
In December, Cairns experiences a noticeable shift in weather, with its temperatures reaching summery highs and a distinct increase in humidity compared to other months. This month marks the transition into the wet season, bringing about sporadic rain, evident from the 15 days of precipitation throughout the month. As the tropical climate thickens, visitors can expect a blend of hot days and refreshing showers, making it an ideal time for those who enjoy the lush, vibrant landscapes that flourish during this period. To discover more about what to expect throughout the year, be sure to check the Cairns Climate.