Last updated: August 21, 2025
In December, Rio de Janeiro basks in warm, vibrant weather, making it an ideal time for both locals and tourists to enjoy the city's stunning landscapes. With maximum temperatures reaching 34°C (93°F) and an average of 25°C (78°F), the warmth is complemented by a minimum temperature of 18°C (65°F) during cooler evenings. However, while the sun shines brightly, precipitation is not uncommon, accumulating to 143 mm (5.6 in) over approximately 17 days. The air carries a humidity level of around 75%, creating a tropical atmosphere that enhances the festive spirit of the season. Whether soaking up the sun on Copacabana beach or exploring the lush rainforest, December in Rio is a dynamic blend of heat, rain, and cultural vibrancy.
In December, Rio de Janeiro basks in the warm embrace of summer, with temperatures gracefully transitioning from the cooler months. The minimum temperature averages around 18°C (65°F), offering a mild start to the day that leads into blissful afternoons, where the average temperature reaches 25°C (78°F). As the sun sets, the heat peaks with a maximum temperature of 34°C (93°F), creating the perfect backdrop for beach outings and vibrant nightlife. This month serves as a bridge from the cooler, more temperate conditions of the previous months to the sizzling summer ahead, embodying the vibrant energy and warmth that the city is renowned for. It's a fantastic time to experience Rio's lively culture while enjoying its stunning landscapes under sunny skies.
December in Rio de Janeiro marks a transition toward the rainy season, with precipitation levels rising to 143 mm (5.6 in) over 17 days. This notable uptick in rainfall follows a pattern established in November, which also features substantial precipitation (135 mm). Interestingly, while the end of the year typically brings increased humidity and wet weather, it does not reach the heaviest monthly totals seen earlier in the year, such as March's peak of 163 mm (6.4 in). Instead, December serves as a continuation of the city's wet trend, setting the stage for the vibrant growth of the lush landscapes that characterize Rio, all while infusing the air with a distinct freshness that is quintessential to the summer months ahead.
In December, Rio de Janeiro experiences a humidity level of 75%, marking a transition from the drier months that precede it. While this figure is significantly lower than the peak summer months of January and February, which hover around 85%, it still signifies the tropical climate characteristic of the city. As the year comes to a close, humidity begins to rise again after a gradual decline from a low of 61% in October. This trend highlights a seasonal pattern where humidity levels are higher during the sultry summer months, reaching their zenith in early 2023, before tapering off as autumn sets in. Overall, December marks a point of balance, as the city braces for the vibrant summer ahead, blending a refreshing yet humid coastal air.
In December, Rio de Janeiro experiences a UV Index of 15, placing it in the extreme exposure category with a minimal burn time of just 10 minutes. This marks a return to the high UV levels seen in January and February, emphasizing a consistent trend of intense sun exposure during the summer months. Following a gradual decline in the UV Index from March to May, where the levels dip to 7, the trend reverses as the year comes to a close, showcasing the powerful Brazilian summer sun. With such intense UV radiation, it's crucial to take precautions to protect your skin and health. For detailed insights on UV levels throughout the year, visit Rio de Janeiro UV Index.
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In Rio de Janeiro, December heralds the peak of summer, dazzling sun-seekers with an impressive 318 hours of sunshine. This marks a delightful increase from the previous months, showcasing a trend of climbing sunlight from a moderate 271 hours in February. Throughout the year, sunshine hours generally rise, peaking in December, making it the brightest month and inviting adventurers to revel in the city’s vibrant beaches and festive atmosphere. As the year closes, the consistent rise from November to December not only illuminates the charm of Rio but also captivates locals and visitors alike, affirming winter’s warmth in this tropical paradise.
In December, the likelihood of sunny weather in Rio de Janeiro is a moderate 41%, marking a slight uptick from the preceding months. This month showcases a seasonal trend where the chances of sunshine begin to climb, contrasting with the drop seen in October's 18%. As the year winds down, the weather shifts towards sunnier prospects, hinting at the festive spirit and beach-friendly days ahead. Compared to the sunniness of mid-year months like July and August, which boast probabilities of 59% and 60%, respectively, December may offer a mix of delightful sunny spells amidst the occasional rainy day, appealing to both locals and visitors ready to soak up the summer vibes of the Southern Hemisphere.
In Rio de Janeiro, the rhythm of daylight shifts beautifully throughout the year, with December showcasing an impressive 13 hours of sunlight. This trend of longer days peaks during the summer months, as both January and November mirror December's luminous qualities with the same ample daylight. Following the summer, the daylight duration gradually declines, reaching a low of 10 hours in the heart of winter, namely June and July. As the seasons progress, daylight begins to lengthen again from August onward, resetting itself to a vibrant 12 hours by October. This rhythmic dance of daylight not only highlights the changing seasons but also enhances the vibrant atmosphere of Rio as it embraces the warmth of summer in December.
In December, Rio de Janeiro experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 2.8 m/s (6 mph), bringing a subtle coolness to the city's vibrant atmosphere. As the year comes to a close, those seeking warmth find it interesting that the wind speed dips slightly from the more spirited gusts of the previous months. Notably, August marks the high of the year at 3.5 m/s (8 mph), followed closely by September and October, which maintain above-average winds. This shift towards calmer winds in December contrasts with the summer months, suggesting a seasonal transition that invites both residents and visitors to revel in the festive beach scenes, where the tranquil breeze complements the sun's warmth.
Weather in Rio de Janeiro varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Rio de Janeiro, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In December, Rio de Janeiro experiences a warm climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F) and an average of 25°C (78°F). The month sees considerable precipitation, totaling 143 mm (5.6 in) over 17 days, coupled with a humidity level of 75%. In contrast, January brings slightly warmer conditions with minimum temperatures of 21°C (69°F), an average of 27°C (81°F), and a peak of 35°C (95°F). While the rainfall decreases to 112 mm (4.4 in) spread over 13 days, humidity rises to 85%. For more detailed information, check out Rio de Janeiro weather in January.
In December, Rio de Janeiro experiences warm temperatures, with a minimum of 18°C (65°F) and an average of 25°C (78°F), peaking at 34°C (93°F). The month sees significant rainfall, totaling 143 mm (5.6 in) over 17 days, with humidity levels around 75%. By February, the weather remains similarly warm, but with slightly higher temperatures: a minimum of 21°C (71°F), an average of 27°C (80°F), and a maximum of 35°C (95°F). This month also shares a comparable level of precipitation, amounting to 146 mm (5.7 in) across the same number of rainy days, though humidity slightly rises to 85%. For more detailed insights, you can check out Rio de Janeiro weather in February.
December and March exhibit similar weather patterns in terms of rainfall and the number of rainy days, but March tends to be slightly warmer and more humid. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F), with an average temperature of 25°C (78°F) and total precipitation of 143 mm (5.6 in) over 17 days. Conversely, March brings increased warmth, with a minimum of 20°C (68°F) and a maximum of 35°C (94°F), leading to an average of 26°C (80°F). Notably, March also sees slightly more precipitation at 163 mm (6.4 in) and higher humidity at 86%. For more detailed insights about March weather specifically, please visit Rio de Janeiro weather in March.
December and April in Rio de Janeiro present warm temperatures, with both months experiencing minimums of 18°C (65°F) and maximums reaching around 34°C (93-94°F). However, December typically has slightly more rain, averaging 143 mm (5.6 in) over 17 days, compared to April's 95 mm (3.7 in) over 13 days. Additionally, while humidity levels are relatively high in both months, April tends to be a bit more humid at 83%, compared to December's 75%. For more detailed insights into April's weather, you can visit Rio de Janeiro weather in April.
In December, the weather in Rio de Janeiro is characterized by warmer temperatures, with averages around 25°C (78°F) and maximums reaching up to 34°C (93°F). This month experiences significant rainfall, totaling 143 mm (5.6 in) over 17 days, resulting in a humidity level of 75%. In contrast, May tends to be slightly cooler, with average temperatures at 23°C (73°F) and maximums of 33°C (91°F). Rainfall is reduced, only accumulating to 77 mm (3.1 in) over 10 days, and humidity rises slightly to 81%. For more detailed information about the climate in May, visit Rio de Janeiro weather in May.
When comparing the weather in December and June, December tends to be warmer, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F). It also experiences significantly more precipitation, averaging 143 mm (5.6 in) over 17 days, contributing to a humidity level of 75%. In contrast, June feels slightly cooler, with average temperatures from 16°C (61°F) to 32°C (89°F) and much less rainfall, only 44 mm (1.7 in) across 9 days, but it has a slightly higher humidity at 80%. For more detailed information, you can check out Rio de Janeiro weather in June.
December and July present notable differences in weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F), with an average of around 25°C (78°F). This month is characterized by higher precipitation, receiving 143 mm (5.6 in) over 17 days, while humidity remains relatively high at 75%. In contrast, July tends to be cooler, with temperatures ranging from 13°C (57°F) to 32°C (91°F) and an average of 21°C (70°F). The month experiences significantly lower precipitation at just 38 mm (1.5 in) over 7 days and a slight increase in humidity at 76%. For more details on the weather specifics for July, you can check Rio de Janeiro weather in July.
When comparing the weather in December and August, it’s evident that December is generally warmer and wetter. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F), with an average of 25°C (78°F). This month also sees significant rainfall, totaling 143 mm (5.6 in) over 17 days, resulting in a humidity level of 75%. In contrast, August experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 14°C (57°F) and a maximum of 33°C (91°F), averaging 21°C (70°F). Precipitation is less intense, totaling 75 mm (3.0 in) over 11 days, and humidity is slightly lower at 73%. For more information on Rio de Janeiro's weather during August, you can refer to Rio de Janeiro weather in August.
The weather in December tends to be warmer and more humid compared to September. December's temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F), with an average of 25°C (78°F), while September sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 16°C (60°F) and a maximum of 35°C (96°F), averaging 23°C (74°F). Furthermore, December experiences significantly more rainfall, totaling 143 mm (5.6 in) over 17 days, compared to September's 55 mm (2.2 in) over just 8 days. The humidity is also higher in December at 75%, compared to 68% in September, making December feel more tropical. For more detailed information on September weather patterns, visit Rio de Janeiro weather in September.
December weather is marked by slightly higher temperatures, with average highs at 34°C (93°F) compared to October's maximum of 37°C (99°F). However, December experiences greater humidity at 75% and increased rainfall, with precipitation totaling 143 mm (5.6 in) over 17 days, while October sees less precipitation at 98 mm (3.8 in) over 15 days. Overall, while both months offer warm conditions, December's weather is more humid and wetter. For more detailed information, you can check Rio de Janeiro weather in October.
When comparing the weather in November and December, we see some notable differences. December typically experiences slightly warmer temperatures with a minimum of 18°C (65°F) and an average of 25°C (78°F), while November has a minimum of 17°C (64°F) and an average of 24°C (75°F). Interestingly, December has a maximum temperature that can reach 34°C (93°F), just shy of November's peak of 35°C (94°F). Precipitation is also a factor — December records 143 mm (5.6 in) over 17 days, compared to November's 135 mm (5.3 in) over the same number of days. Humidity is slightly higher in December at 75%, versus 72% in November. For more detailed insights on the November weather, you can refer to Rio de Janeiro weather in November.
As December rolls into Rio de Janeiro, the city transforms into a vibrant tropical paradise, marked by warm temperatures that beckon both locals and tourists to embrace the outdoors. Unlike the cooler months, December showcases a lively atmosphere with high humidity and frequent rain, making it one of the wetter times of the year. Visitors can expect occasional downpours that enhance the lush landscapes, perfect for exploration. With the holiday season in full swing, the unique blend of sunshine and showers creates a dynamic environment that is truly emblematic of Rio's tropical charm. For those looking to understand how December fits into the broader context of the year, more information can be found at Rio de Janeiro Climate.