December Weather in Rila, Bulgaria

Last updated: August 21, 2025

December in Rila, Bulgaria presents a striking contrast of temperatures, where the maximum can reach a comfortable 12°C (53°F) but can plummet to a biting minimum of -21°C (-5°F). On average, the temperature hovers around 1°C (33°F), creating a crisp winter landscape. With 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 12 days, December in Rila is marked by a high humidity level of 89%, adding to the chilly atmosphere. This blend of conditions sets the stage for a picturesque winter season, ideal for those seeking a serene escape in snowy surroundings.

December Temperature in Rila

In December, Rila, Bulgaria experiences a sharp drop in temperatures, signaling the arrival of winter. With minimums plummeting to -21°C (-5°F) and average temperatures hovering around 1°C (33°F), the chill in the air is unmistakable. While daily highs can reach a modest 12°C (53°F), the stark contrast to the warmer months is evident, especially when compared to November's milder conditions. December's cold serves as a precursor to the frigid January temperatures, making it a month of transformation in this picturesque region. Whether blanketed in snow or kissed by a winter sun, Rila's December landscape is both breathtaking and invigorating, setting the stage for a true winter wonderland.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Rila, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Rila, December typically has an average temperature of {2}°C ({3}°F), with highs reaching up to {4}°C ({5}°F) and lows dropping to around {6}°C ({7}°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec283438465561666659504133
Data source: Temperature data for Rila 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 Rila

In December, Rila, Bulgaria experiences a notable increase in precipitation, with an average of 91 mm (3.6 in) over 12 days. This marks a shift from the relatively drier months of late autumn, as November recorded only 48 mm across 8 days. The winter season begins to assert itself, leading to a higher likelihood of rain and perhaps even snow, as the year draws to a close. This trend reflects a gradual escalation in precipitation that started from the drier summer months, peaking in June with 141 mm, before tapering off into a cycle of wetter winter days. The consistent moisture in December not only contributes to the region’s stunning winter landscapes but also signals the importance of preparing for a season rich in both beauty and potential challenges associated with winter weather.

December Precipitation Trends in Rila

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Rila, 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 Rila, December typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec64579270106141844638564891
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Rila

December in Rila, Bulgaria, marks a return to the peak of humidity for the year, with levels rising to 89%, echoing the dampness characteristic of January and November. This trend highlights a gradual increase in humidity as winter sets in, peaking twice in this colder season. The transition from the drier summer months, where humidity dips to a refreshing 50% in August, to the more humid months of autumn and winter showcases Rila's varied climate. As the year wraps up, the consistently high levels of moisture in December not only influence the local weather patterns but also create a unique atmospheric charm, contrasting sharply with the crisp air typical of the summer months.

December Average Humidity in Rila

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Rila, 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 Rila is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec89%85%83%71%73%67%68%50%59%79%87%89%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Rila

As December rolls into Rila, Bulgaria, the UV Index sees a gentle decline, registering at a low 2 for the month. This shift marks a contrast to the intense sunlight experienced in the summer months, where indices soared to 10, indicating very high exposure levels and minimal burn times of just 15 minutes. As winter settles in, residents and visitors can enjoy longer burn times of 45 minutes, reflecting a more forgiving sun that allows for outdoor activities without the immediate concern of skin damage. This gradual trend from very high exposure in the warmer months to a moderate level in the colder season highlights the importance of adjusting sun protection practices accordingly. For more details on UV trends in this picturesque region, check out Rila UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Rila for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Rila 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 Rila typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec34789101098632
Data source: Rila 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.

December Sunshine in Rila

In Rila, Bulgaria, the December sunshine offers a cozy respite from the winter chill, with an average of 211 hours of sunlight illuminating the landscape. As we transition from the brilliant August sun, peaking at 400 hours, the daylight gradually wanes through the fall months, reminiscent of nature's gentle descent into winter's embrace. Despite December's shorter days, this month still captures a sense of warmth, contrasting sharply with January's bleak 175 hours. As the year unfolds, the sunlight progressively builds, hinting at the brighter days to come in the spring and summer, when July dazzles with a staggering 424 hours of sunshine. Thus, December captures a bittersweet beauty, where shorter days invite reflection amid the promise of renewal.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Rila: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Rila experiences direct sunlight during the month of December, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of December with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec175h239h289h340h395h395h424h400h343h289h236h211h
Data source: Rila December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Rila During December

In Rila, Bulgaria, the likelihood of experiencing sunny weather in December is relatively low, sitting at 34%. This percentage reflects a gradual decline in sunshine from the sunnier months of summer, where July and August boast impressive chances of sun at 71% and 76% respectively. As the year progresses toward winter, particularly with November dropping to 36%, December maintains a similar trend of cloudy days and potential snowfall. Overall, while Rila enjoys a more radiant climate during the summer months, December's propensity for sunshine is notably limited, urging visitors to prepare for overcast skies and a wintry chill.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Rila

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Rila throughout the year, with December highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Rila experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec26%52%48%45%46%45%71%76%53%49%36%34%
Data source: Rila December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Rila in December

As the year draws to a close, December in Rila, Bulgaria, sees a return to the shorter days characteristic of the winter months, offering just 9 hours of daylight. This mirrors the daylight duration experienced in January and November, creating a consistent pattern of reduced light as we embrace the colder season. Following a gradual surge from 9 hours in January to a peak of 15 hours in June, daylight begins to wane again after the summer, showcasing nature's cyclical rhythm. With each month, from the **moderate 10 hours in February to 14 hours in May, Rila's daylight duration tells a story of the seasons, transitioning from the abundant light of summer to the introspective days of winter, inviting residents and visitors alike to appreciate the beauty of changing times.

Average Daylight Hours in Rila for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Rila throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 29m10h 34m11h 57m13h 22m14h 34m15h 11m14h 52m13h 48m12h 26m11h 1m9h 47m9h 8m
Data source: Rila daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Rila

As December settles over the stunning Rila Mountains in Bulgaria, the winds pick up slightly, averaging 1.9 m/s (4 mph). This marks a subtle increase compared to the calmer summer months, where the wind speeds hovered around 1.5 to 1.7 m/s (3 to 4 mph). Interestingly, the winter months show minimal variation, with January and November echoing similar calm conditions. December’s gentle breezes whisper a promise of the snow-capped peaks to come, contrasting with the more still air of early autumn. Overall, December's wind speed reflects a pattern of stability, capturing the serene essence of Rila's stunning winter landscape.

Average December Wind Speed in Rila

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Rila, with values for each month shown alongside December's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how December's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.01.91.91.81.91.51.61.71.71.81.71.9 m/s
Data source: Rila December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Rila Compares to Other Months

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

In December, temperatures begin to cool down, with a minimum of -21°C (-5°F) and an average of 1°C (33°F), making it feel slightly milder during the day, although nights can be quite cold. Precipitation remains relatively high at 91 mm (3.6 in) over about 12 days, contributing to the chilly atmosphere, while humidity stays consistent at 89%.

In contrast, January sees even colder temperatures, with a minimum dropping to -26°C (-14°F) and an average of -2°C (28°F), creating a more frigid environment. Despite the colder conditions, January experiences less precipitation at 64 mm (2.5 in) over 10 days. The humidity remains the same at 89%, but the overall chill factor makes January feel much sharper. For more detailed information, you can check Rila weather in January.

In December, the weather features chilly temperatures, with a minimum of -21°C (-5°F) and an average of around 1°C (33°F), reaching a maximum of 12°C (53°F). The month tends to be quite wet, with 91 mm (3.6 inches) of precipitation occurring over 12 days, accompanied by high humidity at 89%. In contrast, February mirrors December's cold minimum of -21°C (-5°F), but boasts a slightly warmer average temperature of 1°C (34°F) and higher maximums, peaking at 16°C (60°F). Additionally, February experiences reduced precipitation at 57 mm (2.2 inches) across 10 days, with humidity slightly lower at 85%. For more detailed weather insights, you can check the Rila weather in February.

In December, temperatures typically range from a minimum of -21°C (-5°F) to a maximum of 12°C (53°F), with an average temperature of 1°C (33°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 91 mm (3.6 in) over 12 days, along with high humidity at 89%. In contrast, March sees slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of -17°C (1°F) and a maximum of 19°C (67°F), averaging 3°C (39°F). While precipitation is similar at 92 mm (3.6 in), it occurs over more days—14 in total—leading to a lower humidity level of 83%. For more details on the weather conditions in March, check Rila weather in March.

December and April present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, the temperatures range from a frigid -21°C (-5°F) to a mild 12°C (53°F), with an average hovering around 1°C (33°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 89% and significant precipitation of 91 mm (3.6 in) over 12 days, often resulting in snowy conditions. In sharp contrast, April offers a more temperate climate, with temperatures fluctuating from a low of -8°C (18°F) to a high of 23°C (73°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F). Although precipitation is also recorded over 12 days, it amounts to a lesser total of 70 mm (2.8 in), and the humidity drops to 71%. For a detailed overview of weather conditions in April, you can visit Rila weather in April.

In December, temperatures can drop as low as -21°C (-5°F), with an average of just 1°C (33°F) and a maximum of 12°C (53°F), creating a stark and chilly atmosphere. The month experiences about 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 12 days, along with a high humidity level of 89%, contributing to a cold and damp environment. In contrast, May brings a much milder climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to an average of 13°C (55°F), peaking at a comfortable 27°C (81°F). Precipitation in May is slightly higher at 106 mm (4.2 in) spread over 17 days, while the humidity drops to 73%, making for a refreshing springtime feel. To explore more about the weather in May, visit Rila weather in May.

In December, the weather is significantly colder, with temperatures ranging from a brisk -21°C (-5°F) to a milder high of 12°C (53°F), and an average temperature of around 1°C (33°F). The month experiences relatively high humidity at 89% and receives about 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 12 days. In contrast, June brings much warmer conditions, with temperatures varying from a comfortable 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 31°C (87°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F). Although June has higher total precipitation at 141 mm (5.6 in) over 20 days, the humidity drops to a more pleasant 67%. For more details on June weather, you can check Rila weather in June.

December and July present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -21°C (-5°F), with an average of around 1°C (33°F) and a maximum of 12°C (53°F). This month experiences high humidity at 89% and 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation spread over 12 days, creating a cold and damp environment. In contrast, July boasts much milder weather, featuring minimum temperatures of 8°C (46°F) and an average high of 32°C (90°F), with a pleasant average of 19°C (66°F). Only 84 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation occurs during 11 days, and humidity drops to 68%, leading to warmer and sunnier conditions. To explore more about July weather in the Rila region, visit Rila weather in July.

December and August present contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plunge as low as -21°C (-5°F), with an average temperature around 1°C (33°F) and a maximum of 12°C (53°F). This cold month experiences high humidity at 89% and significant precipitation, with 91 mm (3.6 in) falling over approximately 12 days. In stark contrast, August offers a much more temperate climate, with minimum temperatures of 8°C (46°F) and average highs reaching 32°C (91°F). The overall climate is drier, with only 45 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation over about 7 days and a lower humidity level of 50%. For more details on August weather in the region, you can check out Rila weather in August.

The weather in December is starkly different from that of September. While December sees temperatures ranging from a frigid -21°C (-5°F) to a mild maximum of 12°C (53°F), September enjoys a much warmer spectrum, with lows around -2°C (28°F) and highs reaching 30°C (86°F). Additionally, December experiences substantially more precipitation, averaging 91 mm (3.6 in) over 12 days, compared to September's 38 mm (1.5 in) over just 5 days. The humidity also diverges, with December being more humid at 89%, whereas September has a more comfortable 59%. For a closer look at the weather in September, you can visit Rila weather in September.

In comparing the weather between October and December, it's evident that December is significantly colder, with average temperatures hovering around 1°C (33°F) compared to October's milder average of 10°C (50°F). While December sees temperatures dipping to a minimum of -21°C (-5°F), October experiences more moderate lows around -4°C (26°F). Additionally, December is wetter, receiving 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 12 days, whereas October has only 56 mm (2.2 in) over 6 days, contributing to a more humid atmosphere in December at 89%, compared to October's 79%. For those interested in more details about October weather, you can check out the link: Rila weather in October.

December's weather is notably colder and wetter compared to November. With average temperatures dropping to around 1°C (33°F), December experiences a significant chill, with minimums reaching -21°C (-5°F) and maximums of only 12°C (53°F). Additionally, the month sees an increase in precipitation, totaling 91 mm (3.6 in) across 12 days, while humidity levels remain high at 89%. In contrast, November boasts milder temperatures, averaging 5°C (42°F), with a maximum of 21°C (71°F) and minimums at -11°C (13°F). Precipitation is also lower in November, with only 48 mm (1.9 in) over 8 days, and a slightly lower humidity of 87%. For more insights on November weather, you can visit Rila weather in November.

Compare Rila's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Rila

In December, Rila experiences a notable chill, with temperatures plummeting compared to the milder months preceding it. The average temperature falls to a brisk 1°C, contrasting sharply with the relatively warmer autumn days. The increase in precipitation, totaling 91 mm over 12 days, adds a wintry touch, while humidity hovers around a high 89%, creating a damp atmosphere. This transition into winter sets the stage for a serene landscape, transforming Rila into a picturesque snowy retreat. For a deeper understanding of the region's climate throughout the year, visit Rila Climate.