Last updated: April 22, 2025
Calgary in December is a month of striking contrasts, where temperatures swing dramatically from a maximum of 14°C (58°F) to a chilling minimum of -35°C (-31°F), resulting in an average of -7°C (20°F). Residents and visitors alike experience high humidity levels of 92%, which can make the cold feel even more biting. Snow may grace the city, contributing to a modest 24 mm (0.9 in) of precipitation over just 5 days. This unique blend of conditions creates a wintry wonderland, perfect for enjoying Calgary's seasonal festivities while bracing for the brisk Canadian chill.
In Calgary, December presents a striking winter landscape, where temperatures can plunge as low as -35°C (-31°F) at night, emphasizing the chill in the air. The average temperature hovers around -7°C (20°F), offering a crisp yet invigorating atmosphere ideal for winter activities. Daytime highs reach a balmy 14°C (58°F), providing brief respites from the cold. This month stands out in a seasonal pattern characterized by significant temperature shifts, hinting at the colder months of January and February ahead. Despite the extreme lows, Calgary's December wraps the city in a beautiful blanket of snow, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the joys of winter.
In December, Calgary experiences a notable decline in precipitation, receiving just 24 mm (0.9 in) over 5 days. This marks a shift from the wetter months of summer and early fall, where rainfall was more abundant. As the year winds down, December's conditions reflect a potential transition towards the drier winter months, with precipitation levels dropping from November’s 26 mm. This trend signals the onset of Calgary's cold season, where snow may also play a significant role in the overall moisture contribution. The relatively low precipitation in December contributes to a crisp, chilly atmosphere, making it a picturesque time in the city as holiday festivities begin.
As December arrives in Calgary, the city's humidity levels take a notable turn, reaching 92%. This marks a slight decline from the peak months of winter, but remains significantly high, showcasing the moisture-laden air that blankets the region. Throughout the year, Calgary experiences varying humidity, with the highest levels observed in February at 93% and a gradual decrease in the warmer months, bottoming out at 74% in September. However, as winter sets in, humidity surges again, reflecting Calgary's unique climate shift and its cold, crisp winter atmosphere. The cyclical nature of humidity in Calgary not only influences daily weather patterns but also adds to the city's distinct seasonal character.
As the year comes to a close, December in Calgary sees a significant drop in the UV Index, reaching a low of 1, categorizing its exposure as minimal and allowing for an extended burn time of 45 minutes. This trend is emblematic of the colder months, with UV levels gradually decreasing from the highs of summer. In fact, after a peak of 9 in July, the Index steadily declined through the fall months, giving way to the lower levels typical of winter. This provides a refreshing contrast for residents, who can enjoy outdoor activities with minimal risk of sunburn. For more details on UV trends throughout the year, check out Calgary UV Index.
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As December settles in Calgary, the city experiences a gentle decline in sunshine hours, with 163 hours illuminating the winter landscape. This month naturally contrasts with the vibrant summer when sunlight peaks at 382 hours in July, marking the height of long, sunny days. However, December's shorter daylight hours are part of a gradual transition from the autumnal glow of 255 hours in September to the subdued light of winter. The trend is clear: Calgary's sun-drenched months lead to shorter, crisp winter days, inviting residents to embrace the cozy charm of the season while looking forward to the return of longer days in the spring.
In Calgary, Canada, the likelihood of sunny weather in December tends to decrease as winter sets in, with a mere 32% chance of sunshine. This trend follows a gradual decline from the more promising autumn months, where the chances hover around 42% in November. Moreover, as we look back through the year, the peak of sunny days is seen in the summer months, with July boasting the highest likelihood at 57%. Interestingly, December's sunshine potential is in stark contrast to the brighter spells of earlier seasons like April and June, which offer nearly 50% sunshine. As Calgary steps into the cold, dark days of winter, residents are met with a significant drop in clear skies, reminding us to expect a more overcast and chilly atmosphere as the year draws to a close.
As December settles in Calgary, the city experiences its shortest daylight duration of the year, offering just 7 hours of sunlight. This month marks a transition into the winter season, with daylight steadily decreasing from the 16 hours of bright summer days seen in June. Following the gradual tapering from earlier months, where daylight peaked at 15 hours in July, December's diminishing light serves as a reminder of nature's cyclical patterns. After the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, residents find comfort in cozy indoor activities, knowing that as the year progresses, daylight will gradually lengthen once again, bringing hope and light with the approaching spring.
As December rolls into Calgary, the city experiences a notable shift in wind patterns compared to the preceding months. With an average wind speed of 2.8 m/s (6 mph), December maintains a breezy, yet gentle character, aligning closely with the quieter winds of summer and early fall. This subtle decrease from November's 3.1 m/s (7 mph) suggests that as winter approaches, the winds begin to mellow, offering a tranquil atmosphere perfect for cozy holiday strolls. While wind speeds earlier in the year, particularly in March and May, surged at times to 3.2 m/s (7 mph), the end of the year invites a softer embrace from the winds, allowing Calgarians to enjoy the crisp air without the chill of blustery gusts.
The weather in Calgary 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 Calgary and find detailed weather information for every month.
In December, Calgary experiences a temperature range from a chilling minimum of -35°C (-31°F) to an average of -7°C (20°F), with some days reaching a maximum of 14°C (58°F). The month sees a total precipitation of 24 mm (0.9 in) over 5 days, along with a high humidity level of 92%. In contrast, January brings a slightly colder environment, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -36°C (-32°F) and a slightly lower maximum of 11°C (52°F). Precipitation is also reduced, totaling only 8 mm (0.3 in) over just 2 days, while humidity remains comparable at 91%. For more specific weather conditions, you can check out Calgary weather in January.
December and February present strikingly similar temperature extremes, both with minimums dipping to -35°C (-31°F). However, February tends to be slightly colder on average, with a typical temperature of -10°C (14°F) compared to December's -7°C (20°F). Precipitation also increases in February, with 29 mm (1.2 in) recorded over 8 days, compared to December's 24 mm (0.9 in) over 5 days. Humidity remains high in both months, but February edges out December with a humidity level of 93% versus December's 92%. For a closer look at February weather specifics, check out Calgary weather in February.
In December, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -35°C (-31°F), while the average temperature settles around a chilly -7°C (20°F), peaking at a maximum of 14°C (58°F). The month sees about 24 mm (0.9 in) of precipitation across 5 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 92%. In contrast, March experiences milder conditions with a minimum temperature of -31°C (-23°F) and an average of -3°C (27°F), reaching a maximum of 18°C (64°F). Precipitation slightly increases to 27 mm (1.1 in) over 6 days, with humidity at a still-high 88%. Overall, March offers a more temperate climate compared to the frigid December weather, making it a transitional month. For more details on March weather, you can visit Calgary weather in March.
When comparing the weather in December and April, the differences are quite striking. December experiences temperatures that can plunge to a minimum of -35°C (-31°F), with an average around -7°C (20°F) and a maximum of 14°C (58°F). The month also sees relatively low precipitation at 24 mm (0.9 in) over about 5 days, complemented by a high humidity level of 92%. In contrast, April brings a significant warming trend, with minimum temperatures around -17°C (1°F) and an average of 3°C (37°F), reaching highs of 26°C (80°F). Precipitation increases to 38 mm (1.5 in) over approximately 9 days, while humidity decreases slightly to 84%. For a more detailed look at what to expect, you can check out Calgary weather in April.
December and May weather in Calgary present a stark contrast in temperatures and conditions. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -35°C (-31°F), with an average of -7°C (20°F) and a maximum of 14°C (58°F). The month sees an average precipitation of 24 mm (0.9 in) over approximately 5 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 92%. In comparison, May offers a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a maximum of 29°C (85°F), averaging around 10°C (51°F). Precipitation increases to 62 mm (2.4 in) over about 10 days, and humidity drops to 80%. For more detailed information about the weather during this vibrant month, check out Calgary weather in May.
December and June in Calgary present starkly contrasting weather patterns. In December, the temperature can plummet to a chilling minimum of -35°C (-31°F), with an average of -7°C (20°F) and a daytime maximum reaching 14°C (58°F). The month typically sees about 24 mm (0.9 in) of precipitation over approximately 5 days, while humidity hovers around a high 92%. In sharp contrast, June brings a significant warming trend, with minimum temperatures starting at 1°C (35°F) and rising to an average of 15°C (59°F), peaking at a scorching 37°C (99°F). June experiences more precipitation, totaling 85 mm (3.3 in) across about 12 days, but with a lower humidity of 79%. The dramatic differences in temperature, precipitation, and humidity highlight the seasonal shifts characteristic of Calgary's climate. For more details on June weather, check out Calgary weather in June.
December and July present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In December, temperatures plunge to a minimum of -35°C (-31°F) and average around -7°C (20°F), with a maximum of 14°C (58°F). The month sees about 24 mm (0.9 in) of precipitation over approximately 5 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 92%. In contrast, July enjoys much milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a sweltering maximum of 36°C (98°F). The average temperature settles at 17°C (63°F), while precipitation increases to 69 mm (2.7 in) over 11 days, accompanied by slightly lower humidity of 80%. This variation showcases the dramatic seasonal shifts experienced in Calgary throughout the year; for more details, visit Calgary weather in July.
December and August in Calgary exhibit stark contrasts in weather conditions. December brings frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -35°C (-31°F) and an average hovering around -7°C (20°F), while August enjoys a significantly warmer climate, featuring a minimum of 3°C (37°F) and an average of 16°C (62°F). Additionally, December's high of 14°C (58°F) is a far cry from August's scorching maximum of 38°C (100°F). Precipitation is also notable, with December receiving 24 mm (0.9 in) over about five days compared to August's 43 mm (1.7 in) across seven days. The humidity levels differ as well, with December at a chilly 92%, contrasting with August's more comfortable 77%. For a deeper dive into summer conditions, you can check out Calgary weather in August.
December and September in Calgary present a striking contrast in weather conditions. December features frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -35°C (-31°F) and an average low around -7°C (20°F), while September boasts a much milder climate, where temperatures can range from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in September, with 43 mm (1.7 in) over nine days compared to December's 24 mm (0.9 in) over just five days, and the humidity in December reaches a chilly 92%, compared to 74% in September. For more detailed insights, check out Calgary weather in September.
In comparing the weather between December and October, December is significantly colder, with average temperatures hovering around -7°C (20°F) compared to October's milder average of 4°C (39°F). The maximum temperature in December reaches only 14°C (58°F), while October can warm up to a comfortable 24°C (75°F). Precipitation in both months occurs on five days, but October sees slightly more at 31 mm (1.2 in) compared to December's 24 mm (0.9 in). Additionally, December boasts a higher humidity level at 92%, making the cold feel even more biting than October's 80%. For more insight on October’s climate, you can visit Calgary weather in October.
December weather is characterized by significantly colder temperatures compared to November. While November has a minimum temperature of -23°C (-9°F) and an average of -2°C (29°F), December plunges to a minimum of -35°C (-31°F) and an average of -7°C (20°F). Additionally, the maximum temperature in December is lower at 14°C (58°F) compared to November’s warmer maximum of 21°C (70°F). Precipitation levels are slightly lower in December, with 24 mm (0.9 in) over 5 days, compared to November's 26 mm (1.0 in) over 7 days. Humidity is generally higher in December at 92% versus November’s 86%, contributing to the overall chill of the season. For more detailed information on November weather, check out Calgary weather in November.
As December rolls into Calgary, the city transforms into a winter wonderland marked by chilly average temperatures that dip significantly compared to the milder months preceding it. With a maximum of 14°C and plunging to a frigid minimum of -35°C, December showcases the dramatic extremes characteristic of the season. While precipitation is relatively low, occurring on just five days, the high humidity at 92% can make the cold feel even more biting. This month distinctly contrasts with Calgary's other more temperate periods, reinforcing the need for proper winter gear. For a deeper understanding of the city's weather patterns throughout the year, check out Calgary Climate.