Last updated: April 22, 2025
December in Yellowknife, Canada is quite the experience, marked by a maximum temperature of 1°C (34°F) and a chilly average of -22°C (-8°F), plunging to a bone-chilling minimum of -42°C (-44°F). This month brings only 14 mm (0.6 in) of precipitation, occurring over 4 days, leading to crispy, snow-dusted landscapes. With humidity reaching a constant 100%, the air feels brisk and invigorating, enticing visitors to bundle up and embrace the stunning beauty of a true winter wonderland.
In December, Yellowknife experiences some of its coldest temperatures of the year, with lows dipping to -42°C (-44°F) and an average around -22°C (-8°F). This month marks a transition as the days grow longer and slightly warmer compared to the depths of winter. While the maximum temperature barely grazes 1°C (34°F), it’s crucial to note that this rise in temperature offers a brief respite from the frigid extremes felt in earlier winter months, such as January and November. As the city embraces the cold, residents enjoy a winter wonderland adorned with snow, setting the stage for festive celebrations and outdoor activities amidst the stunning northern lights. The consistent chill encapsulates the beauty and harshness of life in the Canadian Arctic, inviting adventurers and nature lovers alike to experience its unique charm.
In December, Yellowknife experiences a notable dip in precipitation, with only 14 mm (0.6 in) of rainfall spread across a mere 4 days. This pattern reflects a gradual decrease in moisture as the year draws to a close, following a trend of diminishing precipitation from the wetter summer months. Notably, July and August stand out as the peak months, receiving 56 mm (2.2 in) and 55 mm (2.2 in) respectively, while the winter months see significantly less dampness. As temperatures plummet, December's light snowfall adds a serene quality to the landscape, marking the transition into the heart of winter in Canada’s northern territories.
In Yellowknife, Canada, December brings a notable peak in humidity, soaring to an impressive 100%. This seasonal shift marks the culmination of a year characterized by high moisture levels, beginning with 98% in January and showcasing a gradual decline through the warmer months, reaching a low of 69% in June. As the temperatures drop and winter fully sets in, humidity levels surge back, sharply rising in November and finally achieving saturation by December. This upward trend emphasizes the cold, crisp air typical of Yellowknife's winter, where the chilling moisture creates a unique, frosty atmosphere that blankets the city in a shimmering layer of ice.
In December, Yellowknife experiences a low UV Index of 1, similar to the preceding months of January, February, and November. This consistent level suggests that residents and visitors can enjoy outdoor activities without significant risk of sunburn, as the burn time remains a generous 45 minutes. As the year progresses from the early months to the brighter summer days, the UV Index climbs, peaking at 6 in June and July. This pattern highlights the stark contrast between the darker, colder months and the vibrant, sunny summer season. For those venturing out during the chilly December days, a little sun protection goes a long way! For more insights, check out the detailed Yellowknife UV Index.
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In Yellowknife, Canada, December brings a subtle glimmer of hope as the days begin to lengthen again, welcoming 80 hours of sunlight. While this is a modest amount compared to the 367 hours of bright days seen in May, it marks a turning point from the depths of November's 95 hours. The decline in daylight from the summer peak to winter's cold embrace can seem stark, yet it sets the stage for the powerful resurgence of light that follows in the spring. As the snow blankets the city, the december sunshine, though limited, serves as a reminder of the vibrant, sun-soaked days to come, capturing the resilience and beauty of life in the North.
In December, Yellowknife experiences a stark dip in sunny weather, with only a 13% chance of having a clear sky. This marks a notable decrease from the sunnier months, highlighting a trend where the likelihood of sun decreases significantly as winter sets in. After a brief uptick in spring and early summer, when the chances peak around 45% in May, the return to shorter days and colder temperatures in the late fall and early winter months contributes to this decline. As November ends with just 20% sunshine likelihood, December cements the city's reputation as a place where the sun is a rare guest during winter, leaving residents and visitors alike to embrace the icy beauty of the season.
In Yellowknife, Canada, the ebb and flow of daylight throughout the year paints a captivating picture of seasonal change. As winter deepens, December ushers in the year’s shortest days, with only 5 hours of daylight illuminating the icy landscape. This stark contrast to the sun-drenched June months, where daylight stretches to a remarkable 19 hours, underscores a dramatic seasonal shift. Following November’s brief daylight span of 6 hours, the gradual increase in sunlight resumes in January, steadily climbing to 8 hours in February. By the time spring rolls in, daylight stretches towards the 14-hour mark in April, peaking in the vibrant fullness of summer. This rhythmic pattern of diminishing and then reawakening light not only defines the local lifestyle but also enhances appreciation for the beauty of both the long, bright days and the serene, quieter moments of winter.
As winter envelops Yellowknife, December brings a notable shift in wind patterns, with an average speed of 3.0 m/s (7 mph), mirroring the calmness of February. This dip in wind velocity continues a trend observed throughout the colder months, where winds generally slowed down from the brisker speeds of autumn. While October and November hinted at more energetic breezes with averages of 4.1 m/s (9 mph) and 4.0 m/s (9 mph) respectively, December settles into a serene stillness, inviting the community to embrace the tranquility of the season. The consistency in wind speeds during this time highlights a gentle, quieter climate, perfect for enjoying the serene beauty of a Yellowknife winter.
The weather in Yellowknife 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 Yellowknife and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January both exhibit bitterly cold temperatures, though January tends to be slightly chillier overall. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -42°C (-44°F) to a maximum of 1°C (34°F), with an average temperature of -22°C (-8°F). In contrast, January records even lower extremes, with a minimum of -44°C (-47°F) and an average of -24°C (-11°F), while the maximum temperature only reaches -7°C (20°F). Precipitation remains consistent in both months, with about 14 mm (0.6 in) in December and slightly more at 16 mm (0.6 in) in January, affecting visibility and travel conditions. Despite the cold, both months feature high humidity levels, peaking at 100% in December and slightly dropping to 98% in January. For more details, check out Yellowknife weather in January.
In December, Yellowknife experiences frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -42°C (-44°F) and an average of -22°C (-8°F), while occasional warming brings a maximum of 1°C (34°F). The month is marked by high humidity at 100% and some precipitation, measuring around 14 mm (0.6 in) over four days. In contrast, February is even colder, with a chilling minimum of -48°C (-54°F) and an average temperature of -25°C (-13°F). This month sees slightly less precipitation at 11 mm (0.4 in) over just two days, and humidity dips slightly to 97%. For more detailed insights, check out Yellowknife weather in February.
In December, temperatures in Yellowknife can plummet to a minimum of -42°C (-44°F) and average around -22°C (-8°F), with a modest high of just 1°C (34°F). The month is characterized by high humidity levels, reaching 100%, and sees about 14 mm (0.6 in) of precipitation over four days. In contrast, March experiences slightly milder conditions, with minimum temperatures dropping to -43°C (-46°F), an average of -17°C (2°F), and a maximum of 7°C (44°F). Although March receives a bit more precipitation at 18 mm (0.7 in) over five days, humidity is lower at 94%. For a more detailed look at March weather, you can check Yellowknife weather in March.
In December, temperatures in Yellowknife plummet to an average of -22°C (-8°F), with minimum lows reaching a biting -42°C (-44°F) and maximums barely rising above freezing at 1°C (34°F). The month experiences high humidity at 100%, accompanied by light precipitation of 14 mm (0.6 in) over four days. In contrast, April sees a considerable warming trend with average temperatures of -7°C (19°F), minimums of -31°C (-24°F), and pleasant highs reaching 13°C (55°F). Although April has a slightly higher precipitation total of 16 mm (0.6 in), the humidity drops to 86%, making it feel less frigid than December. For more detailed information on the weather during this month, you can refer to Yellowknife weather in April.
December and May present stark contrasts in weather patterns. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -42°C (-44°F), with an average of -22°C (-8°F) and a maximum that barely reaches 1°C (34°F). The humidity is a chilling 100%, contributing to a frigid atmosphere, despite the relatively low precipitation of 14 mm (0.6 in) over just 4 days. In contrast, May boasts a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -22°C (-8°F) to a comfortable average of 5°C (41°F), peaking at a pleasant 26°C (79°F). Although precipitation increases slightly to 20 mm (0.8 in) over the same 4 days, humidity drops to 76%, making the air feel much more spring-like. For those curious about the weather conditions in May, further details can be found at Yellowknife weather in May.
December and June present stark contrasts in weather. December is characterized by frigid temperatures, with minimums plummeting to -42°C (-44°F) and an average of -22°C (-8°F). The month sees only 14 mm of precipitation over just four days, coupled with a chilling humidity of 100%. In contrast, June brings a warmer and more inviting climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a pleasant average of 13°C (56°F) and highs reaching up to 28°C (83°F). This month experiences more precipitation overall, totaling 39 mm and occurring across seven days, and has a significantly lower humidity level at 69%. For a deeper look at the specifics, you can check out Yellowknife weather in June.
In December, the weather is characterized by frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -42°C (-44°F) and an average of -22°C (-8°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. Precipitation is low at 14 mm (0.6 in) over just four days, and the humidity remains consistently high at 100%, creating a brisk and frosty atmosphere. In stark contrast, July brings warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F), and an average of 17°C (62°F). Precipitation increases to 56 mm (2.2 in) over nine days, and humidity drops to 73%, resulting in a much more comfortable and mild summer climate. For more details, you can explore the Yellowknife weather in July.
December and August present strikingly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures plummet to a minimum of -42°C (-44°F), with an average around -22°C (-8°F) and a maximum just reaching 1°C (34°F). The humidity hangs at a chilly 100%, and the month sees minimal precipitation of 14 mm (0.6 in) over just four days. In contrast, August boasts a milder climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 32°C (90°F), averaging 15°C (59°F). This summer month experiences significantly more rainfall, totaling 55 mm (2.2 in) over ten days, along with a lower humidity level at 79%. For more detailed weather information, check out Yellowknife weather in August.
December and September weather in Yellowknife exhibit stark contrasts. December experiences frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -42°C (-44°F) and an average of -22°C (-8°F), while September maintains a milder range, where temperatures can dip to a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and reach an average of 8°C (47°F). Additionally, precipitation is relatively low in December at 14 mm (0.6 in) over just four days, compared to September's 28 mm (1.1 in) over six days, making the latter month wetter. Humidity levels also differ significantly, with December reaching a chilling 100%, in stark contrast to September's 86%. For more details, you can visit Yellowknife weather in September.
December in Yellowknife is characterized by severe cold, with temperatures ranging from a bone-chilling minimum of -42°C (-44°F) to a maximum of just 1°C (34°F). The month experiences high humidity at 100% and limited precipitation, totaling only 14 mm (0.6 in) over four days. In stark contrast, October offers milder weather, with temperatures varying from a minimum of -13°C (9°F) to a more comfortable maximum of 12°C (54°F). Despite having more precipitation at 24 mm (0.9 in) spread across seven days, October's humidity remains slightly lower at 94%. For a more detailed look at October's weather, visit Yellowknife weather in October.
In comparing the weather between November and December, December experiences significantly colder temperatures, with average lows plummeting to -22°C (-8°F) and a remarkable minimum of -42°C (-44°F). In contrast, November's average minimum temperature is a milder -31°C (-24°F), with temperatures occasionally reaching a maximum of 4°C (40°F). Additionally, December sees slightly less precipitation than November, totaling 14 mm (0.6 in) over 4 days compared to November's 20 mm (0.8 in) across 6 days. Despite the lower precipitation, December's humidity remains high at 100%, slightly above November's 98%. For a closer look at November weather specifics, you can visit Yellowknife weather in November.
As December settles over Yellowknife, the city transforms into a chilly wonderland, with temperatures plummeting significantly compared to the milder months of fall. Characterized by its bitingly cold averages and the potential for extreme lows, December brings a frosty embrace that is in stark contrast to the warmth felt just a few weeks prior. Precipitation is minimal, yet the air hangs thick with 100% humidity, making the cold feel even more pronounced. While the snow-covered landscape sparkles under the winter sun, this month presents a stark reminder of the Arctic's raw beauty. To explore more about how this unique climate shapes the region, visit Yellowknife Climate.