Last updated: April 22, 2025
In Toronto, Canada, December marks a transition into winter, where temperatures vary dramatically. The maximum can reach a mild 16°C (61°F), while the average lingers around a chilly -1°C (31°F), with lows plunging to -24°C (-11°F). The month is characterized by 70 mm (2.8 in) of precipitation spread over 12 days, contributing to an overall humidity level of 87%. This combination of temperature fluctuations and precipitation creates a dynamic winter atmosphere, making December in Toronto both enchanting and challenging.
In December, Toronto embraces the heart of winter, with temperatures typically hovering around a chilly -1°C (31°F) as an average. As the month progresses, the city can experience the extremes, with minimum temperatures plunging to -24°C (-11°F), reminding residents of the season's bite. Fortunately, the mercury can occasionally rise to a maximum of 16°C (61°F), offering brief respites from the cold. This month marks a significant drop compared to the milder autumn months that precede it, highlighting a notable shift towards the more frigid depths of winter. December’s cold invites a cozy atmosphere, as the city's vibrant lights and festive spirit shine against the crisp, frosty backdrop.
In December, Toronto experiences a notable shift as winter settles in, with precipitation averaging 70 mm (2.8 in) across approximately 12 days. This amount closely follows the trend seen in November, where the city received 72 mm (2.8 in) but with slightly fewer precipitation days. As the year winds down, the consistent precipitation, compared to the wetter months of spring and fall, hints at a shift towards more stable, albeit cooler, weather patterns. December's precipitation serves as a reminder of the transition into winter, where the blend of rain and the imminent threat of snow often adorns the city, creating both challenges and a picturesque winter landscape.
As the year draws to a close, December in Toronto sees an average humidity of 87%, reflecting a slight dip from the peak months of winter. This month maintains a high level of moisture, consistent with the trend observed from November's 88% humidity, suggesting a lingering chill in the air. The pattern throughout the year reveals an intriguing shift: starting at a substantial 91% in both January and February, humidity gradually decreases as warmer months approach, reaching its lowest point in August at 72%. However, as autumn sets in, figures begin to rise again, demonstrating that Toronto's winter months are characterized by a notable humidity that keeps the air crisp and cool, albeit slightly more comfortable than the frigid highs experienced earlier in the season.
As December descends upon Toronto, the UV Index drops down to a low 2, signaling a shift in outdoor sun exposure. This month’s index mirrors the deep winter months of January, both featuring a low exposure category and a relatively extended burn time of 45 minutes. The trend throughout the year shows a dramatic increase in UV exposure from February through August, where figures peak at a vigorous 9 during the heart of summer. However, as we transition into the colder months, the UV Index diminishes significantly, reminding Torontonians to enjoy the winter festivities without the fierce sun's glare. For those interested in tracking these seasonal changes, further information can be found at Toronto UV Index.
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As December arrives in Toronto, the city experiences a notable dip in sunlight, with only 119 hours illuminating the month. This reduction follows a trend seen throughout the year, where days steadily brighten from the deep winter gloom in January, which receives just 112 hours. The sun's presence gradually intensifies, peaking in the vibrant summer months of June and July with 339 and 351 hours respectively. However, as autumn rolls in, the daylight retreats once more, especially as winter sets in, making December's shorter days feel even more pronounced compared to the sun-drenched days of May and June. Embracing the fleeting hours of sunshine in December, Torontonians can find warmth and brightness as the holiday season approaches, creating a cozy ambiance amid winter's chill.
When it comes to the likelihood of sunny weather in December in Toronto, there's a noticeable dip compared to the preceding months. With only a 24% chance of sun, December stands as one of the cloudier months in the city. This marks a decline from the slightly brighter November, which boasts a 41% likelihood of sunshine. As winter takes hold, the transition from the vibrant colors of fall to a more subdued winter landscape becomes evident. While many may look forward to the cozy atmosphere of the holiday season, those longing for sunnier days will find December to be less generous in its offerings.
In December, Toronto experiences one of the shortest daylight durations of the year, with only 8 hours of sunlight. This trend marks the culmination of steadily diminishing daylight since the peak during the summer months. As the year progresses from the bright 15 hours of daylight in June and July, the hours begin to decline gradually through the fall months, ultimately leading to a stark contrast in December. With only a few precious hours of light, Torontonians find themselves embracing cozy indoor activities as they await the return of longer days in January, when daylight once again starts to increase, setting the stage for the brighter months ahead.
As December unfolds in Toronto, the city experiences a notable uptick in wind speed, averaging 4.4 m/s (10 mph), one of the highest rates of the year. This increase marks a shift from the milder breezes of late autumn, with November holding steady at 3.8 m/s (9 mph). While early months like January and February feature lower winds at 3.6 m/s (8 mph) and 4.3 m/s (10 mph) respectively, the December winds signal a brisk transition into winter. This seasonal shift not only invigorates the cityscape but also sets the stage for the colder months ahead, reminding Torontonians to bundle up as they navigate through the enchanting winter streets.
The weather in Toronto 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 Toronto and find detailed weather information for every month.
In December, temperatures in Toronto range from a chilly minimum of -24°C (-11°F) to a maximum of 16°C (61°F), with an average temperature of -1°C (31°F). The month sees about 70 mm (2.8 in) of precipitation across 12 days and a humidity level of 87%. In contrast, January experiences slightly colder temperatures, with a minimum of -25°C (-12°F) and a maximum of 12°C (53°F), averaging -4°C (25°F). Precipitation decreases to 62 mm (2.5 in) over 8 days, while humidity rises to 91%. For more detailed insights, visit Toronto weather in January.
In December, temperatures in the area can drop to a minimum of -24°C (-11°F), with an average of -1°C (31°F) and highs reaching up to 16°C (61°F). The month experiences around 70 mm (2.8 in) of precipitation over 12 days, accompanied by a relatively high humidity of 87%. In contrast, February sees slightly milder average temperatures, with a minimum of -23°C (-9°F) and an average of -3°C (26°F), though it maintains the same maximum of 16°C (62°F). Precipitation in February is a bit less at 65 mm (2.6 in), also spread over 12 days, and humidity slightly increases to 91%. For more detailed information, you can check Toronto weather in February.
In December, temperatures in Toronto range from a frigid minimum of -24°C (-11°F) to a mild maximum of 16°C (61°F), with an average temperature of -1°C (31°F). The month experiences about 70 mm (2.8 inches) of precipitation over 12 days and is marked by high humidity levels at 87%. In contrast, March sees slightly warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -20°C (-4°F) to a maximum of 19°C (66°F), and an average of 0°C (33°F). Precipitation decreases to 58 mm (2.3 inches) over 9 days, while humidity remains high at 88%. For more details about Toronto's weather in March, visit Toronto weather in March.
In December, Toronto experiences frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -24°C (-11°F) and an average around -1°C (31°F), while highs can reach up to 16°C (61°F). The month sees about 70 mm (2.8 in) of precipitation over 12 days, accompanied by high humidity levels averaging 87%. In contrast, April brings a notable warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to an average of 6°C (43°F), and maximums that can climb to 22°C (72°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 98 mm (3.9 in) over 13 days, with humidity remaining high at 88%. For more detailed insights about April weather, check out Toronto weather in April.
December and May present strikingly different weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plummet as low as -24°C (-11°F) with an average of -1°C (31°F), while May brings much milder conditions, typically ranging from a minimum of -3°C (28°F) to an average of 13°C (55°F) and peaking at a sweltering 30°C (86°F). Precipitation levels are fairly similar, with December receiving about 70 mm (2.8 in) over 12 days and May slightly higher at 90 mm (3.6 in) across 11 days. Humidity in December is quite high at 87%, compared to a more comfortable 82% in May. For more detailed insights about the weather during this vibrant month, visit Toronto weather in May.
December and June present stark contrasts in weather patterns. December experiences frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -24°C (-11°F) and an average reaching only -1°C (31°F), while June boasts much milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a comfortable average of 19°C (66°F). Precipitation levels are relatively similar, with December receiving 70 mm (2.8 in) over 12 days and June slightly higher at 79 mm (3.1 in) across 10 days, yet June's humidity at 79% feels less oppressive compared to December's high of 87%. For a more detailed look at June's weather, you can visit Toronto weather in June.
In December, Toronto experiences a starkly cold climate, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -24°C (-11°F) at night to a maximum of 16°C (61°F) during the day, accompanied by high humidity levels of 87%. The winter month also sees an average precipitation of 70 mm (2.8 in) over approximately 12 days. In contrast, July boasts warm weather with temperatures varying from a comfortable 11°C (52°F) at night to a sweltering 34°C (93°F) at peak times, and slightly lower humidity at 77%. This summer month has an average precipitation of 78 mm (3.1 in) spread over 11 days. For more details, check out Toronto weather in July.
In December, temperatures in Toronto are notably frigid, with lows plunging to -24°C (-11°F) and an average of -1°C (31°F), contrasted sharply with the warmer August weather, where temperatures can reach as high as 33°C (92°F) and average around 21°C (71°F). December also brings higher humidity levels at 87%, creating a biting chill, while August's humidity is more comfortable at 72%. Precipitation levels are similar in both months, with December receiving 70 mm (2.8 in) and August slightly higher at 78 mm (3.1 in). For a detailed look at summer weather, check out Toronto weather in August.
December and September present contrasting weather profiles, showcasing the stark transition between seasons. December features chilling temperatures, with averages around -1°C (31°F) and minimums plunging to -24°C (-11°F), while precipitation occurs on 12 days, often in the form of snow, contributing to a high humidity of 87%. In contrast, September offers a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 33°C (91°F) and an average of 17°C (64°F). Rainfall is less frequent with only 58 mm (2.3 in) across 8 days and a lower humidity level of 76%. For more information on September weather, you can check Toronto weather in September.
In December, temperatures can plummet to a chilly minimum of -24°C (-11°F), with an average of -1°C (31°F) and a maximum of 16°C (61°F). The month experiences about 70 mm (2.8 in) of rainfall over approximately 12 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 87%. In contrast, October showcases milder weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F) and an average temperature of 11°C (52°F). Although October has slightly more precipitation at 95 mm (3.7 in) over 13 days, humidity is a touch lower at 83%. For more detailed insights, check out Toronto weather in October.
In comparing the weather between November and December, we can observe a notable shift in temperatures and precipitation patterns. December experiences a wider range, with minimum temperatures dropping to -24°C (-11°F) and an average of -1°C (31°F), while November maintains milder conditions with minimums around -15°C (5°F) and an average of 3°C (38°F). Both months see similar precipitation levels, with December receiving 70 mm (2.8 in) over 12 days and November slightly higher at 72 mm (2.8 in) over 10 days. Humidity remains relatively high in both months, with December at 87% and November at 88%. For more detailed insights into November’s weather, you can visit Toronto weather in November.
December in Toronto marks a notable shift in climate as the city transitions into winter. With its maximum temperatures dipping significantly compared to the milder fall months, the average temperature hovers around a chilly -1°C. While the month may still boast the occasional unseasonably warm day, such as reaching up to a pleasant 16°C, it also brings the coldest days of the year, plummeting to -24°C. Precipitation increases as well, with around 70 mm falling over roughly 12 days, creating a humid atmosphere at 87%. This combination of cold and moisture sets December apart, painting the city in a beautiful winter landscape. For further insights into the climate patterns throughout the year, explore Toronto Climate.