December Weather in Whitehorse, Canada

Last updated: April 22, 2025

December in Whitehorse, Canada, presents a striking contrast in temperatures, with a maximum of 4°C (40°F) and an average that plunges to a brisk -13°C (9°F). The month can be quite chilly, featuring minimum temperatures that can drop to a frigid -37°C (-35°F). While enjoying the winter scenery, residents and visitors can expect 47 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation over 11 days, often enveloped in a high humidity of 97%. This combination of cold and moisture contributes to the region's picturesque snowy landscapes, making December a unique experience in Whitehorse.

December Temperature in Whitehorse

In December, Whitehorse, Canada, experiences a notable chill as winter settles in. With temperatures dipping to a brisk minimum of -37°C (-35°F) and an average around -13°C (9°F), the month marks one of the colder points in the year, just before reaching the peak of winter in January and February. Despite these frigid conditions, the maximums still reach up to 4°C (40°F), providing a brief reprieve from the cold. The transition from November's harsh minimums reflects a slight consistency in the winter pattern, hinting at the sustained cold ahead. As daylight wanes during this month, the inviting warmth of winter activities beckons residents and visitors alike to embrace the season.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Whitehorse, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec331731455357544532149
Data source: Temperature data for Whitehorse generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

December Precipitation in Whitehorse

In December, Whitehorse experiences a notable uptick in precipitation, with a total of 47 mm (1.9 in) falling over 11 days. This slight increase compared to the previous months hints at the winter weather settling in, as the city transitions from the crisp autumn chill to the snowier landscapes of January. December's precipitation is the second-highest for the fall months, following October, and reflects a consistent trend of increased moisture as winter approaches. The steady 11 days of precipitation reveals that while snow may dominate, gentle rains are not uncommon, contributing to the rich tapestry of the season. As the holiday season unfolds, the atmosphere transforms into a wintry wonderland, underscoring the unique climatic patterns of this northern Canadian locale.

December Precipitation Trends in Whitehorse

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Whitehorse, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec282728203360687340514047
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Whitehorse

In Whitehorse, Canada, December brings a humidity level of 97%, maintaining a trend of high moisture content as winter deepens. This figure is consistently reflective of the region's climate, where humidity remains notably elevated during the colder months. As the year progresses, humidity levels peak in November at 99%, only to slightly dip in December, yet still aligning closely with the preceding months. Interestingly, the summer months show a drop, with June and July recording more moderate humidity levels, around 88% to 90%. However, as autumn transitions into winter, the humidity climbs once again, illustrating the intriguing contrast between the warmer and colder seasons in this northern landscape.

December Average Humidity in Whitehorse

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Whitehorse, with December's data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, allowing you to see how December's humidity levels compare to other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec97%96%95%93%90%88%90%98%95%96%99%98%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Whitehorse

In December, the UV Index in Whitehorse, Canada, remains low at 1, indicating minimal sun exposure risk for residents and visitors. This trend continues from the previous month, November, where the UV Index also measured 1. In fact, the winter months often show a consistent pattern of low UV readings, with safe burn times extending up to 45 minutes. As the year progresses into spring and summer, a noticeable increase in UV exposure occurs, peaking at 7 in July. For those curious about the UV Index trends throughout the year, more detailed information can be found at Whitehorse UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Whitehorse for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Whitehorse 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec123466764211
Data source: Whitehorse 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 Whitehorse

In December, Whitehorse experiences a notable drop in sunshine, with only 56 hours of bright daylight gracing the city. This decline follows a gradual upward trend throughout the year, rising from a modest 55 hours in January to a peak of 353 hours in May. As the seasons transition, sunshine naturally ebbs and flows, with daylight hours peaking in the summer and retreating as winter approaches. After a vibrant summer, the sunlight begins to wane sharply by autumn, culminating in a stark contrast to the sunnier months, illustrating the dramatic seasonal shifts characteristic of this northern gem.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Whitehorse: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Whitehorse 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec55h138h236h310h353h342h350h282h228h129h75h56h
Data source: Whitehorse December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Whitehorse During December

In Whitehorse, Canada, the likelihood of sunny weather in December is relatively low, with the sun shining only 19% of the time. This is part of a broader trend as the winter months approach, showing a gradual decline in sunny days from October's 25% to November's 21%, before reaching its December nadir. The trend starkly contrasts with the sunnier spells of April and July, where the chance of sunshine peaks at 47% and 45%, respectively. As the year winds down, residents and visitors alike might want to brace for a month where clear skies are a rare treat among the more common gray clouds, underscoring the chill and beauty of the northern winter landscape.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Whitehorse

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Whitehorse 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 Whitehorse experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec24%41%24%47%16%36%45%26%22%25%21%19%
Data source: Whitehorse December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Whitehorse in December

In Whitehorse, Canada, December brings the shortest daylight hours of the year, with just 5 hours of precious sunlight. This is a stark contrast to the 18 hours of daylight that grace the summer months in June and July, showcasing the dramatic seasonal shifts experienced in this northern region. As the year progresses from January to May, daylight gradually increases, offering a welcome progression from 6 hours in January to 17 hours in May. However, this trend reverses in the fall, with daylight dwindling again to just 7 hours in November and reaching its nadir in December. This cyclical pattern highlights the extreme variations in daylight that characterize life in Whitehorse, underscoring both the beauty and challenges of its long winter nights.

Average Daylight Hours in Whitehorse for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Whitehorse throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec6h 38m9h 5m11h 53m14h 44m17h 25m18h 58m18h 4m15h 34m12h 46m9h 57m7h 18m5h 45m
Data source: Whitehorse daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Whitehorse

In Whitehorse, Canada, December brings a gentle breath of wind, with an average speed of 1.9 m/s (4 mph), a slight uptick from the quieter months of November. As the year draws to a close, wind speeds in December mirror the calmer trends observed in the late fall, yet it's still part of a broader seasonal pattern where winter winds rarely exceed moderate breezes. Notably, wind speeds have shown a gradual increase as the year transitioned from the biting cold of winter to the warmer months of spring and summer, peaking around April and May. This consistent yet mild wind throughout the winter months paints a picture of serene tranquility, making Whitehorse a characteristically peaceful winter wonderland.

Average December Wind Speed in Whitehorse

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Whitehorse, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.01.72.12.32.32.12.12.22.12.31.71.9 m/s
Data source: Whitehorse December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Whitehorse Compares to Other Months

The weather in Whitehorse 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 Whitehorse and find detailed weather information for every month.

December's weather is notably milder compared to January, with average temperatures hovering around -13°C (9°F), while January experiences even colder conditions with an average of -16°C (3°F). The minimum temperatures in December drop to -37°C (-35°F), but January plunges even lower, reaching a chilling -46°C (-50°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in December, totaling 47 mm (1.9 in) over 11 days, compared to January's 28 mm (1.1 in) over just 7 days. Humidity remains constant at 97% for both months, contributing to the overall cold and crisp atmosphere. For a detailed insight into January weather, you can check Whitehorse weather in January.

December and February exhibit stark contrasts in temperature and precipitation, though both months remain frigid. December generally averages -13°C (9°F), with minimum temperatures dipping to a biting -37°C (-35°F). The month experiences higher humidity at 97% and receives more precipitation, totaling 47 mm over 11 days. In contrast, February is even colder on average at -16°C (3°F), with a minimum temperature of -41°C (-41°F), but it sees less precipitation, only 27 mm over 6 days, and slightly lower humidity at 95%. For more insights into February weather specifics, you can visit Whitehorse weather in February.

December in Whitehorse is characterized by frigid temperatures, with average lows around -37°C (-35°F) and highs only reaching up to 4°C (40°F). The month experiences significant humidity at 97% and sees about 47 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation over 11 days, creating a damp, cold environment. In contrast, March offers a slight reprieve from the harsh winter, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -33°C (-27°F) to a maximum of 12°C (55°F). There is less precipitation during this month, totaling 28 mm (1.1 in) over 8 days, and humidity drops slightly to 95%. For a more detailed look at Whitehorse's March weather, you can visit Whitehorse weather in March.

December and April present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures plunge to a minimum of -37°C (-35°F) and hover around an average of -13°C (9°F), with maximum temperatures barely reaching 4°C (40°F). Precipitation occurs on 11 days, totaling 47 mm (1.9 in), accompanied by high humidity levels of 97%, creating a frigid and damp environment.

In contrast, April offers a significant reprieve, with minimum temperatures still cold at -26°C (-15°F), but average temperatures climbing to a more moderate -1°C (31°F) and maximums hitting 15°C (60°F). Precipitation decreases to about 20 mm (0.8 in) over just 6 days, alongside slightly lower humidity at 93%. For more details on the climate during this time, check out Whitehorse weather in April.

December and May present stark contrasts in weather. December experiences frigid temperatures, with averages around -13°C (9°F) and a chilling minimum of -37°C (-35°F), while May welcomes milder conditions, featuring an average of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum that can reach up to 24°C (75°F). Precipitation in December is slightly higher at 47 mm (1.9 in) over 11 days, compared to May's 33 mm (1.3 in) across 9 days, reflecting a transition from winter's heavy moisture to spring's gradual thaw. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly higher in December at 97%, compared to 90% in May, contributing to the winter's biting cold. For more detailed information on May in Whitehorse, check out Whitehorse weather in May.

December and June present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plummet as low as -37°C (-35°F), with an average of -13°C (9°F) and maximums reaching just 4°C (40°F). The month is marked by high humidity at 97% and 11 days of precipitation totaling 47 mm (1.9 in). In contrast, June brings a significant warmth, with minimum temperatures around -1°C (31°F) and an average temperature of 12°C (53°F), peaking at a maximum of 29°C (84°F). Although June sees a slight increase in precipitation to 60 mm (2.4 in) over 13 days, the humidity is lower at 88%. This transition from icy cold to warm days illustrates the dramatic seasonal shift. For more detailed information, check Whitehorse weather in June.

In December, the weather is harshly cold, with temperatures ranging from a chilling -37°C (-35°F) to a maximum of just 4°C (40°F), and an average of -13°C (9°F). The humidity remains high at 97%, contributing to the cold's bite, and there are 11 days of precipitation, with a total of 47 mm (1.9 in). In contrast, July brings a significant warmth, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a pleasant maximum of 29°C (84°F) and an average of 14°C (58°F). Although July experiences slightly more precipitation at 68 mm (2.7 in) spread over 13 days, the humidity is lower at 90%, making the warm summer days much more enjoyable. For more seasonal details, visit Whitehorse weather in July.

In December, temperatures in Whitehorse plummet, with a minimum of -37°C (-35°F) and an average of -13°C (9°F), offering a stark contrast to the warmer August, where temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a comfortable maximum of 28°C (84°F). December experiences significantly lower temperatures and a higher likelihood of icy conditions, while August brings more warmth and a higher overall average temperature. Precipitation is more frequent in August, with 73 mm (2.9 in) over 13 days, compared to December's 47 mm (1.9 in) across 11 days. Both months have high humidity, but August's milder temperatures can make the air feel more pleasant. For more details on August weather, you can visit Whitehorse weather in August.

In December, the weather takes a stark turn compared to September, with temperatures plummeting to an average of -13°C (9°F) and minimums reaching a chilling -37°C (-35°F). Despite the drop in temperature, December experiences slightly more precipitation at 47 mm (1.9 in) over 11 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 97%. In contrast, September boasts milder temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (19°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F), with an average temperature of 7°C (45°F). This month sees 40 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation over 10 days and slightly lower humidity at 95%. The overall climatic differences highlight the transition from the crispness of early autumn to the frigid depths of winter. For a more detailed look at the September weather in Whitehorse, you can check Whitehorse weather in September.

In comparing the weather of December and October, December presents a significantly colder climate, with minimum temperatures plunging to -37°C (-35°F) and an average of -13°C (9°F). In contrast, October experiences milder conditions, featuring minimum temperatures around -15°C (5°F) and an average of 0°C (33°F). Both months see similar levels of precipitation, around 47 mm (1.9 in) in December and 51 mm (2.0 in) in October, with rain or snow occurring on about 11 days in each month. Humidity remains high in both months, with December slightly more humid at 97% compared to October’s 96%. For more details on October weather, you can visit Whitehorse weather in October.

When comparing the weather in December to that of November, we can see a noticeable drop in average temperatures, with December averaging -13°C (9°F) compared to November's -10°C (15°F). December also sees slightly lower maximum temperatures, peaking at 4°C (40°F) compared to November's 7°C (45°F). Precipitation increases slightly in December, totaling 47 mm (1.9 in) over 11 days, while November recorded 39 mm (1.6 in) over the same number of days. Interestingly, both months maintain high humidity levels, with December at 97% and November slightly higher at 99%. For more detailed insights, you can visit Whitehorse weather in November.

Compare Whitehorse's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Whitehorse

As December settles over Whitehorse, residents and visitors alike experience a dramatic shift in weather compared to other months. The chilling average temperature plunges into the minus range, contrasting sharply with the milder conditions found earlier in the fall. While precipitation is present, with rain and snow totaling 47 mm over several days, the high humidity—often reaching a staggering 97%—creates a bone-chilling cold that permeates the atmosphere. With minimum temperatures capable of dropping to a frigid -37°C, December undoubtedly embodies the essence of a true winter wonderland, making it a month where both beauty and intensity collide. For more insights on seasonal variations, check out Whitehorse Climate.