December Weather in Punta Arenas, Chile

Last updated: August 21, 2025

In Punta Arenas, Chile, December welcomes the southern summer with maximum temperatures soaring up to 18°C (64°F), while the average hovers around a mild 9°C (49°F). Visitors should prepare for cooler nights, as minimum temperatures can dip to 1°C (34°F). This month is characterized by its high humidity at 84% and significant rainfall, totaling 104 mm (4.1 in) across about 22 days, making it a month of intriguing weather contrasts. Embrace the vibrant atmosphere of this unique region as the festive spirit combines with the unpredictable elements of nature!

December Temperature in Punta Arenas

In December, Punta Arenas experiences a transition to warmer weather as the summer months approach. The temperatures begin with a mild minimum of 1°C (34°F) and average around 9°C (49°F), culminating in a pleasant maximum of 18°C (64°F). This month marks a stark contrast to the preceding colder months, suggesting an upward trend in warmth as the year draws to a close. While December's climate offers a comfortable respite, the gradual shift to higher averages illustrates the region's move away from the chill of winter, preparing visitors for the more temperate days of January and February ahead.

December Weather in Punta Arenas: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Punta Arenas, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Punta Arenas, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec495048444136353740424648
Data source: Temperature data for Punta Arenas 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 Punta Arenas

In December, Punta Arenas experiences a notable increase in precipitation, receiving 104 mm (4.1 in), making it one of the wettest months of the year. This uptick in rainfall is accompanied by an increased frequency of wet days, with 22 days of precipitation recorded. As the year draws to a close, the city's weather becomes decidedly more moody, aligning with the trend of rising rainfall from previous months, where November also saw substantial precipitation at 93 mm (3.7 in). This pattern underscores Punta Arenas' characteristic maritime climate, where December's lush conditions serve as a precursor to summer’s vibrancy, while also reminding residents of the region's unpredictably wet nature throughout the year.

December Precipitation Trends in Punta Arenas

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Punta Arenas, 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 Punta Arenas, December typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec88729810170556781618393104
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

December Humidity in Punta Arenas

In Punta Arenas, Chile, December marks a notable shift as humidity begins to stabilize at 84%, a decrease from the peak of 92% seen in the colder months of June and July. This trend of gradually declining humidity unfolds as the year progresses, starting with a humid January at 83% and culminating in a steadily increasing pattern through the autumn months. As the year winds down, December's relative dryness offers a respite, hinting at the transition into the warmer summer months. Overall, the humidity levels reflect the region's changing seasons, creating a dynamic interplay between moisture and temperature that shapes the coastal climate of this unique Patagonian city.

December Average Humidity in Punta Arenas

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Punta Arenas, 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 Punta Arenas is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec83%86%87%89%90%92%92%89%87%86%84%84%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Punta Arenas

In December, Punta Arenas, Chile, experiences a very high UV Index of 10, implying that sun exposure can lead to skin damage in as little as 15 minutes. This trend follows a notable pattern through the months, from the extreme levels of November to a slightly lower, yet significant, position in December. As the year closes, Punta Arenas sees a transition from intense summer sun, with January's UV Index peaking at 11, to December's robust readings. This progression highlights the importance of sun protection as the months shift, especially when visiting the southern regions. For detailed UV Index information and safety tips, check out Punta Arenas UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Punta Arenas for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Punta Arenas 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 Punta Arenas typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec119632113481210
Data source: Punta Arenas 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 Punta Arenas

In Punta Arenas, Chile, December shines brightly with an impressive 242 hours of sunshine, making it one of the sunniest months of the year. This remarkable increase in sunlight follows a gradual upward trend from the depths of winter, where hours dipped as low as 102 in June. Interestingly, the transition into spring marks a significant rise, with November already basking in 240 hours, setting the stage for December’s brilliance. As summer approaches, the daylight hours continue to soar, showcasing Punta Arenas as a perfect destination for those seeking abundant sunshine during the festive season. This vibrant month not only highlights the region's climatic allure but also invites adventurers to embrace the warmth and beauty of a southern summer.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Punta Arenas: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Punta Arenas 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec195h195h177h147h105h102h110h150h169h208h240h242h
Data source: Punta Arenas December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Punta Arenas During December

As December rolls into Punta Arenas, Chile, visitors can expect a 30% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the brighter months of the year. This slight uptick from the preceding months—like November's 30% and a consistent 25% in the earlier winter—suggests a gradual embrace of summer warmth. Interestingly, the likelihood of sunny days seems to peak slightly in the late spring and early summer months, with a trend indicating that while the winter months offer lower chances, the sun begins to reclaim its prominence by December, setting the stage for a vibrant start to the summer season in this southern city. The weather in Punta Arenas remains unpredictable, but December does bring a hopeful glimmer of sun to complement the stunning Patagonian landscapes.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Punta Arenas

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Punta Arenas 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 Punta Arenas experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec25%25%31%26%28%23%25%31%29%28%30%30%
Data source: Punta Arenas December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Punta Arenas in December

In Punta Arenas, Chile, the daylight duration exhibits a fascinating annual rhythm, peaking at 16 hours in both December and January. As the year progresses from summer to winter, daylight gradually wanes, with the shortest days occurring in June, offering just 7 hours of light. The transition to longer days begins in July, where daylight increases to 8 hours, building steadily until December returns to those long summer evenings. This cycle not only showcases the beauty of nature's ebb and flow but also enriches the experience of those living in or visiting this southernmost city, as each month brings a unique balance of light and darkness.

Average Daylight Hours in Punta Arenas for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Punta Arenas throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec16h 15m14h 30m12h 24m10h 18m8h 31m7h 35m8h 6m9h 42m11h 43m13h 50m15h 46m16h 50m
Data source: Punta Arenas daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Punta Arenas

As December unfolds in Punta Arenas, Chile, the winds begin to pick up a gentle pace, with an average speed of 6.8 m/s (15 mph). This month marks a slight rise compared to the calmer autumn months of April and May, which saw averages of 4.9 m/s and 4.7 m/s, respectively. Interestingly, December's winds reflect a resurgence similar to the earlier months of the year; both January and March achieved comparable speeds, hovering around 6.6 - 6.7 m/s. As the year draws to a close, the winds serve as a reminder of Punta Arenas' dynamic climate, transitioning from the softer breezes of late fall to a more invigorating air that ushers in the summer season.

Average December Wind Speed in Punta Arenas

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Punta Arenas, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec6.76.16.64.94.74.15.55.65.77.57.06.8 m/s
Data source: Punta Arenas December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Punta Arenas Compares to Other Months

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

December and January in Punta Arenas exhibit some similarities, but notable differences in weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F), with an average of 9°C (49°F). The month sees higher precipitation at 104 mm (4.1 in) over 22 days, with humidity levels around 84%. In contrast, January offers slightly warmer temperatures, with lows of 3°C (38°F) and highs reaching 21°C (71°F), while maintaining the same average of 9°C (49°F). Precipitation decreases to 88 mm (3.5 in) over 20 days, and humidity drops slightly to 83%. For more detailed information on January weather, you can check Punta Arenas weather in January.

December and February in Punta Arenas present distinct weather characteristics. In December, temperatures range from a chilly 1°C (34°F) at night to a maximum of 18°C (64°F) during the day, with an average around 9°C (49°F). The month is also marked by significant precipitation, totaling 104 mm (4.1 in) over approximately 22 days, and humidity levels hover around 84%.

In contrast, February enjoys slightly warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures at 2°C (37°F) and daytime highs reaching up to 24°C (75°F). The average temperature rises to 10°C (50°F), while precipitation decreases to 72 mm (2.8 in) across about 16 days, accompanied by a marginal increase in humidity to 86%. For a detailed look at February's weather, you can check Punta Arenas weather in February.

In December, Punta Arenas experiences temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F), with an average temperature of about 9°C (49°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 104 mm (4.1 in) over 22 days, resulting in a humidity level of 84%. In contrast, March offers a similar temperature range, with a minimum of 1°C (35°F) and a maximum of 18°C (65°F), and an average temperature of 9°C (48°F). However, March has slightly less precipitation at 98 mm (3.8 in) across 19 days and a higher humidity level of 87%. For more detailed insights into March weather in Punta Arenas, you can visit Punta Arenas weather in March.

December and April showcase contrasting weather patterns characterized by temperature and humidity. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F), with an average of 9°C (49°F). The month experiences 104 mm (4.1 in) of precipitation over about 22 days, combined with a relatively high humidity of 84%. In contrast, April records cooler conditions, with temperatures dropping to a minimum of -2°C (28°F) and averaging 6°C (44°F), while still reaching a maximum of 17°C (64°F). Precipitation is slightly lower at 101 mm (4.0 in), spread over 16 days, but humidity is elevated at 89%. Overall, while both months include mild temperatures and substantial rainfall, December tends to be warmer and somewhat less humid than the chillier, damp conditions of April. For more detailed information, please visit Punta Arenas weather in April.

December weather in Punta Arenas is generally milder than in May, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F) and an average of 9°C (49°F). The month also experiences significant precipitation, with an average of 104 mm (4.1 in) spread across 22 days and humidity at 84%. In contrast, May presents cooler conditions, featuring temperatures that drop from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 12°C (55°F), averaging 5°C (41°F). Although it has less rainfall than December, with 70 mm (2.8 in) over 13 days, the humidity in May is slightly higher at 90%. For a detailed look at the weather conditions during this month, visit Punta Arenas weather in May.

December and June weather in Punta Arenas exhibit notable differences. December, being a summer month, sees warmer temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F), with an average around 9°C (49°F). In contrast, June experiences chillier conditions, with temperatures dipping as low as -8°C (18°F) and averaging only 2°C (36°F). Additionally, December faces more precipitation, totaling 104 mm (4.1 in) over 22 days, while June has less rain, accumulating 55 mm (2.2 in) within 15 days. Humidity is quite high in both months, standing at 84% in December and slightly higher at 92% in June. For more specific details on June weather, you can refer to Punta Arenas weather in June.

December weather in Punta Arenas is characterized by milder temperatures, with an average of 9°C (49°F) and a maximum of 18°C (64°F), making it quite comfortable for outdoor activities. In contrast, July experiences colder conditions, where the average temperature drops to 2°C (35°F) with maximums only reaching 9°C (48°F). Additionally, December has 104 mm (4.1 in) of precipitation over 22 days, while July sees less rainfall at 67 mm (2.6 in) over 15 days, although humidity remains high in both months at 84% and 92% respectively. For more details on the weather during this winter month, you can check Punta Arenas weather in July.

When comparing December and August weather, December generally presents milder conditions than August. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F), with an average of 9°C (49°F). This month experiences more precipitation, totaling 104 mm (4.1 in) over 22 days, and a humidity level of 84%. In contrast, August is cooler, with temperatures ranging from -6°C (22°F) to a maximum of 11°C (52°F) and an average of 3°C (37°F). Precipitation is also lower in August at 81 mm (3.2 in) over 18 days, but humidity is slightly higher at 89%. For more detailed insights, check out Punta Arenas weather in August.

When comparing the weather between December and September, December typically offers milder conditions with average temperatures ranging from 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F). In contrast, September experiences cooler temperatures, with minimums dipping to -2°C (29°F) and maximums reaching only 12°C (54°F). Additionally, December sees more precipitation, totaling 104 mm (4.1 in) over 22 days, while September has less rainfall, at 61 mm (2.4 in) over 16 days. Humidity levels are slightly lower in December at 84%, compared to 87% in September. For more detailed information, you can check Punta Arenas weather in September.

In comparing the weather of December and October, December presents a milder climate with average temperatures ranging from 1°C (34°F) at night to a maximum of 18°C (64°F) during the day. In contrast, October is cooler, with temperatures dipping as low as -2°C (29°F) and a maximum of 14°C (58°F). While both months experience significant precipitation, December totals slightly more at 104 mm (4.1 in) compared to October's 83 mm (3.3 in). Moreover, both months are quite humid, with December at 84% and October slightly higher at 86%. For a more detailed look at October's weather, visit Punta Arenas weather in October.

When comparing the weather in December and November, both months exhibit mild temperatures, with December experiencing a slightly higher average of 9°C (49°F) compared to November's 8°C (46°F). Nighttime temperatures are also minimally different, with December's minimum at 1°C (34°F) just above November's freezing 0°C (32°F). Rainfall is a notable aspect, as December receives more precipitation at 104 mm (4.1 in) over 22 days, while November's totals are 93 mm (3.7 in) across 18 days. Humidity remains constant at 84% for both months. For those interested in more specific details, you can check out the Punta Arenas weather in November.

Compare Punta Arenas's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Punta Arenas

As December rolls into Punta Arenas, the weather showcases a unique charm distinct from other months. With a pleasant shift toward warmer temperatures, the average hovers around a comfortable 9°C (49°F), making it an inviting time for both locals and travelers. However, the region remains quite humid, with 84% humidity and frequent precipitation, totaling about 104 mm over 22 days. This blend of warmth and moisture not only contributes to a refreshing atmosphere, but also nourishes the stunning landscapes that define the area. For those looking to explore the fascinating climatic variations, delve deeper into the intricacies of this region by visiting Punta Arenas Climate.