Last updated: August 21, 2025
Experience the chill of December in Xi'an, China, where temperatures fluctuate significantly, reaching a maximum of 8°C (46°F) and plunging to a frigid minimum of -28°C (-19°F). The average temperature hovers around -13°C (9°F), making warm clothing a necessity for anyone venturing outside. This month also brings light precipitation, with an average of just 10 mm (0.4 in) over two days, while humidity remains at a comfortable 66%. As the city transitions into winter, its historical beauty is complemented by the serene atmosphere, inviting visitors to explore its rich culture amidst the frosty landscape.
As December settles over Xi'an, China, the city experiences its coldest temperatures of the year, with minimums plunging to -28°C (-19°F) and an average hovering around -13°C (9°F). This stark chill marks a notable drop from the relatively mild autumn temperatures of November. Daytime highs reach only about 8°C (46°F), presenting a sharp transition as winter firmly takes hold. The downward trend in temperatures throughout the month is part of a broader seasonal pattern, showcasing Xi'an's shift from the cool, crisp autumn into the depths of winter, where frost and occasional snow flurries become part of the landscape. Visitors during this month can expect a wintry atmosphere, appropriate clothing, and perhaps the opportunity to enjoy the city's historic sights blanketed in frost.
In Xi'an, China, December marks one of the drier months of the year, with an average precipitation of 10 mm (0.4 in) falling over just 2 days. This trend follows a gradual decrease from the peak of August, when the city experiences significant rainfall, averaging 177 mm (7.0 in) across 15 days. As the year progresses, there is a notable decline in both the amount and frequency of precipitation, from the substantial showers of May and June to December's sparse moisture. This shift highlights Xi'an's transition into winter, characterized by cooler temperatures and lighter rain, setting the stage for the upcoming dry winter months.
In Xi'an, China, December experiences a slight increase in humidity at 66%, showing a modest uptick from the preceding month. This gradual rise follows a pattern observed earlier in the year, where humidity peaks during the summer months of July and August, reaching a high of 88%. The year begins with relatively humid conditions, most pronounced in January at 84%, before a steady decrease through November. After hitting the lowest point in November, the onset of winter brings a slight revival in moisture levels. Overall, the trend indicates a clear seasonal fluctuation, with Xi'an transitioning from moist summers to comparatively drier winters, ultimately culminating in the brisk air of December.
In December, Xi'an experiences a drop in the UV Index, registering at 2, which falls into the low exposure category. This signifies a safe environment for outdoor activities, with a recommended burn time of approximately 45 minutes before skin damage could occur. As the year wraps up, there's a notable trend of fluctuating UV levels from January's low exposure to the peaking June and July, characterized by very high UV readings of 10. The overall pattern suggests a seasonal variance, where spring and summer months necessitate heightened sun protection, while December offers a respite with minimal risk. To better understand the UV levels throughout the year, you can visit Xi'an UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In December, Xi'an, China, basks in 226 hours of sunlight, marking a noticeable retreat from the sun-drenched peak of mid-summer, which boasts an impressive 343 hours in July. As the year draws to a close, daylight gradually diminishes, with December's sunshine slightly less than the preceding month's 215 hours in November. This seasonal shift underscores a broader trend of increasing sunshine hours from the dreary winter months, peaking in the vibrant days of late spring and summer. The gentle descent into winter invites a cozy atmosphere, where the crisp air and pale sun highlight the city's rich historical tapestry.
In December, the likelihood of sunny weather in Xi'an, China, sees a notable increase, reaching 64%—the highest probability of sunshine for the year. This upward trend contrasts sharply with the summer months, which consistently experience lower chances, with July and August barely scratching 31% and 36%, respectively. Interestingly, as the year winds down, the chances of sun climb from the 41% observed in November, suggesting a shift towards clearer skies as winter approaches. This seasonal variation highlights December as a promising month for those seeking sunny days in Xi'an, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities amidst the cooler temperatures.
As the year draws to a close, December in Xi'an, China, ushers in the shortest days, with daylight lasting just 8 hours. This marks a notable shift from the gradually increasing daylight hours of spring and summer, where the sun graces the city for up to 15 hours in June and July. The return to shorter daylight hours evokes a sense of reflection as the days dwindle from a lively 14 hours in May to the more subdued 10 hours in October, before settling into the winter rhythm. November mirrors this trend with 9 hours, and by December, the daylight is at its most fleeting, inviting residents to embrace the cozy moments and evening gatherings that the darker hours inspire.
December in Xi'an, China, sees a gentle average wind speed of 3.2 m/s (7 mph), marking a subtle increase from the wind patterns earlier in the year. As the climate transitions into winter, it’s interesting to note that December’s wind is similar to that of March and November, highlighting a mild consistency just before the chill deepens in January. The winds, which have been steadily declining from the gustier months of spring and early autumn, create a crisp atmosphere that complements the city's rich historical backdrop. Xi'an's December breeze, though soft, serves as a reminder of the changing seasons and brings life to its stunning landscapes.
Weather in Xi'an varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Xi'an, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -28°C (-19°F) to a maximum of 8°C (46°F), with an average temperature of -13°C (9°F). The month sees 10 mm (0.4 in) of precipitation over just 2 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 66%.
In contrast, January is typically colder, with minimum temperatures dropping to -30°C (-22°F) and maximum temperatures only reaching 1°C (33°F), averaging -15°C (5°F). Precipitation decreases slightly to 6 mm (0.3 in) over just 1 day, but humidity rises to a higher 84%. For more detailed insights, you can check Xi'an weather in January.
In comparing the weather of December and February, both months experience very cold temperatures, but February is slightly milder overall. In December, the minimum temperature can drop to a chilly -28°C (-19°F), with an average of -13°C (9°F) and a maximum reaching up to 8°C (46°F). Precipitation is minimal, measuring 10 mm (0.4 in) over just 2 days, and humidity sits at 66%.
In contrast, February features a minimum temperature of -26°C (-14°F) and an average of -12°C (11°F), with maximum temperatures slightly lower at 7°C (44°F). Precipitation is slightly reduced at 9 mm (0.3 in) over the same 2 days, but humidity climbs to 79%, indicating a potentially more damp and chilly atmosphere. For more detailed insights into February weather patterns, you can check Xi'an weather in February.
In December, the weather is notably colder, with average temperatures hovering around -13°C (9°F) and a maximum of only 8°C (46°F). Humidity levels are at 66%, and precipitation is minimal, occurring on just two days with a total of 10 mm (0.4 in). In contrast, March presents a significant shift as temperatures begin to rise, with an average of -1°C (30°F) and a maximum reaching 20°C (68°F). The humidity increases slightly to 71%, and precipitation is more frequent, with rainfall on five days totaling 24 mm (0.9 in). This transition highlights the warming trend and increased precipitation as winter fades and spring approaches. For more details on March weather, you can refer to Xi'an weather in March.
December and April present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -28°C (-19°F), with an average of -13°C (9°F) and a maximum reaching only 8°C (46°F). The month sees limited precipitation, averaging just 10 mm (0.4 in) over 2 days, while the humidity holds relatively steady at 66%. In contrast, April experiences a milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a low of -6°C (21°F) to a high of 30°C (86°F), showcasing a significant increase in warmth. Precipitation also rises, totaling 31 mm (1.2 in) across 6 days, while humidity remains relatively consistent at 65%. For a detailed look at weather specifics in April, visit Xi'an weather in April.
In December, the weather is quite cold, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -28°C (-19°F) at night to a relatively mild high of 8°C (46°F) during the day. The month sees only 10 mm (0.4 in) of precipitation over just two days, and humidity levels hover around 66%, contributing to the crisp winter air.
In contrast, May brings a significant warming trend, with nighttime lows averaging 1°C (33°F) and daytime highs reaching a balmy 33°C (91°F). The total precipitation rises to 72 mm (2.8 in) across twelve days, and humidity slightly increases to 70%, creating a more humid and vibrant atmosphere. For more detailed information on the weather during this month, you can check Xi'an weather in May.
December and June present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures plunge with a minimum of -28°C (-19°F) and an average of -13°C (9°F), peaking at just 8°C (46°F). Precipitation is minimal, with only 10 mm (0.4 in) spread over just 2 days, and humidity sits at 66%, adding to the frigid atmosphere. In contrast, June boasts much milder temperatures, with lows of 6°C (42°F), averaging a comfortable 18°C (65°F), and highs reaching a scorching 35°C (95°F). Rainfall is significantly higher at 91 mm (3.6 in) across 15 days, and humidity increases to 82%, creating a warm and often muggy climate. For more specifics on June weather, refer to Xi'an weather in June.
December and July present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures plummet, with lows reaching as low as -28°C (-19°F) and average highs only reaching about 8°C (46°F). This cold month experiences minimal precipitation, averaging just 10 mm (0.4 in) over two days, coupled with a humidity level of 66%. In contrast, July brings warm and often sweltering weather, with minimum temperatures around 12°C (54°F) and maximums soaring to 35°C (95°F), leading to a pleasant average of 23°C (74°F). This summer month is also much wetter, receiving about 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain over 12 days, along with higher humidity at 87%. For more detailed insights into July's weather, visit Xi'an weather in July.
In December, temperatures can plummet to a chilling minimum of -28°C (-19°F) and only reach a maximum of 8°C (46°F), making it a stark contrast to the warm August months. During this time, the average temperature hovers around -13°C (9°F), accompanied by low precipitation of just 10 mm (0.4 in) over a couple of days. In comparison, August brings a more temperate climate with minimum temperatures around 6°C (43°F) and maximums soaring up to 35°C (96°F), resulting in an average of 21°C (70°F). This summer month sees significantly higher precipitation at 177 mm (7.0 in), spread across 15 days, and higher humidity levels of 88%. For more detailed information on August weather in Xi'an, you can check Xi'an weather in August.
In December, the weather takes a severe turn, with temperatures ranging from a chilling -28°C (-19°F) to a modest high of 8°C (46°F), averaging around -13°C (9°F). The month experiences minimal precipitation, totaling just 10 mm (0.4 in) over two days, paired with a humidity level of 66%. In stark contrast, September brings a much milder climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a warm maximum of 28°C (83°F), averaging 15°C (60°F). This month sees significantly more rainfall, accumulating 81 mm (3.2 in) across ten days, alongside higher humidity at 86%. For a detailed look at September weather specifics, you can check Xi'an weather in September.
When comparing the weather in December and October, significant differences emerge. December experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -28°C (-19°F) and an average of -13°C (9°F), while October is milder, featuring a minimum of -7°C (21°F) and an average of 7°C (44°F). Additionally, October sees a wider temperature range, peaking at 28°C (83°F), compared to December's maximum of 8°C (46°F). Precipitation is more frequent in October, with 30 mm (1.2 in) falling over five days, contrasting with December's meager 10 mm (0.4 in) over only two days. Humidity levels are also higher in October at 83%, compared to 66% in December. For more details on October weather, you can check out Xi'an weather in October.
In December, the weather takes a more frigid turn compared to November. While November sees milder temperatures ranging from a minimum of -18°C (0°F) to a maximum of 16°C (60°F), December's temperatures plunge significantly, with a minimum of -28°C (-19°F) and an average of -13°C (9°F). Additionally, December experiences much lower precipitation, receiving only 10 mm (0.4 in) over 2 days, compared to November's 39 mm (1.5 in) spread across 5 days. Humidity levels remain fairly consistent, at 66% in December and 65% in November, but the harsher cold of December makes it feel even more biting. For more detailed information on November's weather, you can visit Xi'an weather in November.
As December embraces Xi'an, the weather transforms into a chilly affair, distinctly cooler than the preceding months. With average temperatures dipping significantly, residents and visitors alike must prepare for brisk days and frosty nights. Unlike the dampness of earlier seasons, December experiences minimal precipitation, making it more about bundled layers rather than puddles. The humidity remains moderately high, but the overall atmosphere is crisp, creating a sharp contrast to the warmer, sunnier months. For a deeper insight into how this month compares within the region’s yearly climate, check out Xi'an Climate.