Last updated: August 21, 2025
In December, Xi’an experiences a unique climate characterized by a maximum temperature of 15°C (59°F) and an average of 2°C (37°F), dipping to a chilly minimum of -8°C (18°F). This month is marked by relatively low precipitation, with only 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain spread across just 2 days. Despite the rare showers, the air remains notably humid at around 80%, which can make the cold feel even more penetrating. As visitors explore this historical city, they should prepare for brisk weather that highlights the beauty of winter in Xi’an.
As winter settles in, Xi'an experiences a significant drop in temperatures throughout December, with nighttime lows averaging around -8°C (18°F). The chilly air brings an average daily temperature of 2°C (37°F), peaking at a modest 15°C (59°F) during the day. This cold snap marks a stark contrast to the milder autumn months, particularly November, when temperatures hovered just above freezing. Visitors should prepare for the brisk weather, as layers become essential for exploring the ancient city’s rich history amidst the frost. Despite the cold, December in Xi'an offers a unique charm with fewer crowds and the opportunity to experience local traditions during the festive season.
In December, Xi'an experiences a significant drop in precipitation, with only 9 mm (0.4 inches) recorded over just 2 days. This marks a notable decrease compared to the wetter months preceding it, where rainfall peaks in the late summer and early autumn, particularly in September with a hefty 174 mm (6.8 inches). As temperatures cool, the city transitions into its driest period, underscoring a trend of diminishing rainfall as winter approaches. The shift from the previous months’ sustained wetness to December's relative dryness emphasizes the seasonal variations that characterize Xi'an's climate.
In Xi'an, China, December marks a transition as the winter chill settles in, with humidity levels averaging around 80%. This figure reflects a slight dip from the higher percentages observed in previous months, such as October’s peak at 85% and November's 82%. Throughout the year, humidity fluctuates, with spring months like March (83%) and April (81%) showing elevated moisture levels, while May witnesses a drop to 68%. Despite the seasonal shifts, December's humidity remains consistently high, echoing a trend of relatively moist winters in the region. As the end of the year approaches, residents can expect a humid yet cool atmosphere that characterizes Xi'an's winter months.
In December, Xi'an experiences a moderate UV Index of 3, which indicates a safe level of sun exposure for most outdoor activities. As the year closes, this value is significantly lower compared to the peak months from May to August, where UV Index levels reached a high of 10. The trend showcases a gradual increase in UV exposure starting from January’s moderate index of 3 through the warmer months, peaking in summer, before falling back again in the winter months. Residents and visitors can expect a burn time of about 30 minutes in December, a contrast to the mere 15 minutes of exposure needed during the summer's intense sun. For further insights on UV levels throughout the year, visit Xi'an UV Index.
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In December, Xi'an experiences a delightful transition as the city basks in an average of 246 hours of sunshine, a notable change from the chill of January's 198 hours. This month, sunlight begins to taper slightly after the peak summer months, but remains vibrant compared to earlier winter days. Following a steady climb through the autumn, with November enjoying 240 hours, December's sunshine offers a gentle embrace, hinting at the warm glow of the upcoming year. As days grow shorter, the relatively generous daylight serves as a reminder of Xi'an's dynamic climate, making this historic city a captivating place to experience the serenity of winter sunshine.
In December, Xi'an, China experiences a promising 63% chance of sunny weather, marking it as one of the sunniest months of the year. This slight increase in sunshine probability from November's already impressive 62% highlights a notable trend: as the year comes to a close, the likelihood of clear skies tends to rise. While the colder months generally see a dip in sunshine compared to the earlier parts of the year, December defies this pattern, offering residents and visitors a delightful opportunity to enjoy the city's rich historical landscapes under sunny skies. With this encouraging forecast, December stands out as a favorable time for outdoor explorations in Xi'an.
In Xi'an, China, December marks the transition into shorter days, as daylight dwindles to a mere nine hours. This reduction in sunlight follows a gradual decline, starting from the previous month with ten hours in November. As the year progresses from January to June, daylight steadily increases, peaking at fourteen hours during the summer months of June and July. However, the trend reverses as autumn sets in; from August to November, daylight decreases until we reach December’s minimum. This cyclical pattern highlights the seasonal rhythm of daytime in Xi'an, inviting reflections on the changing light as winter approaches.
In December, the winds in Xi'an, China, take a gentle turn, averaging 1.6 m/s (4 mph), which is slightly lower than the year’s earlier months. This calmness reflects a broader trend towards more subdued breezes as winter settles in, with wind speeds gradually decreasing from a peak of 2.1 m/s in May. The winter months generally offer a tranquil respite from the gustier conditions of spring, leaving Xi'an wrapped in a serene ambiance perfect for exploring its historical treasures. While the winds may lull, the city remains vibrant and inviting, contrasting the stillness of December's air against the backdrop of its rich heritage.
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 in Xi'an range from a minimum of -8°C (18°F) to a maximum of 15°C (59°F), with an average temperature of 2°C (37°F). The month sees only about 9 mm (0.4 in) of precipitation over just 2 days, resulting in relatively high humidity levels at 80%. In contrast, January experiences colder conditions, with a minimum temperature dropping to -15°C (6°F), while the average remains similar at 1°C (35°F) and the maximum also capped at 15°C (59°F). Precipitation increases to 18 mm (0.7 in) over 3 days, but humidity decreases to 70%. For more details on weather patterns, check out Xi'an weather in January.
In December, the weather is generally milder with average temperatures around 2°C (37°F), peaking at a maximum of 15°C (59°F). The month experiences limited precipitation, with only 9 mm (0.4 in) falling over just 2 days, while the humidity remains high at 80%. In contrast, February sees a broader temperature range, with minimums dropping to -13°C (9°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F), which can rise as high as 24°C (76°F). Precipitation increases to 21 mm (0.8 in) over 3 days, yet the humidity remains consistent at 80%. Overall, February can feel colder than December due to its lower minimum temperatures despite slightly higher average highs. For more specific details, you can check Xi'an weather in February.
December and March present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -8°C (18°F) to a mild 15°C (59°F), with an average of 2°C (37°F), and the month experiences low precipitation of 9 mm (0.4 in) over just 2 days. The humidity is relatively high at 80%, contributing to a crisp winter atmosphere. In contrast, March sees a more significant warming trend, with temperatures ranging from -2°C (28°F) to a warm 28°C (83°F) and an average temperature of 11°C (53°F). This month is also wetter, with precipitation totaling 38 mm (1.5 in) over 6 days and a slight increase in humidity to 83%. For more detailed information on weather patterns in March, you can check this link: Xi'an weather in March.
December and April present distinctly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures are generally colder, with a minimum of -8°C (18°F), averaging around 2°C (37°F) and peaking at 15°C (59°F). The month typically sees low precipitation of 9 mm (0.4 in) over just two days, with humidity levels at 80%. In contrast, April brings a noticeable warmth, with minimum temperatures of 2°C (36°F) and an average of 16°C (62°F), reaching highs of 33°C (92°F). However, April is also wetter, with 57 mm (2.2 in) of rainfall spread over approximately eight days and a slight increase in humidity to 81%. For more detailed information about weather conditions in April, you can visit Xi'an weather in April.
December and May present contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures fluctuate from a chilly minimum of -8°C (18°F) to a mild maximum of 15°C (59°F), with an average temperature of around 2°C (37°F). The month sees minimal precipitation, totaling just 9 mm (0.4 in) over two days, coupled with high humidity levels of 80%.
In stark contrast, May boasts a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a comfortable low of 9°C (48°F) to a scorching high of 35°C (96°F) and an average temperature of 21°C (70°F). Precipitation rises significantly in May, with 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain distributed over seven days, while humidity is relatively lower at 68%. For more details on the weather in May, you can check Xi'an weather in May.
December and June present distinctly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures can drop as low as -8°C (18°F), with an average of around 2°C (37°F) and a maximum of 15°C (59°F). The month experiences relatively low precipitation of 9 mm (0.4 in) over just 2 days, coupled with a high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, June offers a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures around 13°C (56°F), an average of 25°C (77°F), and highs reaching up to 37°C (100°F). This month is much wetter, with 124 mm (4.9 in) of rainfall over 9 days, and slightly lower humidity at 74%. For additional details, you can check Xi'an weather in June.
December and July showcase strikingly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures can dip as low as -8°C (18°F) and barely rise above 15°C (59°F), leading to an average of around 2°C (37°F). The month sees minimal precipitation, with only 9 mm (0.4 in) falling over just 2 days, resulting in a chilly and humid atmosphere at 80% humidity. In contrast, July experiences warm to hot weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 17°C (63°F) to a scorching maximum of 40°C (104°F) and an average of 27°C (81°F). This summer month brings significant rainfall, totaling 123 mm (4.8 in) over roughly 10 days, accompanied by a slightly lower humidity level of 76%. For more detailed insights, you can check Xi'an weather in July.
December and August present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -8°C (18°F) at night to a mild 15°C (59°F) during the day, with an average around 2°C (37°F). The month experiences low precipitation, with only 9 mm (0.4 in) over just two days and a high humidity of 80%. In contrast, August boasts significantly warmer temperatures, with nighttime lows of 15°C (59°F) and daytime highs soaring up to 39°C (102°F), averaging around 26°C (80°F). This summer month is also much wetter, receiving 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain spread across 11 days, despite a lower humidity of 72%. For more insights into August weather, you can check Xi'an weather in August.
When comparing the weather in December and September, it's clear that the two months offer strikingly different climates. December experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -8°C (18°F) and an average of just 2°C (37°F), whereas September sees much warmer conditions, ranging from a minimum of 10°C (51°F) to an average of 21°C (70°F) and even soaring up to a maximum of 35°C (95°F). Additionally, December is relatively dry, with only 9 mm (0.4 in) of precipitation over just 2 days, while September is much wetter, accumulating 174 mm (6.8 in) of rain across 13 days. Both months exhibit high humidity levels, with December at 80% and September slightly lower at 78%. For more details about the conditions in September, you can find additional information here: Xi'an weather in September.
In comparing the weather of December and October, December experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -8°C (18°F) and an average of only 2°C (37°F), while October boasts milder conditions with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to an average of 14°C (58°F) and a maximum peaking at 29°C (85°F). Additionally, October sees significantly higher precipitation, totaling 90 mm (3.5 in) over 12 rainy days, in contrast to December's lighter precipitation of just 9 mm (0.4 in) over only 2 days. Humidity levels are fairly similar, with December at 80% and October at 85%. For more detailed information on October's climate, you can check Xi'an weather in October.
December weather in Xi'an is notably colder than in November, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -8°C (18°F) to an average of 2°C (37°F), peaking at 15°C (59°F). In contrast, November experiences milder conditions, with temperatures varying from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to an average of 9°C (48°F), and highs reaching up to 24°C (75°F). Precipitation also sees a decline in December, totaling just 9 mm (0.4 in) over 2 days, compared to November's 28 mm (1.1 in) over 6 days. Humidity remains relatively high in both months, at 80% in December and slightly higher at 82% in November. For more details on November weather, visit Xi'an weather in November.
As December settles in Xi'an, the city experiences a notable shift in weather, characterized by cooler temperatures and increased humidity. Unlike the milder months that precede it, this winter month brings a distinct chill, with average temperatures dipping significantly. While the likelihood of precipitation remains low, the occasional drizzle can add a layer of winter charm. The 80% humidity often amplifies the cold, making it feel brisker than the temperatures suggest. This time of year showcases Xi’an in a quieter, more serene atmosphere, inviting visitors to explore its historical treasures wrapped in a seasonal embrace. For a deeper dive into the city's climatological patterns, check out Xi'an Climate.