Last updated: August 21, 2025
December in Shanghai, China brings a cool ambiance, with average temperatures hovering around 8°C (47°F). On warmer days, you might experience highs of 20°C (69°F), while nights can dip to a chilly -5°C (22°F). Rainfall is moderate, totaling about 50 mm (2.0 in) over approximately 8 days, contributing to humidity levels that reach 77%. This month captures the essence of winter in Shanghai, inviting both locals and visitors to embrace the city's seasonal charm.
As December rolls into Shanghai, the city experiences a noticeable drop in temperatures, with lows reaching -5°C (22°F) and averages settling around 8°C (47°F). This marks a significant shift from the milder conditions of earlier months, particularly November, where the average was a more balmy 15°C (59°F). The maximum temperature in December also decreases to 20°C (69°F), hinting at the onset of winter. This cooler weather not only sets the stage for festive celebrations but also draws a clear contrast to the summer highs, demonstrating Shanghai's dynamic climate. While the chill might encourage visitors to bundle up, it also invites them to explore the city's vibrant indoor attractions and cozy cafes.
In December, Shanghai experiences a notable decline in precipitation, averaging 50 mm (2.0 in) across 8 rainy days. This marks a shift from the heavy downpours of earlier months, as the city transitions into winter. While December's rainfall is lower than that of the humid summer months, it continues the overall trend of a gradual decrease in precipitation, with November also recording 51 mm. The city's weather becomes drier as the year concludes, providing a respite from the intense rains of June and July, which often exceed 200 mm. This seasonal variability not only creates a distinct climate but also influences the bustling activities and holiday preparations in this vibrant metropolis.
December in Shanghai marks a subtle shift in humidity as it settles at 77%, providing a brief respite from the intense moisture of summer months. From a peak of 93% in July, humidity gradually tapers down as the year progresses, with November's 82% serving as a transition to December's milder levels. Despite this decline, December remains relatively humid compared to the drier months at the start of the year, suggesting that while the city's climate cools, the lingering dampness persists. This trend highlights Shanghai's shift from sultry summer conditions to a more temperate, yet still humid winter, creating a unique atmosphere as the year comes to a close.
As the year winds down in Shanghai, the December UV Index dips to a moderate level of 4, signaling a shift from the extreme highs of summer. While earlier months like June to August experienced perilous UV Index levels peaking at 12, December offers a welcome reprieve with a burn time of 30 minutes—double that of the sizzling summer days. This trend showcases a gradual decline in UV radiation as autumn transitions into winter, making outdoor activities more manageable. For those venturing out, it remains essential to stay vigilant about sun exposure. To explore more about UV levels throughout the year, check out Shanghai UV Index.
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As the year draws to a close, December in Shanghai offers a refreshing contrast to the bustling summer months, with 214 hours of sunshine that gently illuminate the city. This decrease from the peak of 318 hours in August signifies a transition to cooler weather, yet still provides ample light for the city's vibrant activities. The sunshine trend reveals a gradual decline from the summer's height, with hours decreasing steadily from 301 hours in July. Nevertheless, December maintains a comfortable brightness, allowing locals and visitors alike to enjoy the charm of Shanghai during the holiday season. This mix of light and chill encapsulates the city's unique winter atmosphere, creating the perfect backdrop for festive celebrations.
As December approaches in Shanghai, the chances of enjoying sunny weather significantly improve, reaching an encouraging 64%. This increase follows a trend observed throughout the year, where the likelihood of sunny days generally fluctuates with the seasons. After a dip in mid-summer, where sunshine chances plummet to 17% in July, the autumn months see a gradual rise, peaking in November at 57%. This upward trajectory culminates in December, making it a delightful transition into winter, where residents and visitors alike can anticipate more frequent sunny spells amidst the cool climate. This trend not only highlights December's potential for brighter days but also showcases the seasonal variability that characterizes Shanghai's weather throughout the year.
In Shanghai, China, the daylight duration weaves a fascinating rhythm throughout the year, beginning with 10 hours in January and December, while gradually increasing to a peak of 14 hours during the sunny month of June. This bright stretch gives way to a gradual decline, with the days shortening again as autumn settles in. As spring approaches, March and April see a brisk increase, bringing with it a promise of longer, more vibrant days. The transition from the lush summer into the cooler months showcases a mirrored pattern of daylight, with both November and October reverting back to 10 and 11 hours respectively. Overall, the ebb and flow of daylight in Shanghai not only marks the changing seasons but also adds a rhythm to the city's vibrant culture.
As December settles over Shanghai, the city's average wind speed dips to 3.1 m/s (7 mph), marking one of the calmer months of the year. This is a slight decrease from November's 3.5 m/s (8 mph), reflecting a gentle shift as winter progresses. Notably, the summer months of July and August showcased a significant uptick in wind, reaching peaks of 5.1 m/s (11 mph) and 3.1 m/s (7 mph), respectively. Throughout the year, the city maintains an overall consistent breeze, with most months averaging around 3.6 to 3.8 m/s (8 mph). However, as the temperatures drop, the winds soften, creating a serene atmosphere that contrasts with the bustling energy typically associated with Shanghai. This seasonal transition invites residents and visitors alike to experience the city's charm amidst the quieter, winter winds.
Weather in Shanghai varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Shanghai, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
December and January exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. December typically sees a milder average temperature of 8°C (47°F), with highs reaching up to 20°C (69°F) and lows around -5°C (22°F). In contrast, January is slightly cooler, with an average of 6°C (44°F), and the minimum temperature can drop to -8°C (19°F). Additionally, while December experiences around 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 8 days, January has a slightly higher rainfall of 55 mm (2.2 in) over just 6 days. Humidity levels are also higher in December at 77% compared to January's 70%. For more detailed information on the January weather in Shanghai, you can refer to Shanghai weather in January.
December and February in Shanghai exhibit similar weather patterns, but with notable differences. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -5°C (22°F) to a maximum of 20°C (69°F), while February sees slightly milder temperatures, with lows of -3°C (27°F) and highs reaching up to 24°C (76°F). Both months experience around eight days of precipitation, but December's rainfall averages 50 mm (2.0 in) compared to February's 60 mm (2.4 in). Additionally, December has a higher humidity level at 77%, while February's humidity is a bit lower at 73%. For more specifics on February weather conditions, check out Shanghai weather in February.
In December, temperatures in Shanghai can range from a chilly -5°C (22°F) to a mild 20°C (69°F), with an average of 8°C (47°F). The month experiences around 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over about 8 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 77%. In contrast, March sees a notable warming trend, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 2°C (37°F) and reaching up to 26°C (79°F), averaging 12°C (54°F). Precipitation increases to 83 mm (3.3 in) over approximately 12 days, and humidity rises to 81%. For more detailed information, check out Shanghai weather in March.
December and April exhibit contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -5°C (22°F) at night to a pleasant 20°C (69°F) during the day, with an average of 8°C (47°F). The month experiences around 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 8 days and maintains a humidity level of 77%. In stark contrast, April brings milder temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (42°F) and a maximum of 31°C (87°F), averaging around 16°C (61°F). It sees slightly more precipitation at 72 mm (2.8 in) over 9 days, while humidity rises to 87%. For more detailed information, you can check Shanghai weather in April.
December and May present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -5°C (22°F) to a moderate 20°C (69°F), with an average of 8°C (47°F), creating a distinctly wintery atmosphere. With around 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 8 days and a humidity level of 77%, it tends to feel quite crisp and damp. In contrast, May brings much warmer temperatures, starting at a mild 12°C (53°F) and peaking at an impressive 34°C (94°F), with an average of 21°C (71°F). This month sees increased rainfall of 117 mm (4.6 in) across 10 days, coupled with higher humidity at 87%, resulting in a muggy and vibrant spring climate. For more detailed insights on the typical weather during this month, visit Shanghai weather in May.
December and June present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -5°C (22°F) at night to a pleasant 20°C (69°F) during the day, with an average of 8°C (47°F). The month sees about 50 mm of precipitation over 8 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 77%. In contrast, June offers a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures of 18°C (65°F) and peaks reaching a sweltering 36°C (96°F), averaging around 25°C (76°F). Precipitation increases significantly to 201 mm over 15 days, with humidity levels rising to 89%. For a detailed look at June's weather patterns, visit Shanghai weather in June.
When comparing the weather in December and July, the differences are striking. December experiences much cooler temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -5°C (22°F) to a maximum of 20°C (69°F), with an average temperature of 8°C (47°F). In contrast, July is characterized by much warmer conditions, with temperatures fluctuating between 20°C (69°F) and an impressive maximum of 39°C (102°F), averaging around 29°C (84°F).
Precipitation also varies significantly between the two months, with December receiving about 50 mm (2.0 in) over 8 rainy days, while July sees a whopping 250 mm (9.8 in) across 16 rainy days. Additionally, July's humidity is notably higher at 93%, compared to December's 77%. For a more detailed look at the weather conditions during this summer month, check out Shanghai weather in July.
December and August present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -5°C (22°F) at night to a comfortable 20°C (69°F) during the day, with an average of 8°C (47°F). The month sees about 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 8 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 77%. In contrast, August boasts much warmer temperatures, with nighttime lows of 20°C (69°F) and daytime highs reaching a scorching 38°C (100°F), averaging 29°C (85°F). This summer month experiences significantly higher precipitation at 167 mm (6.6 in) on approximately 15 days, paired with increased humidity at 91%. For more detailed information, you can check out Shanghai weather in August.
December and September exhibit strikingly different weather characteristics. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -5°C (22°F) at night to a mild 20°C (69°F) during the day, with an average of 8°C (47°F). The month is relatively dry with about 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation spread over 8 days and a humidity level of 77%. In contrast, September is notably warmer, with temperatures fluctuating between a low of 17°C (63°F) and a high of 35°C (94°F), averaging around 25°C (78°F). The month sees significantly more rain, totaling 177 mm (7.0 in) over 13 days, accompanied by higher humidity at 81%. For more detailed information about September weather, check out Shanghai weather in September.
December weather presents a stark contrast to October, exhibiting cooler temperatures with a minimum of -5°C (22°F) compared to October's minimum of 10°C (51°F). The average temperature in December is significantly lower at 8°C (47°F), while October enjoys a mild average of 20°C (68°F). Additionally, December experiences a maximum temperature of 20°C (69°F), which is much cooler than October's peak of 31°C (89°F). Although both months see some precipitation, December has 50 mm (2.0 in) over 8 days, while October notes a slightly higher 69 mm (2.7 in) across 7 days. Humidity remains relatively high in both months, with December at 77% and October at 80%. For more detailed insights, you can refer to Shanghai weather in October.
In December, the weather becomes noticeably colder than in November, with minimum temperatures dropping to -5°C (22°F) compared to a milder minimum of 2°C (37°F) in November. The average temperature in December is 8°C (47°F), while November enjoys a warmer average of 15°C (59°F). Maximum temperatures also decline sharply, reaching only 20°C (69°F) in December versus a comfortable peak of 27°C (81°F) in November. In terms of precipitation, both months are fairly similar, with December recording 50 mm (2.0 in) over 8 days and November slightly higher at 51 mm (2.0 in) over 7 days. Humidity remains relatively high in both months, although December's 77% is slightly lower than November's 82%. For more details on November weather, you can visit Shanghai weather in November.
As December unfolds in Shanghai, temperatures begin to dip, offering a stark contrast to the milder months earlier in the year. With an average of 8°C, this month introduces a chill that can bring bone-numbing lows, occasionally plummeting to -5°C. While precipitation remains relatively low compared to the heavy rains of summer, December experiences its share of gray skies, averaging about eight rainy days and a humidity level that lingers around 77%. This combination creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying warm foods and festive activities. For a deeper understanding of how December fits into Shanghai's overall weather patterns, check out Shanghai Climate.