December Weather in Tartu, Estonia

Last updated: August 21, 2025

December in Tartu, Estonia offers a chilly yet captivating winter experience. With average temperatures hovering around -1°C (30°F), the month can see maximums reaching 8°C (48°F) and plunging as low as -21°C (-5°F). Residents and visitors alike should prepare for the frequent flurries, as precipitation accumulates to about 54 mm (2.1 in) over 13 days. The air is crisp, with humidity levels soaring at 93%, creating a picturesque, frost-laden landscape that defines the Estonian winter charm.

December Temperature in Tartu

In December, Tartu, Estonia, experiences a winter chill, with temperatures hitting a minimum of -21°C (-5°F) and averaging around -1°C (30°F). As the month progresses, the maximum temperature can reach up to 8°C (48°F), indicating a slight warmth as the holiday season approaches. The drop in temperatures from November to December is significant, showcasing the shift into the depth of winter. Despite the cold, the cozy atmosphere of the city, adorned with festive lights, creates a magical experience for residents and visitors alike, inviting them to embrace the unique charm of a true Estonian winter.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Tartu, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Tartu, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec282732415263646255453829
Data source: Temperature data for Tartu 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 Tartu

As December arrives in Tartu, Estonia, the city experiences a noteworthy shift in precipitation patterns. The month sees 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, matching November's totals, yet it comes with an increase in precipitation days to 13. This trend towards consistent moisture sets the stage for a wintry atmosphere, as the days grow colder. Compared to earlier months, December's rainfall is relatively moderate, following a summer peak in August, which recorded 79 mm (3.1 in). Interestingly, the relatively high number of precipitation days in December suggests that the region can expect a mix of light rain and potential snow showers, making it a month of transition and preparing for the deep chill of January ahead.

December Precipitation Trends in Tartu

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Tartu, 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 Tartu, December typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec384245495665657962725454
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Tartu

In December, Tartu, Estonia experiences a humidity level of 93%, mirroring the moisture-rich conditions of November. The trend throughout the year reveals a gradual decrease in humidity from January's peak at 95% to a low of 73% in May. As the seasons transition back toward winter, humidity levels rebound slightly in the latter months, especially with October and November hovering around 92% and 93%, respectively. This consistent moisture in December not only sets a chilly scene but also underscores the region's characteristic, damp climate as it moves deep into winter.

December Average Humidity in Tartu

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Tartu, 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 Tartu is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec95%93%90%87%73%77%80%84%89%93%93%93%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Tartu

In December, Tartu experiences a low UV Index of 1, indicating minimal risk for sunburn with a burn time of approximately 45 minutes. This trend of lower UV Index values begins in late autumn and continues through the winter months, with January and November also showing the same low level of exposure. As the seasons transition from spring to summer, the UV Index peaks at 7 during June and July, marking a significant rise in sun exposure risk. In contrast, the late fall and winter months remind residents to embrace the cooler weather while keeping an eye on the UV Index. For detailed insights on sun safety throughout the year, explore Tartu UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Tartu for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Tartu 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 Tartu typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec123457764211
Data source: Tartu 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 Tartu

In the heart of winter, Tartu experiences a dramatic dip in sunshine during December, mirroring the meager 57 hours of sunlight recorded in January. This signifies the onset of the darker season, contrasting sharply with the vibrant daylight of spring and summer months, where sunshine peaks with a dazzling 463 hours in June. As the year progresses, the city basks in increasing daylight, transitioning from 125 hours in February to a promising 429 hours by May. However, December's brief and fleeting days serve as a reminder of the wintry embrace before the sun begins its slow return, culminating in a gradual ascent to more luminous months ahead. The pattern illustrates Tartu's rhythm, where the ebb and flow of daylight paints a picturesque narrative of the changing seasons.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Tartu: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Tartu 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec57h125h261h337h429h463h457h388h295h205h106h57h
Data source: Tartu December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Tartu During December

In Tartu, Estonia, December typically ushers in a stark decline in sunshine, with only a 7% chance of sunny weather. This places the month among the least sunny in the annual cycle, following November's brief 17% flicker of light. As the year progresses from the long days of summer—when sunshine peaks at 56% in both June and July—there's a notable descent into the darker winter months. The transition from the relatively brighter shoulder months of October and November showcases a sharp drop, highlighting how Tartu's winters embrace clouds and gloom. Thus, while December may not offer much in the way of sun, it serves as a clear reminder of the beautiful cycle of changing seasons in this charming Estonian city.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Tartu

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Tartu 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 Tartu experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5%12%32%39%32%56%56%24%22%31%17%7%
Data source: Tartu December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Tartu in December

As December arrives in Tartu, Estonia, daylight takes a noticeable dip, with only 6 hours to brighten the winter days. This decline marks the tail end of a gradual slide that begins in November, where daylight also shrinks to 7 hours. Following the vibrant 18 hours of sunlight during the summer months, the shift towards shorter days creates a striking contrast against the lush brightness of June and July. While the days are shorter, this seasonal rhythm offers an enchanting atmosphere, ripe for cozy gatherings and festive celebrations. As the year progresses, Tartu experiences a steady increase in daylight after December, promising a return to brighter days come spring.

Average Daylight Hours in Tartu for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Tartu throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7h 10m9h 19m11h 52m14h 27m16h 49m18h 9m17h 26m15h 16m12h 45m10h 11m7h 48m6h 27m
Data source: Tartu daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Tartu

As December settles in Tartu, Estonia, the wind begins to remind us of the chill of winter, with an average speed of 4.4 m/s (10 mph) characterizing the month. This marks a subtle increase compared to the calmer summer months of June and July, where the breezes dipped to around 2.9 m/s (7 mph). Interestingly, September and October brought a noticeable uptick, reflecting autumn's transition with gusts reaching 5.2 m/s (12 mph). December’s winds, while brisk, align more closely with the overall trend of a gradual increase in speed as the year progresses, hinting at winter's arrival and the interplay of seasonal change in this charming Estonian town.

Average December Wind Speed in Tartu

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Tartu, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.83.94.84.34.02.93.24.44.45.24.94.4 m/s
Data source: Tartu December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Tartu Compares to Other Months

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

In December, the weather is characterized by a minimum temperature of -21°C (-5°F) and an average temperature of -1°C (30°F), with a maximum reaching 8°C (48°F). This month sees approximately 54 mm (2.1 in) of precipitation over 13 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 93%. In contrast, January experiences slightly milder conditions with a minimum of -20°C (-4°F) and an average of -2°C (28°F), while still peaking at 8°C (47°F). Precipitation decreases to 38 mm (1.5 in) over just 10 days, and humidity rises slightly to 95%. For a closer look at January's conditions, visit Tartu weather in January.

In December, the weather features a minimum temperature of -21°C (-5°F) and an average of -1°C (30°F), with a maximum of 8°C (48°F). The month experiences 54 mm (2.1 in) of precipitation over approximately 13 days, maintaining a high humidity level of 93%. In contrast, February sees slightly colder temperatures, with a minimum of -24°C (-12°F) and an average of -3°C (27°F), while the maximum remains the same at 9°C (48°F). Precipitation decreases to 42 mm (1.7 in) spread over about 10 days, yet humidity remains consistent at 93%. For more detailed insights, consider exploring Tartu weather in February.

In December, temperatures typically range from a chilly -21°C (-5°F) at night to a mild max of 8°C (48°F) during the day, with an average temperature of -1°C (30°F). The month experiences considerable humidity at 93% and receives about 54 mm (2.1 in) of precipitation over 13 days. In contrast, March ushers in slightly milder conditions, with temperatures dipping to -23°C (-8°F) at night but reaching a warmer high of 13°C (55°F) and an average of 0°C (32°F) during the day. With 45 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation over 12 days and slightly lower humidity at 90%, March marks a transition towards spring. For more detailed insights, you can check out Tartu weather in March.

December and April present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures plunge, with a minimum of -21°C (-5°F) and an average around -1°C (30°F), while reaching a maximum of 8°C (48°F). The month experiences high humidity at 93%, with 54 mm (2.1 inches) of precipitation over 13 days, making it one of the coldest and dampest months of the year. In contrast, April ushers in milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -8°C (18°F) to a pleasant maximum of 23°C (73°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F). This month sees slightly lower precipitation at 49 mm (1.9 inches) over 12 days and a humidity level of 87%. For more detailed insights into the weather conditions in Tartu during April, you can check Tartu weather in April.

In December, Tartu experiences a chillier climate, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -21°C (-5°F) to a mild 8°C (48°F) and an average of -1°C (30°F). The month brings considerable humidity at 93%, contributing to a damp atmosphere over the 13 days of precipitation, totaling 54 mm (2.1 in). In stark contrast, May offers a more temperate setting with temperatures fluctuating between -3°C (26°F) and a warm 27°C (81°F), averaging around 11°C (52°F). The precipitation remains comparable at 56 mm (2.2 in) but occurs over just 11 days, and humidity drops to a more comfortable 73%. For a detailed overview of the pleasant May weather in Tartu, check out Tartu weather in May.

December and June showcase a stark contrast in weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plunge as low as -21°C (-5°F), with an average hovering around -1°C (30°F) and a maximum of 8°C (48°F). The month sees high humidity levels at 93% and receives about 54 mm (2.1 in) of precipitation over 13 days, creating a chilly and damp atmosphere.

In contrast, June welcomes warmth with minimum temperatures around 3°C (37°F) and an average temperature of 17°C (63°F), peaking at a pleasant 32°C (89°F). While June has slightly more precipitation at 65 mm (2.6 in), it falls over just 10 days, allowing for more sunny intervals. The humidity is lower at 77%, resulting in a much more comfortable and vibrant environment. For a closer look at June weather specifics, check out Tartu weather in June.

December and July present strikingly different weather conditions in Tartu. In December, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -21°C (-5°F), with average highs around 8°C (48°F) and a high humidity of 93%, creating a cold and damp atmosphere. The month sees about 54 mm (2.1 in) of precipitation over 13 days, making the winter landscape often snowy and icy.

Conversely, July offers a warm respite, featuring minimum temperatures of 6°C (43°F) and average highs soaring to 32°C (89°F). With humidity at a lower 80% and slightly more precipitation at 65 mm (2.6 in) also spread over 13 days, the summer climate is noticeably more pleasant and conducive to outdoor activities. For more details, you can check Tartu weather in July.

December and August present strikingly different weather conditions. In December, temperatures can drop as low as -21°C (-5°F), with an average of -1°C (30°F) and a maximum of 8°C (48°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 54 mm (2.1 in) over about 13 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 93%. In stark contrast, August enjoys milder temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to an average of 17°C (62°F) and peaking at a comfortable 31°C (87°F). Precipitation is relatively higher at 79 mm (3.1 in) across 14 days, but humidity is slightly lower at 84%. For more specifics on August weather, check out Tartu weather in August.

The weather in December is characterized by much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -21°C (-5°F) and an average of -1°C (30°F), compared to September's milder conditions, where temperatures range from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 26°C (78°F). Despite December having slightly less precipitation at 54 mm (2.1 in) over 13 days, its high humidity of 93% makes it feel even colder. In contrast, September, while wetter with 62 mm (2.4 in) over 11 days, offers a more comfortable atmosphere with lower humidity at 89%. For more detailed information, you can refer to Tartu weather in September.

When comparing the weather in December and October, there's a notable shift in temperatures and conditions. In December, the average temperature drops significantly to -1°C (30°F), with minimums reaching as low as -21°C (-5°F), while the maximum temperature peaks at 8°C (48°F). This cold month experiences high humidity at 93% and a total precipitation of 54 mm (2.1 in) across 13 days. In contrast, October offers milder conditions with an average temperature of 7°C (46°F), minimums of -4°C (26°F), and maximums hitting 19°C (66°F). Although October sees slightly more precipitation at 72 mm (2.9 in) over 14 days, the humidity remains similar at 92%. For more detailed insights, check out Tartu weather in October.

December weather is notably colder than November, with average temperatures dropping from 3°C (38°F) in November to -1°C (30°F) in December. Both months receive similar precipitation, totaling 54 mm (2.1 in), but December sees precipitation over 13 days, compared to just 10 days in November. The humidity remains constant at 93% for both months. For more detailed information on November weather conditions, visit Tartu weather in November.

Compare Tartu's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Tartu

As December wraps Tartu in its wintry embrace, the weather starkly contrasts other months, showcasing chilly temperatures that dip into the negatives, culminating in a vibrant winter landscape. With the daily average hovering around -1°C, residents experience a sharp departure from the milder months of the year. The air, laden with a high humidity level of 93%, often leads to a frosty feel, while precipitation graces the city for nearly half the month, manifesting as both snow and rain. This month truly embodies the essence of Estonian winter, inviting both locals and visitors to revel in its unique charm. For a deeper dive into Tartu's climate nuances and year-round weather patterns, visit Tartu Climate.