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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.