Last updated: February 26, 2025
December in Lyon, France, brings a chill to the air, with average temperatures hovering around 5°C (42°F). Visitors can expect maximum daytime highs of 16°C (62°F), perfect for exploring the city's festive charm, while nighttime lows can dip to a brisk -4°C (25°F). Amidst this cool backdrop, precipitation adds to the seasonal atmosphere, with approximately 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain falling over 17 days, leading to a humidity level of nearly 92%. As December unfolds, Lyon transforms into a winter wonderland, inviting both locals and tourists to embrace its enchanting vibe amid the winter mist.
As December settles over Lyon, France, the city experiences a crisp transition into winter, with temperatures reflecting a cool charm. The month begins with minimums around -4°C (25°F) and peaks at a comfortable 16°C (62°F), creating a refreshing average of 5°C (42°F). Compared to the chilly months before, December is notably milder, hinting at a gentle shift towards a more temperate winter. As the festive season approaches, these temperatures invite cozy gatherings and enchanting strolls through the city's illuminated streets, making Lyon a delightful winter escape.
In December, Lyon experiences a notable increase in precipitation, with 116 mm (4.6 in) reported, making it one of the wettest months of the year. This surge is accompanied by an average of 17 rainy days, indicating a shift towards a more damp and overcast atmosphere as winter sets in. Compared to the preceding months, December stands out not only for its volume of rainfall but also for the frequency of rainy days, as the city transitions from fall's moderate to winter's more persistent rains. This trend highlights a significant seasonal pivot, suggesting that Lyon's residents should be prepared for frequent showers and chilly winds during this time, enriching the city's atmospheric charm during the festive season.
As the year draws to a close in Lyon, France, December brings a notable spike in humidity, reaching 92%—one of the highest levels recorded throughout the year. This increase follows the slightly fluctuating patterns observed from the preceding months, with November also featuring elevated humidity at 91%. The trend shows a gradual decline from the summer peak of 68% in July, reflecting the transition from the drier summer months to the damp chill of winter. While December's humidity might feel intense, it is part of a natural seasonal rhythm, ultimately setting the stage for a cozy, albeit moist, festive atmosphere in this beautiful French city.
In December, Lyon experiences a low UV Index of 2, indicating minimal sun exposure risk with a burn time of 45 minutes. This marks a return to lower UV levels after the peaks of summer, which saw values soar to 10 in June and 9 in July. From May through September, the UV Index was consistently high to very high, demanding greater sun protection and shorter burn times. As winter unfolds, residents can enjoy the outdoor scenery with less concern for sunburn. However, it’s always wise to remain aware of UV levels, even in cooler months. For detailed information on seasonal trends, visit Lyon UV Index.
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In Lyon, France, the month of December marks a subtle transition as daylight begins to fade, with approximately 188 hours of sunshine illuminating the city's festive ambiance. This is a noticeable drop from the preceding months, particularly from the more radiant May through July, which boast over 360 hours of sun. As autumn yields to winter, sunlight diminishes steadily from October's 276 hours to December's softer glow. Despite the reduced hours, December's charm lies in its cozy atmosphere and holiday spirit, as residents and visitors alike bask in the magical interplay of dwindling daylight and twinkling festive lights. This seasonal shift highlights how Lyon's weather intricately weaves the fabric of its cultural celebrations, bringing people together under the gentle warmth of winter's embrace.
As December rolls into Lyon, the likelihood of basking in sunshine takes a plunge, with only a 27% chance of sunny weather. This marks a notable dip compared to earlier months, particularly when contrasting with the 55% and 54% chances of sun seen in March and April, respectively. The trend suggests that as the year winds down, gray skies become more prevalent, leaving Lyon's residents and visitors yearning for the brighter days of spring. While December may lack the sunny allure of its preceding months, the festive spirit and holiday cheer undoubtedly bring warmth to the season.
As December settles in Lyon, France, daylight takes a noticeable dip, offering just 8 hours of sun—one of the shortest durations of the year. This trend reflects the gradual descent into winter, following a steady increase in daylight through the spring and summer months. From 9 hours in January to a peak of 15 hours in June and July, the rhythm of the seasons brings a comforting consistency, where daylight lingers longer during warmer months. However, as November fades with the same 9 hours of sunlight, December's decline marks the onset of winter's shorter days, reminding residents of the cozy warmth found indoors as they eagerly await the return of longer daylight in the new year.
In December, the average wind speed in Lyon, France, hovers around 2.2 m/s (5 mph), marking a slight decline from earlier months. This trend reflects a general pattern of diminishing wind activity as the year draws to a close, with the breezy peak typically occurring in the spring months. Notably, the wind speeds have consistently aligned close to 5 mph during the warmer summer months, hinting at a stable yet gentle atmosphere that characterizes Lyon's winter landscape. As the city prepares for the festive season, this milder wind provides a calm backdrop, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy the enchanting holiday lights and vibrant street life without the chill of gusty winds.
The weather in Lyon changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of December's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Lyon and find detailed weather information for every month.
When comparing the weather in December and January, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation. December tends to be slightly warmer with average temperatures around 5°C (42°F), while January experiences a cooler average of 3°C (38°F). December also brings more precipitation, totaling 116 mm (4.6 inches) across 17 days, compared to January's 66 mm (2.6 inches) over 12 days. Humidity levels remain quite similar, with December at 92% and January slightly lower at 91%. Overall, January is characterized by cooler temperatures and less rainfall, making it a more stable month weather-wise. For more detailed insights, check out Lyon weather in January.
December and February showcase distinct weather patterns, reflecting the transition from late autumn to early spring. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 16°C (62°F), with an average of 5°C (42°F), accompanied by high humidity at 92%. This month experiences considerable rainfall, totaling 116 mm (4.6 in) over 17 days, making it one of the wetter months. In contrast, February sees slightly colder nights with a minimum of -9°C (16°F) and warmer days, reaching up to 20°C (68°F) with an average of 6°C (43°F). Precipitation drops significantly to 53 mm (2.1 in) across 11 days, and humidity levels remain relatively high at 88%. For a more detailed overview of February weather, visit Lyon weather in February.
In December, the weather is generally cooler, with minimum temperatures dropping to -4°C (25°F) and averaging around 5°C (42°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 116 mm (4.6 in) over 17 days, alongside high humidity levels of 92%. In contrast, March brings a noticeable warming trend, with minimum temperatures at -12°C (11°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F). Daytime highs can reach up to 23°C (74°F), and precipitation decreases to 70 mm (2.8 in) over 12 days, with humidity slightly lower at 84%. For a more detailed look at the weather patterns for this month, you can check Lyon weather in March.
December and April present stark contrasts in weather. December sees colder temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and an average of 5°C (42°F), while April warms up significantly, boasting minimums still at -4°C (25°F) but an average that rises to 12°C (53°F) and maximums reaching 28°C (82°F). Precipitation is more frequent in December, averaging 116 mm (4.6 in) over 17 days, compared to a much drier April, which experiences only 51 mm (2.0 in) of rainfall over 8 days. Additionally, while December's humidity sits higher at 92%, April enjoys a slightly more comfortable level at 81%. For more specific insights about the weather in April, you can visit Lyon weather in April.
In comparing the weather between December and May, it's clear that these months present distinct climates. December experiences colder temperatures, with averages around 5°C (42°F) and a minimum of -4°C (25°F), while May warms up significantly, averaging 15°C (60°F) with a high of 32°C (89°F). Precipitation levels are similar, with December receiving 116 mm (4.6 in) over 17 days and May slightly lower at 113 mm (4.5 in) over 14 days. Humidity, however, is notably higher in December at 92%, contrasting with a more comfortable 77% in May. For a more detailed look at May's weather patterns, you can check out Lyon weather in May.
December and June present two contrasting weather experiences. In December, temperatures can range from a chilly -4°C (25°F) to a mild 16°C (62°F), with an average of 5°C (42°F). This month sees significant precipitation, averaging 116 mm (4.6 in) over about 17 days, paired with high humidity at 92%. In contrast, June offers much warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a sweltering maximum of 38°C (100°F) and an average of 20°C (69°F). The month experiences less rainfall at 84 mm (3.3 in) spread over 12 days and a considerably lower humidity level of 76%. For more detailed weather insights, check out Lyon weather in June.
December and July present a striking contrast in weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -4°C (25°F) at night to a mild 16°C (62°F) during the day, with an average temperature of around 5°C (42°F). The month is quite humid, with 92% humidity and significant precipitation of 116 mm (4.6 in), typically over 17 days.
In contrast, July boasts much warmer weather, with temperatures varying from a comfortable 11°C (52°F) at night to a scorching 39°C (102°F) at the peak of the day. The average temperature hovers around 22°C (73°F), and while it does see rain, the total precipitation is lower at 80 mm (3.2 in) spread over just 10 days, with a more manageable humidity level of 68%. For more detailed information, check out Lyon weather in July.
When comparing December and August weather, the contrast is striking. December's temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a mild maximum of 16°C (62°F), with an average around 5°C (42°F). In contrast, August enjoys much warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures at 9°C (48°F) and highs reaching a sweltering 39°C (103°F), averaging 22°C (72°F). Additionally, December experiences more frequent precipitation, with 116 mm (4.6 in) falling over 17 days and high humidity at 92%. August, however, is relatively drier with only 69 mm (2.7 in) over 9 days and lower humidity at 61%. For a closer look at Lyon's weather during this summer month, you can check this link: Lyon weather in August.
December weather is significantly colder than September, with minimum temperatures dropping to -4°C (25°F) compared to September's milder minimum of 4°C (40°F). The average temperature in December is only 5°C (42°F), while September enjoys a much warmer average of 18°C (64°F). Additionally, December experiences more precipitation, totaling 116 mm (4.6 in) over 17 days, whereas September sees just 65 mm (2.6 in) over 8 days, reflecting a much sunnier and drier month. Moreover, December's humidity is higher at 92%, contrasting with September's more comfortable 72%. For further details on September weather, you can check Lyon weather in September.
When comparing the weather in December to that of October, notable differences arise. December features lower temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and an average of 5°C (42°F), while October enjoys milder conditions, seeing a minimum of 1°C (33°F) and an average of 13°C (55°F). Rainfall is more abundant in December, with 116 mm (4.6 in) over 17 days, compared to October's 92 mm (3.6 in) over 10 days. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly higher in December at 92%, compared to October's 88%. For more insights on October's climate, check out Lyon weather in October.
When comparing the weather between November and December, we see that both months experience similar minimum temperatures of -4°C (25°F), but November generally has a slightly warmer average temperature of 7°C (45°F) compared to December's 5°C (42°F). Maximum temperatures are also higher in November, reaching up to 20°C (69°F), while December peaks at 16°C (62°F). Additionally, December sees more precipitation, with 116 mm (4.6 in) over 17 days, compared to November's 93 mm (3.7 in) over 13 days. Humidity remains quite similar in both months, with December at 92% and November at 91%. For more details about Lyon's weather in November, you can visit Lyon weather in November.
As December settles over Lyon, the city experiences a notable shift in weather compared to other months. Temperatures dip significantly, often hovering around chilly averages, and occasional frosts add a crisp touch to the air. The hands of winter bring increased precipitation, with the city seeing more rainy days, making this month one of the wetter times of the year. Despite the humidity levels peaking, the festive atmosphere and holiday lights create a warmth that offsets the cold. Embrace the charm of Lyon during this unique winter month, and for more insights on its seasonal patterns, check out Lyon Climate.