Last updated: February 26, 2025
In Val-d'Isère, France, December brings a chilling embrace to this picturesque alpine village. With average temperatures hovering around -7°C (19°F), the landscape is often blanketed in snow, while the maximum temperature reaches a mere 3°C (38°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 190 mm (7.5 in) over approximately 17 days, setting the perfect stage for winter sports enthusiasts. A high humidity level of 90% creates a unique atmosphere, enhancing the frosty charm of this winter wonderland. Visitors can expect an enchanting experience, filled with stunning snowy vistas and invigorating cold air, ideal for skiing and cozy après-ski moments.
In December, Val-d'Isère transforms into a winter wonderland with frosty temperatures that set the stage for its renowned ski season. The month typically sees minimum temperatures around -21°C (-5°F) and an average hovering at -7°C (19°F), making it a chilly but exhilarating time for winter sports enthusiasts. Daytime highs reach a modest 3°C (38°F), indicating that while the sun might make brief appearances, the cold remains a steadfast companion. As the final month of the year, December showcases the deepening chill that characterizes the Alpine climate, with temperatures gradually declining from November. This trend not only enhances the picturesque snowy landscapes but also primes the slopes for a thrilling winter experience that attracts visitors from near and far.
December in Val-d'Isère, France, typically ushers in a winter wonderland, and the precipitation statistics reflect this seasonal transformation. With an impressive 190 mm (7.5 in) of rainfall spread over 17 days, December stands out as one of the wetter months of the year, surpassing both November and the preceding months. This consistent moisture plays a crucial role in nourishing the ski slopes and ensuring a vibrant snowy landscape, pivotal for winter sports enthusiasts. As temperatures drop, the higher precipitation often translates into snowfall, making December an ideal time for skiers and snowboarders eager to embrace the winter season. Overall, this month not only marks the onset of winter activities but also highlights a trend of increasing precipitation during this cozy, festive time in the Alps.
As winter descends upon Val-d'Isere, December sees humidity levels reaching 90%, maintaining the high moisture typically associated with the cold season. This figure closely mirrors the moisture-rich months of October and November, which clock in at 89% and 90%, respectively. Observing the trend from August's relatively drier 63% to December's dampness reveals a significant uptick as the region transitions into its snowy glory. This consistent humidity creates a crisp atmosphere perfect for skiing, while also signaling the lush conditions that will characterize the surrounding landscapes in the coming months.
In Val-d'Isere, France, the UV Index trends markedly lower as the year draws to a close, reaching a modest 2 in December, categorized as low exposure. This is a significant decrease from the peak indices observed in the spring and summer months, when values soared to a striking 11 in June. During these times, a mere 10 to 15 minutes of sun exposure could lead to burns. The cooler months of January, November, and December maintain a moderate or low risk, with burn times extending to 30 to 45 minutes. This seasonal variance highlights the importance of adjusting sun protection strategies throughout the year, even in winter months when reflection off the snow can still pose risks. For detailed insights into the UV Index, visit Val-d'Isere UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
December in Val-d'Isère sees a gentle transition into winter, with approximately 206 hours of sunshine. While this is a dip from the brighter days of the preceding months, it still sets a cozy atmosphere for early-season skiers and holiday revelers. As the winter months progress, the hours of sunshine generally increase, peaking in June with a remarkable 395 hours before tapering off again in the fall. This pattern highlights the allure of Val-d'Isère, where early winter's crisp air and diminishing daylight give way to majestic spring days, inviting visitors to bask in both the snow and the sun.
In Val-d'Isère, December offers a moderate 41% chance of sunny weather, signaling a potential for crisp clear days amidst the winter chill. This figure aligns closely with the sunniest months of early spring, suggesting a shift in weather patterns as the year closes. Notably, December's likelihood of sunshine hovers around the averages seen in November and May, hinting at a refreshing start to the ski season. As the days grow shorter and snow blankets the Alps, enthusiasts can look forward to those precious moments of sunshine that can illuminate the stunning mountain landscape, making it an enchanting time to visit.
In Val-d'Isere, France, the daylight duration undergoes a significant transformation throughout the year, peaking in the summer months and tapering down during winter. December marks the year's low point, with only 8 hours of daylight, a stark contrast to the vibrant 15 hours that light the skies in June and July. As the year progresses from January's 9 hours to February's 10 hours, there's a gradual return of sunlight, hinting at the forthcoming spring. The trend reveals a consistent increase in daylight hours from March through May, leading to longer, sunlit days. However, as autumn settles in, daylight shrinks again, emphasizing the seasonal rhythm that characterizes this picturesque alpine region.
In December, the winds in Val-d'Isère pick up slightly, mirroring the brisk energy of the winter season with an average speed of 1.5 m/s (3 mph). This uptick feels invigorating as skiers and snowboarders take to the slopes, creating a lively atmosphere against the picturesque snowy backdrop. Interestingly, December stands at the same wind speed as January, suggesting a consistent chill in the air as the year comes to a close. Overall, the wind patterns throughout the year are relatively gentle, maintaining a steady range that complements the serene beauty of this alpine town, while December's winds invigorate the spirit of winter sports enthusiasts.
The weather in Val-d'Isere 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 Val-d'Isere and find detailed weather information for every month.
In December, temperatures in Val-d'Isère typically range from a minimum of -21°C (-5°F) to a maximum of 3°C (38°F), with an average temperature around -7°C (19°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, with about 190 mm (7.5 in) falling over 17 days, resulting in a humidity level of 90%. In contrast, January is slightly colder, featuring a minimum temperature of -25°C (-12°F) and an average of -9°C (16°F), while highs reach 5°C (41°F). Although January receives less precipitation, totaling 132 mm (5.2 in) over just 10 days, humidity remains high at 91%. For more detailed insights, check out Val-d'Isere weather in January.
December and February both experience cold temperatures, but February tends to be slightly milder overall. In December, the average temperature hovers around -7°C (19°F), dipping as low as -21°C (-5°F) and peaking at just 3°C (38°F). December also sees more precipitation, with about 190 mm (7.5 in) falling over 17 days, keeping the humidity high at 90%. In contrast, February has a milder average temperature of -6°C (22°F), with a similar minimum of -21°C (-6°F) and a higher maximum of 8°C (47°F). Precipitation decreases significantly to 87 mm (3.4 in) over 12 days, resulting in slightly lower humidity at 87%. For more insights on February weather, you can check out Val-d'Isere weather in February.
In December, the weather is quite frigid, with average temperatures hovering around -7°C (19°F) and a maximum temperature reaching just 3°C (38°F). The month experiences significant precipitation totaling 190 mm (7.5 in) over approximately 17 days, coupled with a high humidity level of 90%. In contrast, March brings slightly milder conditions with an average temperature of -4°C (25°F) and daytime highs that can reach up to 10°C (50°F). The precipitation decreases to 125 mm (4.9 in) across about 16 days, and humidity drops to 84%. This shift indicates a gradual transition toward warmer weather as winter recedes. For more detailed information, you can check Val-d'Isere weather in March.
December and April weather exhibit significant differences, reflecting the transition from winter to spring. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -21°C (-5°F), with an average of -7°C (19°F) and a maximum of 3°C (38°F). This month experiences high precipitation, totaling 190 mm (7.5 in) across 17 days, and the humidity remains quite high at 90%. In contrast, April sees milder temperatures, with a minimum of -15°C (5°F), an average of 0°C (32°F), and a maximum of 12°C (54°F). Precipitation in April decreases to 110 mm (4.3 in) over 13 days, and humidity also drops to 83%. For those interested in further details about the climate during this spring month, you can explore Val-d'Isere weather in April.
December and May present striking contrasts in weather. In December, temperatures can plunge as low as -21°C (-5°F), with an average of -7°C (19°F), while only reaching a maximum of 3°C (38°F). The month is characterized by high precipitation, totaling 190 mm (7.5 in) over 17 days, and a high humidity level of 90%. In contrast, May brings milder conditions, with minimum temperatures around -11°C (12°F) and average highs of 18°C (65°F). Precipitation in May is slightly less at 181 mm (7.1 in), spread over 20 days, accompanied by a lower humidity level of 78%. For a closer look at May's weather specifics, visit Val-d'Isere weather in May.
December and June present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures plunge to a minimum of -21°C (-5°F) and average around -7°C (19°F), with a maximum of just 3°C (38°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 90% and significant precipitation, totaling 190 mm (7.5 in) over 17 days. In stark contrast, June brings a milder climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 24°C (76°F). The average temperature in June rises to around 10°C (50°F), with lower humidity at 75% and slightly less precipitation totaling 166 mm (6.5 in) over 22 days. For a detailed look at the specific weather conditions in June, you can visit Val-d'Isere weather in June.
December and July present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures plunge, with a minimum of -21°C (-5°F) and an average of -7°C (19°F), while the maximum barely reaches 3°C (38°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 90% and significant precipitation, totaling 190 mm (7.5 in) over 17 days. In contrast, July sees a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (33°F) to an average of 12°C (54°F) and a pleasant maximum of 22°C (71°F). Precipitation is lower at 143 mm (5.6 in) over 18 days, and humidity drops to 72%. These differences highlight the varied seasonal experiences, making December a time of cold and snow, while July offers warmth and summer activities. For more information, check Val-d'Isere weather in July.
December and August present dramatically different weather conditions. In December, temperatures plummet, with a minimum of -21°C (-5°F) and an average of -7°C (19°F), making it the coldest month of the year, accompanied by high humidity at 90%. Precipitation is significant, totaling 190 mm (7.5 in) over 17 days, often falling as snow. In contrast, August brings a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 22°C (73°F) and an average of 12°C (53°F). Although August experiences slightly less precipitation at 156 mm (6.1 in) over 19 days, the humidity is notably lower at 63%. For a detailed look at weather conditions in August, you can visit Val-d'Isere weather in August.
December and September present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures plummet to a minimum of -21°C (-5°F), with an average temperature of -7°C (19°F) and a maximum of 3°C (38°F). This frigid month also experiences significant precipitation, totaling 190 mm (7.5 in) over 17 days, coupled with high humidity levels of 90%. In comparison, September offers much milder weather, featuring a minimum temperature of -8°C (19°F) and an average of 8°C (46°F) that climbs to a comfortable maximum of 18°C (65°F). This month sees less rain, with only 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over the same number of days, and a lower humidity at 73%. For more details, check out Val-d'Isere weather in September.
In comparing the weather of December to that of October, it's clear that December is significantly colder, with average temperatures around -7°C (19°F), and nighttime lows plummeting to -21°C (-5°F). In contrast, October experiences milder conditions, with average temperatures around 3°C (38°F) and highs reaching up to 15°C (59°F). Additionally, December sees more precipitation, averaging 190 mm (7.5 in) over 17 days, compared to October's 141 mm (5.6 in) over 12 days. Humidity levels are similar, with December at 90% and October slightly lower at 89%. For a more detailed look at October's weather, you can visit Val-d'Isere weather in October.
In comparing the weather between November and December, December tends to be colder, with average temperatures around -7°C (19°F) compared to November's -3°C (27°F). Both months experience a similar minimum temperature of -21°C, but November can reach a milder maximum of 12°C (54°F) while December maxes out at just 3°C (38°F). Precipitation in December is higher at 190 mm (7.5 in) over 17 days, compared to November's 147 mm (5.8 in) over 16 days, suggesting a wetter and snowier environment in December. Humidity remains constant at 90% for both months. For more detailed insights on November weather, check out Val-d'Isere weather in November.
As December blankets Val-d'Isère in winter's embrace, temperatures take a notable dip compared to previous months, leading to a chillier atmosphere that averages around -7°C (19°F). Frequent precipitation, characterized by approximately 17 days of snowfall, contributes to the region's stunning winter landscape, making it a month of transformation. The high humidity levels, often reaching 90%, add a crispness to the cold air, enhancing the magical winter experience. For those looking to delve deeper into the seasonal variations, check out Val-d'Isere Climate for more insights.