December Weather in Orleans, France

Last updated: February 26, 2025

In December, Orleans, France experiences a captivating winter climate characterized by a maximum temperature reaching 16°C (60°F), an average of 6°C (43°F), and a chilly minimum of -4°C (25°F). This month is marked by significant rainfall, with 99 mm (3.9 in) of precipitation spread over approximately 18 days, contributing to the high humidity level of 93%. Visitors can expect a season of cool temperatures and frequent showers, making it an ideal time for cozy indoor activities while indulging in the festive spirit of the holiday season.

December Temperature in Orleans

In Orleans, France, December ushers in a noticeable drop in temperatures, with minimums averaging around -4°C (25°F) and maximums reaching up to 16°C (60°F). This month typically sees a slight chill in the air as the average temperature settles at 6°C (43°F). As winter firmly takes hold, the transition from the milder autumn months brings about cooler days and crisp evenings, marking a contrast to the warmer temperatures seen earlier in the year. This gradual cooling trend lays the groundwork for the colder months ahead, making December an ideal time to enjoy the seasonal ambiance while wrapped in cozy attire.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Orleans, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec404347525866706963554643
Data source: Temperature data for Orleans generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

December Precipitation in Orleans

December in Orleans, France, marks the culmination of a wet year, with average precipitation reaching 99 mm (3.9 in) over the month. This significant amount not only stands out as the highest of the year but also comes with 18 days of rainfall, highlighting a notably rainy period. The trend shows a gradual increase in precipitation as the year winds down, starting with 61 mm in January and peaking in December. This pattern suggests a seasonal buildup, where wet months like November (68 mm) prepare the ground for the heavier downpours of December. As the holiday season arrives, the frequent rain contributes to a cozy, if damp, atmosphere, painting Orleans in a picturesque winter scene.

December Precipitation Trends in Orleans

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Orleans, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec616571338268494751756899
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Orleans

In Orleans, France, December ushers in a notable increase in humidity, peaking at an impressive 93%. This rise follows a consistent pattern observed throughout the year, with humidity levels gradually declining from their early winter highs of 90% in January down to 68% in August. However, as autumn transitions into winter, the humidity begins to climb once again, culminating in December’s damp atmosphere. This cyclical trend reflects Orleans' temperate climate where cooler months tend to foster higher moisture levels, creating a distinct blend of crisp air and humidity that defines the city's winter months.

December Average Humidity in Orleans

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Orleans, with December's data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, allowing you to see how December's humidity levels compare to other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec90%88%85%84%83%79%71%68%76%87%91%93%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Orleans

In December, Orleans, France experiences a low UV Index of 1, indicating minimal risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, with a burn time of 45 minutes. This month marks a notable decrease in UV radiation compared to the preceding months, which see much higher values, particularly from May through August when the UV Index reaches as high as 9. As winter sets in, the sun's rays become less intense, prompting a decrease in recommended protective measures. This trend highlights the seasonal variation in sun exposure, making December a perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities without the immediate concern of sunburn. For more detailed information, check out the Orleans UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Orleans for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Orleans 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec235689986421
Data source: Orleans 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 Orleans

In Orleans, France, December bids farewell to the year with 166 hours of sunlight, marking a gentle decline as the days grow shorter. This month stands in stark contrast to the summer zenith of 416 hours in July, showcasing a seasonal shift that invites cozy indoor gatherings. Interestingly, December's sunshine is nearly double that of the cold, gray January, which only sees 130 hours. As we transition into the new year, Orleans wraps up a solar journey, where each month increasingly blossoms with light, peaking in June and July, before gracefully tapering off into the winter months. This rhythm of sunlight not only paints the seasonal landscape but also reflects the region's vibrant energy cycle, inviting all to appreciate the beauty of each moment in Orleans.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Orleans: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Orleans 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec130h206h271h354h390h406h416h384h325h264h208h166h
Data source: Orleans December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Orleans During December

In Orleans, France, the likelihood of enjoying sunny weather in December stands at 26%, mirroring the trend seen in November. Analyzing the months leading up to December, we observe a gradual increase in sunny days peaking in April at 60%, after which the chances steadily decline. While the brightness diminishes with the onset of winter, the preceding months, particularly March and April, offer a promising lead-up with 45% and 60% probabilities of sunshine, enticing those who might want to visit Orleans before the colder weather sets in. Overall, December beckons with its quaint charm, but visitors should prepare for a fair share of overcast skies.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Orleans

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Orleans 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 Orleans experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec15%28%45%60%34%39%38%39%45%45%26%26%
Data source: Orleans December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Orleans in December

As winter settles in, December in Orleans, France, marks a shift towards shorter days, with only 8 hours of daylight. This decrease follows a gradual decline from the sun-soaked heights of 15 hours in June, maintaining a steady decline through the autumn months of October and November. As daylight diminishes, the transition from the vibrancy of spring and summer becomes evident, painting a picture of a city enveloped in shorter, chillier days. The cycle of daylight serves as a gentle reminder of the seasonal changes, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying the warmth of indoor festivities during the holidays.

Average Daylight Hours in Orleans for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Orleans throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 52m10h 13m11h 55m13h 40m15h 10m15h 56m15h 32m14h 11m12h 31m10h 47m9h 15m8h 26m
Data source: Orleans daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Orleans

As December sweeps into Orleans, France, it brings with it an average wind speed of 4.2 m/s (9 mph), mirroring the breezy conditions of January and February. This consistency highlights a notable trend in the region's wind patterns as the year draws to a close. While spring and summer months like May briefly enjoy stronger gusts, with 4.6 m/s (10 mph), the overall climate shifts towards a gentler breeze in the warmer months. By December, the winter chill accompanied by a return to slightly brisker winds sets the stage for a cozy atmosphere, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the season's end with a refreshing touch of nature.

Average December Wind Speed in Orleans

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Orleans, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.24.24.03.84.62.73.73.63.03.83.44.2 m/s
Data source: Orleans December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Orleans Compares to Other Months

The weather in Orleans 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 Orleans and find detailed weather information for every month.

December and January weather can vary significantly despite being consecutive months in winter. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 16°C (60°F), with an average of 6°C (43°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 99 mm (3.9 in) over 18 days, and the humidity is quite high at 93%. In contrast, January sees slightly colder temperatures, with a minimum of -8°C (18°F) and a maximum of 15°C (59°F), averaging around 5°C (40°F). Additionally, precipitation drops to 61 mm (2.4 in) over just 10 days, and humidity decreases slightly to 90%. For more detailed insights, you can check this page: Orleans weather in January.

December and February exhibit distinct differences in weather patterns. In December, temperatures typically range from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 16°C (60°F), with an average of 6°C (43°F). This month experiences significant precipitation, with about 99 mm (3.9 in) falling over 18 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 93%.

In contrast, February's weather is colder, with minimum temperatures dropping to -11°C (13°F) while still reaching an average of 6°C (44°F) and peaking at 21°C (71°F). Precipitation is reduced to 65 mm (2.6 in) over 14 days, and humidity slightly decreases to 88%. This comparative analysis highlights the variations in temperature and precipitation, showcasing February as cooler and drier than December. For more information about February weather specifics, visit Orleans weather in February.

December weather tends to be milder with average temperatures around 6°C (43°F) and a maximum of 16°C (60°F), though it can drop as low as -4°C (25°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 99 mm (3.9 in) over 18 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 93%. In contrast, March showcases a wider temperature range, with averages rising to 8°C (48°F) and peaks reach 25°C (77°F), despite having a lower minimum temperature of -10°C (15°F). Precipitation decreases to 71 mm (2.8 in) over 13 days, leading to a somewhat drier atmosphere with humidity at 85%. For more detailed insights about weather patterns, you can check Orleans weather in March.

December and April present contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures typically range from a chilly -4°C (25°F) at night to a mild 16°C (60°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 6°C (43°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, averaging 99 mm (3.9 in) over 18 days, and high humidity levels at 93%.

In contrast, April brings milder temperatures, with nighttime lows also hitting -4°C (25°F) but daytime highs reaching up to 28°C (82°F), resulting in a more comfortable average of 11°C (53°F). Precipitation drops sharply to 33 mm (1.3 in), occurring over just 7 days, and humidity decreases to 83%. This shift marks a transition towards warmer, drier conditions heralding the arrival of spring. For more details on weather patterns during this time, check out Orleans weather in April.

December and May present starkly contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures can dip to a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and hover around an average of 6°C (43°F), with maximums reaching 16°C (60°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation at 99 mm (3.9 in) over 18 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 93%. In contrast, May brings milder conditions, with a minimum temperature around 1°C (33°F) and an average temperature of 15°C (59°F), peaking at a warm 31°C (88°F). Although May sees slightly less precipitation at 82 mm (3.2 in) over fewer days (13), the humidity is lower at 83%. For more details, you can check out Orleans weather in May.

December and June present stark contrasts in weather, showcasing the diversity of seasonal conditions. In December, temperatures drop to a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and typically reach an average of 6°C (43°F), with highs peaking at 16°C (60°F). The month is quite wet, experiencing 99 mm (3.9 in) of precipitation over 18 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 93%. In contrast, June features a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures around 7°C (45°F) and average highs soaring to 37°C (99°F), resulting in an average of 19°C (67°F). Precipitation decreases to 68 mm (2.7 in) over 11 days, and humidity drops to a more comfortable 79%. For more details on the pleasant June weather, you can visit Orleans weather in June.

December and July present stark contrasts in weather patterns. In December, temperatures can drop to a chilly minimum of -4°C (25°F), with an average of 6°C (43°F) and a maximum reaching only 16°C (60°F). The month is also marked by significant precipitation, totaling 99 mm (3.9 in) over about 18 days, paired with high humidity levels of 93%. In contrast, July boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (47°F), an average of 21°C (70°F), and extreme highs that can soar up to 41°C (106°F). The summer month experiences much lighter rainfall, accumulating only 49 mm (1.9 in) across just 7 days, alongside lower humidity at 71%. For a closer look at July's weather specifics, you can check Orleans weather in July.

December and August showcase stark contrasts in weather. In December, temperatures can dip as low as -4°C (25°F), with an average of 6°C (43°F) and highs reaching 16°C (60°F). This month is marked by significant rainfall, with 99 mm (3.9 in) spread over 18 days and high humidity at 93%. Conversely, August brings warmer temperatures, with lows of 7°C (44°F) and averages around 20°C (69°F), peaking at a scorching 37°C (99°F). The month is notably drier, receiving only 47 mm (1.8 in) of precipitation over just 8 days, and the humidity drops to a comfortable 68%. For more details on summer conditions, visit Orleans weather in August.

In comparing the weather of December and September, notable differences emerge. December typically sees lower temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and an average around 6°C (43°F), while September boasts milder conditions, starting at a minimum of 5°C (40°F) and reaching an average of 17°C (63°F). The peak temperatures in December cap at 16°C (60°F), significantly lower than September's maximum of 35°C (96°F). Precipitation also varies, with December experiencing 99 mm (3.9 in) over 18 days compared to September's 51 mm (2.0 in) over just 8 days, highlighting a wetter and more humid December with an average humidity of 93%, compared to September's 76%. For more detailed insights, check out Orleans weather in September.

December weather is notably colder than October, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -4°C (25°F) to a milder average of 6°C (43°F) compared to October's more temperate lows of 1°C (34°F) and highs reaching 27°C (81°F). The average temperature in October is significantly warmer at 13°C (55°F), making it a more pleasant month overall. Additionally, December experiences higher precipitation, with 99 mm (3.9 in) spread over 18 days, while October sees less rain at 75 mm (2.9 in) over 12 days. Humidity is also higher in December at 93%, compared to 87% in October. For more insights into October weather specifics, visit Orleans weather in October.

December weather tends to be colder and wetter compared to November. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 16°C (60°F), with an average temperature of 6°C (43°F). In contrast, November sees slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of -3°C (27°F) and a maximum of 20°C (68°F), averaging around 8°C (46°F). Additionally, December experiences more precipitation, with 99 mm (3.9 in) falling over 18 days, compared to November's 68 mm (2.7 in) over 12 days. Humidity levels also rise slightly in December to 93%, compared to 91% in November. For more detailed information on November’s weather, check out Orleans weather in November.

Compare Orleans's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Orleans

As December settles in, Orleans transforms into a chilly landscape, with average temperatures taking a notable dip compared to the milder autumn months. This month often witnesses frequent precipitation, resulting in a damp atmosphere accompanied by high humidity levels. Snowfall may grace the area, though rain remains more typical. With over half the days seeing some level of precipitation, December's weather is markedly more unsettled than other times of the year. For those looking to explore further into how Orleans' climate varies throughout the seasons, visit Orleans Climate.