Last updated: February 26, 2025
December in Espelette, France offers a unique blend of mild and chilly weather, with maximum temperatures reaching 19°C (67°F) while averaging around 8°C (47°F). As the month progresses, nighttime can get quite cold, dipping to a minimum of -3°C (27°F). Visitors should be prepared for the wet conditions, as the region experiences 200 mm (7.9 in) of precipitation over about 15 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 87%. This combination of cool temperatures and regular rain creates a cozy atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the charm of this Basque town during the festive season.
In December, temperatures in Espelette, France, reflect the town's gradual shift into winter. With a minimum of -3°C (27°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F), the weather is noticeably cooler compared to the milder months preceding it. Despite the chill, daytime highs can still reach a comfortable 19°C (67°F), offering a pleasant respite from the cold mornings and evenings. This month marks a transition where the crisp air invites cozy gatherings and festive celebrations, as locals embrace the beauty of winter in this charming Basque region. As the year draws to a close, the temperatures hint at the character of the upcoming winter months, shaping the experience of visitors and residents alike.
December marks a significant uptick in precipitation for Espelette, France, with 200 mm (7.9 in) of rainfall recorded over 15 days. This makes it the wettest month of the year, surpassing November’s already substantial 167 mm (6.6 in) across 17 days. The trend of increasing rainfall as the year progresses becomes particularly pronounced during the winter months, as temperatures drop and atmospheric conditions shift. As December closes the year, its generous share of rain not only enhances the lush, green landscapes characteristic of the region but also sets the stage for a vibrant and life-filled spring ahead.
In December, Espelette experiences a slight uptick in humidity, reaching 87%, which is the highest level recorded for the year. As the year progresses, a noticeable trend emerges; humidity steadily decreases from the early months, peaking in January at 86% and then gradually declining to its lowest point in September at 75%. However, this trend reverses as the year closes, with humidity levels rising again towards the winter months. The return to higher humidity in December, following a mid-year dip, not only reflects the cooler and often wetter conditions of winter but also sets the stage for a fresh start in the upcoming year, emphasizing the region's ever-changing climate.
In December, Espelette experiences a low UV Index of 2, making sun exposure relatively safe with a burn time of 45 minutes for fair-skinned individuals. This decrease follows a peak during the summer months, where the UV Index soared to 10 in June and July, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the year transitions into winter, individuals can enjoy outdoors with less concern, as the UV levels drop back towards the low exposure category. To stay informed throughout the year, check the detailed Espelette UV Index for optimal sun safety tips and trends.
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December in Espelette, France, heralds the beginning of winter with 206 hours of sunshine, marking a gentle decline as the year draws to a close. While this is less than the vibrant glow of earlier months, it still showcases a significant amount of light compared to the coldest days of January with just 171 hours. Interestingly, December offers a cozy contrast to the sun-drenched summer months, peaking in July with 401 hours. As the days shorten, Espelette transitions from the lively brightness of summer, through the crisp autumn, to a subdued yet serene December, hinting at the promise of renewal as the cycle of sunshine prepares to begin anew in the coming year.
In Espelette, France, December brings a noteworthy chance of sunshine, with 34% likelihood that the sun will grace the skies. This marks a significant increase compared to the preceding months, especially November, which sees a mere 18% chance. As the year winds down, the likelihood of sunny weather in December stands out from the otherwise dreary winter months. Interestingly, while the chances dip notably from the brighter spring months of March and April, December surprisingly rivals the summer months of July and August, which hover around the lower 30s. Overall, while the cold may set in, December offers a promising glimpse of sunlight in the otherwise cloudy landscape of the year.
In Espelette, France, daylight duration exhibits a captivating seasonal rhythm. Starting the year with 9 hours of daylight in January, the days gradually lengthen, peaking at 15 hours in June, inviting longer evenings and outdoor activities. As summer transitions into fall, the daylight begins its descent, dropping to 14 hours in July and gradually shortening to 9 hours again by December. This cyclical pattern reflects the natural ebb and flow of light, showcasing the stark contrasts of each season in this picturesque region. Even in December, with its 9 hours of daylight, the cozy ambiance invites a reflective and festive spirit as the year draws to a close.
As December rolls into Espelette, France, the wind begins to pick up slightly, averaging 3.3 m/s (7 mph), compared to the calmer months that preceded it. This seasonal shift marks a noticeable increase from the gentle breezes of late autumn, with November's average wind speed at 2.4 m/s (5 mph). The trend of fluctuating wind speeds throughout the year suggests that the winter months often bring a refreshing vigor to the air, while the summer heat is characterized by milder gusts hovering around 2.1 m/s (5 mph). As the year draws to a close, the December winds invigorate the landscape, enhancing the charm of this picturesque French town as it prepares for the holiday season.
The weather in Espelette 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 Espelette and find detailed weather information for every month.
December weather features a slightly warmer average temperature of 8°C (47°F) with maximums reaching up to 19°C (67°F), while January sees a drop to an average of 6°C (43°F) and a high of 20°C (68°F). Both months experience a significant amount of precipitation, with December recording 200 mm (7.9 in) over 15 days, compared to January's 130 mm (5.1 in) across 14 days. Humidity levels remain relatively constant, with December at 87% and January slightly lower at 86%. For more details about January weather, check out Espelette weather in January.
December generally experiences milder temperatures with an average of 8°C (47°F), while February sees similar temperatures but with a slightly lower minimum of -6°C (21°F). Precipitation levels in December are notably higher at 200 mm (7.9 in) compared to February's 115 mm (4.5 in), with December also having more days of rainfall at 15 days versus 13 days in February. Humidity levels are slightly higher in December at 87%, making the winter feel more rigid. For more detailed insights into February weather, you can refer to Espelette weather in February.
In December, temperatures typically range from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 19°C (67°F), with an average of 8°C (47°F). The month is characterized by high humidity levels at 87% and substantial precipitation of 200 mm (7.9 in) over about 15 days. In contrast, March sees slightly higher temperatures, with a minimum of -3°C (26°F) and a maximum of 25°C (77°F), resulting in an average of 10°C (50°F). Although March has lower total precipitation at 121 mm (4.8 in) across 16 days, the humidity remains relatively high at 82%. For a more detailed look at the March climate, you can explore Espelette weather in March.
When comparing the weather in December and April, there's a notable shift in both temperature and precipitation. December typically experiences cooler temperatures with a minimum of -3°C (27°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F), reaching a maximum of 19°C (67°F). This month also sees significant rainfall, totaling 200 mm (7.9 inches) over approximately 15 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 87%. In contrast, April offers a milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (30°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), averaging 12°C (53°F). Precipitation in April is less intense at 113 mm (4.4 inches) across about 14 days, and humidity decreases slightly to 81%. This seasonal transition highlights the warming trend and reduced precipitation as spring arrives. For more detailed information, check out Espelette weather in April.
December and May present contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 19°C (67°F), with an average of 8°C (47°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling about 200 mm (7.9 in) over 15 days, and a high humidity level of 87%. In contrast, May brings a milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F) and an average of 15°C (59°F). Although May sees slightly less rainfall, with 132 mm (5.2 in) over 17 days, it maintains a lower humidity level of 80%. For more information on the weather specifics during May, check out Espelette weather in May.
In December, the weather is much cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a comfortable maximum of 19°C (67°F). The average temperature sits at 8°C (47°F), and the month experiences significant precipitation of 200 mm (7.9 in) over 15 days, combined with high humidity levels at 87%. In contrast, June brings warmer conditions, where temperatures range from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 35°C (95°F), with an average of 18°C (64°F). Precipitation decreases to 130 mm (5.1 in) over the same number of days, and humidity is slightly lower at 81%. For a closer look at the weather in June, you can check Espelette weather in June.
December and July present contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -3°C (27°F) at night to a mild 19°C (67°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 8°C (47°F). This month sees significant rainfall, accumulating to 200 mm (7.9 in) over 15 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 87%. In stark contrast, July boasts much warmer temperatures, with nighttime lows of 10°C (51°F) and soaring daytime highs of up to 37°C (100°F), averaging around 19°C (67°F). Precipitation in July is significantly lower at 101 mm (4.0 in) over 13 days, with a slightly lower humidity of 80%. For more detailed information on July conditions, you can check Espelette weather in July.
December and August present contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures can dip to a chilly minimum of -3°C (27°F), with an average of 8°C (47°F) and a maximum of 19°C (67°F), making it a much colder month. Precipitation is significant, with about 200 mm (7.9 in) over 15 days and high humidity levels at 87%. In contrast, August offers a much warmer climate with minimum temperatures around 10°C (50°F), averaging 20°C (68°F), and peaking at 35°C (95°F). It's generally drier, receiving only 100 mm (3.9 in) of rainfall across 12 days, and the humidity is relatively lower at 76%. For more details on August weather, check out Espelette weather in August.
In December, the weather in Espelette presents a stark contrast to September. While September enjoys milder temperatures with average highs reaching 33°C (92°F) and lows around 6°C (44°F), December's temperatures drop significantly, with average highs only peaking at 19°C (67°F) and lows dipping to -3°C (27°F). Additionally, December is notably wetter, with precipitation measuring 200 mm (7.9 in) over approximately 15 days, compared to September's more moderate 91 mm (3.6 in) across 13 days. The humidity also rises in December, averaging 87%, compared to 75% in September. For a detailed look at September's weather, you can visit Espelette weather in September.
In comparing the weather of December and October, December tends to be significantly colder and wetter. The average temperature in December is around 8°C (47°F), with nighttime lows dropping to -3°C (27°F), while October boasts a milder average of 14°C (58°F) with highs reaching 27°C (81°F). Additionally, December experiences more precipitation, totaling 200 mm (7.9 in) over about 15 days, compared to October's 117 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days. The humidity is also higher in December at 87% compared to October's 81%. For a closer look at October's climate, you can visit Espelette weather in October.
In comparing the weather between November and December, December tends to be slightly colder, with an average temperature of 8°C (47°F), compared to November's average of 10°C (50°F). Additionally, December experiences more precipitation, totaling 200 mm (7.9 in) over 15 days, while November sees 167 mm (6.6 in) across 17 days. Humidity levels remain relatively high in both months, with December at 87% and November slightly lower at 85%. Overall, December presents a chillier and wetter climate, making it distinct from the milder conditions typical of November. For more detailed insights, you can check Espelette weather in November.
December in Espelette presents a striking contrast to other months, as temperatures dip significantly, creating a much chillier atmosphere. With the average temperature hovering around 8°C (47°F), winter firmly establishes itself, making it an ideal time to embrace cozy delights such as hot drinks and festive gatherings. The month is marked by increased rainfall, averaging around 200 mm over about 15 days, contributing to the lush, wintery landscape that characterizes this season. High humidity levels at 87% add to the brisk ambiance, making bundling up a necessity. For those curious about what to expect throughout the year, this month's unique traits stand out sharply against Espelette’s monthly climate profile. For more detailed insights, visit Espelette Climate.