Last updated: February 26, 2025
Essen, Germany, in December experiences a chilly climate characterized by an average temperature of 5°C (41°F), with nighttime lows dipping to -8°C (17°F). Daytime highs reach a moderate 14°C (58°F), making it essential to bundle up during outdoor activities. This month sees considerable precipitation, totaling 83 mm (3.3 in) over approximately 15 days, contributing to the often humid environment with humidity levels around 90%. The combination of cool temperatures and frequent rain makes December a cozy month ideal for enjoying the holiday season indoors while exploring the festive spirit of the city.
In Essen, Germany, December marks a notable transition into winter, with temperatures reflecting the chill of the season. The month begins with a minimum temperature dipping to -8°C (17°F), while the average settles at a modest 5°C (41°F). As the month progresses, daily highs reach up to 14°C (58°F), offering brief reprieves from the cold. This pattern showcases a consistent trend of low temperatures, typical for late autumn into winter in this region. With chilly nights and cool days, December's climate invites festive gatherings and cozy indoor activities, as the city prepares to embrace the frosty charm of winter.
December in Essen, Germany, wraps up the year with a notable precipitation increase, measuring 83 mm (3.3 in) over 15 days of rainfall. This marks a significant jump from November's 52 mm and 12 days of precipitation, suggesting a wetter end to the year. As temperatures drop, the shift in weather patterns becomes evident, contributing to the season's cozy yet damp atmosphere. December's rainfall is indicative of a trend toward increased moisture during the winter months, contrasting with the drier spells experienced earlier in the year. With the potential for snowy days, this month is a reminder of the region's diverse weather, making it a unique time for both residents and visitors.
In Essen, Germany, December wraps up the year with a notable humidity level of 90%, mirroring the moisture-laden air of November. As the winter months progress, humidity remains elevated, with January and February also showcasing high percentages of 91% and 89%, respectively. A gradual decline is evident from March’s 87%, leading to a drop in the warmer months where June and July hit a comfortable 66%. However, as autumn arrives, humidity climbs again, reaching 81% in September and spiking back close to winter levels by October. This cyclical pattern highlights Essen's transition from summer's drier air to late autumn and winter's enveloping moisture, creating a rich tapestry of seasonal humidity that characterizes the region's climate.
As December settles in Essen, Germany, the UV Index dips to a low level of 1, indicating minimal risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, with a recommended burn time of about 45 minutes. This trend of lower UV exposure continues from the chill of November, underscoring a seasonal pattern where the UV Index tends to be at its peak during the summer months, like June with a value of 8. As winter progresses, residents can enjoy outdoor activities without significant concern for sunburn, making December's mild exposure a welcomed reprieve. For detailed UV Index forecasts throughout the year, visit Essen UV Index.
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In Essen, Germany, December brings a gentle lull in sunshine, with only 119 hours of bright moments compared to the year's peak in May and June, which bask in nearly 400 hours of sunlight. This month, like the others in the final quarter, reflects a significant seasonal dip, continuing the trend from the previous months, as the city transitions from the vibrant glow of late spring and summer into the cool embrace of winter. The contrast is stark: after basking in the summer's brilliance, daylight hours wane, drawing to a close a year that witnessed a gradual ascent from January's mere 99 hours to the lush luminosity of mid-year. As December dims, it holds the promise of renewed light with the approach of a new year, making the return of longer days in January all the more anticipated.
In Essen, Germany, the likelihood of sunny weather in December is quite low, with only a 16% chance of sunshine. This follows a general downward trend as the year progresses, with sunny days peaking in the spring months of March (35%) and April (38%) before tapering off. By December, the bleak midwinter takes hold, and the chances of a sunny day dwindle significantly, representing one of the lowest probabilities in the year, particularly following the 18% chance observed in November. As winter deepens, residents and visitors alike should brace for overcast skies, making those rare sunny breaks a true delight.
As the year unfolds in Essen, Germany, a clear rhythm of daylight duration emerges, peaking in the long, sun-drenched days of summer. December marks a noticeable dip, where daylight shrinks to just 7 hours, the shortest of the year. This decline is part of a gradual transition beginning in November, which also experiences reduced sunlight at 8 hours. Following the brief winter days, daylight begins to lengthen again in January, progressively increasing through the months until June, when it reaches a generous 16 hours. The cycle continues with a gradual decrease into the fall months, ultimately returning to the low points of winter. This trend reflects not just the changing seasons, but also the ebb and flow of life in Essen, inviting residents to embrace the cozy charm of winter as they await the return of spring's light.
As December unfolds in Essen, Germany, the wind carries with it a sense of consistency, averaging 3.7 m/s (8 mph)—a figure reflective of much of the year. Interestingly, the wind speed during this final month mirrors that of several others throughout the seasons, particularly in January, March, May, and November. This steady breeze serves as a comforting reminder that as temperatures prepare to plunge, the winds remain remarkably stable. However, it’s worth noting the notable dip during the summer months, especially in June and September, where calming breezes drop to 2.5 m/s (6 mph) and 2.8 m/s (6 mph) respectively. As the year draws to a close, the winds of December pave the way for the quietude of winter, maintaining a gentle yet persistent presence across the landscape of Essen.
The weather in Essen 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 Essen and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January weather shows some similarities and a few notable differences. Both months experience a minimum temperature of -8°C (17°F), but January tends to be slightly colder on average, with an average temperature of 3°C (38°F) compared to December's 5°C (41°F). Both months have the same maximum temperature of 14°C (58°F). Precipitation in December is higher at 83 mm (3.3 in) over 15 days, while January sees a decrease to 65 mm (2.5 in) over 12 days. Humidity remains relatively high in both months, with January at 91% and December at 90%. For more detailed information about January weather in Essen, visit Essen weather in January.
December is characterized by milder temperatures compared to February, with average highs reaching 14°C (58°F) and lows around -8°C (17°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 83 mm (3.3 in) over roughly 15 days, alongside high humidity levels at 90%.
In contrast, February experiences colder minimum temperatures, dropping to -18°C (0°F) at night, though it can reach highs of 18°C (66°F) during the day. Precipitation decreases to 67 mm (2.6 in) over approximately 12 days, with humidity slightly lower at 89%.
For a more detailed look at February weather in Essen, check out Essen weather in February.
December weather is characterized by colder temperatures, with a minimum of -8°C (17°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F), contrasting with March, which sees milder conditions with a minimum of -11°C (13°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F). March experiences a wider range of maximum temperatures, reaching up to 22°C (71°F), compared to December's maximum of 14°C (58°F). While December has a higher total precipitation of 83 mm (3.3 in) over 15 days, March brings in slightly less at 70 mm (2.7 in) across 13 days. Humidity levels are also comparable, with December at 90% and March at 87%. For more detailed insights, check out Essen weather in March.
December and April present contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures typically range from a chilly -8°C (17°F) to a mild 14°C (58°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 83 mm (3.3 in) across about 15 days, and the humidity is quite high at 90%. In comparison, April experiences a more moderate climate, with temperatures ranging from -3°C (26°F) to a warm 28°C (83°F) and an average of 9°C (49°F). Precipitation is reduced to 41 mm (1.6 in) over only 9 days, and humidity is slightly lower at 82%. For a detailed look at the weather patterns, check out Essen weather in April.
December and May showcase contrasting weather patterns. December experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -8°C (17°F) and a maximum of 14°C (58°F), leading to a chilly average of 5°C (41°F). This winter month is characterized by high humidity at 90% and frequent precipitation over 15 days, accumulating to 83 mm (3.3 in). In comparison, May brings a significant warm-up with a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and a maximum reaching 32°C (91°F), resulting in a much milder average of 13°C (56°F). While May has slightly less precipitation at 58 mm (2.3 in) over 13 days, the humidity drops to a more comfortable 73%. For more detailed insights on this transition, you can refer to Essen weather in May.
December and June present contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures typically range from a chilly -8°C (17°F) to a mild 14°C (58°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 90% and considerable precipitation, averaging 83 mm (3.3 in) over 15 days. In stark contrast, June enjoys much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and a maximum that can soar to 35°C (95°F), averaging around 18°C (65°F). Precipitation is lower at 70 mm (2.7 in), occurring over a slightly shorter period of 11 days, and the humidity drops to a more comfortable 66%. For more specific insights on the June weather in Essen, you can check out Essen weather in June.
December and July present strikingly contrasting weather. In December, temperatures can drop to a minimum of -8°C (17°F) with an average of 5°C (41°F), while July typically enjoys much warmer conditions, starting at a minimum of 7°C (44°F) and averaging 18°C (66°F). Maximum temperatures in July can soar to 39°C (102°F), compared to December’s peak of 14°C (58°F). Although December sees a bit more precipitation with 83 mm (3.3 in) over about 15 days, July is not far behind with 81 mm (3.2 in) across 13 days. Additionally, December is characterized by higher humidity at 90%, while July's humidity is relatively lower at 66%. For a detailed look at weather patterns during July, check out Essen weather in July.
December and August present strikingly different weather contrasts. In December, temperatures can plunge to a chilling low of -8°C (17°F), with an average of around 5°C (41°F) and highs reaching 14°C (58°F). This month also sees considerable precipitation, totaling 83 mm (3.3 in) over 15 days, coupled with a high humidity of 90%, creating a damp, cold atmosphere. In contrast, August enjoys milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 36°C (97°F) and an average of 19°C (66°F). The precipitation is slightly lower at 77 mm (3.0 in), spread over 14 days, and with a more comfortable humidity level of 67%. For a more detailed look at August weather, you can check out Essen weather in August.
December weather is significantly colder and wetter compared to September. While December sees temperatures ranging from a frigid -8°C (17°F) to a mild 14°C (58°F), September enjoys a much warmer climate with temperatures fluctuating between 3°C (38°F) and a peak of 31°C (88°F). Additionally, December experiences more precipitation, averaging 83 mm over 15 days, whereas September has less rain, with 59 mm falling over 11 days. The humidity is also higher in December at 90%, compared to September's 81%. For more details on September weather, you can check Essen weather in September.
December weather is characterized by colder temperatures, with a minimum of -8°C (17°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F), compared to October’s milder range, where temperatures can drop to -1°C (31°F) and reach a much warmer average of 12°C (53°F). Both months experience similar levels of precipitation, with December seeing 83 mm (3.3 in) over 15 days and October slightly higher at 86 mm (3.4 in) across 14 days. Humidity levels are also noteworthy, with December typically at 90%, reflecting the chillier air, while October maintains a lower humidity at 86%. For a detailed look at October weather, please visit Essen weather in October.
In comparing the weather patterns of December and November, we can see notable differences. December experiences colder temperatures with a minimum dropping to -8°C (17°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F), while November has a milder minimum of -2°C (28°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F). The maximum temperature in December also reaches lower levels, peaking at 14°C (58°F), compared to November's maximum of 19°C (67°F). Precipitation is higher in December, totaling 83 mm (3.3 in) over 15 days, compared to November's 52 mm (2.0 in) across 12 days. Interestingly, both months share the same high humidity level at 90%. For more detailed insights, you can check out the Essen weather in November.
As December arrives in Essen, the weather shifts noticeably from the milder months, with temperatures dipping significantly and the chill becoming more prominent. With an average temperature of 5°C, residents experience a cooler environment, while chilly nights can bring temperatures down to -8°C. Precipitation is more frequent, with about half the month seeing rain, contributing to a higher humidity level of 90%. These conditions create a stark contrast to the preceding months, marking December as a time of transformation in the region's climate. For a deeper insight into Essen's overall climate trends, be sure to check Essen Climate.