Last updated: February 26, 2025
December in Dortmund, Germany is marked by a blend of brisk temperatures and ample precipitation. With maximums reaching 15°C (59°F) and dipping as low as -7°C (20°F), the month showcases an average temperature of 5°C (40°F). Visitors can expect 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain spread over 19 days, contributing to a damp atmosphere enveloped by 92% humidity. This chilly yet vibrant month invites both locals and tourists to embrace the festive spirit while navigating the occasional drizzle.
In December, Dortmund experiences a chill that signals the heart of winter, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a comfortable maximum of 15°C (59°F). This contrasts sharply with the milder conditions that precede it, as the average temperature hovers around 5°C (40°F). As the month progresses, the crisp air is perfect for cozying up in local cafes or wandering through festive markets, savoring warm treats. Notably, the December chill, while colder than its autumn predecessors, prepares the city for the serene beauty of winter, making it a wonderful time to explore Dortmund's charming holiday atmosphere.
In Dortmund, Germany, December emerges as the wettest month of the year, showcasing a significant leap in precipitation with 104 mm (4.1 in) accumulated over 19 days. This increase reflects a notable trend as the city transitions from the comparatively drier November, which experienced 59 mm (2.3 in) across 13 days. The rise in precipitation in December highlights a shift towards the colder months, where moisture-laden systems dominate. With frequent rain showers contributing to the month’s totals, residents are greeted by a chill in the air and the vibrant sights of winter, capturing the essence of Dortmund’s seasonal weather pattern.
As December arrives in Dortmund, Germany, the humidity levels reach a peak of 92%, marking it as the month's most humid period of the year. This increase continues a trend seen from November, which also recorded a high humidity of 91%. The winter months generally showcase elevated humidity levels, with January and February close behind at 91% and 90%, respectively. Interestingly, the summer months display a gradual decline, with July and August witnessing the lowest humidity levels at around 72% and 71%. Overall, the transition from the warm, drier summer months to the cooler, moister winter months clearly underscores the seasonal shifts in Dortmund's climate.
As December rolls into Dortmund, Germany, residents can enjoy a reprieve from intense sun exposure, with the UV Index reverting to 1—characterized as low. This decline in UV levels mirrors the pattern seen in previous winter months, with consistent burn times of 45 minutes allowing for leisurely outdoor activities without the worry of overexposure. Following a summer where the UV Index peaked at 8, this gentle drop signals a time for layers and cozy pursuits, marking a stark contrast to the previous very high levels. For those keen on making the most of the outdoor charm this December, it’s a perfect opportunity to bask in the moderate winter sunlight. For more detailed information on UV levels throughout the year, check out the Dortmund UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In December, Dortmund experiences a notable dip in sunshine hours, with a modest 115 hours illuminating the city as winter fully sets in. This marks a significant decrease from the 200s in late autumn, following a gradual decline from a peak of 403 hours in July. As the year winds down, the changing light not only highlights the cozy atmosphere of the holiday season but also reflects the broader trend of reduced daylight in the colder months. Despite the shorter days, Dortmund's festive charm shines through, encouraging residents and visitors alike to embrace the warmth and joy that comes with this time of year.
As December rolls into Dortmund, Germany, the likelihood of basking in sunny weather diminishes significantly, with a mere 15% chance of sunshine. This stark decrease follows a gradual decline from the more favorable conditions of earlier months, where March peaks at 38% and even November offers a 20% chance of clear skies. The trend suggests that as the year winds down, cloudy and rainy days increasingly dominate, enveloping the city in a rather dreary atmosphere. Only the most optimistic can hold out hope for sporadic sunlight in this final month of the year, as winter firmly takes hold.
As December arrives in Dortmund, Germany, daylight hours dwindle to just 7 hours, marking the month's shortest days. This decline in sunlight is a stark contrast to the vibrant 16 hours experienced during the mid-summer months of June and July. The gradual reduction of daylight from the crisp 8 hours in November reflects the transition into winter, leaving the city bathed in twilight much earlier in the evening. Following a steady upward trend from January’s mere 8 hours towards the lush lengths of spring and summer, daylight duration begins its descent again in autumn. This cyclical dance of light not only influences the daily rhythm but also sets the stage for the cozy, reflective atmosphere that December embodies in Dortmund.
As the year draws to a close, December in Dortmund greets residents with a gentle breeze, characterized by an average wind speed of 3.9 m/s (9 mph). This month brings a slight uptick from the more subdued conditions of November, which recorded 3.4 m/s (8 mph). The trend shows a gradual increase in wind speeds as the seasons transition, peaking in October at 4.4 m/s (10 mph), before tapering off slightly in the chill of winter. While December's winds may not be the strongest, they contribute to the crisp atmosphere that envelops the city, hinting at the promise of a fresh start with the coming New Year.
The weather in Dortmund 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 Dortmund and find detailed weather information for every month.
In December, temperatures vary from a chilly minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a milder maximum of 15°C (59°F), with an average of 5°C (40°F). The month sees notable precipitation of 104 mm (4.1 in) over 19 days, along with high humidity levels at 92%. In contrast, January is slightly colder, featuring a minimum temperature of -9°C (16°F) and a slightly lower maximum of 14°C (57°F), resulting in an average of 3°C (38°F). Precipitation decreases to 78 mm (3.1 in) over 14 days, and humidity remains relatively constant at 91%. For more detailed information, you can visit Dortmund weather in January.
December and February present distinct weather characteristics, highlighting the transitional nature of winter. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 15°C (59°F), with an average of 5°C (40°F). The month typically sees around 104 mm (4.1 in) of precipitation over 19 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 92%.
In contrast, February experiences colder nights with minimum temperatures dropping to -16°C (3°F), while the daytime average remains similar at around 4°C (40°F). The month is slightly drier, with 84 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation collected over 13 days, resulting in a lower humidity rate of 90%. For a detailed view of February conditions, you can visit Dortmund weather in February.
December and March present distinct weather patterns, each marked by their own characteristics. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a moderate maximum of 15°C (59°F), with an average temperature of 5°C (40°F). The month brings considerable precipitation, totaling 104 mm (4.1 in) over about 19 days, accompanied by high humidity levels around 92%.
In contrast, March shows slightly cooler minimum temperatures around -9°C (16°F), but an increase in the maximum temperature, reaching up to 22°C (72°F) with an average of 6°C (44°F). Precipitation decreases to 85 mm (3.4 in) over approximately 15 days, and humidity is also lower at 87%. This shift in weather marks the transition from winter to spring, offering a glimpse of warmer days ahead. For more detailed insights, you can check out Dortmund weather in March.
In December, the weather tends to be quite cold, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 15°C (59°F) and an average of 5°C (40°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 92% and considerable precipitation, totaling 104 mm (4.1 in) across 19 days. In stark contrast, April brings a notable rise in temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (25°F), an average of 10°C (50°F), and a maximum soaring to 28°C (82°F). Precipitation decreases significantly to 39 mm (1.6 in) over just 9 days, and humidity levels lower to 84%. This shift from December's chill to April's milder and more vibrant conditions highlights the transition from winter to spring. For more detailed insights, you can check out Dortmund weather in April.
When comparing the weather in December and May, notable differences can be observed in temperature and precipitation. December experiences much colder conditions, with average temperatures ranging from a chilling -7°C (20°F) to a milder 15°C (59°F), and higher humidity levels at 92%. In contrast, May brings a significant warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 33°C (91°F) and a lower humidity at 77%. Additionally, December sees more precipitation over a greater number of days (104 mm over 19 days) compared to May's 73 mm over 13 days. For more details, you can check Dortmund weather in May.
December and June present starkly contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -7°C (20°F) and rarely peak beyond 15°C (59°F), with an average of 5°C (40°F). The month also experiences higher precipitation levels, totaling 104 mm (4.1 in) over approximately 19 days, coupled with a high humidity of 92%. In contrast, June offers a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (43°F) to a maximum of 35°C (95°F) and an average of 18°C (66°F). Precipitation is lower, at 70 mm (2.7 in), occurring over just 10 days, and humidity drops to a more comfortable 74%. For a detailed look at June's weather, check out Dortmund weather in June.
When comparing the weather in December and July, it's clear that the two months offer vastly different experiences. December is characterized by colder temperatures, with a minimum of -7°C (20°F) and an average of 5°C (40°F), while July boasts much warmer conditions, featuring a minimum of 8°C (47°F) and an average of 19°C (66°F). Precipitation is relatively consistent across both months, with December receiving 104 mm (4.1 in) over 19 days, compared to July's 98 mm (3.9 in) spread over 14 days. Additionally, humidity levels in December are significantly higher at 92%, creating a damp and chilly atmosphere, while July sees a more comfortable 72% humidity. For a more detailed look at the warm summer conditions, you can check out Dortmund weather in July.
December and August in Dortmund present a stark contrast in weather. December temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a mild maximum of 15°C (59°F), averaging around 5°C (40°F). The month sees considerable precipitation, with 104 mm (4.1 in) falling over 19 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 92%. In contrast, August boasts a much warmer climate, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 7°C (46°F) and peaking at a sizzling 36°C (97°F), averaging 19°C (66°F). Precipitation is lower in August at 82 mm (3.2 in) across 15 days, and humidity is notably reduced at 71%. For more detailed information about August weather, you can visit Dortmund weather in August.
In comparing the weather conditions of December and September, we see significant differences in temperature and precipitation. December experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -7°C (20°F) and an average of 5°C (40°F), while September boasts milder conditions, ranging from a minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F) and an average of 15°C (59°F). Precipitation levels also differ, with December receiving 104 mm (4.1 in) over 19 days, compared to September's 68 mm (2.7 in) over 11 days. Additionally, December's humidity is notably higher at 92%, compared to September's 81%, contributing to a much chillier and damp atmosphere. For more details, check out Dortmund weather in September.
In comparing the weather of December and October, there are notable differences in temperature and humidity. December sees much colder conditions, with average temperatures around 5°C (40°F) and minimums dropping to -7°C (20°F), while October enjoys milder weather, boasting an average of 12°C (53°F) and maximums reaching 26°C (80°F). Precipitation is slightly more frequent in December, with 104 mm (4.1 in) over 19 days, compared to October's 95 mm (3.7 in) over 15 days. Additionally, December's humidity is higher at 92%, compared to October's 88%. For a more detailed look at October weather, you can visit Dortmund weather in October.
In comparing the weather between November and December, we see a notable shift in temperatures and precipitation patterns. December experiences colder minimum temperatures, dipping to -7°C (20°F) compared to November's -5°C (23°F), while the average for December is slightly lower at 5°C (40°F) versus November's 7°C (44°F). The maximum temperatures in December reach up to 15°C (59°F), which is cooler than November’s high of 19°C (67°F). Precipitation also increases significantly in December, with 104 mm (4.1 in) over 19 days, contrasting with November's 59 mm (2.3 in) over 13 days. Humidity remains relatively high in both months, with December at 92% and November at 91%. For more detailed insights, you can check the Dortmund weather in November.
As December approaches in Dortmund, the weather takes a distinct turn, offering a unique charm compared to other months. Temperatures tend to dip, with averages hovering around a cool 5°C, and chilly nights can bring temperatures as low as -7°C. While the city experiences significant rain during this month, with nearly 104 mm of precipitation over approximately two-thirds of the days, the high humidity at 92% gives it a notably damp feel. December's climate marks a stark contrast to the milder, drier conditions of autumn and the more temperate spring, inviting visitors to embrace the cozy allure of winter festivities. For a deeper understanding of how Dortmund's weather varies throughout the year, explore the details at Dortmund Climate.