Last updated: March 17, 2025
In December, Grindavik, Iceland experiences a chilly climate characterized by a maximum temperature of 10°C (49°F) and a minimum of -4°C (25°F), averaging around 3°C (38°F). This month is notably damp, with precipitation reaching 127 mm (5.0 in) over approximately 18 days, contributing to a humidity level of 80%. While the cold may deter some, the unique winter landscape and the mesmerizing Northern Lights offer a captivating experience for those who embrace the chill.
As winter settles in, Grindavik, Iceland experiences an array of chilly temperatures in December. The month typically brings a minimum of -4°C (25°F), balancing out with an average of 3°C (38°F) and peaking at 10°C (49°F). This pattern reflects a broader trend observed from late autumn into winter—temperatures steadily dip, dropping from the milder figures of November. Despite the cold, December's temperatures create a backdrop for Iceland's breathtaking winter landscapes, inviting visitors to enjoy the cozy charm of this unique town. With minimal fluctuations, December's weather foreshadows the consistent chill that characterizes the heart of Icelandic winters.
In December, Grindavik, Iceland experiences a notable continuation of its wet winter season, with precipitation reaching 127 mm (5.0 in) over the course of 18 days. This marks a slight decrease from November's totals, contributing to the area's overall winter climate characterized by frequent rainfall. As the year draws to a close, the precipitation levels in Grindavik remain relatively high, paralleling the trend observed in earlier months like September, which recorded the highest monthly rainfall. The consistency of rainy days continues to reflect the region's maritime climate, ensuring that the landscape remains lush and vibrant even in the heart of winter. With precipitation fluctuating only slightly across the months, it’s clear that Grindavik's weather is shaped by the persistent influence of the North Atlantic, providing a dynamically engaging environment to experience during this season.
In Grindavik, Iceland, December ushers in a humidity level of 80%, maintaining a consistent trend observed throughout the year. The moisture in the air reaches its peak during the summer months, with July and August peaking at 87% and 88%, respectively. Following this peak, the humidity gently tapers off as autumn transitions into winter, with November still offering a relatively high 81%. By December, the humidity stabilizes, indicating that while it may feel cooler, the air remains rich with moisture. Notably, this seasonal pattern reveals that the area's climate is characterized by high humidity, especially evident during the warmer months, contributing to the ethereal landscapes that define this intriguing Icelandic town.
In Grindavik, Iceland, the UV Index remains consistently low in December, registering at 1, much like the preceding months of November, January, and February. This low exposure category means that residents and visitors can enjoy the serene winter landscape without the worry of quick sunburn, with a safe burn time of 45 minutes. As we transition through the year, we observe a gradual increase in UV levels starting from March, peaking in the summer months of June and July, where the Index hits 6. This seasonal variation highlights the significance of UV awareness, particularly during sunnier periods, while December's mild exposure invites individuals to revel in winter activities without the heightened risk of UV damage. For detailed insights into the UV Index throughout the year, explore Grindavik UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In the quaint town of Grindavik, Iceland, December brings a stark contrast to the brighter months of the year, with a mere 31 hours of sunshine. This drop is part of a broader trend, as the days grow shorter and winter tightens its grip. Following a gradual increase in daylight from January's 45 hours to a peak of 336 hours in June, the sun’s presence wanes significantly by late fall. After November's brief respite with 78 hours, December serves as a reminder of the long, dark winter evenings ahead. The cyclical nature of sunshine in Grindavik highlights not only the beauty of summer's abundance but also the tranquil stillness that winter embraces—a unique charm of this rugged Icelandic landscape.
In December, Grindavik, Iceland experiences a 21% chance of sunny weather, marking a slight dip from the previous month's 23%. As winter settles in, the likelihood of sun is considerably lower than the sunnier months of May, which boasts a bright 49%, and even April at 25%. This trend highlights the challenges of winter weather in Iceland, where sunlight becomes a precious commodity. The overall decrease in sunny days from early fall through winter illustrates the region's transition into its darker, colder season, and underscores the importance of embracing the unique beauty of December's frosty landscape, even when the sun is elusive.
As the year winds down, December in Grindavik, Iceland, brings a noticeable shift in daylight, offering only 4 hours of light. This is a stark contrast to the blissful 20 hours experienced in June, showcasing the region's dramatic seasonal changes. After basking in the abundant sunlight of spring and the endless days of summer, the transition through autumn sees daylight gradually decrease, plummeting from 18 hours in May to just a few fleeting hours by December. With darkness enveloping the town shortly after midday, December invites a quieter, introspective mood, encouraging locals and visitors alike to embrace the unique beauty of Icelandic winter nights.
In December, Grindavik, Iceland experiences a notable shift in wind dynamics as the year draws to a close. With an average wind speed of 7.6 m/s (17 mph), December maintains a consistently brisk pace comparable to earlier months such as October and September, yet it marks a clear departure from the higher velocities seen at the beginning of the year. The wind speeds gradually decline from their peak in January and February, which both boast 9.1 m/s (20 mph), showcasing a trend of diminishing gusts as the seasons change. While December remains vibrant with energy in its winds, it exemplifies the transition into winter, where the crisp air and swirling breezes create a captivating atmosphere unique to this time of year in Iceland.
The weather in Grindavik 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 Grindavik and find detailed weather information for every month.
In December, temperatures typically range from a chilly -4°C (25°F) at night to a mild 10°C (49°F) during the day, with an average temperature of around 3°C (38°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 127 mm (5.0 in) over 18 days, and the humidity hovers around 80%. In comparison, January sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -5°C (23°F) and a similar maximum of 10°C (50°F), maintaining an average temperature comparable to December's at 3°C (37°F). The precipitation in January is slightly less at 124 mm (4.9 in), but still occurs over 18 days, with consistent humidity levels of 80%. For a closer look at January's conditions, visit Grindavik weather in January.
December and February both showcase cold winter temperatures, but February tends to be slightly chillier overall. In December, the temperature ranges from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 10°C (49°F) with an average of 3°C (38°F). In contrast, February features even colder temperatures, with a minimum of -8°C (19°F) and a maximum of 9°C (48°F), while the average remains steady at 3°C (37°F). Precipitation remains substantial in both months, with December recording 127 mm (5.0 in) over 18 days and February slightly higher at 138 mm (5.4 in) over 20 days. The humidity is also slightly lower in February at 77% compared to December's 80%. For more detailed weather insights, check out Grindavik weather in February.
December and March exhibit similar average temperatures, both hovering around 3°C (38°F), with minimum temperatures dropping to -4°C (25°F) in both months. However, March is slightly cooler overall, with a maximum temperature of 8°C (47°F) compared to December's 10°C (49°F). In terms of precipitation, December experiences slightly more rainfall (127 mm or 5.0 in) over 18 days, while March sees 119 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation spread over 20 days, resulting in a slightly wetter month. Humidity is also comparable, with December at 80% and March slightly higher at 82%. For more detailed information, you can view the Grindavik weather in March.
December and April weather exhibit some notable differences, despite their similar maximum temperatures. In December, temperatures range from a low of -4°C (25°F) to a high of 10°C (49°F), averaging around 3°C (38°F). This month sees about 127 mm (5.0 inches) of precipitation spread over 18 days, with humidity consistently around 80%. In contrast, April has a slightly cooler minimum temperature of -6°C (21°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F), with similar maximum temperatures of 10°C (51°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 134 mm (5.3 inches) over 19 days, maintaining the same high humidity level of 80%. For more detailed information about the weather during this month, visit Grindavik weather in April.
In December, temperatures can dip as low as -4°C (25°F) and typically hover around an average of 3°C (38°F), reaching a maximum of 10°C (49°F). The month is relatively wet, with about 127 mm (5.0 in) of precipitation over 18 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, May brings milder conditions with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to an average of 7°C (44°F) and a maximum of 12°C (54°F). Although precipitation is slightly lower in May at 113 mm (4.4 in) over 16 days, humidity remains high at 85%. For more detailed information, check out Grindavik weather in May.
In December, the weather tends to be much colder with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 10°C (49°F), averaging around 3°C (38°F). This month also sees considerable precipitation, with 127 mm (5.0 in) spread over 18 days and an average humidity of 80%. In contrast, June experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and a maximum of 15°C (58°F), averaging 9°C (48°F). Precipitation is lower in June at 82 mm (3.2 in) over 15 days, accompanied by slightly higher humidity at 85%. For a more detailed look at what to expect during this time, check out Grindavik weather in June.
When comparing the weather in December and July, notable differences emerge. December experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and an average around 3°C (38°F), while July enjoys milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (44°F) to a maximum of 18°C (65°F). Precipitation is more significant in December, with 127 mm (5.0 in) over 18 days, compared to July's 77 mm (3.0 in) over 16 days. Additionally, humidity is slightly higher in July at 87%, compared to December's 80%, making the summer month feel more muggy. For more details, you can check Grindavik weather in July.
In December, temperatures tend to be much colder, with a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and an average of 3°C (38°F), reaching a maximum of 10°C (49°F). The month is marked by significant precipitation, totaling 127 mm (5.0 in) over 18 days, coupled with a humidity level of 80%. In contrast, August offers a milder experience, with minimum temperatures at 7°C (46°F), an average of 11°C (52°F), and a maximum of 15°C (59°F). Precipitation in August is lower, at 88 mm (3.5 in) across 13 days, while humidity slightly increases to 88%. For more detailed information, you can check Grindavik weather in August.
When comparing the weather in December and September, it's clear that both months have their unique characteristics. December is generally colder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 10°C (49°F), while September's temperatures are milder, averaging from 2°C (35°F) to 13°C (56°F). Precipitation is also notable in both months; December sees about 127 mm (5.0 in) over 18 days, whereas September experiences slightly higher precipitation of 159 mm (6.2 in) across 20 days. Additionally, September has a slightly higher humidity level at 85% compared to December's 80%. For more details about the weather during September, you can check Grindavik weather in September.
December tends to be colder than October, with average temperatures dropping from 7°C (44°F) in October to a chillier 3°C (38°F) in December. The minimum temperatures in December can plunge to -4°C (25°F), compared to just -1°C (31°F) in October. Despite a similar level of precipitation—127 mm (5.0 in) in December versus 131 mm (5.2 in) in October—December experiences slightly more rainy days, with precipitation occurring on 18 days compared to 17 days in October. Humidity levels are also higher in December at 80%, compared to 85% in October. For details about October weather in the area, you can check Grindavik weather in October.
When comparing the weather between November and December, it’s notable that December experiences slightly colder temperatures, with an average of 3°C (38°F) compared to November's average of 4°C (40°F). Both months see similar maximum temperatures at 10°C (49°F), but December has a slightly lower minimum temperature of -4°C (25°F) compared to November's -3°C (27°F). Precipitation levels are quite comparable, with December receiving 127 mm (5.0 in) over 18 days, just a touch less than November's 128 mm (5.0 in) spread across 19 days. Humidity remains high in both months, with December at 80% and November at 81%. For more detailed insights into November weather, you can check Grindavik weather in November.
As December arrives in Grindavik, the weather transforms into a brisk winter experience, showcasing a cooler atmosphere compared to other months. The chill in the air is more pronounced, with average temperatures hovering around freezing, creating a stark contrast to the milder conditions of fall. This month also sees a noteworthy increase in precipitation, with nearly half the month experiencing some form of rain or snow, contributing to the town's enchanting winter landscape. While humidity remains high, the festive spirit of the season is palpable, making it a unique time to explore the beauty of this picturesque region. For those interested in a comprehensive understanding of what to expect throughout the year, you can find more details here: Grindavik Climate.