Last updated: March 17, 2025
December in Keflavik, Iceland, is characterized by chilly temperatures that range from a maximum of 9°C (49°F) to a minimum of -6°C (21°F), with an average temperature hovering around 2°C (37°F). Visitors can expect a wet month, with 119 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation spread over 18 days, making it a rather damp season. The high humidity level of 80% adds to the brisk atmosphere, creating a quintessentially Icelandic winter experience. As the land prepares for the long, dark nights, the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes emerges, inviting exploration amidst the glistening frost and mild stormy weather.
In Keflavik, Iceland, December brings a chilly yet captivating winter atmosphere, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F). As the year comes to a close, the average temperature hovers around 2°C (37°F), reflecting the consistent cold that characterizes this month. Notably, December temperatures tend to mirror those of January, indicating a winter pattern that begins to solidify late in the year. While the cold can be biting, the serene beauty of the snowy landscapes often invites adventure, making it a magical time to experience the unique charm of Icelandic winters.
In December, Keflavik experiences a notable consistency in precipitation, receiving 119 mm (4.7 in) across 18 rainy days. This level of rainfall aligns with the trends observed in the preceding months, where October and November similarly recorded 119 mm. The winter month’s precipitation mirrors the late autumn, suggesting a stable wet season as the year draws to a close. Despite the harsh winter climate, December’s rainfall contributes to the region's lush landscapes, enhancing the dramatic Icelandic scenery. Notably, the precipitation levels remain significantly higher than the drier summer months, highlighting a seasonal shift that invites frequent reflections of cloud-laden skies and the beauty of nature’s endurance in this rugged terrain.
In Keflavik, Iceland, December wraps up the year with a humidity level of 80%, maintaining a pattern seen throughout the colder months. As the year progresses, humidity varies subtly, peaking in the summer months of July and August when it reaches 87% and 88% respectively. Interestingly, the transition from autumn to winter shows a gradual decline, dropping from 81% in November to December's 80%—a slight yet noteworthy change that hints at the crispness in the air as winter sets in. Overall, while humidity remains relatively high year-round, the seasonal shifts contribute to the distinctively cool and moist environment characteristic of this coastal region.
In Keflavik, Iceland, the December UV Index stands at a mild 1, classifying it within the low exposure category. This level of UV radiation means that you can enjoy the scenic winter landscapes without much worry about sunburn, as the burn time is a generous 45 minutes. Interestingly, this low UV index is characteristic of the winter months, with similar readings from January through March. As the seasons change, the UV index begins to rise, reaching its peak during the summer months of June and July, where it spikes to 6—indicating a high exposure risk. However, as the year wraps up, the trend clearly shifts back to lower indices, reinforcing the need for year-round awareness about UV exposure. For more detailed insights, check out the full report on the Keflavik UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In Keflavik, Iceland, December offers a stark contrast to the vibrant sunlight of summer months. With only 28 hours of daylight, the winter gloom sets in, marking one of the year’s darkest periods. This decline in sunshine is part of a broader trend as the year progresses; it starts with a modest 42 hours in January, slowly increasing as spring approaches, culminating in a bright 344 hours during May. The gradual ascent towards longer days showcases Iceland's dramatic seasonal shifts, where the anticipation of returning light ignites a sense of hope amidst the winter chill, reminding us that brighter days are just around the corner.
When considering the likelihood of sunny weather in December in Keflavik, Iceland, it's important to note a gradual decline in sunshine as winter deepens. With a 20% chance of sun, December offers slightly more brightness compared to the gloomier months of February and March. However, this percentage aligns closely with the trends observed in November (22%) and October (26%), suggesting a somewhat stable yet limited chance of clear skies during the winter months. As the year closes, the chances of encountering sunshine remain subdued, hinting at the long, dark nights typical of Icelandic winters.
As winter deepens in Keflavik, Iceland, December ushers in the shortest days of the year, with daylight lasting a mere 4 hours. This stark reduction follows the gradual decline in sunlight that begins after the summer solstice in June, when daylight peaks at an impressive 20 hours. The transition from the long, bright days of summer to the dark winter months is evident, as daylight gradually decreases through the months, culminating in the early twilight of December. Despite this limited daylight, the enchanting beauty of Iceland's winter landscapes is a captivating experience, making the serene and fleeting hours of sunlight all the more precious during this time of year.
As December unfolds in Keflavik, Iceland, the winds begin to take on a subtle chill, with an average speed of 6.5 m/s (15 mph). This marks a slight decline from the higher winds of late autumn, where November boasted speeds of 7.1 m/s (16 mph). Reflecting a gradual transition as winter sets in, December's winds are softer than their winter peak, akin to a gentle whisper of the season to come. The pattern reveals a distinct autumn-to-winter shift, consistently easing as the year nears its end, inviting locals and visitors alike to embrace the brisk, yet invigorating, embrace of Iceland's December air.
The weather in Keflavik 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 Keflavik and find detailed weather information for every month.
In comparing the weather between December and January, we notice a striking similarity in temperatures, with both months experiencing a minimum of -6°C (21°F), an average of around 2°C (37°F), and a maximum of 9°C (49°F). Precipitation levels are also quite close, with December seeing 119 mm (4.7 in) over 18 days, while January has slightly lower precipitation at 117 mm (4.6 in) over 17 days. Humidity remains consistent at 80% for both months, contributing to the chilly atmosphere. For a more detailed insight into January's weather in Keflavik, you can check out this link: Keflavik weather in January.
December and February offer a chill in the air, though they have distinct characteristics in their weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F), with an average around 2°C (37°F). This month sees about 119 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation spread over 18 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 80%. In contrast, February experiences slightly colder temperatures, with lows dipping to -9°C (16°F) and highs reaching 8°C (47°F), while maintaining a similar average of 2°C (36°F). Precipitation increases to 126 mm (5.0 in) over 19 days, but humidity drops to 77%. For more detailed insights on February's weather, you can visit Keflavik weather in February.
In December, temperatures typically range from a minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F), with an average of 2°C (37°F). This month sees substantial precipitation, averaging 119 mm (4.7 in) over 18 days, and humidity levels hover around 80%. In contrast, March presents a similar temperature range, with a minimum of -6°C (21°F), an average of 2°C (37°F), and a maximum of 8°C (47°F). Precipitation decreases slightly to 110 mm (4.3 in), also spread over 18 days, while humidity rises a bit to 82%. For more specific information about the weather conditions in March, you can refer to Keflavik weather in March.
Comparing the weather between December and April reveals notable differences and similarities. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -6°C (21°F) at night to a maximum of 9°C (49°F) during the day, while April sees slightly warmer conditions with minimums of -7°C (20°F) and maximums reaching 11°C (52°F). Precipitation is quite similar in both months, with December recording 119 mm (4.7 in) and April slightly higher at 133 mm (5.2 in), both experiencing rain on about 18 days. Humidity remains consistent at 80% in both months, underscoring the damp feel typical of this region. For more detailed information, you can check Keflavik weather in April.
The weather in December is characterized by colder temperatures, with minimums dropping to -6°C (21°F) and an average of 2°C (37°F). In contrast, May brings a milder climate, where temperatures start at a minimum of 0°C (33°F) and average around 7°C (44°F). Both months receive significant precipitation, though December is slightly wetter with 119 mm (4.7 in) over 18 days compared to May's 115 mm (4.5 in) over 16 days. Additionally, May tends to have a higher humidity level at 85%, compared to December's 80%. For a more detailed look at the weather in May, check out Keflavik weather in May.
In December, temperatures in Keflavik can be quite chilly, with a minimum of -6°C (21°F) and an average temperature around 2°C (37°F), while the maximum reaches only 9°C (49°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 119 mm (4.7 in) spread across 18 days, and a high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, June brings milder weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 15°C (60°F) and an average of 9°C (48°F). Precipitation is less frequent in June, amounting to 87 mm (3.4 in) over 15 days, and humidity remains relatively high at 85%. To learn more about the weather during this month, you can check Keflavik weather in June.
When comparing the weather in December and July, notable contrasts emerge. In December, temperatures can drop to a chilly minimum of -6°C (21°F), with an average of 2°C (37°F) and a maximum of only 9°C (49°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 119 mm (4.7 in) over 18 days, while humidity remains high at 80%. In stark contrast, July offers a milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (43°F) to a maximum of 19°C (66°F), accompanied by an average of 11°C (52°F). Precipitation is lower in July at 78 mm (3.1 in), though it still falls over 18 days, and humidity slightly increases to 87%. For more details, you can check out Keflavik weather in July.
December and August present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F), with an average of 2°C (37°F). This month also experiences significant precipitation, totaling 119 mm (4.7 in) over 18 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of around 80%. In comparison, August showcases milder weather with minimum temperatures of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum of 16°C (62°F), resulting in an average temperature of 11°C (52°F). Precipitation in August is lower at 89 mm (3.5 in), occurring over 13 days, but the humidity remains relatively high at 88%. For more detailed insights on August weather, check Keflavik weather in August.
In comparing the weather of December and September, we observe notable differences in temperature and precipitation. December is generally colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F), while September offers milder conditions with temperatures from 1°C (34°F) to 13°C (56°F). Precipitation is also more prevalent in September, accumulating to 171 mm (6.7 in) over 21 days compared to December's 119 mm (4.7 in) across 18 days. Additionally, humidity levels remain slightly higher in September at 85%, compared to December's 80%. For further details on September weather, visit Keflavik weather in September.
When comparing the weather in December and October, notable differences in temperature and conditions arise. December sees a lower average temperature, with a minimum of -6°C (21°F) and an average of 2°C (37°F), while October maintains milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -1°C (30°F) to an average of 6°C (44°F). Interestingly, both months receive similar amounts of precipitation, at 119 mm (4.7 in) over 18 days. However, December tends to feel colder due to higher humidity levels of 80%, compared to October's 85% humidity. For more insights into October weather, visit Keflavik weather in October.
In comparing the weather between November and December, we can observe a slight dip in temperatures as December experiences a minimum of -6°C (21°F) and an average of 2°C (37°F), compared to November's minimum of -4°C (25°F) and an average of 4°C (39°F). Both months see the same amount of precipitation at 119 mm (4.7 in) over 18 days, indicating that the overall rainfall pattern remains consistent. Humidity levels during December are slightly lower at 80%, while November has a humidity of 81%. For further details on November's weather, you can refer to Keflavik weather in November.
As December unfolds in Keflavik, the weather takes on a uniquely chilly character, contrasting sharply with the milder months preceding it. Average temperatures dip, often hovering just above freezing, while the possibility of frosty days emerges with the potential lows nearing -6°C. With approximately 18 days of precipitation, the month can feel quite damp, accompanied by high humidity levels that enhance the biting cold. This shift not only brings a festive winter atmosphere but also showcases the rugged beauty of Iceland during its darker, colder season. For more insights into how Keflavik's weather changes throughout the year, visit Keflavik Climate.