December Weather in Wakkanai, Japan

Last updated: August 21, 2025

December in Wakkanai, Japan offers a chilling yet fascinating experience as temperatures typically range from a maximum of 11°C (52°F) to a biting minimum of -12°C (10°F), with an average hovering around -2°C (29°F). The month is characterized by considerable precipitation, totaling 107 mm (4.2 in), spread over 24 days, resulting in a damp, wintry atmosphere. With a high average humidity level of 83%, expect a cloud-laden sky that transforms the landscape into a serene winter wonderland. Embrace the cold and the beauty of nature as Wakkanai dons its frosty attire.

December Temperature in Wakkanai

In Wakkanai, Japan, December marks a significant transition into the heart of winter. Temperatures begin to dip considerably, with minimums reaching -12°C (10°F) and an average hovering around -2°C (29°F), making this month one of the coldest of the year. While the daytime high can reach a brisk 11°C (52°F), the overall chill is palpable as the city prepares for deeper winter months ahead. This shift is apparent compared to the preceding months, where November's temperatures offered a slight reprieve from the cold. As the landscape transforms into a winter wonderland, Wakkanai’s December climate sets the stage for the snowy adventures that follow in January and February.

December Weather in Wakkanai: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Wakkanai, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Wakkanai, December typically has an average temperature of {2}°C ({3}°F), with highs reaching up to {4}°C ({5}°F) and lows dropping to around {6}°C ({7}°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec242433425055646764534129
Data source: Temperature data for Wakkanai generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

December Precipitation in Wakkanai

In Wakkanai, December ushers in a notable shift in precipitation patterns, with an average of 107 mm (4.2 in) of rainfall over 24 days, marking it as one of the wetter months of the year. This increase in precipitation follows a trend from November, which also saw significant rainfall at 118 mm (4.6 in), indicating that the winter months can be quite wet in this northern region of Japan. As temperatures drop, the number of rainy days peaks, reflecting a shift from the milder, more temperate conditions of early autumn. This persistent precipitation likely contributes to the unique winter landscape of Wakkanai, making it a captivating destination during this time of year.

December Precipitation Trends in Wakkanai

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Wakkanai, with values for each month alongside December’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how December’s conditions compare to those of other months. In Wakkanai, December typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7169705275799014484110118107
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

December Humidity in Wakkanai

In December, Wakkanai, Japan, experiences a humidity level of 83%, marking a slight dip from the more humid summer months. The data reveals a distinct trend: humidity peaks during the sweltering summer, reaching its highest at 94% in August, before gradually declining into the drier winter months. However, December’s humidity still reflects the lingering coastal conditions typical of this northern region, maintaining a significant level compared to the drier fall months, like October and November. This moderate humidity creates a cool, crisp atmosphere, characteristic of Wakkanai's winter season.

December Average Humidity in Wakkanai

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Wakkanai, with December’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In December, average humidity in Wakkanai is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec87%84%83%84%88%88%93%94%86%79%77%83%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Wakkanai

In December, Wakkanai experiences a significant decline in UV radiation, marking the end of a year characterized by fluctuating exposure levels. With a UV Index of 1, the exposure category drops to low, offering a welcome reprieve from the very high levels seen during the summer months, where indices peaked at 9 in June and July. Consequently, the burn time increases back to 45 minutes, allowing residents and visitors alike to enjoy the outdoors with minimal risk of sunburn. This trend underscores the seasonal shifts in ultraviolet radiation, reminding us that winter months like December present the safest conditions for sun exposure in Wakkanai. For more details, explore the full breakdown at Wakkanai UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Wakkanai for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Wakkanai in December, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues. In December, the maximum UV index in Wakkanai typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec235689987431
Data source: Wakkanai December UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

December Sunshine in Wakkanai

In Wakkanai, Japan, December sees a gentle retreat of daylight, with 164 hours of sunshine—a notable yet modest shift from the sun-drenched peak of July, which boasts a vibrant 322 hours. As the year transitions, the increasing hours of sunlight from January’s meager 112 to the spring bloom in March at 243 hours illustrate a captivating trajectory towards brighter days. The trend in Wakkanai reveals a distinct seasonal ebb and flow, with summer drenched in golden rays and winter veiled in the soft grip of shorter days, inviting both reflection and anticipation for the longer days that beckon with the approach of spring.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Wakkanai: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Wakkanai experiences direct sunlight during the month of December, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of December with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec112h180h243h288h301h283h322h275h283h245h181h164h
Data source: Wakkanai December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Wakkanai During December

In Wakkanai, Japan, December heralds the onset of winter, accompanied by a moderate 25% chance of sunny weather. This marks a decline from the more promising autumn months, with November seeing a 30% likelihood of sun. Notably, as the year progresses from the vibrant spring months—where sunshine chances peak around 39% in April—to the more subdued winter days, the trend clearly reflects a diminishing light. While December's odds for clear skies may not be the highest, they are still notably better than the early months of the new year, where January and February plummet to 17% and 14% respectively. So, while Wakkanai residents may not be basking in a December sun, a few clear days amidst the winter chill are certainly within reach.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Wakkanai

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Wakkanai throughout the year, with December highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Wakkanai experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec17%14%35%39%27%42%37%40%45%40%30%25%
Data source: Wakkanai December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Wakkanai in December

As December settles over Wakkanai, Japan, daylight becomes increasingly fleeting, with only 8 hours of sunlight gracing the landscape. This marks the low point in a gradual descent from the peak of 15 hours enjoyed in the summer months of June and July. Following the bright days of spring and summer, the year starts to wane in October and November, when daylight dwindles to 10 and 9 hours, respectively. The trend is clear: as winter approaches, the days grow shorter, allowing cozy evenings to envelop the town. Yet, the cyclical nature of daylight in Wakkanai promises a return to longer days, beginning with the arrival of January’s 9 hours, heralding the slow climb back toward the luminosity of spring.

Average Daylight Hours in Wakkanai for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Wakkanai throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 8m10h 22m11h 55m13h 31m14h 53m15h 35m15h 14m14h 1m12h 30m10h 54m9h 30m8h 46m
Data source: Wakkanai daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Wakkanai

As December settles in Wakkanai, Japan, the wind brings a familiar chill, with an average speed of 6.3 m/s (14 mph), mirroring the gusty conditions of both November and January. This consistent wind velocity highlights a notable trend: the winter months tend to be characterized by stronger breezes, with speeds typically ranging from 6.1 m/s to 6.4 m/s. Interestingly, these winter winds often stand in sharp contrast to the calm of the summer months, where July sees a significant drop to 4.0 m/s (9 mph). As the year concludes, Wakkanai's December winds serve as a reminder of nature's resilience and the seasonal shifts that define this northern landscape.

Average December Wind Speed in Wakkanai

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Wakkanai, with values for each month shown alongside December's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how December's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec6.46.35.86.15.25.44.05.13.85.36.26.3 m/s
Data source: Wakkanai December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Wakkanai Compares to Other Months

Weather in Wakkanai varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Wakkanai, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

In December, the weather tends to be slightly milder, with average temperatures ranging from -2°C (29°F) to a maximum of 11°C (52°F). This month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling about 107 mm (4.2 in) over 24 days, and has an average humidity level of 83%. In contrast, January is colder, with temperatures dipping further to an average of -4°C (24°F) and a maximum of only 5°C (41°F). Precipitation decreases to 71 mm (2.8 in) spread over 18 days, and humidity increases slightly to 87%. For a more detailed look at January weather specifics, visit Wakkanai weather in January.

In December, Wakkanai experiences a range of temperatures with a minimum of -12°C (10°F) and a maximum of 11°C (52°F), averaging around -2°C (29°F). The month sees significant precipitation, with 107 mm (4.2 in) falling over 24 days, resulting in a humidity level of 83%.

In contrast, February is generally colder, with minimum temperatures dropping to -15°C (5°F) and a maximum of just 5°C (41°F), leading to an average temperature of -4°C (25°F). Precipitation is lower at 69 mm (2.7 in), spread over 19 days, and humidity remains slightly higher at 84%. For a more detailed look at February weather, you can explore Wakkanai weather in February.

December and March showcase distinct yet somewhat similar weather patterns. In December, temperatures can plunge as low as -12°C (10°F), with an average around -2°C (29°F) and a maximum of 11°C (52°F). This month typically experiences higher precipitation levels, totaling 107 mm (4.2 in) over 24 days, contributing to a humidity of 83%. Conversely, March offers slightly milder conditions, with minimum temperatures of -9°C (17°F), an average of 0°C (33°F), and a similar maximum of 11°C (51°F). Precipitation decreases in March to 70 mm (2.8 in) over 14 days, while humidity remains consistent at 83%. For more detailed insights into the weather during March, check out Wakkanai weather in March.

In December, temperatures can be quite harsh, with average lows reaching -12°C (10°F) and highs only climbing to about 11°C (52°F). This month also sees considerable precipitation, with around 107 mm (4.2 in) spread over 24 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 83%. In contrast, April brings a significant warming trend, with average temperatures ranging from -6°C (22°F) at night to a pleasant 17°C (63°F) during the day. The month experiences much less precipitation, totaling around 52 mm (2.0 in) over just 9 days, while humidity remains relatively high at 84%. For more detailed weather patterns specific to April, you can check Wakkanai weather in April.

December and May present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures plummet to a minimum of -12°C (10°F), with an average around -2°C (29°F) and a mild peak of 11°C (52°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 107 mm (4.2 in) over 24 days, accompanied by high humidity at 83%. In contrast, May ushers in warmth with minimum temperatures rising to 1°C (35°F) and a comfortable average of 10°C (50°F), peaking at 21°C (70°F). Precipitation decreases to 75 mm (3.0 in) over just 10 days, while humidity remains slightly elevated at 88%. For more details on May's conditions, visit Wakkanai weather in May.

In December, the weather is notably colder, with temperatures ranging from a chilling minimum of -12°C (10°F) to a maximum of 11°C (52°F), leading to an average of -2°C (29°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 107 mm (4.2 in) over 24 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 83%. In contrast, June offers much milder conditions, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a pleasant maximum of 22°C (71°F), averaging at 13°C (55°F). Precipitation in June is less frequent, totaling 79 mm (3.1 in) over only 11 days, and humidity rises slightly to 88%. For more detailed information on the weather in June, you can check Wakkanai weather in June.

December and July present striking contrasts in weather. In December, temperatures can plummet as low as -12°C (10°F), with an average hovering around -2°C (29°F) and reaching a maximum of 11°C (52°F). The month is notably wet, with precipitation amounting to 107 mm (4.2 in) across 24 days, while humidity sits at a high 83%. In contrast, July experiences much milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 9°C (49°F) to an average of 18°C (65°F) and a maximum of 30°C (86°F). This summer month is comparatively drier, receiving 90 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation over just 8 days, alongside slightly higher humidity at 93%. For more details on July weather, you can visit Wakkanai weather in July.

December and August offer contrasting weather experiences. In December, temperatures can drop to a chilling minimum of -12°C (10°F), with an average around -2°C (29°F) and a maximum of 11°C (52°F). This winter month also sees significant precipitation, averaging 107 mm (4.2 in) over 24 days, accompanied by high humidity at 83%. In stark contrast, August brings milder and more pleasant conditions, featuring minimum temperatures of 14°C (57°F) and maximums reaching up to 28°C (84°F), with an average of 19°C (67°F). Although August experiences more precipitation at 144 mm (5.7 in), it only occurs over 13 days, and humidity is slightly higher at 94%. For more specific details on the weather during this month, you can visit Wakkanai weather in August.

In comparing the weather of December and September, a stark contrast emerges. December experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -12°C (10°F) and an average temperature hovering around -2°C (29°F). The month also sees significant precipitation, totaling 107 mm (4.2 in) over 24 days, alongside a high humidity level of 83%. In contrast, September brings much milder conditions, featuring a minimum temperature of 9°C (49°F) and a comfortable average of 18°C (64°F). The month is relatively drier, with 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain spread over just 11 days, while humidity remains slightly higher at 86%. For a detailed overview of September weather, visit Wakkanai weather in September.

December's weather presents a stark contrast to October's milder conditions. While October enjoys average temperatures around 12°C (54°F) with daytime highs peaking at 21°C (70°F), December brings frigid temperatures, where the averages dip to -2°C (29°F) and nighttime lows can plummet to -12°C (10°F). Precipitation levels are similar, with December receiving 107 mm (4.2 in) over 24 days compared to October's 110 mm (4.3 in) across 14 days, though December's precipitation is spread over a greater number of days. Additionally, December's humidity is higher at 83%, providing a damp, chilly atmosphere that differs significantly from October's 79%. For more insights on October weather, check out Wakkanai weather in October.

In comparing the weather of December and November, December presents a markedly colder climate, with average temperatures reaching as low as -2°C (29°F) and a minimum of -12°C (10°F), while November maintains a more temperate average of 5°C (41°F) and a minimum of -6°C (21°F). Additionally, December experiences higher humidity, recorded at 83%, compared to November's 77%. Although December’s precipitation is slightly lower at 107 mm (4.2 in) over 24 days, November has slightly more at 118 mm (4.6 in) across just 19 days, indicating more frequent, albeit lighter, rainfall during that month. For a more detailed look at the weather conditions in November, you can visit Wakkanai weather in November.

Compare Wakkanai's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Wakkanai

As December blankets Wakkanai in its wintry embrace, the weather starkly contrasts with the milder months preceding it. The month ushers in frigid temperatures, with averages dipping significantly, and a notable increase in precipitation days, reflecting the start of the snowy season. With humidity levels remaining high, the air feels cold and crisp, enveloping the city in a serene, frosty atmosphere. Despite the chill, December’s unique charm lies in its picturesque snowy landscapes, making it a distinct and captivating time to experience Wakkanai. For a deeper dive into the weather patterns throughout the year, visit Wakkanai Climate.