Last updated: August 27, 2025
In December, Rotterdam experiences a chill in the air, with temperatures ranging from a brisk -4°C (25°F) at night to a mild 14°C (57°F) during the day. The month sees an average temperature of 6°C (43°F), making it a time for cozy layers and warm beverages. With 90 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation spread over 17 days, the likelihood of rain is high, adding to the city's moody charm. Coupled with a humidity level of 92%, this weather pattern creates a damp atmosphere that is both invigorating and crisp, perfect for exploring the unique sights and sounds of the port city.
As winter settles in, Rotterdam experiences a notable drop in temperatures throughout December, with a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and an average hovering around 6°C (43°F). This chilly month showcases a gentle peak at a maximum of 14°C (57°F), offering a crisp contrast to the warmer autumn months that preceded it. Compared to November's milder conditions, December's chill signifies a transition into the heart of winter, where layers and cozy gatherings become essential. While the city prepares for festive celebrations, its cool climate invites locals and visitors alike to embrace the beauty of the season—from twinkling lights to seasonal treats.
In December, Rotterdam experiences a notable rise in precipitation, with an average of 90 mm (3.5 in) falling over the month, marking it as one of the wetter periods of the year. This increase is reflected in the 17 days of rainfall, making December the month with the highest number of precipitation days. The trend indicates a transition from the moderate rainfall of late autumn, highlighted by November's 56 mm (2.2 in), to a more persistent and heavier wet season as the city braces for winter. As the year concludes, the consistent moisture levels not only dampen the streets but also provide a glimpse into the rich and lush landscapes that define the region.
In December, Rotterdam experiences a high humidity level of 92%, mirroring the dampness of November and significantly surpassing the more comfortable figures of earlier months. This trend highlights a distinct pattern in the region's climate, where humidity consistently peaks during the winter months, particularly from October through December. As the year draws to a close, the notable rise in humidity reflects the cold, moist air that often envelops this vibrant port city, creating a cozy yet damp atmosphere perfect for sipping warm beverages by the fireplace.
As December rolls into Rotterdam, the UV Index dips back to 1, marking it as a month of low exposure risk. This trend of reduced UV intensity started earlier in the year, beginning at 1 in January and peaking at 8 during the summer months of June and July. Interestingly, while late spring and summer invite more sun exposure with burn times dropping to just 15 minutes, the autumn and winter months offer a reprieve, with longer burn times re-emerging as the index returns to 2 in November and finally settling again at 45 minutes in December. The cyclical nature of Rotterdam's UV Index emphasizes the importance of adjusting sun protection habits seasonally, ensuring safety during those sunnier days while enjoying the milder winter sun. For more detailed insights, check the Rotterdam UV Index.
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December in Rotterdam brings a modest 144 hours of sunshine, marking a gradual dip from the vibrant glow of autumn as daylight begins to wane. After enjoying the peak of sunshine in the summer months, where daylight flourished with 425 hours in July, the city's exposure to sunlight shifts dramatically. The transition from the bright blooms of spring and summer, with April basking in 363 hours, gradually leads into the shorter days of winter. As the year concludes, December's sunlit hours remind us that while sunlight may be less abundant, the crisp air and festive atmosphere lend a unique charm to the city, inviting moments of warmth amidst the winter chill.
In Rotterdam, the likelihood of sunny weather takes a notable dip as December arrives, with only a 17% chance of sunshine. This marks a sharp decline from the gradually increasing percentages observed in the spring months, where sunshine chances rise to around 40% in April. After peaking in March, the trend sees a decrease, with November already dropping to 22%. December continues this downward trajectory, suggesting that winter settles in with shorter days and less light. As the year ends, residents can expect more overcast skies than sunlit days, making December a time for cozy indoor activities rather than outdoor excursions.
In December, Rotterdam experiences just 7 hours of daylight, marking the shortest day of the year. As winter sets in, the trend of diminishing daylight that began in October continues, with November offering an already brief 8 hours before the light wanes further. This seasonal change contrasts sharply with the vibrant spring and summer months, where daylight peaks in June and July with an impressive 16 hours. Over the year, Rotterdam transitions from the early brightness of March's 11 hours to the longer, sun-filled days of summer, only to return to the cozy embrace of winter's darker days by December. This cyclical rhythm of daylight not only shapes the city's climate but also influences the daily lives of its inhabitants, fostering a distinct connection to the changing seasons.
As the year draws to a close, December in Rotterdam brings a refreshing average wind speed of 4.5 m/s (10 mph), slightly above the calmer months of summer when winds dipped to their lowest at 3.2 m/s (7 mph) in June and July. This uptick in wind velocity echoes the more robust conditions seen in the earlier months of fall, with October recording a notable 4.8 m/s (11 mph). Unlike the gentler breezes of late summer and early autumn, December ushers in a brisk air that invigorates the landscape, hinting at the transition into the chillier winter months ahead. The consistent wind patterns throughout the year show a resilient character, with winter often bringing a fresh gust, in stark contrast to the lull of the midsummer calm.
Weather in Rotterdam varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Rotterdam, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
December and January in Rotterdam show some notable differences in weather patterns. December experiences slightly milder temperatures, with an average of 6°C (43°F) and a maximum of 14°C (57°F), compared to January's average of 5°C (41°F) and a minimum dropping to -8°C (19°F). Precipitation is more frequent in December, totaling 90 mm (3.5 in) over 17 days, while January sees a reduction in rainfall, with 57 mm (2.3 in) recorded on just 12 days. Humidity levels remain relatively high in both months, at 92% for December and 91% for January. For a more detailed look at January weather, you can check Rotterdam weather in January.
December and February present distinct weather profiles, though both months fall within the winter season. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), with an average of 6°C (43°F). The month is relatively wet, with 90 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation spread over 17 days and humidity levels peaking at 92%. In contrast, February experiences slightly cooler conditions, with a minimum temperature of -9°C (15°F) and a maximum of 18°C (65°F), averaging 5°C (42°F). Precipitation decreases to 65 mm (2.6 in) over 12 days, while humidity remains slightly lower at 89%. For more detailed weather insights specific to February, visit Rotterdam weather in February.
In comparing the weather of December and March, notable differences emerge. December experiences cooler temperatures with a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and a maximum of 14°C (57°F), while March offers slightly warmer conditions, with a low of -8°C (18°F) and a high reaching 21°C (71°F). Additionally, March sees reduced precipitation at 69 mm (2.7 in) over 14 days, compared to December's 90 mm (3.5 in) spread over 17 days. Humidity levels are also slightly lower in March at 87% versus December's 92%, contributing to an overall transition toward a milder climate. For a more detailed look at March weather, check out Rotterdam weather in March.
In comparing the weather between December and April, it's notable that December is much colder, with average temperatures ranging from a chilly -4°C (25°F) to a milder 14°C (57°F), while April sees a more comfortable temperature range of -1°C (30°F) to 27°C (81°F). Additionally, December experiences higher levels of precipitation at 90 mm (3.5 in) over 17 days, compared to April's 44 mm (1.7 in) over just 9 days. Humidity is also slightly higher in December, sitting at 92%, versus 85% in April. For a more detailed overview of April's climate, you can visit Rotterdam weather in April.
In December, the weather is significantly colder, with average temperatures ranging from a chilly -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), and a high humidity level of 92%. The month also sees considerable precipitation, with 90 mm (3.5 in) falling over 17 days. In stark contrast, May offers a much milder climate, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a warm peak of 31°C (87°F) and an average of 13°C (56°F). Although it is drier, May still receives 65 mm (2.5 in) of rain across 12 days, accompanied by slightly lower humidity at 82%. For more detailed information, you can check Rotterdam weather in May.
In December, temperatures in Rotterdam range from a brisk -4°C (25°F) at night to a mild 14°C (57°F) during the day, with an average of 6°C (43°F). This month experiences substantial precipitation, totaling 90 mm (3.5 in) over 17 days, coupled with high humidity levels of 92%. In stark contrast, June brings much warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 32°C (89°F), averaging 17°C (63°F). Rainfall is less frequent, measuring 72 mm (2.8 in) over just 10 days, and the humidity decreases to 82%. For more details about the weather in June, you can visit Rotterdam weather in June.
December and July present starkly contrasting weather conditions. December experiences chilly temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), along with significant precipitation of 90 mm (3.5 in) over 17 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 92%. In contrast, July boasts much warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 38°C (101°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F). Precipitation in July is lower at 68 mm (2.7 in) over just 13 days and the humidity sits at a more comfortable 80%. For a detailed insight into July's climate, visit Rotterdam weather in July.
December and August present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -4°C (25°F) at night to a mild 14°C (57°F) during the day, accompanied by high humidity levels of 92% and frequent precipitation on 17 days, totaling 90 mm (3.5 in). In contrast, August offers a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures of 8°C (48°F) and daytime highs soaring to 33°C (93°F). The humidity in August is noticeably lower at 76%, and rainfall is also less frequent, occurring on 14 days with a total of 84 mm (3.3 in). For more detailed information on August weather, you can visit Rotterdam weather in August.
December weather is significantly colder and wetter compared to September. While December experiences minimum temperatures dipping to -4°C (25°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), September boasts milder conditions with minimums of 4°C (40°F) and an average high reaching 15°C (60°F). Additionally, December has more precipitation, with 90 mm (3.5 in) spread over 17 days, whereas September receives 75 mm (3.0 in) over about 11 days, and enjoys lower humidity levels at 82%. For more detailed insights about September's weather in Rotterdam, you can visit Rotterdam weather in September.
December weather is characterized by much colder temperatures compared to October, with average highs of only 6°C (43°F) versus October’s warmer 12°C (55°F). The minimum temperature in December can drop to -4°C (25°F), significantly colder than October’s minimum of 2°C (36°F). Both months experience similar levels of precipitation; December sees 90 mm (3.5 in) over 17 days, while October has slightly more at 92 mm (3.6 in) across 16 days. Humidity levels are comparable as well, with December being slightly more humid at 92% compared to October's 89%. For a detailed look at October weather, check out Rotterdam weather in October.
In comparing the weather conditions of December and November, December typically features colder temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), while November sees slightly milder conditions, with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and an average of 8°C (46°F). The maximum temperatures also reflect this trend, reaching up to 14°C (57°F) in December compared to 18°C (65°F) in November. Furthermore, December experiences higher precipitation levels at 90 mm (3.5 in), spanning 17 days, compared to November's 56 mm (2.2 in) over 12 days. Despite both months maintaining a high humidity level of 92%, the increased precipitation in December may contribute to a more overcast and damp atmosphere, making it feel even colder. For more details, you can check Rotterdam weather in November.
As December blankets Rotterdam in winter's embrace, the city experiences a notable shift in weather compared to other months. With average temperatures hovering around a brisk 6°C, residents feel the chill more acutely, especially during frosty nights when it can drop to -4°C. This contrasts sharply with the milder months, making warm layers a necessity this time of year. In addition, December sees increased precipitation, with nearly 17 days of rain adding to the city's typical humidity of 92%, creating a damp and cozy atmosphere. The combination of these conditions transforms Rotterdam into a picturesque winter setting, ideal for enjoying festive activities. For a deeper dive into how December fits into the city's overall climate, explore Rotterdam Climate.