Last updated: August 27, 2025
In Alta, Norway, December ushers in a winter wonderland, with temperatures ranging from a crisp maximum of 4°C (39°F) to a chilling minimum of -24°C (-11°F), resulting in an average of -8°C (18°F). This month is characterized by high humidity levels reaching a staggering 100%, contributing to the enchanting beauty of the snow-blanketed landscape. Visitors should expect 39 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation spread across 11 days, making it the perfect backdrop for winter activities and a serene holiday escape.
In December, Alta, Norway experiences a chill that is both striking and characteristic of its arctic climate. With minimum temperatures dipping to -24°C (-11°F), the month firmly establishes itself in the heart of winter. The average temperature hovers around -8°C (18°F), indicating a cold but consistent frost that blankets the landscape. Daytime highs reach around 4°C (39°F), offering brief respites from the biting cold. As December marks the transition into the deeper winter months, these temperatures reflect a notable shift from the milder conditions of autumn, with the region preparing for the magical landscapes and winter activities that await in January and February.
In Alta, Norway, December brings a noticeable dip in precipitation, with 39 mm (1.5 in) recorded over the month. This amount marks a decrease compared to the wetter months that precede it, notably August's peak of 92 mm (3.6 in). Interestingly, December also sees fewer rainy days, averaging just 11 days, which is in line with January's similar trend. The reduction in both total precipitation and rainy days suggests the onset of a drier winter, paving the way for the snow-covered landscapes that characterize the region in the coming months. As the year closes, Alta's rainfall patterns reflect a gradual transition towards the harsher conditions of winter, hinting at a season defined more by snow than rain.
In Alta, Norway, December marks a peak in humidity, soaring to an impressive 100%. This consistent moisture is emblematic of winter's embrace, following the gradual increase from 96% in October and 99% in November. Over the year, the humidity showcases a clear seasonal trend: after the relatively drier summer months of May through August, where levels hovered around 84-90%, the autumn months witness a steady rise, reflecting the transformation of the landscape as it shifts into winter. This pattern culminates in December, not only defining the cold conditions but also enveloping the region in a unique atmosphere, perfect for those who appreciate the serene beauty of a Norwegian winter.
In December, Alta, Norway experiences its lowest UV Index of the year, dropping to 0, which indicates a low exposure category and allows for a burn time of 45 minutes without risk. This trend of minimal UV exposure persists through the winter months, as indicated by the preceding November and October values, which also reflect low levels. As daylight wanes in winter, residents can enjoy the snowy landscapes without the concern of sunburn. However, as the year progresses, a gradual increase in UV levels is observed from late winter into summer, peaking in the warmer months of May through July at a moderate 5. For more details and updates, visit the Alta UV Index page.
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In Alta, Norway, December marks a stark transition as daylight begins to dwindle, with the region experiencing a total of zero hours of sunshine. This dramatic plunge follows the gradual increase in daylight hours from January’s modest 5 hours to February’s remarkable leap to 94 hours. As winter sets in, the sun’s absence becomes increasingly palpable, contrasting starkly with the vibrant mid-summer peak of 414 hours of sun in July. The trend illustrates a striking seasonal rhythm, where the long, sunlit days of summer give way to the dark, tranquil months of winter. By year’s end, the gradual descent into darkness serves as a reminder of the enchanting cycles of nature that characterize life in this Arctic haven.
In December, the likelihood of encountering sunny weather in Alta, Norway, stands at a modest 14%. This represents a slight dip from the preceding month of November, which offers a 15% chance of sunshine. As we move from the vibrant spring months—where sunlight is more plentiful, peaking at 28% in April—the trend indicates a gradual decline through the fall and winter. Although December does not promise much sun compared to the warmer months, it is not the bleakest of the year. With the holiday spirit in the air, even the limited opportunities for sunshine can add a magical touch to this Arctic town amidst its wintry backdrop.
In December, Alta, Norway, experiences the stark contrast of daylight as it plunges to a complete absence of sunlight. Following a gradual increase from just 4 hours in January to a vibrant 22 hours in May, the gradual descent into winter darkness becomes more pronounced. By the time December arrives, it's a reminder of the intense polar conditions, with zero hours of daylight marking the height of the long night. This seasonal shift elegantly illustrates the captivating dance of light and dark in this northern realm, where the sun barely kisses the horizon for months, only to return triumphantly in the spring.
As December sweeps into Alta, Norway, the winds gently whisper at an average speed of 2.2 m/s (5 mph), marking one of the calmer months of the year. This tranquil breeze is a notable drop from the brisker gusts of early autumn, where winds peaked at 3.0 m/s in both September and October. Throughout the colder months, from January to April, there’s a clear trend of subdued wind speeds, hovering around 2.6 m/s to 2.9 m/s, suggesting a serene winter atmosphere. The gradual decline in wind intensity as the year draws to a close creates a picturesque backdrop of winter’s quiet allure, allowing the enchanting landscapes of Alta to shine amidst the stillness.
Weather in Alta varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Alta, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In December, temperatures in Alta typically range from a minimum of -24°C (-11°F) to a maximum of 4°C (39°F), with an average temperature of -8°C (18°F). This month experiences around 39 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation over 11 days, all while maintaining a high humidity level of 100%.
In contrast, January brings even colder conditions, with minimum temperatures dropping to -28°C (-17°F) and an average of -9°C (16°F). The maximum temperature slightly increases to 5°C (42°F), but the precipitation also rises to 46 mm (1.8 in) over the same number of days. Like December, January maintains a consistent humidity of 100%.
For a detailed overview of January weather, you can check out Alta weather in January.
December and February both feature frigid temperatures, with December averaging -8°C (18°F) and February slightly colder at -9°C (16°F). Interestingly, February experiences a slightly lower minimum temperature of -25°C (-12°F) compared to December's -24°C (-11°F). Precipitation is more frequent in February, totaling 48 mm (1.9 in) over 12 days, while December sees 39 mm (1.5 in) over 11 days. Despite their chilly nature, both months maintain high humidity levels, close to 100%, contributing to the area's wintry atmosphere. For more details on the weather in February, you can check Alta weather in February.
December weather in Alta features colder temperatures, with a minimum of -24°C (-11°F) and an average of -8°C (18°F), while March shows a slight warming trend, with an average temperature of -6°C (22°F) and a maximum of 7°C (45°F). In December, precipitation occurs over 11 days, totaling 39 mm (1.5 in), whereas March experiences more precipitation, amounting to 59 mm (2.3 in) over 16 days, despite being slightly less humid at 95%. Overall, March offers a less frigid atmosphere, making it feel more pleasant compared to the harsh winter conditions of December. For more details, check out Alta weather in March.
In December, the weather is characterized by frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -24°C (-11°F) and an average around -8°C (18°F). The month sees limited warmth, peaking at just 4°C (39°F) and experiences a high humidity level of 100%, contributing to a wintry atmosphere with 39 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation over 11 days. In contrast, April brings a gradual warming trend, as temperatures rise with a minimum of -14°C (7°F), an average of -1°C (30°F), and a pleasant maximum of 14°C (57°F). April experiences slightly more precipitation at 55 mm (2.2 in) over 14 days, but with lower humidity at 91%, it feels less oppressive. The transition from December's harsh cold to April's milder climate showcases the shift towards spring. For more detailed climate information, visit Alta weather in April.
December and May present strikingly different weather conditions, highlighting the transition from deep winter to the early hints of spring. In December, temperatures plunge with a minimum of -24°C (-11°F) and an average of -8°C (18°F), while the maximum barely reaches 4°C (39°F). The month sees significant precipitation across 11 days, accompanied by an oppressive humidity of 100%. In contrast, May brings a noticeable warming, with minimum temperatures rising to -8°C (18°F) and a pleasant average of 3°C (38°F), peaking at 19°C (67°F). Despite higher overall precipitation of 63 mm (2.5 in) spread over 17 days, humidity drops to a milder 84%. For a deeper insight into the warming trends and conditions specific to May, you can check Alta weather in May.
December and June present striking contrasts in weather. In December, temperatures often plummet, with minimums reaching -24°C (-11°F) and average highs around a chilly 4°C (39°F). The month sees a significant amount of precipitation, totaling 39 mm (1.5 in) over 11 days, coupled with a high humidity level of 100%. In stark contrast, June brings a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures around -3°C (27°F) and maximums soaring to 24°C (76°F). This month experiences more rainfall at 89 mm (3.5 in), but over 17 days, reflecting a shift in weather patterns. For a closer look at what to expect, you can check Alta weather in June.
December and July present stark contrasts in weather. In December, temperatures plummet, with lows reaching -24°C (-11°F) and average temperatures around -8°C (18°F), while maximums only reach 4°C (39°F). The month is quite humid, maintaining a consistent 100% humidity level, and experiences about 39 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation over 11 days. In contrast, July offers a much more temperate climate, featuring minimum temperatures of 3°C (38°F) and average daily highs of 27°C (81°F). The humidity drops to 85%, and July sees increased rainfall, with approximately 83 mm (3.3 in) falling over 13 days. This makes July an ideal time for outdoor activities, unlike the harsh cold of December. For more information about weather conditions in July, visit Alta weather in July.
December and August present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -24°C (-11°F), with an average around -8°C (18°F) and a maximum of just 4°C (39°F). The month typically experiences significant humidity, reaching 100%, and sees about 39 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation over approximately 11 days. In contrast, August offers a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (35°F) to an average of 11°C (52°F), peaking at a comfortable 28°C (83°F). The month receives more precipitation—about 92 mm (3.6 in)—over around 15 days, but with a slightly lower humidity of 90%. For more details on August weather, visit Alta weather in August.
When comparing the weather in December and September, notable contrasts emerge. December features much colder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a chilling -24°C (-11°F) to a modest maximum of 4°C (39°F) and an average of -8°C (18°F). The month is marked by high humidity at 100%, alongside precipitation occurring on 11 days, totaling 39 mm (1.5 in). In contrast, September experiences more temperate weather, where temperatures vary from a minimum of -3°C (28°F) to a warm maximum of 21°C (70°F), with an average of 7°C (45°F). This month also sees more rain, accumulating 76 mm (3.0 in) over 15 rainy days, while maintaining a humidity level of 93%. For more details about the weather in September, visit Alta weather in September.
In comparing the weather between December and October, notable differences emerge in temperature and precipitation patterns. December experiences much colder temperatures, with minimums plunging to -24°C (-11°F) and an average of -8°C (18°F), whereas October sees milder conditions, where temperatures range from a minimum of -19°C (-2°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F). Additionally, while both months have considerable precipitation, October records a higher amount at 50 mm (2.0 in) spread over 14 days, compared to December's 39 mm (1.5 in) over 11 days. Humidity levels are also high in both months, with December reaching 100% and October at 96%. For more details on the weather trends, you can check out Alta weather in October.
In comparing the weather between December and November, December tends to be slightly milder overall, with an average temperature of -8°C (18°F) compared to November's -4°C (24°F). However, December's minimum temperature reaches -24°C (-11°F), only slightly warmer than November’s colder minimum of -26°C (-15°F). Precipitation in December totals 39 mm (1.5 in) over 11 days, which is less than November's 53 mm (2.1 in) over 14 days. Humidity remains high in both months, with December at 100% and November at 99%. For a detailed look at November weather, visit Alta weather in November.
As December settles in Alta, the weather transforms dramatically compared to the milder months prior. Temperatures plummet, with daily averages hovering around a chilly -8°C, making it one of the coldest times of the year. The maximums peak at just 4°C, while the frigid minimums can plunge to a biting -24°C. This month also sees an uptick in precipitation with about 39 mm falling over 11 days, enveloped in a constant cloak of 100% humidity that adds to the frostbitten atmosphere. December's unique conditions set the stage for a winter wonderland, distinct from the relatively temperate autumn days. For more on what to expect throughout the year, explore Alta Climate.