December Weather in Harstad, Norway

Last updated: August 27, 2025

In December, Harstad, Norway experiences a notable chill, with temperatures ranging from a maximum of 8°C (46°F) to a brisk minimum of -19°C (-2°F), resulting in an average temperature of -3°C (26°F). During this month, the city sees 97 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation spread over about 16 days, contributing to a humid atmosphere with an average humidity level of 87%. This mixture of cold temperatures and frequent precipitation paints a quintessentially wintry picture of Harstad, making it a unique time to explore its scenic landscapes and vibrant culture.

December Temperature in Harstad

In December, Harstad, Norway experiences a cold embrace as winter fully settles in. With minimum temperatures dipping to -19°C (-2°F) and an average of -3°C (26°F), the month is characterized by chilly days and frosty nights. While the maximum temperature creeps up to 8°C (46°F), it signals a slight increase in warmth compared to the biting cold of November. This gradual rise contrasts sharply with the depths of winter seen earlier in the season, as December acts as a transition toward the heart of the cold months. Wrapped in snow and ice, the beautiful landscapes of Harstad reflect the stark yet serene atmosphere typical of a Norwegian winter, making it a truly enchanting time of year.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Harstad, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Harstad, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec242227334250555448393226
Data source: Temperature data for Harstad generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

December Precipitation in Harstad

In December, Harstad experiences a precipitation amount of 97 mm (3.8 in), marking a slight decline from the previous month. This decrease in total rainfall occurs over 16 days of precipitation, which is average compared to the preceding months. Notably, December's rainfall is slightly less than the wetter months of late autumn, suggesting a trend towards drier conditions as the year draws to a close. As winter settles in, the consistent precipitation patterns seen earlier in the fall give way to a more subdued but steady flow of moisture, typical of Norway's northern climate. This final month of the year wraps up with a rhythm that hints at the frosty days ahead.

December Precipitation Trends in Harstad

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Harstad, 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 Harstad, December typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec981071361008511710112713010310997
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Harstad

In Harstad, Norway, December marks a slight dip in humidity levels, settling at 87%, which is consistent with the trend observed throughout the colder months. As the year progresses from November's 87%, the humidity tends to be higher during the winter months, peaking at 89% in January. As spring approaches, humidity gradually decreases, hitting its lowest point of 77% in May, before rising again during the summer. This cyclical pattern reveals how Harstad experiences a shift in humidity, influenced by seasonal changes, making December's climate feel crisp yet comfortably humid as the year draws to a close.

December Average Humidity in Harstad

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Harstad, 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 Harstad is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec89%88%85%83%77%82%83%84%88%88%87%87%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Harstad

As December rolls in, Harstad, Norway experiences a significant dip in the UV Index, dropping to a 0, which signifies minimal risk for sun exposure. This low level of UV radiation aligns with the chilly winter months, where residents can take comfort in knowing their burn time extends to a generous 45 minutes without concern for skin damage. It’s interesting to note the gradual increase in UV levels from January through July, with numbers peaking at 5 during the summer months, prompting moderate caution for sun lovers. As the year winds down, the UV Index returns to its winter lows, offering a stark contrast to the sunnier days just months prior. For those looking to plan their sun exposure wisely throughout the year, check out the details at Harstad UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Harstad for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Harstad 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 Harstad typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec112345543110
Data source: Harstad 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 Harstad

In Harstad, Norway, the sunlight experience throughout the year showcases a striking contrast, particularly evident in December when the sun graces the town for a mere zero hours. This stark absence of daylight during the winter months follows a gradual decline from the vibrant 462 hours of sunlight in June. As the year progresses, light dwindles, with November offering only 32 hours before plunging into complete darkness in December. Interestingly, this seasonal shift highlights a noteworthy trend: while summer months bask in abundant sunlight, winter envelops Harstad in a serene stillness, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the tranquil beauty of long, dark nights. The return of sunlight in January, with a slight uptick to 16 hours, offers a glimmer of hope as the cycle begins anew in the breathtaking Arctic landscape.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Harstad: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Harstad 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec16h112h241h340h455h462h473h383h290h181h32h0h
Data source: Harstad December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Harstad During December

In Harstad, Norway, December stands out with a 34% chance of sunny weather, a notable increase compared to the preceding months. As winter settles in, the likelihood of sun mirrors that of January, suggesting a promising start to the new year. This trend diverges from the lower percentages experienced in the preceding autumn months, where October and November each offered only an 18% chance of sunshine. Interestingly, while the darkest months of the year typically bring gray skies, December breaks the pattern, giving residents and visitors alike a hopeful glimpse of brightness amid the cold, dark days of winter.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Harstad

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Harstad 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 Harstad experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec35%19%19%27%24%25%22%16%20%13%18%34%
Data source: Harstad December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Harstad in December

In Harstad, Norway, the journey through the year reveals a captivating cycle of daylight that dramatically shifts with the seasons. Starting with just 5 hours of daylight in January, the days gradually lengthen, reaching a zenith of 24 hours in June, where the sun barely dips below the horizon. As July wanes, daylight begins to decline, plummeting to just 0 hours by December, plunging the city into a deep winter darkness. This stark contrast highlights not just the beauty of the Northern Lights in the cold months, but also the vibrant life that thrives under the midnight sun in the summer. As the year progresses, Harstad experiences a breathtaking transition from the long, bright days of summer to the quiet, dark embrace of winter, each phase offering its unique charm and experience.

Average Daylight Hours in Harstad for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Harstad throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5h 49m7h 33m11h 46m16h 2m21h 33m24h23h 8m17h 32m13h 10m9h 1m7h 59m
Data source: Harstad daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Harstad

In December, the wind in Harstad, Norway maintains an average speed of 2.8 m/s (6 mph), reflecting a consistent trend seen throughout the year. This month signifies a transition where the winds start to mirror the calmness of early winter after peaking slightly in late summer. With February showing the highest average wind speed of 3.0 m/s, December's steady breezes offer a reprieve from previous months, aligning closely with January's wind patterns. As the year closes, the winds carry a chill, yet they remain gentle, embracing the serene beauty of the Arctic landscapes blanketed in snow. This balance of moderate winds contributes to the enchanting, tranquil ambiance that characterizes Harstad’s deep winter nights.

Average December Wind Speed in Harstad

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Harstad, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.83.03.23.22.62.93.12.52.72.82.72.8 m/s
Data source: Harstad December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Harstad Compares to Other Months

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

December and January share some similarities in terms of temperature and precipitation, but there are notable differences as well. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -19°C (-2°F) to a maximum of 8°C (46°F), with an average of -3°C (26°F) and 97 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over 16 days. January is generally colder, with minimum temperatures plunging to -24°C (-11°F), while the average remains slightly lower at -5°C (24°F) and maximums still reaching 8°C. Precipitation in January is slightly higher at 98 mm (3.9 in) but occurs over fewer days, just 14. Additionally, the humidity increases slightly in January to 89%, compared to 87% in December. For a more detailed look at January conditions, visit Harstad weather in January.

In December, the weather features slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of -19°C (-2°F) and an average of -3°C (26°F), reaching a maximum of 8°C (46°F). The month sees considerable precipitation, totaling 97 mm (3.8 in) over 16 days, with humidity levels at 87%. In contrast, February tends to be colder, with a minimum temperature of -20°C (-4°F) and an average of -5°C (22°F), while the maximum reaches 7°C (45°F). It experiences a bit more precipitation, totaling 107 mm (4.2 in) over 14 days, and slightly higher humidity at 88%. For more detailed information about February weather in Harstad, check Harstad weather in February.

In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -19°C (-2°F) to a maximum of 8°C (46°F), with an average temperature of -3°C (26°F). There is significant precipitation, with 97 mm (3.8 in) falling over 16 days, and humidity levels are high at 87%. In contrast, March also showcases a similar average temperature of -3°C (28°F) and maximum of 8°C (46°F); however, it sees slightly lower minimum temperatures of -21°C (-6°F). March experiences even higher precipitation at 136 mm (5.4 in) over 19 days, while humidity remains relatively stable at 85%. This increased precipitation in March could indicate a transition towards spring conditions. For more details on March weather, visit Harstad weather in March.

In December, the weather is notably colder, with average temperatures hovering around -3°C (26°F) and dipping as low as -19°C (-2°F). There’s significant precipitation, totaling 97 mm (3.8 in) over 16 days, coupled with high humidity at 87%. In contrast, April experiences a gradual warming trend, with average temperatures rising to 1°C (34°F) and a maximum of 17°C (62°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 100 mm (3.9 in) but falls over 18 days, showcasing the transition from winter to spring with a humidity level of 83%. For more detailed information, you can view Harstad weather in April.

December and May present distinctly different weather patterns. December is characterized by cold temperatures, with a minimum of -19°C (-2°F) and an average of -3°C (26°F), while May enjoys milder conditions, ranging from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a more comfortable average of 6°C (42°F). In terms of precipitation, December experiences slightly more rainfall with 97 mm (3.8 in) over 16 days, compared to May's 85 mm (3.4 in) over 15 days. Furthermore, December maintains higher humidity levels at 87%, whereas May's humidity drops to 77%, contributing to a fresher feel in the spring. For more detailed insights, you can check Harstad weather in May.

In December, the weather is characterized by frigid temperatures, with averages hovering around -3°C (26°F) and a minimum dip to -19°C (-2°F). It experiences significant precipitation, totaling 97 mm (3.8 in) across 16 days, while humidity remains high at 87%. In contrast, June brings a much milder climate, where the average temperature rises to 10°C (51°F) with maximums reaching 23°C (74°F). Although June sees slightly more precipitation at 117 mm (4.6 in) over 17 days, the humidity level is slightly lower at 82%. For a closer look at what to expect during this warm month, check out Harstad weather in June.

In December, temperatures in Harstad can plunge to a frigid low of -19°C (-2°F) and typically hover around an average of -3°C (26°F), with highs reaching just 8°C (46°F). The month sees considerable precipitation, averaging 97 mm (3.8 in) over 16 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 87%. In stark contrast, July brings a much milder climate, with lows around 6°C (43°F) and an average temperature of 13°C (55°F), peaking at a comfortable 28°C (82°F). Although July experiences slightly more precipitation—101 mm (4.0 in) over 13 days—it still enjoys a drier atmosphere with humidity at 83%. For more specific weather details, you can check out Harstad weather in July.

In December, temperatures in Harstad can plummet to a minimum of -19°C (-2°F), with an average temperature of -3°C (26°F) and a maximum of 8°C (46°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 97 mm (3.8 in) over 16 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 87%. In contrast, August offers a milder climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a comfortable maximum of 27°C (81°F), averaging around 12°C (54°F). Although August has slightly more precipitation at 127 mm (5.0 in) over 20 days, the humidity is only marginally lower at 84%. This stark contrast highlights the seasonal shift from the chilly, damp days of December to the fresh, warmer ambiance of August. For more details on the summer climate, you can check Harstad weather in August.

In comparing the weather between December and September, it's clear that September enjoys milder temperatures, with averages around 9°C (48°F) and maximums reaching 21°C (70°F), while December plunges to a chilly average of -3°C (26°F) with highs of only 8°C (46°F). Precipitation is relatively high in both months, but September sees slightly more rainfall, totaling 130 mm (5.1 in) over 17 days, compared to December's 97 mm (3.8 in) across 16 days. Humidity remains fairly consistent, hovering around 87% in December and 88% in September, highlighting the dampness typical of the region. For a detailed look at the conditions in September, you can check out Harstad weather in September.

December tends to be significantly colder than October, with average temperatures dropping from a milder 4°C (39°F) in October to a biting -3°C (26°F) in December. The maximum temperature in December is only 8°C (46°F), compared to a much warmer 17°C (62°F) in October. Both months experience similar levels of precipitation, with October receiving slightly more at 103 mm (4.0 in) compared to December's 97 mm (3.8 in), and each month sees precipitation on about 16 days. Humidity remains relatively high in both months; December at 87% and October at 88%. For a detailed look at October weather, you can visit Harstad weather in October.

In comparing the weather conditions of December and November, December tends to be slightly milder with average temperatures around -3°C (26°F), while November sees a chillier average of 0°C (33°F). Notably, December experiences a minimum temperature of -19°C (-2°F), which is on par with November's minimum of -20°C (-4°F). Precipitation is notably lower in December, with 97 mm (3.8 inches) over 16 days, compared to November's 109 mm (4.3 inches) over 19 days. Both months exhibit similar humidity levels at 87%. For a closer look at November's weather specifics, you can check out Harstad weather in November.

Compare Harstad's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Harstad

As December descends upon Harstad, the weather takes on a distinctly chilly character that contrasts with the milder months preceding it. The average temperatures hover around a biting -3°C, while nighttime lows can plummet to a brisk -19°C, making it a time for bundling up. Humidity levels soar at 87%, contributing to a heightened sense of cold, and the frequent precipitation—with rainfall occurring on 16 days—adds to the wintry ambiance. The combination of these factors not only creates a picturesque winter landscape but also encourages residents and visitors to embrace winter activities. For a deeper understanding of Harstad's weather patterns, explore the details at Harstad Climate.