December Weather in Kirkenes, Norway

Last updated: August 27, 2025

In Kirkenes, Norway, December brings a unique blend of chilly weather and stunning Arctic beauty. With maximum temperatures reaching only 4°C (39°F) and plunging to a brisk -26°C (-15°F), the average hovers around -7°C (19°F), perfect for winter enthusiasts. This month records about 36 mm (1.4 in) of precipitation over 10 days, contributing to the region's enchanting snow-covered landscapes. The air is notably crisp, with humidity levels soaring at an impressive 98%, making it a quintessential winter experience. Whether you're exploring the great outdoors or cozying up indoors, Kirkenes in December offers a captivating taste of winter in the north.

December Temperature in Kirkenes

In December, Kirkenes, Norway, experiences the onset of winter with temperatures that can plunge as low as -26°C (-15°F). The month boasts an average temperature of -7°C (19°F), making it a time when the landscape transforms into a pristine winter wonderland. As the cold sets in, daytime highs barely reach 4°C (39°F), indicating that this northern town is indeed embracing the chill. Comparatively, temperatures in December are slightly milder than those in January and February, suggesting a trend of gradually increasing warmth as the winter progresses. With the arctic air dominating the scene, December stands as a quintessential example of Kirkenes’ frigid yet beautiful climate.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Kirkenes, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Kirkenes, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec151422314050575346352519
Data source: Temperature data for Kirkenes 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 Kirkenes

In December, Kirkenes experiences a modest precipitation amount of 36 mm (1.4 in), which is slightly higher than the 35 mm seen in November. This consistent trend in late autumn signals the onset of winter, characterized by chilly weather and a lingering presence of moisture. With precipitation occurring over approximately 10 days, the month shares a similar pattern with both January and March, which also have 10 days of rain or snow. As the year wraps up, Kirkenes sees a delicate balance of precipitation, gently transitioning into the colder months while maintaining a relatively steady level throughout late fall. The gradual increase from the drier winter months prior suggests that while temperatures drop, the atmosphere remains active, contributing to a dynamic winter landscape.

December Precipitation Trends in Kirkenes

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Kirkenes, 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 Kirkenes, December typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec322937355765728151483536
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

December Humidity in Kirkenes

As winter envelops Kirkenes, Norway, December sees humidity levels reach a peak of 98%, matching January's moisture-laden air. This pattern highlights a trend throughout the colder months, where humidity remains consistently high, culminating in a slight decline only during the milder spring and summer months, particularly in May and June. From the start of the year to the end, the transition is subtle, with humidity hovering between 86% and 98%, indicating that even as temperatures dip, the air retains an abundance of moisture. The return to such high humidity levels in December not only underscores the maritime influence of the region but also prepares the landscape for the unique beauty of winter's embrace.

December Average Humidity in Kirkenes

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Kirkenes, 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 Kirkenes is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec98%97%93%89%83%83%86%89%92%95%96%98%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Kirkenes

As winter settles in Kirkenes, Norway, December brings a notable shift in the UV Index, dropping to 0, which indicates very low exposure levels and a burn time of 45 minutes. This trend marks the end of a gradual increase in UV levels from earlier months, where moderate exposure was recorded during the summer. From April to August, the UV Index reached values as high as 5, requiring 30 minutes of care under the sun. However, as daylight diminishes in December, residents can enjoy clear skies without the worry of sunburn, making it an ideal time for winter activities. For more detailed UV information, please visit Kirkenes UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Kirkenes for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Kirkenes 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 Kirkenes typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec112345542110
Data source: Kirkenes 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 Kirkenes

December in Kirkenes, Norway, marks the stark transition into the darkest days of winter, with sunshine completely fading to zero hours. This striking shift follows a gradual increase in daylight from a mere 5 hours in January to a more vibrant 98 hours in February. As the months progress toward summer, the sun graces Kirkenes with an impressive peak of 479 hours in July, illuminating the landscape during the brief arctic summer. This pattern of sunlight reveals a compelling narrative of seasonal change, where the long, sun-soaked days of summer starkly contrast the almost perpetual twilight of winter. As November slides into December, the dramatic drop in daylight serves as a reminder of the remarkable polar cycle, inviting both awe and reflection on nature's rhythms.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Kirkenes: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Kirkenes 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5h98h263h333h412h431h479h290h260h139h27h0h
Data source: Kirkenes December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Kirkenes During December

In Kirkenes, Norway, December brings with it a stark decrease in the likelihood of sunny weather, with only an 11% chance of sunshine. This marks a significant drop from the preceding months, particularly when compared to March, which boasts a sunny probability of 32%. The trend reveals a gradual decline as the year progresses toward winter, with November experiencing an 18% chance. As the darkest days of winter settle in, December's gloomy skies become a common backdrop, offering just a flicker of sunlight amidst the long polar nights. Whether you're bundled up enjoying winter activities or simply dreaming of brighter days, Kirkenes in December is a vivid reminder of nature’s striking seasonal contrasts.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Kirkenes

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Kirkenes 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 Kirkenes experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10%20%32%26%21%33%32%21%21%21%18%11%
Data source: Kirkenes December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Kirkenes in December

In Kirkenes, Norway, December marks the profound transition into the polar night's embrace, where daylight disappears entirely, leaving residents in darkness until the arrival of the new year. This stark contrast becomes evident when observing the gradual increase in daylight from just 4 hours in January to a vibrant 24 hours during the summer months. As the year progresses, daylight steadily dwindles, peaking in May with 22 hours before dropping to a mere 6 hours in November. The cyclical nature of Kirkenes’ daylight reveals a stunning rhythm of light and dark, encapsulating the unique challenge and beauty of life in the Arctic region.

Average Daylight Hours in Kirkenes for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Kirkenes throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4h 26m7h 17m11h 45m16h 15m22h 10m24h23h 34m17h 53m13h 14m8h 52m6h 27m
Data source: Kirkenes daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Kirkenes

As December rolls into Kirkenes, the average wind speed settles at a brisk 3.5 m/s (8 mph), mirroring the calm yet invigorating conditions experienced earlier in the winter months. This consistent wind pattern reflects a trend of stability from November, hinting at the region's characteristic chill as it transitions deeper into the season. Interestingly, while the winds pick up noticeably in March, peaking at 4.1 m/s (9 mph), December’s breezes remain gentle enough to embrace the serene beauty of Norway's winter landscape. With only slight fluctuations throughout the year, from a summer low of 2.7 m/s (6 mph) in August to autumn’s lively 4.0 m/s (9 mph) in October, December’s winds combine a sense of tranquility with the crisp energy of winter, inviting both locals and visitors to experience the enchanting allure of Kirkenes.

Average December Wind Speed in Kirkenes

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Kirkenes, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.53.64.13.73.33.03.42.73.74.03.33.5 m/s
Data source: Kirkenes December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Kirkenes Compares to Other Months

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

December and January share similar weather patterns; however, January tends to be slightly colder overall. December's average temperature hovers around -7°C (19°F), with a maximum of 4°C (39°F), while January is a notch cooler, with an average of -9°C (15°F) and a minimum that dips to -28°C (-18°F). Both months experience high humidity levels of 98% and nearly the same amount of precipitation—36 mm (1.4 in) in December and 32 mm (1.2 in) in January—consistently spread over about 10 days. For more detailed insights into January's weather, you can visit Kirkenes weather in January.

In December, temperatures in the region can drop to a minimum of -26°C (-15°F), with an average of -7°C (19°F) and a maximum of 4°C (39°F). The month typically sees about 36 mm (1.4 in) of precipitation over 10 days, coupled with high humidity at 98%. In contrast, February experiences even colder temperatures, with a minimum of -29°C (-20°F), an average of -10°C (15°F), and a similar maximum of 4°C (40°F). Precipitation slightly decreases to 29 mm (1.1 in) over 9 days, and humidity remains relatively high at 97%. For a more detailed view of the weather patterns, you can visit Kirkenes weather in February.

December and March weather in Kirkenes showcases notable differences despite their proximity in the winter season. In December, temperatures dip to a minimum of -26°C (-15°F), with an average of -7°C (19°F) and a maximum of 4°C (39°F), accompanied by high humidity at 98%. Precipitation is relatively similar in both months, with December receiving 36 mm (1.4 in) over about 10 days. In contrast, March offers slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of -25°C (-12°F), an average of -6°C (22°F), and a maximum of 7°C (45°F). The humidity decreases to 93%, and precipitation rises slightly to 37 mm (1.5 in), also over roughly 10 days. For more details on March conditions, visit Kirkenes weather in March.

In December, temperatures in Kirkenes can plummet to a minimum of -26°C (-15°F), with an average around -7°C (19°F) and a maximum of just 4°C (39°F). The month experiences high humidity at 98%, along with 36 mm (1.4 in) of precipitation spread over approximately 10 days. In contrast, April brings a noticeable shift in weather, with milder temperatures ranging from a minimum of -15°C (5°F) to a more pleasant average of 0°C (31°F) and a maximum of 13°C (56°F). While the precipitation is slightly lower at 35 mm (1.4 in), it occurs over about 11 days and the humidity drops to 89%. This transition from December to April showcases the gradual warming and transforming landscape of Kirkenes. For more details on how the weather unfolds in April, you can check out Kirkenes weather in April.

December weather in Kirkenes is characterized by frigid temperatures, with a minimum drop to -26°C (-15°F) and an average hovering around -7°C (19°F), making it the coldest month of the year. Precipitation is fairly moderate at 36 mm (1.4 in) over about 10 days, paired with a high humidity level of 98%, resulting in a consistently frosty atmosphere. In stark contrast, May sees a significant warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -10°C (13°F) to a comfortable maximum of 21°C (70°F) and an average of 4°C (40°F). The month experiences higher precipitation of 57 mm (2.2 in) across approximately 15 days, but with lower humidity at 83%, contributing to a much milder and more pleasant climate. For a detailed look at conditions during this month, check out Kirkenes weather in May.

In December, temperatures in Kirkenes plunge to a minimum of -26°C (-15°F), with an average around -7°C (19°F) and a maximum reaching only 4°C (39°F). The month is characterized by a high level of humidity at 98% and sees around 36 mm (1.4 in) of precipitation spread over 10 days. In stark contrast, June brings a more temperate climate, where temperatures range from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a pleasant maximum of 26°C (80°F), with an average of 10°C (50°F). Although June experiences slightly more precipitation at 65 mm (2.6 in) over 13 days, the humidity drops to 83%, making it feel warmer and more comfortable. For a more detailed look at June weather, visit Kirkenes weather in June.

In December, temperatures in Kirkenes drop significantly, with minimums reaching as low as -26°C (-15°F) and an average of -7°C (19°F). The month typically experiences cold and damp conditions, with 36 mm of precipitation spread over about 10 days and high humidity levels of 98%. In stark contrast, July brings a welcome warmth, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 32°C (89°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F). This summer month sees more rainfall at 72 mm over 11 days, but with a lower humidity level of 86%. For a closer look at July weather specifics, you can visit Kirkenes weather in July.

The weather in December and August presents a stark contrast in Kirkenes. December experiences frigid temperatures, with average lows around -7°C (19°F) and maximums peaking at just 4°C (39°F), accompanied by high humidity levels at 98%. This month typically sees about 36 mm (1.4 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days. In contrast, August brings a much milder climate, with average minimum temperatures of 1°C (34°F) and a maximum reaching up to 31°C (87°F). Precipitation is also more significant in August, totaling 81 mm (3.2 in) over roughly 16 days, while humidity levels remain high at 89%. For a detailed overview of the climatic conditions during this summer month, you can check Kirkenes weather in August.

December and September present notably contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures plunge to a minimum of -26°C (-15°F) and peak at just 4°C (39°F), with an average of -7°C (19°F). The month experiences high humidity at 98% and sees about 36 mm (1.4 in) of precipitation over 10 days. In contrast, September enjoys milder temperatures, ranging from a low of -3°C (26°F) to a comfortable high of 22°C (73°F), with an average of 8°C (47°F). Rainfall is slightly higher in September at 51 mm (2.0 in), but the humidity is lower at 92%. For more details about the weather specifics in September, check out Kirkenes weather in September.

December weather is characterized by much colder temperatures, with lows reaching -26°C (-15°F) and an average of -7°C (19°F), compared to October's milder lows of -14°C (7°F) and an average of 2°C (35°F). While both months experience significant humidity, December's level is slightly higher at 98%, compared to October's 95%. Precipitation is also notable, with December receiving 36 mm (1.4 in) over about 10 days, while October records 48 mm (1.9 in) across 12 days. For more detailed insights, you can check Kirkenes weather in October.

In comparing the weather of December to that of November, we observe a notable drop in average temperatures; while November experiences an average of -4°C (26°F), December's average temperature falls to -7°C (19°F). Both months report similar minimum temperatures at -26°C (-15°F) for December and -26°C (-14°F) for November, yet December adds a chill with a maximum of 4°C (39°F) compared to November's milder max of 7°C (44°F). Precipitation levels remain relatively consistent, with December receiving 36 mm (1.4 in) over 10 days, just slightly higher than November's 35 mm (1.4 in) over 9 days. Humidity is also notably higher in December at 98%, compared to November's 96%, further emphasizing the cold and damp conditions of the later month. For more detailed insights about November, check Kirkenes weather in November.

Compare Kirkenes's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Kirkenes

In December, Kirkenes experiences a notable shift in weather compared to other months, characterized by a chilly average temperature of -7°C (19°F) and frequent cold snaps that can plunge down to -26°C (-15°F). This transition into winter brings with it a significant increase in humidity, often reaching 98%, creating a crisp and frosty atmosphere. While precipitation is relatively modest, with 36 mm (1.4 in) falling over about 10 days, the combination of cold temperatures and dampness sets the stage for a quintessential winter landscape. For those seeking to understand the unique climatic nuances of this northern town, further insights can be found at Kirkenes Climate.