Last updated: February 24, 2025
December in Ponta Delgada, Portugal offers a mild escape with average temperatures hovering around 17°C (63°F). Visitors can anticipate daytime highs reaching up to 20°C (68°F), while evenings cool down to 12°C (53°F). Although the weather is generally pleasant, prepare for a wet month; with 141 mm (5.6 in) of rain spread over approximately 15 days, humidity levels soar to 84%. This blend of warmth and moisture makes December a captivating, albeit occasionally rainy, experience in this beautiful Azorean city.
In December, Ponta Delgada embraces mild temperatures, making it an enticing destination for winter travelers. With a minimum of 12°C (53°F) and an average of around 17°C (63°F), the weather remains relatively warm compared to many other European locations. The maximum temperature can reach 20°C (68°F), providing pleasant conditions for exploring the stunning landscapes of the Azores. As the year winds down, the gradual cooling trend from the previous months culminates in a comfortable climate, encouraging visitors to enjoy the cozy charm of this beautiful coastal city.
December in Ponta Delgada, Portugal, marks a significant uptick in precipitation, with an average of 141 mm (5.6 in) falling across approximately 15 days. This increase in rainfall signals the arrival of winter, contributing to the region's lush landscapes. Notably, December's precipitation surpasses that of the preceding months, including the wetter October and November, which recorded 123 mm (4.8 in) and 105 mm (4.2 in), respectively. The trend showcases a gradual buildup of moisture as the year closes, highlighting December as not just a month of holiday festivities, but also a period where nature rejuvenates through abundant rainfall. The consistent pattern of rainy days may encourage cozy indoor activities while the vibrant greenery flourishes outside.
In December, Ponta Delgada experiences a notable rise in humidity, reaching 84%, which marks the highest level for the year. This increase reflects a general trend of stable humidity throughout the months, oscillating between 79% and 83% from October to November. While January through March sees a consistent humidity level of about 82%, the ending month of the year transitions to a wetter, more humid atmosphere. April and July also show slight peaks, hinting at a seasonal cycle that underscores the island's lush, vibrant climate. Overall, December's humidity sets the tone for the upcoming winter months, enveloping the region in its characteristic maritime softness.
In Ponta Delgada, Portugal, the UV Index experiences a notable decline as the year comes to a close, with December reaching a moderate level of 3, indicating a burn time of about 30 minutes under direct sunlight. This mirrors the UV trends seen in January, where the index also sits at 3, suggesting a seasonal consistency during these winter months. The preceding months, particularly from April to September, show a significant spike in UV exposure, peaking at a high of 11 in June, classified as extreme. This pattern highlights a transition from very high to moderate levels as the colder season sets in, creating a more forgiving atmosphere for outdoor activities. To explore more about the UV conditions throughout the year, visit Ponta Delgada UV Index.
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In Ponta Delgada, Portugal, the allure of December sunshine is a delightful prelude to the vibrant months ahead. With 212 hours of sunlight, December encapsulates a gentle transition from the bustling summer heat to the milder winter days. While it may not rival the sun-drenched abundance of July or August, its rays still provide a warm embrace, especially as the year closes out. Instead of a steady decline, December's hours reflect a resilient glow, similar to November’s 224 hours, hinting at a brief but vital warmth before the depths of winter. As the sun gradually sets earlier, each golden hour becomes a cherished moment, making December a compelling time to experience the charm of this Azorean gem.
In Ponta Delgada, Portugal, December offers a moderate 32% chance of sunny weather, reflecting a slight decline from the more sun-kissed months of summer. As the year progresses, the likelihood of sunshine typically peaks in August, boasting a robust 57% chance, while winter months show a gradual decrease in brightness, with December falling just below the autumn average. This trend indicates that while December is not the sunniest month, it still provides opportunities for pleasant breaks in the often rainy winter weather, making it a charming time to explore the Azorean archipelago amid a backdrop of occasional sunny skies.
In Ponta Delgada, Portugal, daylight duration showcases a captivating seasonal rhythm throughout the year. The month of December brings 9 hours of daylight, mirroring the low light of January, as the year nears its end. This reduction in daylight is part of a gradual decline that starts from the highs of 14 hours during the summer months of May through July. As autumn unfolds, daylight steadily decreases, with November experiencing only 10 hours before the return of the winter solstice's brief days. This pattern highlights the contrast between the long, sun-soaked summer days and the shorter, cozy winter weekends, creating a unique charm that characterizes life in this beautiful Azorean island.
As December arrives in Ponta Delgada, the winds pick up slightly, averaging 7.8 m/s (17 mph), a noticeable shift from the gentler breezes of the summer months. While the early part of the year experiences higher gusts, particularly in January (8.9 m/s) and February (9.8 m/s), the trend throughout the spring and summer reveals a consistent dip, with winds dropping to their annual low of 4.9 m/s (11 mph) in June. However, as autumn unfolds, wind speeds begin to rise again, culminating in December’s breezy charm. This transitional month offers a subtle reminder of the dynamic coastal climate, blending the receding warmth of fall with winter's fresh air, making it an invigorating time to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of the Azores.
The weather in Ponta Delgada changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of December's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Ponta Delgada and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January in Ponta Delgada exhibit similar mild temperatures, with December having slightly warmer averages ranging from 17°C (63°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), compared to January's 16°C (61°F) average and 19°C (66°F) high. However, December sees significantly more precipitation, measuring 141 mm (5.6 in) over 15 days, while January experiences less rain with 77 mm (3.0 in) over 14 days. Humidity levels are also slightly lower in January at 82%, compared to December's 84%. For a detailed look at January weather, you can visit Ponta Delgada weather in January.
In December, the weather tends to be slightly warmer than in February, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F). This month also experiences higher precipitation levels, with 141 mm (5.6 in) spread over about 15 days and a humidity level of 84%. In contrast, February sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 10°C (50°F) and a maximum of 18°C (65°F). Precipitation decreases to 111 mm (4.4 in) while maintaining the same frequency of rainy days at 15, along with a slightly lower humidity of 80%. For a detailed look at February weather, you can visit Ponta Delgada weather in February.
In December, the weather tends to be slightly warmer, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 141 mm (5.6 in) over approximately 15 days, and the humidity remains high at 84%. In contrast, March sees a slight drop in temperatures, with averages between 11°C (52°F) and 18°C (64°F). Rainfall decreases to 66 mm (2.6 in), spread across about 12 days, and the humidity is somewhat lower at 82%. For more detailed information on the weather during this month, you can check Ponta Delgada weather in March.
In comparing the weather between December and April, December tends to be slightly warmer, with average temperatures reaching 17°C (63°F) compared to April's 15°C (60°F). Both months experience similar humidity levels, with December at 84% and April slightly lower at 83%. Precipitation is more prominent in December, with 141 mm (5.6 in) over 15 days, while April sees less rainfall at 88 mm (3.5 in) across 14 days. For a detailed look at April weather, you can check Ponta Delgada weather in April.
December and May share similar temperature ranges, both experiencing a minimum of 12°C (53°F), an average of 17°C (63°F), and a maximum of 20°C (68°F). However, December is notably wetter, with 141 mm (5.6 in) of precipitation over 15 days compared to May’s 71 mm (2.8 in) over 11 days. Additionally, the humidity in December is slightly higher at 84%, while May enjoys a milder 81%. This makes May generally feel a bit drier and more comfortable. For more details on the weather in May, check the link: Ponta Delgada weather in May.
In December, Ponta Delgada experiences mild temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (53°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F), while June sees slightly warmer conditions, starting at a minimum of 14°C (58°F) and averaging 19°C (66°F). However, December tends to be much wetter, with 141 mm (5.6 in) of precipitation over 15 days compared to June’s lighter rainfall of just 39 mm (1.5 in) over 6 days. Despite the higher humidity in December at 84%, June's humidity is only slightly lower at 82%. For a more detailed look at June weather in Ponta Delgada, you can check this link: Ponta Delgada weather in June.
December and July in Ponta Delgada present distinctly contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a mild minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), with an average of 17°C (63°F). This month is characterized by considerable rainfall, with 141 mm (5.6 in) over 15 days, resulting in a high humidity level of 84%. In contrast, July offers warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 18°C (65°F) and a maximum of 23°C (74°F), averaging 21°C (69°F). Precipitation is significantly reduced, with only 18 mm (0.7 in) falling over just 4 days, while humidity remains relatively stable at 83%. For more specific details, you can check Ponta Delgada weather in July.
When comparing the weather in December and August, we see distinct differences in temperature and precipitation. December experiences cooler temperatures, with an average of 17°C (63°F) and a maximum of 20°C (68°F), while August is warmer, averaging 22°C (72°F) and peaking at 24°C (76°F). Additionally, December tends to be much wetter, with 141 mm (5.6 in) of precipitation over 15 days, compared to August's 49 mm (1.9 in) spread over just 9 days. Humidity levels are also relatively high in both months, with December at 84% and August at 81%. For more detailed insights into August weather, you can visit Ponta Delgada weather in August.
In December, the weather becomes notably cooler compared to September, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F). In contrast, September boasts warmer temperatures, with an average ranging from 19°C (66°F) to 24°C (76°F). Additionally, December experiences significantly more precipitation, measuring 141 mm (5.6 in) over 15 days, while September has only 66 mm (2.6 in) over 12 days. Humidity levels are also slightly higher in December at 84%, compared to 81% in September. For more details, you can check Ponta Delgada weather in September.
In comparing the weather of December to October, we see notable differences in temperature and humidity. December experiences lower temperatures, with an average of 17°C (63°F) compared to October's warmer average of 20°C (69°F). Additionally, while December has a minimum of 12°C (53°F), October starts at a higher minimum of 16°C (60°F). Both months see similar precipitation levels at around 141 mm (5.6 in) in December and 123 mm (4.8 in) in October, each with rain on 15 days. However, December's humidity is slightly higher at 84%, compared to October's 79%. For more details, you can check Ponta Delgada weather in October.
In December, the weather sees a slight decrease in average temperatures compared to November, with minimums at 12°C (53°F), averaging 17°C (63°F), and a maximum of 20°C (68°F). November, on the other hand, typically offers warmer conditions, averaging 18°C (65°F) with a higher maximum of 23°C (73°F). Both months experience similar precipitation levels, but December receives more rainfall at 141 mm (5.6 in) over 15 days, compared to November's 105 mm (4.2 in) across the same number of days. Additionally, humidity is slightly higher in December at 84%, compared to November's 79%. For more details, check out Ponta Delgada weather in November.
In December, Ponta Delgada transforms into a milder haven compared to the summer months, welcoming a blend of cooler temperatures and increased rainfall. With an average temperature hovering around 17°C, it’s a time when visitors can enjoy the island’s lush landscapes adorned with a refreshing drizzle. While the humidity remains high, it adds a certain charm to the air, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for exploring the local culture and cuisine. Although December experiences more rainy days than earlier months, the increased precipitation nourishes the vibrant flora of the Azores, making it an ideal time for nature enthusiasts. For a deeper insight into what to expect throughout the year, check out Ponta Delgada Climate.