Last updated: February 24, 2025
Discover the enchanting December weather in Porto da Cruz, Portugal, where temperatures gracefully hover between a comfortable 12°C (53°F) and a pleasant 20°C (69°F). With an average of 17°C (63°F), this coastal gem offers a mild retreat during the winter months. Expect a bit of moisture, as the region sees about 62 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over approximately 13 days. Coupled with a humidity level of 75%, the atmosphere is perfectly suited for soaking in the beauty of its lush landscapes and serene beaches, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil getaway in a stunning, naturally vibrant setting.
In Porto da Cruz, Portugal, December ushers in a mild winter climate, with temperatures showcasing a gentle drop as the year closes. The month typically sees minima around 12°C (53°F), providing a crisp start to the day, while daily averages reach a comfortable 17°C (63°F). Daytime highs peak at about 20°C (69°F), making it warmer than many spots across Europe. This pattern of moderate temperatures aligns with the gradual cooling trend observed from the balmy days of summer into late fall. Overall, December offers a delightful mix of chilly mornings and pleasantly mild afternoons, perfect for exploring the charming coastal town amidst its seasonal festivities.
In December, Porto da Cruz experiences a notable increase in precipitation, with 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain measured over 13 days. This uptick in rainfall marks a transition from the dry, summer months, reflecting the region’s shift towards its rainier season. As the year comes to a close, December's precipitation amounts are on par with November's totals, which had 61 mm (2.4 in) over a lengthier 15 days. The trend showcases the island's winter vulnerability to increased moisture, making December one of the wetter months of the year, ideal for nurturing the lush landscapes that Madeira is famous for.
In December, Porto da Cruz experiences a humidity level of 75%, marking a notable drop compared to the peak summer months of July and August, which see humidity soar to 83%. As the year wraps up, the humidity steadily decreases from the highs of late spring and early summer, reflecting a cooler and more comfortable climate during winter. Despite the drop, December's humidity remains consistent with the preceding warmer months of November and earlier in the year, suggesting a balanced moisture level that characterizes this coastal paradise throughout the colder months. This seasonal trend underscores Porto da Cruz's appeal as a mild winter destination, where the air remains refreshingly crisp yet pleasantly humid.
In December, Porto da Cruz experiences a reversal of the high UV indices typical of the summer months, settling at a UV Index of 4, categorized as moderate. This means residents and visitors can enjoy about 30 minutes of sun exposure before risking sunburn, a notable increase compared to the extreme levels recorded from May to August. Following a steady decline from the intense UV exposure of summer, the December index suggests a more temperate sun experience, making it a great time for outdoor activities without excessive sun protection. As the new year approaches, it's a perfect opportunity to relish in the beautiful landscapes of Madeira while being mindful of sun safety. For more detailed insights, visit Porto da Cruz UV Index.
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In December, Porto da Cruz, Portugal, bids farewell to the year with a cozy embrace of 246 hours of sunshine, reflecting a pattern of diminishing daylight as winter approaches. This month showcases a slight decline from November, which enjoys 260 hours of golden rays, illustrating the natural ebb of sunlight during the colder months. Interestingly, December’s sunshine hours stand in contrast to the vibrant summer peaks, particularly July, which dazzles with a robust 388 hours. As the year draws to a close, Porto da Cruz offers a serene and picturesque atmosphere, reminding visitors that while sunlight may wane, its beauty remains ever-present.
In December, Porto da Cruz experiences a 31% chance of sunny weather, marking it as one of the cloudier months of the year. This statistic reflects a downward trend in sunshine, especially compared to the peaks of late summer, where August enjoys a vibrant 58% likelihood of sunny days. As the year progresses into autumn, there's a noticeable decrease, with November also seeing only 37% sunshine. While December may bring less sun, it retains a charm unique to the winter season, inviting visitors to embrace its cooler, yet captivating ambiance.
In Porto da Cruz, Portugal, the rhythm of daylight shifts gently throughout the year. As we transition into December, the daylight lingers around 10 hours, aligning with the shorter days of late autumn. Interestingly, this month mirrors the daylight duration seen in both January and November, creating a consistent cycle as the year closes. Looking back at the preceding months, there's a gradual increase in daylight from February through June, where it peaks at a vibrant 14 hours during the height of summer. Following this peak, the days begin to shorten again, dropping back to 13 hours in August and then tapering down to 10 hours by December. This ebb and flow of daylight distinctly shapes the seasonal experience in Porto da Cruz, inviting residents and visitors alike to savor the unique beauty of each part of the year.
As December unfolds in Porto da Cruz, Portugal, the winds pick up slightly, averaging 4.6 m/s (10 mph), offering a refreshing gust that dances through the coastal landscape. This increase reflects a consistent trend observed since the breezy peaks of late spring and summer, particularly the gusty July, which also recorded 4.9 m/s (11 mph). Interestingly, while January typically heralds the year's lowest winds, December's conditions stand out as remarkably steady, bridging the calmer autumn months to the invigorating winds of January. As the year closes, this mild yet notable wind serves as a reminder of the dynamic climate that characterizes Porto da Cruz, inviting visitors to embrace the natural beauty that the island's breezes bring.
The weather in Porto da Cruz 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 Porto da Cruz and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January in Porto da Cruz exhibit similar mild temperatures, with January being slightly cooler on average. December sees temperatures fluctuating between a minimum of 12°C (53°F) and a maximum of 20°C (69°F), while January ranges from 11°C (52°F) to 21°C (70°F). Precipitation levels are notably higher in December, with 62 mm (2.4 in) over 13 days, compared to January's 42 mm (1.7 in) over just 7 days. Both months maintain a consistent humidity level of 75%. For more detailed weather insights, you can view the forecast here: Porto da Cruz weather in January.
In December, the weather in Porto da Cruz features slightly higher average temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a maximum of 20°C (69°F), with an average temperature of 17°C (63°F). The month experiences 62 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over about 13 days, while humidity remains consistent at 75%. In contrast, February sees a slight drop in the average temperature to 15°C (60°F), with minimum temperatures around 11°C (52°F) and maximums reaching 21°C (69°F). This month also has less precipitation at 54 mm (2.1 in), spread over 9 days, but maintains the same humidity level of 75%. For more detailed information, visit Porto da Cruz weather in February.
In December, the weather in Porto da Cruz sees mild temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (53°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F), peaking at 20°C (69°F). This month experiences more precipitation, with 62 mm (2.4 in) spread over 13 days and an average humidity of 75%. In contrast, March offers slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 10°C (50°F) and an average of 15°C (60°F), while the maximum reaches 22°C (71°F). Precipitation decreases to 49 mm (1.9 in) across 10 days, and humidity rises marginally to 78%. For a detailed look at the weather patterns in March, check out Porto da Cruz weather in March.
In December, the weather in Porto da Cruz typically features a mild temperature range, with average highs around 20°C (69°F) and lows at 12°C (53°F). This month sees a fair amount of rainfall, averaging 62 mm (2.4 in) over 13 days, coupled with a humidity level of 75%. In contrast, April offers slightly cooler temperatures, with an average high of 21°C (70°F) and lows remaining steady at 12°C (55°F). Precipitation in April is lighter, totaling 47 mm (1.8 in) across just 8 days, while humidity rises slightly to 78%. Overall, while both months are mild, December experiences more rainfall, whereas April tends to have a drier atmosphere. For more detailed insights, you can check the Porto da Cruz weather in April.
In December, the weather is cool with average temperatures around 17°C (63°F) and a maximum of 20°C (69°F). The month experiences relatively high humidity at 75% and over half of the days—13 in total—receive some precipitation, totaling 62 mm (2.4 in). By contrast, May brings slightly warmer temperatures, with an average of 17°C (63°F) and a maximum of 22°C (73°F). Precipitation decreases significantly, with only 18 mm (0.7 in) falling over just 6 days, while humidity remains high at 77%. For more details on the weather conditions in May, check out Porto da Cruz weather in May.
In December, the weather is characterized by mild temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (53°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F), reaching a maximum of 20°C (69°F). This month experiences more rainfall, with a total of 62 mm (2.4 in) spread over 13 days, and humidity levels around 75%. In contrast, June offers slightly warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures of 15°C (59°F), an average of 19°C (66°F), and a maximum of 23°C (73°F). Precipitation decreases significantly to 33 mm (1.3 in) over only 6 days, and humidity is a bit higher at 80%. For more details on June weather, you can check Porto da Cruz weather in June.
In December, Porto da Cruz experiences a mild climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a maximum of 20°C (69°F). The month sees an average temperature of 17°C (63°F) and is characterized by increased precipitation, totaling 62 mm (2.4 in) over approximately 13 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 75%.
In contrast, July brings warmer weather, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 18°C (65°F) and peaking at 24°C (76°F), averaging around 20°C (69°F). Precipitation drops significantly during this month, with only 12 mm (0.5 in) recorded over just 2 days, while humidity rises slightly to 83%. For more details on July weather, you can check Porto da Cruz weather in July.
Overall, while both months are relatively mild, December is cooler and wetter compared to the warm and dry conditions of July.
In December, the weather in Porto da Cruz is generally mild, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a maximum of 20°C (69°F). The month experiences higher rainfall, totaling about 62 mm (2.4 in) over approximately 13 days, and the humidity levels sit at around 75%. In contrast, August is noticeably warmer, with an average temperature between 18°C (65°F) and 25°C (78°F), and much less precipitation—only 13 mm (0.5 in) falling over just 4 days. Humidity is slightly higher in August at 83%. For more specific insights, you can check Porto da Cruz weather in August.
In comparing the weather between December and September, one can observe distinct differences. December tends to be cooler, with average temperatures ranging from a low of 12°C (53°F) to a high of 20°C (69°F), while September boasts warmer averages of 19°C (66°F) to 25°C (77°F). Additionally, December experiences more precipitation, totaling 62 mm (2.4 in) over 13 days, compared to September's lighter 22 mm (0.9 in) over just 8 days. The humidity levels are fairly close, with December at 75% and September slightly higher at 81%. For a detailed look at September weather, check out Porto da Cruz weather in September.
December weather is generally cooler than October, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a maximum of 20°C (69°F), while October enjoys a warmer average, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 16°C (62°F) to a maximum of 26°C (78°F). Precipitation levels are slightly higher in December, with 62 mm (2.4 in) over 13 days, compared to October’s 54 mm (2.1 in) over 10 days. Additionally, December has a humidity level of 75%, which is slightly lower than October's 80%. For a detailed look at October weather, you can explore Porto da Cruz weather in October.
When comparing the weather in December to November, we observe some notable differences. December generally has a slightly lower average temperature, with an average of 17°C (63°F) compared to November's 18°C (65°F). The maximum temperatures in December reach only up to 20°C (69°F), while November can go as high as 24°C (75°F). Precipitation levels remain similar in both months, with December recording 62 mm (2.4 in) over 13 days, slightly less frequent than November's 61 mm (2.4 in) over 15 days. Humidity levels are consistent at 75% throughout both months. For more detailed insights, you can check Porto da Cruz weather in November.
In December, Porto da Cruz experiences a noticeable shift in weather compared to the drier, warmer months of the year. The average temperature hovers around a comfortable 17°C (63°F), but the chill of the minimum temperature at 12°C (53°F) can feel brisk, especially with increased humidity levels at 75%. This month also marks a rise in precipitation, with around 62 mm (2.4 in) falling over approximately 13 days, making it one of the wetter times of the year. As such, visitors can expect a blend of mild temperatures and occasional rain—ideal for those who appreciate the lush greenery that such moisture fosters. For a more detailed overview of the climate throughout the year, check out Porto da Cruz Climate.