Last updated: August 27, 2025
December in Irkutsk, Russian Federation, is characterized by its bitterly cold temperatures, where daily averages hover around -17°C (2°F). The month sees extreme lows plummeting to a chilling -39°C (-38°F), while the maximum temperature barely reaches 3°C (38°F). Despite the frigid conditions, December experiences 19 mm (0.7 in) of precipitation over 5 days, contributing to the region's high humidity levels at 96%. Residents and visitors alike must brace for the harsh winter elements as they navigate this frozen landscape.
In December, Irkutsk experiences a significant chill as temperatures plummet to minimums of -39°C (-38°F) and average around -17°C (2°F), with highs barely reaching 3°C (38°F). This month marks a stark transition into winter, with frigid conditions consistently setting the stage for the coldest months ahead. Notably, December's temperatures are colder than those in November, reflecting a steady downward trend as winter firmly establishes its presence. As snow blankets the city, locals brace for the harsh conditions, making the warmth of indoor gatherings all the more inviting.
December in Irkutsk sees a modest precipitation amount of 19 mm (0.7 in), marking a slight increase from the preceding months. This month typically experiences about 5 days of rain or snow, which contributes to a winter landscape blanketed in white. As temperatures plunge, this steady precipitation hints at the transition from autumn's lingering warmth to the deep freeze of January, mirroring a general upward trend in rainfall as the year wanes. Compared to the drier spells earlier in the year, December's precipitation sets the stage for the coldest months ahead, showcasing the region's characteristic winter climate.
In Irkutsk, December marks a notable peak in humidity, reaching an impressive 96%. This increase follows a trend seen throughout the colder months, with humidity levels gradually rising from 90% in November to their December high. The transition from winter to spring illustrates a consistent pattern: while the initial winter months, like January and February, maintain exceptionally high humidity levels (94% and 90%, respectively), a steady decline occurs toward the spring months of April and May, when humidity drops to 73% and 67%. However, as winter sets in with the arrival of December, the moisture-laden air returns, enveloping Irkutsk in a crisp, humid embrace that is characteristic of its cold climate.
As winter settles in Irkutsk, the December UV Index drops to a low 1, mirroring the trends observed in the early months of the year. With a burn time of 45 minutes, December's UV exposure remains mild, allowing residents to enjoy outdoor activities with minimal risk of sunburn. This is consistent with January and November, both of which also feature low UV levels. Interestingly, the year's UV trends reveal a sharp uptick from March through August, where the index peaks at a very high 8 during the summer months. This seasonal variation highlights the importance of monitoring UV exposure throughout the year in Irkutsk, where the landscape and activities shift dramatically with the changing seasons. For more details, visit the Irkutsk UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In Irkutsk, December ushers in a notable yet subdued atmosphere as daylight begins to wane, with the city receiving 191 hours of sunshine. This month marks a significant decrease from the luminous days of summer, where June dazzled with a peak of 376 hours. As we transition from the shimmering brilliance of April and May, which boast over 330 hours of sun, December stands as a reminder of winter's embrace, yet still offers a modest amount of light that gently illuminates the snowy landscapes. While the sun's presence diminishes, the gradual shift serves to highlight the upcoming return of longer days, beckoning the promise of warmth and vitality in the months to come.
In December, Irkutsk experiences a 37% chance of sunny weather, a notable drop from the brighter days of October, which boasts a 53% likelihood. As the seasons transition, the region's sunlight tends to diminish, with winter settling in firmly. While this percentage may seem modest compared to other months, it does suggest that glimpses of winter sun are still possible. Following the trend of previous months, December reflects the challenging balance between crisp, clear days and the heavily overcast skies typical of this time of year. As temperatures plummet and snowfall becomes more frequent, the likelihood of sunny weather remains an optimistic prospect for those hoping to catch a glimpse of the sun amid the winter chill.
In Irkutsk, the daylight hours shift dramatically throughout the year, reflecting the region's distinctive seasonal patterns. As winter deepens, December sees daylight dipping to just 7 hours, the shortest of the year. This decline follows the pattern established in November, which also experiences limited sunlight. As the year progresses into spring, daylight gradually increases, with March bringing 11 hours and blossoming into a generous 15 hours by May. This trend continues, peaking at 16 hours during the summer months of June and July. As autumn arrives, daylight begins its retreat, transitioning back to early winter's long nights. The cyclical rhythm of day and night in Irkutsk highlights the stark contrast between the seasons, offering a striking change in the daily ambiance.
As December arrives in Irkutsk, the winds start to mellow, with an average speed of 2.2 m/s (5 mph), making it one of the calmer months of the year. This gentle breeze contrasts with the slight uptick seen in spring months, where winds peak at 2.9 m/s (7 mph) in April and May. Interestingly, the summer marks a notable dip, with July recording its lowest wind speed at 2.3 m/s (5 mph). As autumn rolls in, wind speeds remain relatively stable, hovering around 2.5 m/s (6 mph) in November, but December clearly signals a shift towards tranquility as winter sets in, reminiscent of the peaceful snowy landscape that blankets the region. This trend of diminishing wind speed not only marks the transition into the harsh winter months but also enhances the serene, chilly ambiance characteristic of Irkutsk's December.
Weather in Irkutsk varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Irkutsk, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In December, the weather in Irkutsk is characterized by milder temperatures compared to January, with an average temperature of -17°C (2°F) and a maximum of 3°C (38°F). The month sees approximately 19 mm (0.7 in) of precipitation over five days, contributing to a high humidity level of 96%. In contrast, January experiences even colder conditions, with an average temperature dropping to -19°C (-1°F) and a maximum of -5°C (24°F). Precipitation decreases to 12 mm (0.5 in) over four days, while humidity is slightly lower at 94%. For more detailed insights, you can explore Irkutsk weather in January.
In December, temperatures in Irkutsk can be quite harsh, with min temperatures reaching as low as -39°C (-38°F) and an average temperature of -17°C (2°F). The month experiences a maximum temperature of 3°C (38°F) and a high humidity of 96%, alongside 19 mm (0.7 in) of precipitation over about 5 days. In contrast, February is similarly frigid, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -40°C (-39°F) and an average of -16°C (3°F). However, February does see slightly milder maximum temperatures, peaking at 5°C (41°F) and lower humidity of 90%, along with reduced precipitation of 11 mm (0.4 in) spread over 4 days. For more detailed information about February weather in Irkutsk, you can visit Irkutsk weather in February.
In December, the weather is notably harsher, with temperatures plunging to a minimum of -39°C (-38°F) and an average temperature of -17°C (2°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 96%, contributing to the biting cold, along with 19 mm (0.7 in) of precipitation spread over 5 days. In contrast, March sees a significant temperature increase, with a minimum of -30°C (-22°F) and a more bearable average of -5°C (23°F). The maximum temperature can reach up to 12°C (54°F), and with only 16 mm (0.6 in) of precipitation over 4 days, the weather feels somewhat milder. Humidity also drops to a more comfortable 81%. For more detailed information, you can refer to Irkutsk weather in March.
December and April showcase a stark contrast in weather conditions. In December, temperatures plunge to extreme lows, with a minimum of -39°C (-38°F) and an average hovering around -17°C (2°F), while precipitation is limited to just 19 mm (0.7 in) over five days. The high humidity of 96% contributes to the frigid chill. In contrast, April experiences a significant warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -11°C (13°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F) and an average of 4°C (39°F). Precipitation slightly increases to 19 mm (0.8 in) across six days, and humidity drops to a more comfortable 73%. For more detailed insights into April's weather in Irkutsk, you can follow this link: Irkutsk weather in April.
The weather in December is characterized by bitterly cold temperatures, with averages hovering around -17°C (2°F) and occasional highs reaching only 3°C (38°F). In contrast, May brings a dramatic shift, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -4°C (24°F) to a warm 31°C (89°F) on average. While December experiences high humidity levels at 96%, May’s humidity is significantly lower at 67%, despite receiving more precipitation over a greater number of days. For more details on the weather during this spring month, you can find additional information here: Irkutsk weather in May.
December and June present strikingly contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures plunge to a chilling minimum of -39°C (-38°F), with an average of -17°C (2°F) and a maximum of just 3°C (38°F). This month is characterized by high humidity at 96% and limited precipitation of 19 mm (0.7 in) over five days, creating a stark winter landscape. In contrast, June offers a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (37°F) to a comfortable average of 16°C (61°F) and a maximum reaching 33°C (92°F). During this month, precipitation increases to 47 mm (1.8 in) over ten days, and humidity levels drop to a more comfortable 64%. For more details about June weather, check out Irkutsk weather in June.
December and July present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plummet to a bone-chilling minimum of -39°C (-38°F), with an average temperature hovering around -17°C (2°F) and a maximum reaching just 3°C (38°F). The humidity is notably high at 96%, and precipitation occurs on about 5 days, totaling 19 mm (0.7 in). In contrast, July brings a warm relief, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 32°C (90°F), resulting in an average of 19°C (66°F). While July has more frequent rain, with precipitation on 12 days and a total of 96 mm (3.8 in), the overall humidity drops to a more comfortable 71%. For a detailed look at the weather dynamics in July, you can visit Irkutsk weather in July.
In December, Irkutsk experiences extremely cold temperatures, with averages around -17°C (2°F) and nighttime lows plunging to -39°C (-38°F), accompanied by high humidity levels of 96%. The month sees only 19 mm (0.7 in) of precipitation spread over 5 days, resulting in a dry and frigid atmosphere. In stark contrast, August brings milder weather, characterized by an average temperature of 17°C (63°F) and highs reaching up to 30°C (86°F). This month is notably wetter, with 88 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation over 12 days and lower humidity at 73%. For more details on August weather patterns, you can visit Irkutsk weather in August.
December and September present starkly contrasting weather conditions. December sees frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -39°C (-38°F) and an average of -17°C (2°F), while September enjoys milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a pleasant maximum of 26°C (79°F). Precipitation is also significantly different; December receives just 19 mm (0.7 in) over 5 days, compared to September's 75 mm (2.9 in) across 10 days. Additionally, humidity is notably higher in December at 96%, compared to September's more moderate 84%. For further details, see Irkutsk weather in September.
When comparing the weather in December and October, it's clear that December is significantly colder, with average temperatures dipping to -17°C (2°F) compared to October's milder average of 3°C (37°F). While October experiences a maximum temperature of 22°C (71°F), December's highest reaches only 3°C (38°F). Precipitation is slightly lower in December at 19 mm (0.7 in) over 5 days, compared to 25 mm (1.0 in) over 6 days in October. Additionally, December's humidity is notably higher at 96%, while October's sits at 84%. Those interested in more details about October’s conditions can check Irkutsk weather in October.
In December, the weather becomes significantly colder compared to November, with minimum temperatures plunging to -39°C (-38°F) and an average of -17°C (2°F), while November experiences milder conditions with a minimum of -28°C (-18°F) and an average of -7°C (20°F). December also sees a higher maximum temperature of just 3°C (38°F), in contrast to November's warmer peak of 10°C (50°F). Additionally, December has slightly more precipitation, amounting to 19 mm (0.7 in) over 5 days, compared to November's 13 mm (0.5 in) over 4 days. The humidity is notably higher in December at 96%, while November maintains a lower level of 90%. For a more detailed comparison, you can check Irkutsk weather in November.
As December settles over Irkutsk, its weather becomes a stark contrast to the milder months of autumn. With average temperatures plunging to -17°C, residents experience the chill of winter, where frosty days prevail and the landscape transforms into a snowy wonderland. While precipitation decreases significantly, the high humidity at 96% can make the cold feel even more biting. This month marks a shift towards true winter conditions, making it a time for cozy gatherings and embracing the beauty of the season's snowy embrace. For a more detailed look at the climate throughout the year, visit Irkutsk Climate.