Last updated: August 27, 2025
December in Sortavala, Russian Federation presents a chilly climate, characterized by a maximum temperature reaching 5°C (42°F), while the average hovers around -2°C (28°F). The month sees a staggering minimum of -22°C (-7°F), perfect for experiencing the depth of winter. Rain and snow contribute to a total precipitation of 94 mm (3.7 in) across 20 days, creating a moist atmosphere with humidity levels soaring to an impressive 95%. This combination of cold temperatures and frequent precipitation shapes a distinct wintry landscape, offering a unique experience for residents and visitors alike.
In December, Sortavala experiences a notable chill as winter firmly takes hold. The minimum temperatures plunge to around -22°C (-7°F), setting a stark contrast to the milder months that precede it. As the month progresses, the average temperature hovers at a brisk -2°C (28°F), while daytime peaks reach a modest 5°C (42°F). This marks a significant drop compared to the preceding autumn, highlighting the transition into the cold season. The trend reflects the typical frigid climate of northern Russia, making December one of the coldest months of the year, perfect for embracing the winter landscape that defines this picturesque region.
In December, Sortavala experiences a notable uptick in precipitation, with an average of 94 mm (3.7 in) falling across 20 days—the highest monthly total for the year. This increase marks a significant shift from the preceding months, particularly as winter settles in, bringing cold weather and longer periods of rain or snow. While November sees 61 mm over 13 days, December's wetter conditions reflect the transition into harsher winter climates. The significant number of precipitation days in December indicates that residents should be prepared for nearly two-thirds of the month to feature some form of wet weather, setting the stage for a brisk and often snowy end to the year.
In December, Sortavala experiences a significant humidity level of 95%, characteristic of the colder months as the year draws to a close. This figure remains high but showcases a gradual decline from the year's peak humidity in January at 98%. Notably, the winter season envelops the region in a heavy, moist atmosphere, with December's humidity slightly decreasing compared to November's steady 93%. This trend of high humidity persists through the autumn, suggesting a consistent pattern where moisture levels remain elevated as the cold weather sets in, leading to a crisp, damp chill in the air that defines the region's winter landscape.
In Sortavala, Russian Federation, the UV Index remains consistently low during the winter months, with December recording a UV Index of 1, indicating minimal risk for sunburn. This low exposure category persists from January through February, offering a comforting shield against ultraviolet rays and allowing for a burn time of 45 minutes. As the seasons transition into spring and summer, the UV Index begins to rise, peaking at 6 in both June and July, which requires more vigilant sun safety measures due to the high exposure category. However, come autumn, the Index gradually reverts back to the low levels seen in winter. For those planning outdoor activities, it's always wise to check the forecasts regularly. For more detailed information, visit the Sortavala UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In Sortavala, the transition into winter brings a noticeable dip in sunshine hours, with December offering a mere 23 hours of sunlight. This stark contrast follows a steady climb from the depths of January's 35 hours to the height of 502 hours in June. The pattern reveals a beautiful arc of increasing daylight as spring turns to summer, only to descend once more towards winter's cold embrace. While December’s fleeting daylight can feel discouraging, it marks a point in the year where the community begins to look forward to the revitalizing warmth of longer days ahead, echoing the promise of brighter months just around the corner.
In Sortavala, the likelihood of enjoying sunny weather in December is quite low, with only a 4% chance of sunshine. This trend reflects a gradual decrease in sun exposure as the year winds down; for instance, November only offers a 9% chance, and the percentage continues to drop sharply through the colder months. Notably, December's chances are significantly lower compared to the notable increases of spring, where March sees 33% and April reaches 42%. The transition to winter brings a stark pivot in Sortavala’s weather, making sunny days in December a rare and delightful occurrence.
In December, Sortavala, Russian Federation, sees a notable decline in daylight, with only 5 hours illuminating the wintry landscape. This is a stark contrast to the generous 19 hours enjoyed in June, as the region transitions through the seasons. The year begins with the days gradually lengthening from 6 hours in January to 8 hours in February, but as spring approaches, daylight duration peaks at 17 hours in May. The trend then shifts again with the onset of autumn, as daylight dwindles through the months, culminating in the brief days of December. This cyclical pattern underscores the dramatic variations in daylight that characterize Sortavala throughout the year, offering both challenges and unique beauty to its residents during the darkest month.
As December arrives in Sortavala, the wind begins to pick up, averaging a brisk 5.1 m/s (11 mph). This slight increase follows a trend observed throughout the late autumn months, where wind speeds hovered around 5.0 m/s in November and 5.2 m/s in October. After a summer of calmer breezes in June and July, where speeds dipped to 3.1 m/s and 3.0 m/s respectively, the winds start to sweep back in with a refreshing vigor. As the year winds down, December’s chilly gusts hint at the deepening winter, providing a stark contrast to the milder breezes of spring and early summer. The spirited winds of December not only invigorate the frosty air but also signal the onset of the colder season in this charming corner of the Russian Federation.
Weather in Sortavala varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Sortavala, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -22°C (-7°F) to a maximum of 5°C (42°F), with an average temperature of -2°C (28°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 94 mm (3.7 in) over 20 days, and the humidity is notably high at 95%. In contrast, January sees a slight drop in temperatures, with minimums reaching -25°C (-12°F) and an average of -5°C (24°F), while the maximum temperature only slightly rises to 6°C (44°F). Precipitation decreases to 58 mm (2.3 in) across 13 days, and humidity levels increase to 98%. For more details, you can check out Sortavala weather in January.
December and February present a stark contrast in winter weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -22°C (-7°F) to an average of -2°C (28°F), with a maximum of 5°C (42°F). This month is characterized by high precipitation, averaging 94 mm (3.7 in) over 20 days, and a humidity level of 95%. On the other hand, February tends to be slightly colder at a minimum of -25°C (-13°F) with an average of -5°C (23°F) and a maximum reaching 6°C (43°F). The precipitation is notably lower, at 61 mm (2.4 in) spread across 14 days, accompanied by a marginally higher humidity of 96%. For a closer look at the specific conditions typical of February, you can check out Sortavala weather in February.
In December, the weather is markedly colder, featuring minimum temperatures that can plummet to -22°C (-7°F) with an average of -2°C (28°F) and a maximum of only 5°C (42°F). This month sees a considerable amount of precipitation, totaling 94 mm (3.7 in) over approximately 20 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 95%.
In contrast, March presents a slight warming trend, maintaining the same minimum temperature of -22°C (-7°F) but featuring a higher average of -2°C (29°F) and a maximum that can reach 11°C (52°F). Precipitation drops to 55 mm (2.2 in) over 12 days, while humidity remains slightly lower at 94%.
For more detailed insights on March weather, you can visit Sortavala weather in March.
In December, temperatures can plunge to a frigid minimum of -22°C (-7°F), with an average hovering around -2°C (28°F) and occasionally reaching a maximum of 5°C (42°F). This month also witnesses significant precipitation, recorded at 94 mm (3.7 in) over approximately 20 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 95%. In contrast, April experiences a noticeable shift in weather, with temperatures rising to a minimum of -11°C (13°F), an average of 3°C (37°F), and a pleasant maximum of 19°C (66°F). Additionally, precipitation drops to 47 mm (1.8 in) spread over about 10 days, and humidity decreases to 88%. For more details on the weather in this transitional month, visit Sortavala weather in April.
December and May present strikingly different weather conditions. In December, temperatures plunge to a minimum of -22°C (-7°F), with an average of -2°C (28°F) and a maximum of 5°C (42°F), accompanied by high humidity levels of 95%. The month also sees significant precipitation, falling on about 20 days, totaling 94 mm (3.7 in).
Conversely, May heralds spring with much milder temperatures, where the minimum dips to just -2°C (28°F), the average climbs to 8°C (47°F), and the maximum can reach a pleasant 27°C (81°F). Rainfall decreases to 49 mm (1.9 in) over approximately 10 days, alongside a drop in humidity to 78%. For a more detailed look at May's weather, you can visit Sortavala weather in May.
When comparing the weather in December and June, it's evident that these two months present starkly contrasting conditions. December experiences chilling temperatures, with daily averages hovering around -2°C (28°F) and a drastic minimum reaching -22°C (-7°F) at night. The month is also marked by high humidity levels at 95% and significant precipitation, averaging 94 mm (3.7 in) over 20 days. In contrast, June brings warmth and a more pleasant climate, featuring average temperatures of 15°C (59°F) and highs that can reach up to 28°C (83°F). Along with more moderate humidity levels at 76%, June sees considerably less rainfall, with only 44 mm (1.7 in) spread across 9 days. For more detailed insights on June weather, you can visit Sortavala weather in June.
December and July present a stark contrast in weather. December experiences frigid temperatures with a minimum of -22°C (-7°F) and averages around -2°C (28°F), rarely exceeding 5°C (42°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 95% and substantial precipitation, occurring on about 20 days with a total of 94 mm (3.7 in). In contrast, July sees much milder conditions with minimum temperatures around 7°C (45°F) and averages reaching 17°C (64°F), peaking at a warm 31°C (88°F). The humidity drops to 83%, and precipitation is lighter, occurring on only 11 days with a total of 76 mm (3.0 in). For more detailed information on July's weather, you can check Sortavala weather in July.
December and August present stark contrasts in weather. In December, temperatures plunge to a minimum of -22°C (-7°F) and average around -2°C (28°F), with a maximum of just 5°C (42°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 95% and considerable precipitation over 20 days, totaling 94 mm (3.7 in). In contrast, August offers a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures of 7°C (46°F), an average of 16°C (61°F), and maximums reaching 29°C (84°F). Although precipitation is slightly higher at 99 mm (3.9 in), it occurs over fewer days, around 15. The humidity is notably lower at 86%. For more detailed insights, check out Sortavala weather in August.
In comparing the weather of December and September, a stark contrast emerges. December is characterized by frigid temperatures, with minimums dropping to -22°C (-7°F) and an average around -2°C (28°F), while the maximum temperature reaches only 5°C (42°F). This cold month sees considerable precipitation, amounting to 94 mm (3.7 in) over approximately 20 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 95%. In contrast, September offers a milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a pleasant maximum of 22°C (72°F), and an average of 11°C (52°F). The precipitation is lighter, at 74 mm (2.9 in) over 13 days, with humidity slightly lower at 91%. For more detailed insights into how September weather unfolds in the area, visit Sortavala weather in September.
In comparing the weather of December and October, it's clear that December experiences significantly colder temperatures, with average highs around 5°C (42°F) and lows plunging to -22°C (-7°F), while October enjoys milder conditions, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (24°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F). Precipitation levels are slightly higher in December, totaling 94 mm over 20 days compared to October's 85 mm over 14 days. Additionally, December tends to have a higher humidity level at 95%, compared to October's 93%. For a more detailed view, you can visit Sortavala weather in October.
December weather is significantly colder than November, with minimum temperatures plummeting to -22°C (-7°F) compared to November’s milder minimum of -10°C (14°F). The average temperature in December hovers around -2°C (28°F), while November sees a warmer average of 2°C (36°F). In addition to the colder temperatures, December experiences increased precipitation, with 94 mm (3.7 in) over 20 days, compared to November's 61 mm (2.4 in) over 13 days. Humidity levels are slightly higher in December at 95%, compared to November's 93%. For more details, you can check Sortavala weather in November.
As December settles over Sortavala, the weather transforms dramatically, ushering in a chill that starkly contrasts with the milder months preceding it. With an average temperature hovering around -2°C, frosty conditions prevail, while the mercury can dip as low as -22°C during cold snaps. This month also experiences significant precipitation, with rain or snow falling on nearly two-thirds of the days, contributing to the region's lush, wintry landscape. The high humidity levels further amplify the cold, leaving a distinctively crisp bite in the air. For those intrigued by the multifaceted climate of this Finnish town, explore more at Sortavala Climate.