December Weather in Karlstad, Sweden

Last updated: August 27, 2025

In December, Karlstad experiences a wintry embrace, with temperatures ranging from a brisk maximum of 9°C (49°F) during milder spells to a chilling minimum of -17°C (2°F) on the frostiest nights. The average temperature hovers around 0°C (32°F), marking the onset of true winter charm. Amidst the scenic backdrop, precipitation amounts to 74 mm (2.9 in), occurring over 14 days, contributing to the picturesque holiday atmosphere. With an impressive humidity level of 94%, the air can feel quite crisp, making warm layers essential for outdoor activities and exploration in this enchanting Swedish town.

December Temperature in Karlstad

In December, Karlstad, Sweden, bids farewell to the milder temperatures of fall, as winter firmly takes hold. The temperature dips to a minimum of -17°C (2°F) and reaches an average of 0°C (32°F), offering a stark contrast to the more temperate months preceding it. With a maximum of 9°C (49°F), the days remain chilly, perfect for sipping warm drinks by the fire or enjoying the shimmering snow-covered landscape. This month marks a shift towards the colder extremes typical of Scandinavian winters, laying the groundwork for a picturesque, frosty wonderland that invites both residents and visitors to embrace the season's charm.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Karlstad, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Karlstad, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec313035435262646154463832
Data source: Temperature data for Karlstad generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

December Precipitation in Karlstad

December in Karlstad, Sweden, sees a notable increase in precipitation, with an average of 74 mm (2.9 in) spread across 14 rainy days. This winter month typically experiences more rain compared to the drier fall months preceding it, such as November, which recorded 68 mm over 12 days. The trend of increasing precipitation continues from the wetter autumn months, peaking in August and October, but December's combination of substantial rainfall and frequent precipitation days sets a chilly, drizzly tone for the holiday season. As temperatures drop, this shift supports the seasonal transition, making December a key month for moisture in Karlstad's climate dynamics.

December Precipitation Trends in Karlstad

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Karlstad, 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 Karlstad, December typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec484749316460698678866874
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Karlstad

In December, Karlstad, Sweden, experiences a peak in humidity, with levels soaring back to 94%, reminiscent of the year's start. This sharp rise in moisture aligns with a general trend observed throughout the winter months, as humidity levels consistently hover around the higher end of the scale, from 91% in October to 93% in November. While winter typically brings chillier air, the atmospheric moisture remains prevalent, resulting in a damp and often cozy atmosphere. Interestingly, as the seasons transition, humidity levels gradually decrease from spring's mild 81% in April to summer's lows of 68% in June, only to climb back during autumn. This cyclical pattern in Karlstad highlights not just the region’s cold, humid winters, but also its pronounced seasonal shifts, giving residents a unique climate experience throughout the year.

December Average Humidity in Karlstad

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Karlstad, 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 Karlstad is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec94%92%89%81%72%68%70%77%86%91%93%94%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Karlstad

In December, Karlstad experiences a UV Index of 1, placing it firmly in the low exposure category with a burn time of approximately 45 minutes. This trend of low UV levels is consistent throughout the winter months, as both January and February also register a UV Index of 1, indicating minimal risk from sun exposure. As the year progresses into spring and summer, UV levels rise, peaking at 7 in June and July, before gradually descending back to low levels by autumn. This seasonal fluctuation emphasizes the importance of sun protection during the sunnier months while highlighting the relatively safe UV exposure in December. For more detailed insights, check out Karlstad UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Karlstad for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Karlstad 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 Karlstad typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec113457754211
Data source: Karlstad 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 Karlstad

December in Karlstad, Sweden, marks the close of the year with a modest 79 hours of sunshine, a stark contrast to the brightness that envelops the city in the summer months. As the days grow shorter, this reflects a steady decline from November's 122 hours, capturing the essence of winter’s grip. The sunshine hours plummet from the peak of 473 hours in July, illustrating a vivid seasonal cycle that sees the city basking in 464 hours in June and gradually dimming through autumn. Despite December's low count, the anticipation of longer days ahead hints at the vibrant revival to come as spring approaches, promising a welcomed return of sunlight and warmth after the long, dark months.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Karlstad: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Karlstad 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec78h164h270h371h426h464h473h401h284h213h122h79h
Data source: Karlstad December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Karlstad During December

In December, the chances of enjoying sunny weather in Karlstad, Sweden, stand at 28%, slightly above the dismal 23% found in November. This uptick hints at a subtle shift towards brighter days as the year draws to a close. However, as winter tightens its grip, the likelihood of clear skies remains modest compared to the sunnier months of late spring and summer. Statistically, December lags behind the peak months of April and July, which boast sunny rates of 50% and 45%, respectively. Thus, while there's a glimmer of hope for sun seekers this month, it's wise to prepare for the typical overcast conditions that characterize the Swedish winter landscape.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Karlstad

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Karlstad 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 Karlstad experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec25%41%41%50%33%41%45%34%28%27%23%28%
Data source: Karlstad December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Karlstad in December

As December arrives in Karlstad, Sweden, daylight hours begin to dwindle to a mere 6 hours, matching the sunlight of January. This seasonal pattern demonstrates a notable decline as winter embraces the region, starting from a peak of 18 hours in June. Following a gradual decrease through the late summer and fall, where daylight shrinks from 15 hours in August to 7 hours in November, December reinforces the stark contrast of winter's cold grip against the longer days of spring and summer. As the year winds down, the cyclical nature of daylight reminds us of the impending return of longer days, signaling hope amidst the winter darkness.

Average Daylight Hours in Karlstad for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Karlstad throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec6h 57m9h 13m11h 52m14h 33m17h 3m18h 28m17h 42m15h 24m12h 46m10h 6m7h 36m6h 10m
Data source: Karlstad daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Karlstad

As December rolls into Karlstad, Sweden, the average wind speed settles at 3.1 m/s (7 mph), maintaining a consistent breeze seen throughout much of the year. While the winter month mirrors January's winds, it also reflects a gradual increase in speed over the preceding months, hinting at a seasonal transition. Notably, October stands out with the year's highest winds at 4.1 m/s (9 mph), before the gusts ease back into the familiar rhythm of winter. With winds tapering off during the summer months—reaching a low of 2.8 m/s (6 mph) in July—the December air brings a gentle chill, perfectly encapsulating the serene, crisp ambiance of a Swedish winter.

Average December Wind Speed in Karlstad

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Karlstad, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.13.43.53.73.02.92.83.13.34.13.33.1 m/s
Data source: Karlstad December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Karlstad Compares to Other Months

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

In December, the weather features a minimum temperature of -17°C (2°F) and an average temperature of 0°C (32°F), while high temperatures can reach up to 9°C (49°F). The month sees about 74 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation spread over 14 days, coupled with a consistent humidity level of 94%. In contrast, January experiences similar minimum temperatures at -17°C (2°F), but averages slightly lower at -1°C (31°F), while maintaining the same maximum of 9°C (49°F). Precipitation decreases to 48 mm (1.9 in) over just 8 days, yet the humidity remains unchanged at 94%. For more detailed weather insights, you can check this link: Karlstad weather in January.

In December, the weather is quite cold with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -17°C (2°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F), averaging around 0°C (32°F). This month also sees considerable precipitation, with around 74 mm (2.9 in) spread over 14 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 94%. In contrast, February experiences slightly milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -15°C (5°F) to a maximum of 12°C (54°F), averaging -1°C (30°F). Precipitation decreases to 47 mm (1.9 in) over 9 days, and humidity remains relatively high at 92%. For a more detailed look at February weather in this region, you can check Karlstad weather in February.

In December, temperatures in Karlstad can drop as low as -17°C (2°F), with an average around 0°C (32°F) and a maximum reaching 9°C (49°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 94% and ample precipitation, receiving about 74 mm (2.9 in) over approximately 14 days. In contrast, March brings slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of -14°C (7°F), an average of 2°C (35°F), and a maximum temperature of 18°C (65°F). Precipitation decreases to 49 mm (1.9 in) and occurs over 9 days, while humidity is also lower at 89%. For more detailed weather information on March, you can visit Karlstad weather in March.

In December, the weather is notably colder, with minimum temperatures plummeting to -17°C (2°F) and an average temperature around 0°C (32°F). Precipitation is relatively high at 74 mm (2.9 in) over 14 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 94%.

In contrast, April experiences a significant warming trend, with minimum temperatures rising to -9°C (17°F) and an average temperature of 6°C (43°F). The maximum temperature can reach up to 22°C (72°F), creating a much more pleasant atmosphere. Precipitation drops to 31 mm (1.2 in) over just 7 days, and humidity decreases to 81%. For more detailed information on April weather in Karlstad, check out Karlstad weather in April.

December and May present markedly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -17°C (2°F), with an average of 0°C (32°F) and highs reaching only 9°C (49°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 74 mm (2.9 in) over 14 days, accompanied by high humidity at 94%. In contrast, May offers a much milder climate, starting with a minimum temperature of -2°C (29°F) and averaging 11°C (53°F), peaking at 29°C (85°F). Precipitation in May is slightly lower at 64 mm (2.5 in) over 12 days, and humidity drops to a more comfortable 72%. For more specific details on the weather in May in Karlstad, you can visit Karlstad weather in May.

December and June present starkly contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures can plummet as low as -17°C (2°F), with an average hovering around 0°C (32°F) and a maximum of 9°C (49°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 94% and comes with considerable precipitation, averaging 74 mm (2.9 in) over 14 days. In contrast, June welcomes much milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (40°F) to a warm average of 17°C (63°F), peaking at a maximum of 31°C (87°F). With lower humidity at 68% and a total precipitation of 60 mm (2.4 in) over just 11 days, June displays a more pleasant and sunny atmosphere. For more details, you can explore Karlstad weather in June.

December and July present stark contrasts in weather, making each month unique in its own right. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -17°C (2°F), with an average of 0°C (32°F) and a maximum of 9°C (49°F). The month is characterized by high humidity of 94% and 74 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 14 days. In contrast, July boasts much milder weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 33°C (91°F), averaging around 18°C (65°F). This month experiences lower humidity at 70% and slightly less precipitation at 69 mm (2.7 in) over 11 days. For more detailed insights on July weather, check out Karlstad weather in July.

December and August exhibit striking differences in weather characteristics. In December, temperatures plummet to a minimum of -17°C (2°F) and hover around an average of 0°C (32°F), with a maximum of 9°C (49°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 94% and moderate precipitation of 74 mm (2.9 in) over about 14 days. In contrast, August offers a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures of 6°C (44°F) and an average of 16°C (62°F), peaking at 32°C (89°F). This summer month experiences slightly higher precipitation at 86 mm (3.4 in) and lower humidity at 77%, spread over 15 days. For more details about the weather in August, visit Karlstad weather in August.

In comparing the weather patterns of December and September, notable contrasts emerge. December typically experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -17°C (2°F) and an average around freezing at 0°C (32°F), while September enjoys milder conditions with a minimum of 0°C (33°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F). Precipitation levels are similar; December sees 74 mm (2.9 in) over 14 days, whereas September has slightly higher precipitation at 78 mm (3.1 in) spread over 12 days. Humidity also varies, with December reaching 94%, compared to September’s 86%. For more detailed insights on September weather, you can refer to Karlstad weather in September.

In comparing the weather of December and October, significant differences emerge in temperature and overall conditions. December experiences much colder temperatures with a minimum of -17°C (2°F) and an average of 0°C (32°F), while October is milder, featuring a minimum of -4°C (26°F) and an average of 8°C (46°F). Precipitation remains fairly consistent, with December receiving 74 mm (2.9 in) over 14 days and October slightly higher at 85 mm (3.4 in) over 13 days. Humidity levels are also higher in December at 94%, compared to 91% in October. For more details on October's weather patterns, visit Karlstad weather in October.

December brings colder temperatures compared to November, with minimums dropping to -17°C (2°F) and average temperatures hovering around 0°C (32°F). In contrast, November features milder conditions, with minimums at -10°C (15°F) and averages around 3°C (38°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in December at 74 mm (2.9 in) over 14 days, compared to November's 68 mm (2.7 in) across 12 days. Humidity remains quite high in both months, with December at 94% and November at 93%. For more information on the weather in November, you can check Karlstad weather in November.

Compare Karlstad's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Karlstad

As December settles over Karlstad, the weather transforms, offering a stark contrast to the milder months preceding it. With average temperatures hovering around 0°C, the city experiences the chill of winter, plunging to lows that can dip below freezing. Increased precipitation, totaling about 74 mm across approximately half the month, often manifests as a mix of rain and snow, adding to the winter's atmosphere. Humidity does not relent, with levels reaching a crisp 94%, creating a feeling of cold that can linger in the air. For those intrigued by the shifting seasons and how they impact life in this region, explore more about the year-round conditions in Karlstad at Karlstad Climate.