Last updated: August 27, 2025
In December, Basel, Switzerland, experiences crisp winter weather characterized by average temperatures hovering around 3°C (38°F), with a maximum reaching 14°C (57°F) and dipping as low as -5°C (23°F). This month is marked by a notable humidity level of 91%, creating a chilly atmosphere, often complemented by frequent precipitation. Residents and visitors can expect approximately 129 mm (5.1 in) of rainfall over 19 days, encouraging warm indoor activities while the festive spirit of the season blankets the city. Whether wandering through twinkling Christmas markets or enjoying the cozy ambiance of local cafés, a December visit to Basel promises a charming winter experience.
In December, Basel experiences a notable drop in temperatures, with minimums hovering around -5°C (23°F) and averages settling at a brisk 3°C (38°F). As winter takes hold, the city tends to showcase a charming yet chilly ambiance, where the daytime max can reach up to 14°C (57°F). This month marks a distinct shift from the milder autumn, as temperatures gradually decline, reflecting the winter's arrival. With its cold air, December sets the stage for festive celebrations and offers a picturesque backdrop of twinkling lights against frosty landscapes, inviting both locals and visitors to embrace the season's beauty.
In December, Basel, Switzerland, experiences a notable increase in precipitation, with 129 mm (5.1 in) of rainfall spread over 19 days. This marks a significant rise compared to the previous months, highlighting December as one of the wetter times of the year. The uptick in rainy days suggests a shift towards the winter season, contrasting with the drier spell witnessed in earlier months like April and September. As the year wraps up, residents can expect a festive atmosphere underscored by a landscape refreshed by generous December showers, creating a vibrant yet chilly backdrop to the holiday celebrations.
In Basel, Switzerland, December marks a return to high humidity, with levels soaring to 91%, matching the January figures and reflecting a trend of increased moisture during the winter months. Notably, this rise comes after a slight dip in humidity during the summer, when levels reached a low of 77% in August. As the year progresses from the warmer months of May and June, where humidity hovers around the 80% mark, the latter part of the year sees a steady climb, culminating in the winter season. The consistent humidity levels observed in the last three months, hovering around 89% in both October and November, set the stage for a chilly, damp December, characteristic of the region's winter climate.
As the year winds down, December in Basel, Switzerland sees a significant drop in the UV Index, dipping to a modest 1, which falls into the low exposure category. This means that sunburn risk is minimal, with a comfortable burn time of 45 minutes. Comparatively, earlier months soared with higher UV levels, particularly from May to August, where the index peaked at 9, indicating very high exposure. This seasonal trend highlights a gradual increase in UV intensity from winter through summer, followed by a sharp decline back down to December's lower levels. To navigate the varying UV conditions throughout the year effectively, it's always wise to check the Basel UV Index for updated information.
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In Basel, Switzerland, December brings a gentle decline in sunshine hours, with only 156 hours to bask in before the year wraps up. This drop follows the striking peak of January, which begins with a modest 136 hours of sunlight, gradually recovering through the spring months. As the city transitions from winter to summer, sunshine hours blossom, peaking in July with a vibrant 413 hours. However, as autumn embraces the city, the sun’s presence begins to wane, culminating in November’s dwindling 192 hours. December's soft sunlight, though fewer in number, offers a serene ambiance that invites reflection on the year past, while the gradual shift towards brighter days in January sparks hope for the future.
In December, the likelihood of sunny weather in Basel, Switzerland is relatively low, with a mere 27% chance of sun. This marks a slight decline from the slightly brighter November, which offers a 24% chance. As we move from the beginning to the end of the year, the trend indicates a gradual increase in sunny days throughout the spring months, with March and April experiencing the highest probabilities at 47% and 52%, respectively. This highlights the seasonal shift—while December gives way to longer nights and colder temperatures, it does set the stage for the sunnier days that follow as winter transitions into spring.
As winter settles in, December in Basel, Switzerland, brings a familiar shift in daylight, with only 8 hours of sunshine to brighten the days. This decline is part of a natural rhythm observed throughout the year, where the length of daylight steadily increases from the depths of winter. Starting from a low of 8 hours in December and January, the days gradually extend to reach a peak of 15 hours during the vibrant summer months of June and July. Following this peak, daylight begins its descent once again, tapering down to 10 hours in October and 9 hours in November before the cycle repeats. This ebb and flow of daylight not only marks the changing seasons but also encapsulates the beauty of Basel’s annual transformation.
As winter sets in, December in Basel often brings a refreshing breeze with an average wind speed of 2.6 m/s (6 mph), mirroring the blustery vibes of January and creating a unique rhythm for the season. Notably, this month stands out against the calmer summer months when wind speeds dipped to the lowest in June and August, hovering around 1.8 m/s to 1.9 m/s. As temperatures cool, the winds tend to pick up again in November, reaching 2.1 m/s before a slight resurgence in December. This season's consistent winds not only enhance the crisp air but also invite opportunities for outdoor winter festivities, making Basel a lively destination amidst the chill.
Weather in Basel varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Basel, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
December weather tends to be milder compared to January, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F). In contrast, January experiences colder conditions, with temperatures dipping as low as -13°C (8°F) and reaching a maximum of 16°C (61°F). While December sees higher precipitation of 129 mm (5.1 in) over 19 days, January's precipitation is lower at 94 mm (3.7 in) across just 12 days. Both months maintain a consistent humidity level of 91%, contributing to the chilly atmosphere. For a detailed look at the weather conditions, you can explore Basel weather in January.
December and February present contrasting yet similarly chilly weather conditions. In December, temperatures fluctuate from a minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), with an average of 3°C (38°F) and high humidity at 91%. The month experiences substantial precipitation, totaling 129 mm (5.1 in) over 19 days. Conversely, February showcases a slightly colder minimum temperature of -14°C (7°F) while reaching a maximum of 18°C (65°F), with an average temperature of 4°C (39°F). Precipitation in February is reduced to 77 mm (3.0 in) over just 12 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 89%. Despite both months being relatively wet, February is less rainy than December, marking a gradual shift in winter weather. For more detailed information, check out Basel weather in February.
In December, the weather is typically colder with average temperatures around 3°C (38°F) and a minimum of -5°C (23°F), while March experiences slightly warmer averages at 6°C (43°F), with a minimum dropping to -13°C (9°F). Precipitation is more frequent in December, totaling 129 mm (5.1 in) over 19 days, compared to March's 91 mm (3.6 in) over 15 days. Additionally, the humidity in December is slightly higher at 91%, compared to the 87% recorded in March. For a more detailed look at March weather, you can visit Basel weather in March.
December weather tends to be quite cold, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), and an average of just 3°C (38°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 129 mm (5.1 in) over 19 days, combined with high humidity levels at 91%. In contrast, April sees a noticeable shift in weather patterns, with temperatures ranging from -4°C (25°F) to a more pleasant maximum of 26°C (79°F) and an average of 10°C (50°F). Precipitation is lighter at 62 mm (2.4 in) over 10 days, and humidity slightly decreases to 84%. Overall, April offers a much milder and drier atmosphere, making it a more favorable time for outdoor activities. For more specific information on the weather in Basel during April, check out Basel weather in April.
December and May present quite different weather patterns. In December, temperatures can drop as low as -5°C (23°F), with an average of 3°C (38°F) and a maximum of 14°C (57°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 91% and significant precipitation, totaling 129 mm (5.1 in) over 19 days. In contrast, May offers a more moderate climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a pleasant average of 13°C (56°F) and a high of 30°C (87°F). While precipitation is slightly higher at 133 mm (5.2 in), it occurs over fewer days (17), and humidity is lower at 80%. For a deeper look into May's weather specifics, you can check Basel weather in May.
December and June present starkly contrasting weather characteristics. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), with an average temperature of just 3°C (38°F). The month sees considerable precipitation, totaling 129 mm (5.1 in) over 19 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 91%. In contrast, June offers a much milder climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a hot maximum of 34°C (94°F) and an average of 19°C (66°F). Although June has similar precipitation levels at 125 mm (4.9 in) across 16 days, the humidity is slightly lower at 82%. For more information about June weather specifically, check out Basel weather in June.
When comparing the weather in December and July, it's clear that these two months offer starkly different climates. December features chilly temperatures, with a minimum of -5°C (23°F) and an average of 3°C (38°F), making it a time for warm clothing and cozy indoor activities. In contrast, July brings much warmer temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) up to a sizzling maximum of 37°C (98°F), ideal for outdoor pursuits and summer fun. Both months experience notable precipitation—December with 129 mm (5.1 in) over 19 days and July with 117 mm (4.6 in) across 14 days—but December's higher humidity at 91% enhances the cold, while July's 82% humidity feels warmer under the sun. For more detailed insights, you can check out Basel weather in July.
In December, the weather is significantly colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), and an average temperature of just 3°C (38°F). This month also experiences high humidity at 91% and considerable precipitation, totaling 129 mm (5.1 in) over 19 days. In contrast, August offers a much warmer climate, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 6°C (43°F) to a scorching 35°C (95°F), and an average of 20°C (68°F). Rainfall is slightly less in August at 115 mm (4.5 in) over 15 days, accompanied by a lower humidity level of 77%. For more details on the August weather, you can check Basel weather in August.
December and September weather present a stark contrast in terms of temperature and precipitation. December typically experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -5°C (23°F) and an average of 3°C (38°F), while September enjoys milder conditions, averaging 16°C (60°F) with highs reaching 30°C (86°F). Additionally, December is much wetter, receiving 129 mm (5.1 in) of precipitation over 19 days compared to September's 67 mm (2.6 in) across just 10 days. Humidity levels are also higher in December at 91%, compared to September's 81%. For more details on the weather during September, you can consult Basel weather in September.
In comparing the weather between October and December, it's clear that December tends to be much colder, with average temperatures ranging from -5°C (23°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), compared to October's milder average of -1°C (30°F) to 24°C (76°F). Additionally, December experiences more precipitation, with 129 mm (5.1 in) falling over 19 days, whereas October sees 92 mm (3.6 in) over 14 days. The humidity also remains high in both months, measuring 91% in December and 89% in October, indicating a persistently damp atmosphere. For a detailed overview of October's weather patterns, you can check Basel weather in October.
In December, the weather turns considerably colder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F). In contrast, November exhibits slightly milder conditions, featuring average temperatures between -4°C (25°F) and 21°C (70°F). Additionally, December sees a notable increase in precipitation, with 129 mm (5.1 in) falling over 19 days, compared to November's 79 mm (3.1 in) across just 13 days. Humidity levels also rise slightly in December, reaching 91% compared to November's 89%. For more details, check Basel weather in November.
As December unfurls in Basel, the city transforms into a cozy winter wonderland characterized by a notable drop in temperatures and increased precipitation compared to other months. With average temperatures hovering around 3°C (38°F), residents and visitors alike are treated to chilly days and frosty nights, contrasted by the milder conditions of autumn. The ambiance is enhanced by frequent rain, totaling around 129 mm over 19 days, making it one of the wetter months. Despite the rain, high humidity levels of 91% create a unique, if brisk, atmosphere that sets December apart from milder months. Whether you’re strolling through festive markets or sipping hot beverages indoors, the distinct weather patterns offer a unique charm. For a deeper understanding of what to expect throughout the year, check our detailed section on Basel Climate.