December Weather in Saanen, Switzerland

Last updated: August 27, 2025

December in Saanen, Switzerland, is characterized by a wide range of temperatures, with maximums reaching 8°C (47°F) and a chilling minimum dipping to -23°C (-10°F). The month averages around -3°C (26°F), offering a frosty backdrop ideal for winter activities. With 226 mm (8.9 in) of precipitation spread across 18 days, the weather remains quite humid, registering around 91%, which adds a crispness to the air. This blend of conditions creates a picturesque winter wonderland, attracting visitors seeking the charm of Switzerland in its snowy season.

December Temperature in Saanen

In Saanen, Switzerland, December ushers in the peak of winter chill, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -23°C (-10°F). The average temperature settles at a frigid -3°C (26°F), providing a stark contrast to the milder months that precede it. As December progresses, residents can expect daytime highs reaching a modest 8°C (47°F). This trend showcases a significant drop from the autumn's cool breezes and highlights Saanen’s characteristic winter landscape, where snow blankets the picturesque scene, inviting outdoor winter activities and cozy nights by the fire. Overall, December’s temperatures firmly establish Saanen as a winter wonderland, ideal for both adventure and relaxation.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Saanen, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Saanen, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec242934414857595952443426
Data source: Temperature data for Saanen generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

December Precipitation in Saanen

December in Saanen, Switzerland, is marked by a significant uptick in precipitation, with 226 mm (8.9 in) recorded—making it the wettest month of the year. This surge is accompanied by 18 rainy days, contributing to the region's winter charm. As temperatures drop, the already abundant rainfall often transforms into picturesque snowfall, enhancing the beauty of the Alpine landscape. Notably, December sets itself apart from the preceding months, where rainfall typically hovers between 89 mm and 205 mm, showcasing a clear trend towards a wetter, more dynamic end to the year. This consistent increase in precipitation not only blankets the slopes in snow but also prepares Saanen for the bustling winter season characterized by skiing and festive celebrations.

December Precipitation Trends in Saanen

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Saanen, 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 Saanen, December typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec15011814989205181200180117135109226
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Saanen

In December, Saanen, Switzerland, experiences a notable increase in humidity, reaching 91%, which mirrors the levels seen at the beginning of the year in January. This upward trend from the November humidity of 89% signifies the onset of winter, as the cold air typically holds more moisture. Interestingly, throughout the year, humidity fluctuates, peaking during the winter months while experiencing a gradual decline from May to August, where it drops to a low of 77%. As December approaches, the return to higher humidity levels suggests an atmospheric shift, making it essential for residents and visitors to prepare for the damp, chilly conditions that define the Swiss winter experience.

December Average Humidity in Saanen

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Saanen, 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 Saanen is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec91%89%87%84%80%82%82%77%81%89%89%91%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Saanen

As December arrives in Saanen, Switzerland, the UV Index dips to 2, indicating a low exposure category with a burn time of approximately 45 minutes. This trend marks a notable decrease compared to the preceding months, where UV levels were significantly higher, peaking at 10 during the summer. The winter season sees a shift in sun intensity, encouraging residents and visitors alike to enjoy outdoor activities while being mindful of their skin protection over extended periods. For more detailed insights into the UV Index trends throughout the year, visit Saanen UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Saanen for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Saanen 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 Saanen typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec24789101097532
Data source: Saanen 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 Saanen

December in Saanen, Switzerland, embraces the winter season with a modest 200 hours of sunshine, a graceful transition from the vibrant light of autumn. As the year unwinds, we observe a clear trajectory: sunshine peaks in mid-summer with 416 hours in July, gradually tapering toward the end of the year. This seasonal ebb and flow highlights the contrast between the sun-drenched days of summer and the shorter, cozy winter light. Even in December, the town maintains a twinkling charm, ensuring that the spirit of sunshine lingers amidst the snow-capped peaks, inviting visitors to enjoy the serene beauty of the Swiss Alps.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Saanen: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Saanen 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec172h233h299h355h355h390h416h385h325h288h231h200h
Data source: Saanen December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Saanen During December

In December, Saanen, Switzerland experiences a 40% chance of sunny weather, marking a slight increase compared to the preceding months. As the year draws to a close, the likelihood of sunshine begins to stabilize, showcasing a transition from the lower percentages in the late fall. While December does not boast the sunniest days, it offers a notable improvement over the gloomy November average of 36%. This upward trend hints at the possibility of clearer skies as winter unfolds, inviting both locals and visitors to embrace the charm of Saanen's winter landscape under a radiant sun.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Saanen

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Saanen 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 Saanen experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec20%39%43%45%29%31%32%33%35%44%36%40%
Data source: Saanen December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Saanen in December

As December unfolds in Saanen, Switzerland, daylight gradually wanes, offering just 8 hours of sunlight. This marks the lowest point in a seasonal cycle characterized by a clear upward trend in daylight duration through the spring and summer months. Starting from a mere 9 hours in January, the daylight hours steadily increase, peaking at an impressive 15 hours in both May and June. As autumn sets in, daylight begins to wane again, dropping to 12 hours in September and further diminishing to 10 hours in October before falling to December's low. This rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight not only marks the passage of time but also sets the stage for the enchanting wintry landscapes that envelop Saanen during this festive season.

Average Daylight Hours in Saanen for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Saanen throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 1m10h 18m11h 56m13h 36m15h 1m15h 45m15h 22m14h 6m12h 30m10h 50m9h 22m8h 36m
Data source: Saanen daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Saanen

As December sweeps into Saanen, a gentle shift in the air reveals an average wind speed of 1.6 m/s (4 mph), marking a slight uptick from the preceding months. This modest increase in wind speed not only enhances the crisp winter atmosphere but also contrasts with the typically calm conditions experienced earlier in the year, where average speeds lingered around 1.5 m/s (3 mph) for much of the fall and late spring. Interestingly, December joins February as one of the more breezy months, suggesting that while the harsh cold settles in, there's a refreshing vigor in the wind that sweeps through the enchanting Swiss landscape—a perfect backdrop for the festive charm of Saanen during the holiday season.

Average December Wind Speed in Saanen

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Saanen, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1.51.61.51.51.51.21.31.41.21.51.41.6 m/s
Data source: Saanen December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Saanen Compares to Other Months

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

In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -23°C (-10°F) to a maximum of 8°C (47°F), with an average of -3°C (26°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 226 mm (8.9 in) over 18 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 91%. In contrast, January experiences a slight drop in minimum temperature to -24°C (-10°F) and an average of -5°C (24°F), while maintaining the same maximum temperature of 8°C (47°F). Precipitation decreases to 150 mm (5.9 in) over 12 days, yet humidity remains steady at 91%. For more detailed information about January weather, visit Saanen weather in January.

December and February present a notable contrast in weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -23°C (-10°F), with an average of -3°C (26°F) and a maximum reaching 8°C (47°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 226 mm (8.9 in) over 18 days, and high humidity at 91%. In comparison, February experiences slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of -19°C (-2°F), an average of -1°C (30°F), and a maximum of 13°C (56°F). Precipitation drops to 117 mm (4.6 in) over just 11 days, while humidity decreases slightly to 89%. For more details about Saanen's weather specifically in February, you can check Saanen weather in February.

December and March exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In December, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -23°C (-10°F), with an average around -3°C (26°F) and a maximum reaching 8°C (47°F). This month also experiences significant rainfall, totaling 226 mm (8.9 in) over approximately 18 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 91%. In contrast, March sees a milder climate, with minimum temperatures around -21°C (-5°F) and an average of 1°C (34°F), peaking at 16°C (62°F). Precipitation drops to 149 mm (5.9 in) over 16 days, and humidity levels decrease slightly to 87%. For a deeper look into March weather specifics, you can visit Saanen weather in March.

In December, the weather is much colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -23°C (-10°F) to a maximum of 8°C (47°F) and an average of -3°C (26°F). The month is characterized by high precipitation, totaling 226 mm (8.9 in) over 18 days, and humidity levels at a striking 91%. In contrast, April brings a significant shift, with milder temperatures that range from a minimum of -17°C (2°F) to a maximum of 20°C (69°F), averaging around 5°C (41°F). Precipitation decreases to 89 mm (3.5 in) across 12 days, and humidity is slightly lower at 84%. Overall, April offers a more temperate climate, marking the transition from the harsh winter conditions of December. For more details, you can explore Saanen weather in April.

December weather is characterized by bitterly cold temperatures, with lows plunging to -23°C (-10°F) and an average temperature of -3°C (26°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 226 mm (8.9 in) over 18 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 91%. In contrast, May brings a welcome shift with milder temperatures, featuring lows of -7°C (20°F) and an average of 9°C (48°F), peaking at a pleasant 26°C (80°F). Although May has slightly less precipitation at 205 mm (8.1 in) over 21 days, the humidity is lower at 80%, creating a more comfortable environment. For more insights into the weather in May, you can check Saanen weather in May.

December and June present contrasting weather conditions marked by significant differences in temperature and precipitation. In December, temperatures can plummet to a chilling minimum of -23°C (-10°F), averaging around -3°C (26°F), with a maximum of only 8°C (47°F). The month experiences a substantial amount of precipitation, totaling 226 mm (8.9 in) over 18 days, and humidity levels are quite high at 91%. In contrast, June brings much milder temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (33°F), an average of 14°C (57°F), and a comfortable maximum of 31°C (87°F). While June also sees notable precipitation—181 mm (7.1 in) across 19 days—humidity remains slightly lower at 82%. For a closer look at June's weather, you can check out this link: Saanen weather in June.

December and July present strikingly different weather profiles. In December, temperatures can plummet as low as -23°C (-10°F), with an average around -3°C (26°F) and a maximum of 8°C (47°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 91% and frequent precipitation, accumulating to 226 mm (8.9 in) over 18 days. In contrast, July boasts much milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to an average of 15°C (60°F) and reaching as high as 30°C (86°F). While July also sees precipitation over 18 days, it totals 200 mm (7.9 in), with lower humidity at 82%. For more insights, check out Saanen weather in July.

December and August showcase stark contrasts in weather. In December, temperatures plummet, with average highs barely reaching 8°C (47°F) and lows sinking to a frigid -23°C (-10°F). The month is marked by high humidity at 91% and significant precipitation, totaling 226 mm (8.9 in) over 18 days. In contrast, August presents a much milder climate, where temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), accompanied by lower humidity at 77% and slightly less precipitation at 180 mm (7.1 in) over 17 days. For more specific details on August weather, you can visit Saanen weather in August.

In December, temperatures plunge significantly, with a minimum of -23°C (-10°F) and an average of -3°C (26°F), creating a stark contrast to September’s milder range, where temperatures hover between -3°C (27°F) and a comfortable maximum of 24°C (75°F). While December sees heavy precipitation at 226 mm (8.9 in) over 18 days, September is relatively drier with 117 mm (4.6 in) across 15 days. Additionally, December's humidity reaches a chilly 91%, compared to September's more manageable 81%. For those looking to explore the weather specifics in September, you can check out Saanen weather in September.

In December, temperatures plunge significantly, with minimums reaching as low as -23°C (-10°F) and average highs only peaking at about 8°C (47°F). In stark contrast, October enjoys a milder range, where temperatures can vary from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a pleasant maximum of 20°C (69°F). Additionally, December experiences more precipitation, with 226 mm (8.9 in) over 18 days, compared to October's 135 mm (5.3 in) over 13 days. Both months have high humidity levels, with December slightly higher at 91%, while October sits at 89%. If you're curious about the weather specifics for October, you can find more detailed information here: Saanen weather in October.

December weather tends to be much colder than in November, with average temperatures dropping from 1°C (34°F) in November to -3°C (26°F) in December. The minimum temperatures also reflect this change, plunging from -12°C (10°F) in November to a chilling -23°C (-10°F) in December. Additionally, December sees significantly more precipitation, with 226 mm (8.9 in) over 18 days compared to November's 109 mm (4.3 in) over just 12 days. This increase in both cold and wet conditions contributes to a higher humidity level in December at 91%, slightly above November's 89%. For a more detailed view of the weather patterns during November, you can visit Saanen weather in November.

Compare Saanen's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Saanen

As December settles in Saanen, the weather transforms dramatically, showcasing a stark contrast to the milder months of autumn. With temperatures often dipping well below freezing, you can expect chilly days characterized by an average temperature sinking to -3°C (26°F) and colder nights that can plummet to -23°C (-10°F). The increase in precipitation, averaging 226 mm (8.9 in) over about 18 days, often manifests as a mix of rain and snow, contributing to the enchanting winter landscape. The high humidity levels reaching 91% further enhance the crisp, cold air, setting the stage for a true winter wonderland. For more details on Saanen's weather and climate dynamics, visit Saanen Climate.