Last updated: August 27, 2025
December in Zermatt, Switzerland offers a winter wonderland experience, characterized by chilly temperatures that peak at a maximum of 2°C (36°F) and plummet to a frigid -26°C (-14°F). The average temperature hovers around -10°C (14°F), creating the perfect atmosphere for snowfall. With 145 mm (5.7 in) of precipitation over 16 days, residents and visitors alike can expect a mix of snow-filled days and frosty nights. The humidity level stays high at 85%, enhancing the crisp mountain air and making December an ideal month for snow sports and cozy firesides in this iconic alpine destination.
In December, Zermatt, Switzerland, ushers in the heart of winter with its crisp, chilly temperatures, marking a notable trend in the region's seasonal climate. With minimums often dipping to around -26°C (-14°F) and an average of -10°C (14°F), the month showcases a sharp descent from the milder fall temperatures. Despite the cold, daytime highs still manage to reach 2°C (36°F), offering a glimmer of warmth against the snowy backdrop. As the year draws to a close, Zermatt transforms into a winter wonderland, making it an enchanting destination for winter sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
In Zermatt, Switzerland, December typically sees a precipitation total of 145 mm (5.7 in), marking a considerable amount that reflects the onset of winter. With 16 days of rain or snow, December’s weather contributes significantly to the annual precipitation pattern, which peaks during the summer months of June and August. Interestingly, this month stands out as a transitional time, bridging the heavier fall rains with the snowy conditions of January. As temperatures drop, the precipitation often falls as snow, blanketing the stunning alpine landscape in preparation for the ski season. Overall, December's wet conditions are a crucial precursor to the winter festivities and activities that draw visitors to this picturesque destination.
In December, Zermatt experiences a noticeable shift in humidity, averaging around 85%. This marks a slight decrease from the levels seen in the previous two months, both at 88%. Throughout the year, the humidity in Zermatt tends to taper off during the warmer summer months, with July and August recording the lowest levels at 67% and 64%, respectively. As autumn sets in, humidity levels rise once more, peaking in late fall before beginning to stabilize again in winter. Overall, December showcases a transition where the air feels a bit more crisp than the higher autumn figures, inviting visitors to embrace the enchanting alpine atmosphere of Zermatt during this winter wonderland season.
In December, Zermatt experiences a low UV Index of 2, significantly lower than the extremes of the summer months. This reduction in UV radiation allows for a safer outdoor experience, with an extended burn time of 45 minutes before any sunburn risk arises, making it a perfect time for leisurely winter activities. As the months progress from January to April, a steady increase in UV exposure is evident, reaching a peak of 11 in June, signaling the essentials of sun protection during those sunnier days. Overall, the trend showcases a marked shift from moderate levels in the cold months to extreme levels in summer, illustrating the importance of adapting sun safety practices throughout the year. For more detailed insights, visit Zermatt UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
December in Zermatt, Switzerland, offers a beautiful transition into winter, with 216 hours of sunshine illuminating the snow-capped peaks. While this is the lowest figure of the year, it still showcases a cozy charm as the days gradually shorten. Following the abundant brightness of the summer months—peaking in July with 425 hours—the sunshine hours begin a gentle decline from August through November. However, December’s daylight provides a magical backdrop for winter sports and holiday festivities, as the serene beauty of Zermatt is enveloped in a picturesque white landscape. This seasonal rhythm highlights Zermatt's unique spot in the Alps, where each month, regardless of sunshine, offers its own captivating allure.
In Zermatt, Switzerland, the likelihood of sunny weather in December stands at 40%, presenting a fairly optimistic outlook as the year draws to a close. This month sees a notable increase in sunshine compared to the cooler months preceding it, with November at 31% and October at 44%. December shares a similar probability with April (42%) and stands out in the winter months—higher than both January (24%) and February (39%). This trend indicates that as winter settles in, there are periodic opportunities to enjoy the sun amid the snow-capped peaks, making it a delightful time for outdoor enthusiasts and holiday travelers alike.
In Zermatt, Switzerland, the daylight duration undergoes a fascinating transformation throughout the year, culminating in December's 8 hours of daylight. This period marks the lowest point in the annual cycle, as daylight gradually decreases from the longer days of summer. Starting from 15 hours in July, the sun begins its retreat, offering increasingly shorter days, especially noticeable from October onwards when it drops to just 10 hours. The rhythm of light and shadow shapes life in this alpine town, with December heralding the arrival of winter's embrace, where the landscape is draped in a serene, twilight beauty. As the days grow shorter, the allure of Zermatt’s snow-capped peaks becomes even more enchanting, inviting visitors to revel in the charm of the season.
In Zermatt, Switzerland, December ushers in a brisk wind, with average speeds climbing back up to 1.7 m/s (4 mph), similar to the gusts felt at the start of the year. This increase reflects a gentle rise from the calmer breezes of late autumn, which lingered around 1.3 m/s (3 mph) in November. The year rounds out with winds hinting at the invigorating alpine atmosphere, inviting winter enthusiasts to embrace outdoor adventures amidst the majestic mountains. As the snow begins to blanket the landscape, December's winds serve as a refreshing reminder of nature's rhythm, perfectly complementing the festive holiday spirit in this iconic Swiss village.
Weather in Zermatt varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Zermatt, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -26°C (-14°F) to a maximum of 2°C (36°F), with an average of -10°C (14°F), and a notable precipitation amount of 145 mm (5.7 in) spanning 16 days. The humidity is quite high at 85%, contributing to a chilly and damp atmosphere. In contrast, January is slightly colder with minimum temperatures dropping to -27°C (-17°F) and an average temperature of -11°C (12°F), while the maximum temperature remains just above freezing at 1°C (34°F). Precipitation decreases to 117 mm (4.6 in) over 10 days, and humidity rises to 88%, making January feel even frostier. For more detailed information about the weather in January, you can check Zermatt weather in January.
December and February present distinctly different weather patterns, despite similar low temperature ranges. In December, the average temperature hovers around -10°C (14°F), with maximums reaching only 2°C (36°F) and about 145 mm of precipitation over 16 days, contributing to a colder, more humid environment with 85% humidity. In contrast, February sees slightly milder conditions, boasting an average temperature of -8°C (18°F) and maximums rising to 7°C (45°F). Additionally, February experiences a marked decrease in precipitation, with only 66 mm falling over 11 days and a slightly lower humidity of 81%. For more insights into February weather specifics, check out Zermatt weather in February.
In December, the weather is characterized by frigid temperatures, with nighttime lows plunging to -26°C (-14°F) and an average temperature of -10°C (14°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. During this month, Zermatt experiences a significant amount of precipitation, totaling 145 mm (5.7 in) over 16 days, coupled with a high humidity level of 85%. In contrast, March brings a slight warming trend, with minimum temperatures dropping to -29°C (-19°F) but an average of -6°C (22°F) and a maximum reaching 9°C (48°F). Precipitation in March is lower at 105 mm (4.2 in) over 14 days, and humidity decreases to 76%. For a detailed overview of March weather specifics, you can refer to Zermatt weather in March.
In December, the weather is crisp and frigid, with temperatures ranging from a chilling -26°C (-14°F) at night to a maximum of only 2°C (36°F) during the day, accompanied by high humidity at 85% and substantial precipitation of 145 mm (5.7 in) over 16 days. In contrast, April brings a gradual thaw, with minimum temperatures of -16°C (3°F) and daytime highs reaching 11°C (52°F), while precipitation decreases slightly to 135 mm (5.3 in) over just 12 days and humidity drops to 77%. For more detailed insights on spring weather, you can check out Zermatt weather in April.
In December, temperatures plummet, with minimums reaching as low as -26°C (-14°F) and an average of -10°C (14°F), resulting in a cold and often harsh winter environment. The month typically sees about 145 mm (5.7 in) of precipitation over 16 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 85%, contributing to a chilly atmosphere. In contrast, May brings a noticeable shift in weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -13°C (9°F) to a maximum of 15°C (58°F), averaging around 2°C (37°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 180 mm (7.1 in) over 20 days, while humidity drops to a more comfortable 74%. This transition from the frigid December climate to the milder and more humid conditions of May makes for a striking contrast in weather. For more details on May weather, you can visit Zermatt weather in May.
In December, the weather in Zermatt is characterized by cold temperatures, with a minimum of -26°C (-14°F) and an average of -10°C (14°F). The maximum temperature hovers around 2°C (36°F), and the region experiences significant humidity at 85%, contributing to a wintry atmosphere. With 145 mm (5.7 in) of precipitation over 16 days, visitors can expect frequent snowfall and chilly conditions.
In contrast, June brings a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (24°F) to a pleasant maximum of 23°C (74°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F). While the humidity drops to 71%, the total precipitation increases to 210 mm (8.3 in) over 21 days, indicating a wetter season, albeit in the form of rain rather than snow. For more details on weather conditions in June, visit Zermatt weather in June.
December and July present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plummet to a chilling minimum of -26°C (-14°F), with an average of -10°C (14°F) and a maximum of only 2°C (36°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 85% and frequent precipitation, with rain or snow falling on 16 days, totaling 145 mm (5.7 in). In contrast, July offers a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures around -1°C (30°F) and averaging 10°C (51°F), reaching a comfortable maximum of 20°C (69°F). Although July is wetter, with precipitation measuring 187 mm (7.3 in) over 21 days, the humidity is significantly lower at 67%. To explore more about July weather, you can check Zermatt weather in July.
December and August present striking contrasts in weather, reflecting the stark differences between winter and summer. In December, temperatures plummet to a minimum of -26°C (-14°F) and average around -10°C (14°F), rarely rising above 2°C (36°F). The air is quite humid at 85%, and precipitation occurs on 16 days, totaling 145 mm (5.7 in). In contrast, August brings milder weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (30°F) to an average of 10°C (50°F) and a maximum reaching 21°C (70°F). Humidity drops to 64%, and though it experiences more precipitation at 215 mm (8.4 in) over 21 days, the overall feel is much warmer and more pleasant. For a detailed look at the climate specifics, check out Zermatt weather in August.
December weather is notably harsher compared to September, with temperatures plunging to a minimum of -26°C (-14°F) and averaging around -10°C (14°F). In contrast, September experiences milder temperatures, with lows of -7°C (20°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F). While December sees an average maximum temperature of just 2°C (36°F), September can reach a comfortable high of 17°C (64°F). Precipitation is more frequent in December, occurring over 16 days with a total of 145 mm (5.7 in), while September has slightly less, at 116 mm (4.6 in) over 19 days; however, September's humidity is lower at 74% compared to December's 85%. For a closer look at September weather in Zermatt, you can visit Zermatt weather in September.
In comparing the weather of December and October, it's clear that December is significantly colder, with average temperatures hovering around -10°C (14°F), while October enjoys milder conditions with an average of 2°C (35°F). The minimum temperatures drop sharply in December, reaching as low as -26°C (-14°F), whereas October's lows are more moderate at -13°C (8°F). Precipitation is also notable; October sees 193 mm (7.6 in) over 13 days, compared to December's 145 mm (5.7 in) spread across 16 days, indicating that October, despite having more precipitation, has a slightly lower frequency of rainy days. Humidity levels remain high in both months, with December at 85% and October slightly higher at 87%. For more details on October weather, you can check Zermatt weather in October.
In comparing the weather of December and November, December tends to be colder with average temperatures around -10°C (14°F), while November has a slightly milder average of -5°C (24°F). December's minimum temperature can drop to -26°C (-14°F), just a degree lower than November's minimum of -24°C (-11°F). Precipitation levels are also high in both months, with December receiving 145 mm (5.7 in) over 16 days, while November has a bit more, totaling 167 mm (6.6 in) across the same number of days. Humidity remains fairly consistent, with December at 85% and November slightly higher at 88%. For a detailed overview of weather conditions in November, check out Zermatt weather in November.
December in Zermatt is a striking contrast to the milder months of the year. As the temperature dips to an average of -10°C (14°F), the town transforms into a winter wonderland, with snow-covered peaks inviting outdoor enthusiasts. While precipitation is frequent, spanning 16 days, it typically takes the form of snow, blanketing the landscape and adding to the festive atmosphere. High humidity at 85% enhances the chilly air, making December a month filled with crisp, fresh bites that invigorate the senses. For those enchanted by the season, Zermatt offers a chilly yet magical experience unlike any other month. To learn more about the overall climate in this beautiful destination, visit Zermatt Climate.