December Weather in Girdwood, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

In Girdwood, United States, December brings a chilly embrace as temperatures fluctuate from a maximum of 5°C (41°F) to a biting minimum of -24°C (-10°F), averaging around -6°C (21°F). This month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 268 mm (10.6 in) over approximately 23 days, creating a winter wonderland amidst the high humidity of 96%. With such conditions, Girdwood transforms into a picturesque scene, ideal for winter enthusiasts and those seeking to experience the beauty of the season's tranquil snowfall.

December Temperature in Girdwood

In Girdwood, United States, December ushers in the heart of winter with temperatures that paint a chilly landscape. The minimum temperature hovers around -24°C (-10°F), while the average temperature rests at a brisk -6°C (21°F), providing a stark contrast to the milder months preceding it. As the month progresses, residents and visitors alike can expect daytime highs peaking at around 5°C (41°F), making it one of the colder months of the year. This drop in temperature reflects a trend of steadily declining warmth from the more temperate conditions of October and November, setting the stage for a winter wonderland filled with snow and outdoor activities.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Girdwood, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec161618303747535042311921
Data source: Temperature data for Girdwood 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 Girdwood

In December, Girdwood sees a substantial precipitation total of 268 mm (10.6 in), making it one of the wettest months of the year, second only to the remarkable 281 mm (11.1 in) recorded in October. This month is notably characterized by 23 days of precipitation, the highest of any month, indicating a persistent and often heavy distribution of rainfall. As autumn fades, December’s precipitation tends to be a mix of rain and snow, setting the stage for the winter season ahead. Interestingly, this surge in moisture contrasts with the drier spells in summer and early fall, emphasizing Girdwood's transition into its wetter, more dramatic winter climate. Overall, December stands out not only for its volume but also for the frequency of precipitation, showcasing the region's rich and diverse meteorological patterns.

December Precipitation Trends in Girdwood

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Girdwood, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec165115131115142107109156192281224268
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Girdwood

December in Girdwood, United States, sees a humidity level of 96%, marking it as one of the more humid months of the year. As the region transitions from November, which averages at 95%, this slight increase indicates a trend of consistently high humidity during the colder months. From January through April, humidity remains elevated, peaking in July at an astonishing 102%—a testament to Girdwood's lush, maritime climate. The overall trend showcases a range of humidity fluctuations throughout the year, with the winter months staying near or above 90%, creating a unique atmosphere that supports the area's vibrant ecosystems and supports winter activities.

December Average Humidity in Girdwood

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Girdwood, with December's data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, allowing you to see how December's humidity levels compare to other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec94%93%91%85%88%95%102%100%96%91%95%96%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Girdwood

In Girdwood, Alaska, the December UV Index drops to 1, placing it in the low exposure category and allowing for a safe burn time of 45 minutes. This month's UV levels mirror those of January and November, creating a consistent pattern of low sun exposure as winter fully sets in. The trend of increasing UV exposure from March to July sharply contrasts with the gentle decline seen from August through December. Residents and visitors can enjoy ample outdoor activities without the immediate need for UV protection during these cooler months. For more insights, check out the detailed Girdwood UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Girdwood for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Girdwood 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec123576764211
Data source: Girdwood 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 Girdwood

In Girdwood, December greets residents with a stark reduction in sunlight, offering only 39 hours of bright rays— a notable dip compared to the vibrant 277 hours enjoyed in May. This seasonal transition marks the culmination of the year, as daylight dwindles significantly from the summer months, which boast over 300 hours of sunshine in June and July. As the year progresses, sunshine retreats from a high of 263 hours in April to its winter low, inviting a serene yet dim atmosphere that defines December. This shift not only highlights the beauty of Girdwood’s winter landscape but also signals a time for cozy indoor activities as the community embraces the warmth of each other during the darkest days of the year.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Girdwood: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Girdwood 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec53h124h203h263h277h311h292h257h184h123h91h39h
Data source: Girdwood December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Girdwood During December

December in Girdwood, United States, brings a modest 15% chance of sunny weather, a figure that reflects a notable trend seen throughout the year. As we transition from the earlier months, where the sun shines more frequently—peaking at 42% in April—the chance of clear skies generally dwindles during the fall and winter months. With the arrival of December, the likelihood of sunny days is slightly higher than in October and November, yet it still lags behind the sunnier days of late winter and early spring. This pattern underscores Girdwood’s wintry character, where cloud cover often dominates the landscape, leaving locals and visitors alike hopeful for bursts of sunshine amidst the chill.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Girdwood

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Girdwood 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 Girdwood experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec12%25%33%42%20%16%15%25%15%6%10%15%
Data source: Girdwood December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Girdwood in December

In Girdwood, United States, December marks a notable low in daylight duration, with the sun gracing the skies for only 5 hours each day. This decrease is part of a broader trend as winter descends, following a steady increase in daylight from the depths of winter in January. As the year progresses towards the summer solstice in June, daylight hours peak at an impressive 19 hours, only to gradually decline again as autumn approaches. The contrast between the lush, long days of summer and the brisk, darker days of December highlights the region's dynamic seasonal shifts, reminding residents and visitors alike of the beautiful yet stark transformations that nature offers throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Girdwood for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Girdwood throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec6h 35m9h 4m11h 53m14h 46m17h 29m19h 3m18h 8m15h 36m12h 46m9h 56m7h 14m5h 41m
Data source: Girdwood daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Girdwood

As December unfolds in Girdwood, the average wind speed mirrors the gentle calm of winter, settling at a modest 1.3 m/s (3 mph). This reflects a subtle trend throughout the colder months, where winds gradually decrease from the somewhat breezy conditions of late spring and summer, peaking at 1.9 m/s in June. From there, a steady decline commences, reaching the year's lowest point in November at just 1.1 m/s (2 mph). December's return to a slightly higher wind speed hints at the approaching new year but still embraces the cozy stillness characteristic of Alaskan winters. The transition into winter, marked by these softer winds, invites both locals and visitors to savor the serene beauty of snow-covered landscapes.

Average December Wind Speed in Girdwood

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Girdwood, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1.61.31.31.41.71.91.71.71.71.31.11.3 m/s
Data source: Girdwood December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Girdwood Compares to Other Months

The weather in Girdwood changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of December's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Girdwood and find detailed weather information for every month.

The weather in December is generally milder than in January, with average temperatures ranging from -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 5°C (41°F), while January sees lower temperatures, averaging -9°C (16°F) and peaking at just 2°C (36°F). December experiences more precipitation, with 268 mm (10.6 in) spread over 23 days, compared to January's 165 mm (6.5 in) over 13 days. Additionally, December has slightly higher humidity levels at 96%, versus January's 94%. For more detailed insights on the weather conditions in January, check out Girdwood weather in January.

In comparison to December, February experiences slightly colder temperatures, with average lows reaching -25°C (-13°F) and highs only peaking at 2°C (35°F). December, while still frigid, has a milder average minimum of -24°C (-10°F) and a maximum of 5°C (41°F). Additionally, February sees significantly less precipitation, totaling 115 mm (4.5 in) over 14 days, compared to December’s substantial 268 mm (10.6 in) spread across 23 days. While both months are characterized by high humidity levels, February's 93% is marginally lower than December’s 96%. For more detailed information, you can explore Girdwood weather in February.

In December, the weather is quite cold, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -24°C (-10°F) to a maximum of 5°C (41°F) and an average of -6°C (21°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 268 mm (10.6 in) over 23 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 96%. In contrast, March experiences slightly milder temperatures, with a range from -25°C (-12°F) to a maximum of 5°C (42°F) and an average of -8°C (19°F). Precipitation in March is lower, at 131 mm (5.2 in) over 12 days, and humidity is also reduced to 91%. For more detailed information about the weather in March, you can visit Girdwood weather in March.

December and April present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures plummet to an average of -6°C (21°F), with lows reaching as low as -24°C (-10°F) and highs only peaking at 5°C (41°F). This frigid month is also marked by high humidity at 96% and considerable precipitation, totaling 268 mm (10.6 in) over 23 days. Conversely, April offers a more moderate climate, with temperatures averaging -1°C (30°F), minimums around -19°C (-2°F), and maximums rising to 11°C (53°F). The month sees significantly less precipitation, totaling 115 mm (4.5 in) over 14 days, along with a decrease in humidity to 85%. For more detailed information about the weather during this transitional period, check out Girdwood weather in April.

December and May present strikingly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures plummet with a minimum of -24°C (-10°F) and an average of -6°C (21°F), reaching a maximum of only 5°C (41°F). The month is characterized by high precipitation, with 268 mm (10.6 in) spread across 23 days, and a humidity level of 96%. In contrast, May brings milder temperatures, with minimums around -5°C (22°F) and an average of 3°C (37°F), peaking at 16°C (60°F). Precipitation decreases to 142 mm (5.6 in) over 19 days, accompanied by a lower humidity of 88%. For a more detailed look at the transition from winter to spring, check out Girdwood weather in May.

December and June present stark contrasts in weather. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -24°C (-10°F), with an average of -6°C (21°F) and maximums reaching just 5°C (41°F). This month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 268 mm (10.6 in) across 23 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 96%. In contrast, June offers a milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to an average of 8°C (47°F) and a maximum of 24°C (75°F). Additionally, June sees much less precipitation at 107 mm (4.2 in) over 21 days, while humidity remains slightly lower at 95%. For more detailed information, check out Girdwood weather in June.

December and July present stark contrasts in weather conditions. December's temperatures range from a chilling minimum of -24°C (-10°F) to a mild maximum of 5°C (41°F), with an average of -6°C (21°F). In contrast, July enjoys much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (37°F), an average of 11°C (53°F), and a maximum soaring to 26°C (79°F). Precipitation is more frequent in December, with 268 mm (10.6 in) falling over 23 days, compared to July's 109 mm (4.3 in) over 17 days. Additionally, December's humidity is notably high at 96%, while July experiences a slightly higher humidity level at 102%. For a more detailed look at July weather, you can explore Girdwood weather in July.

December and August present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures plummet, with averages around -6°C (21°F) and maximums reaching just 5°C (41°F). The month is characterized by heavy precipitation, totaling 268 mm (10.6 in), and high humidity at 96% over 23 days. Conversely, August offers a milder climate, with minimum temperatures at 0°C (33°F) and maximum averages of 21°C (71°F). Precipitation is less robust at 156 mm (6.1 in) over 20 days, while humidity remains elevated at 100%. For a closer look at conditions during this vibrant summer month, check out Girdwood weather in August.

In comparing the weather between September and December, December is notably colder, with average temperatures hovering around -6°C (21°F) compared to September's milder average of 6°C (42°F). While both months experience high humidity levels of 96%, December sees significantly lower minimum temperatures, dropping to -24°C (-10°F), whereas September's minimum is a comparatively warmer -12°C (11°F). Additionally, December receives more precipitation, with 268 mm (10.6 in) falling over 23 days, compared to September's 192 mm (7.5 in) across 19 days. For a more detailed look at the weather patterns, you can visit Girdwood weather in September.

December weather in Girdwood is notably colder, with average temperatures hovering around -6°C (21°F) compared to October's milder average of 0°C (32°F). While both months experience significant precipitation, December receives slightly less at 268 mm (10.6 in) over 23 days, whereas October sees 281 mm (11.1 in) across 21 days. The humidity is higher in December at 96%, compared to October's 91%, contributing to the chill in the air. For more detailed information, you can check out Girdwood weather in October.

December weather shows a slight warming trend compared to November, with average temperatures shifting from -7°C (19°F) in November to -6°C (21°F) in December. However, both months experience extremely cold conditions, with November recording a lower minimum temperature of -27°C (-16°F) compared to December's minimum of -24°C (-10°F). Precipitation increases in December to 268 mm (10.6 in), occurring over 23 days, which is more frequent than November’s 224 mm (8.8 in) across 16 days, making December the wetter month. Despite this increase, both months maintain high humidity levels, with December at 96% and November slightly lower at 95%. For more details, you can check Girdwood weather in November.

Compare Girdwood's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Girdwood

As December settles in, Girdwood transforms into a winter wonderland with its sharp contrast to the milder months preceding it. Characterized by a striking chill, the atmosphere is laden with high humidity that creates a distinct, crisp feeling in the air. Frequent precipitation during this month means that snowfall is a common sight, blanketing the landscape and making it a prime time for winter sports enthusiasts. This month stands out not only for its lower temperatures and increased precipitation days but also for the magical ambiance it brings to the region. To explore more about the unique climate conditions that shape Girdwood, visit Girdwood Climate.