December Weather in Juneau, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

In December, Juneau, United States experiences a striking range of temperatures, with a maximum reaching 10°C (50°F), a minimum plummeting to -24°C (-10°F), and an average hovering around -2°C (28°F). This month also sees a significant amount of precipitation, accumulating 292 mm (11.5 in) over approximately 22 days, contributing to a humid atmosphere that averages an impressive 96% humidity. This blend of chill and moisture sets a distinctive backdrop for the onset of winter, making outdoor activities both invigorating and challenging.

December Temperature in Juneau

In December, Juneau experiences a notable chill, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -24°C (-10°F). As winter tightens its grip, the average temperature hovers around -2°C (28°F), offering a stark contrast to the milder summer months. Daytime highs reach up to 10°C (50°F), providing brief moments of respite from the cold. This month typically marks one of the coldest periods of the year, following a gradual drop in temperatures from the previous months. The trend of declining warmth becomes evident as December welcomes winter, solidifying the city's reputation for its frigid coastal climate.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Juneau, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec252329364552565550393128
Data source: Temperature data for Juneau 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 Juneau

December in Juneau marks the onset of winter's full embrace, delivering an impressive 292 mm (11.5 in) of precipitation over 22 days. This month showcases a significant uptick in rainfall, echoing the trend seen throughout the fall, particularly in October, which also recorded high levels at 332 mm (13.1 in). As summer transitions into winter, precipitation starts to taper slightly from the wettest months, such as August, which peaks at 280 mm (11.0 in). The consistent precipitation in December reinforces the city's reputation for a moist climate, characteristic of the Pacific Northwest, while also providing a stark contrast to the drier months earlier in the year. The prevalence of rainy days illustrates how this coastal haven transitions into a beautiful winter landscape, shrouded in mist and moisture.

December Precipitation Trends in Juneau

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Juneau, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec215182175163174189164280259332267293
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Juneau

In Juneau, United States, December brings a notable 96% humidity, closely mirroring the high levels seen throughout the year. As winter approaches, humidity consistently remains elevated, peaking in August at 108% and dipping slightly in the spring months of April and May to around 90%. This trend reflects Juneau's coastal climate, where moisture-laden air is prevalent, even in the depths of winter. The gradual rise in humidity from January to July highlights the area's lush, damp environment, while the stability in December suggests a continuation of this trend, making Juneau a uniquely humid destination well into the winter season.

December Average Humidity in Juneau

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Juneau, 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%90%92%92%90%96%104%108%101%98%97%96%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Juneau

In Juneau, the UV Index showcases a striking seasonal trend that highlights the importance of sun protection. The year begins with a low UV Index of 1 in January and December, focusing on long burn times of 45 minutes. As spring approaches, March ushers in a moderate increase to 4, followed by a leap to 5 in April, indicating a gradual rise in sun exposure risks. Come May and June, the UV Index escalates to 8, reflecting the longer days and more intense sunlight, which necessitates a quick 15-minute burn time for skin safety. This peak continues into July and August, where the Index reaches 9, marking the height of summer UV intensity. As summer fades, the UV Index dips back down to 6 in September, before trailing down to moderate levels in October and low levels once more by November. This clear fluctuation emphasizes the need for awareness about UV exposure throughout the year. To learn more about the UV Index in Juneau, visit Juneau UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Juneau for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Juneau 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec124588996311
Data source: Juneau 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 Juneau

In Juneau, the sun's gentle embrace unfolds dramatically through the seasons, peaking in the vibrant months of April and May, where the city basks in 218 and 235 hours of sunshine, respectively. As winter recedes, the longer days signify a welcome transition, with March enjoying a notable uptick at 179 hours. However, as the year winds down, a stark contrast emerges, plunging from December's mere 45 hours of sunlight to the bleak 43 hours of January. This trend highlights how Juneau faces its darkest days during the heart of winter, before the gradual return of daylight begins anew in February, rallying to 125 hours. Overall, while the sunshine ebbs and flows throughout the year, the radiant peaks of spring and early summer provide a vivid reminder of nature's rhythms in this Alaskan gem.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Juneau: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Juneau 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec43h125h179h218h235h201h198h178h167h103h58h45h
Data source: Juneau December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Juneau During December

In December, Juneau experiences a 30% chance of sunny weather, marking a slight increase compared to the preceding months, where the likelihood hovers between 8% and 16%. This modest uptick suggest that while sunshine is still a rarity in winter, the onset of December offers more optimism than the gloomier fall months. Notably, January and March dip back down to 16%, indicating that the potential for clearer skies may be a fleeting gift of the season. Overall, as the year closes, December provides a unique glimpse of sun amidst the typically overcast atmosphere of Southeast Alaska, creating a hopeful prelude to the brighter days ahead.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Juneau

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Juneau 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 Juneau experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec16%36%17%35%13%26%26%17%8%15%14%30%
Data source: Juneau December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Juneau in December

In Juneau, the daylight duration showcases a captivating transformation throughout the year, peaking at 18 hours in June when the sun graces the skies nearly the entire day. As winter closes in, however, daylight dwindles dramatically, dropping to just 6 hours in December. The progression is remarkable: starting from a mere 7 hours in January, the days steadily lengthen, with a noteworthy jump from 11 hours in March to 14 hours in April. This gradual increase culminates in May's robust 16 hours, before the summer solstice marks its zenith. Following June's brilliance, the daylight gradually recedes, reminding residents that even the longest days must yield to the long, dark winters characterized by just half a day's light by December. This cycle vividly illustrates the striking contrast of summer's abundant daylight against the backdrop of winter's brevity, creating a unique rhythm to life in Juneau.

Average Daylight Hours in Juneau for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Juneau throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7h 13m9h 23m11h 54m14h 29m16h 50m18h 7m17h 23m15h 13m12h 42m10h 9m7h 47m6h 28m
Data source: Juneau daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Juneau

In December, Juneau experiences a return to a brisk average wind speed of 2.5 m/s (5 mph), mirroring its January and October conditions. As the year progresses towards winter, it’s interesting to observe a general decline in wind speeds from spring through summer, peaking at a low of 1.4 m/s (3 mph) in July. This tranquil period contrasts sharply with the more dynamic conditions at the start and end of the year. Following the gentle summer breezes, September brings a slight uptick, hinting at the seasonal shifts ahead. As December sets in, the winds refreshingly pick up again, reinforcing the notion that while Juneau may be known for its serene summers, the year closes with a renewed vigor in its winds.

Average December Wind Speed in Juneau

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Juneau, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.52.62.32.01.81.61.41.92.22.52.42.5 m/s
Data source: Juneau December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Juneau Compares to Other Months

The weather in Juneau 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 Juneau and find detailed weather information for every month.

In December, temperatures in Juneau range from a minimum of -24°C (-10°F) to a maximum of 10°C (50°F), with an average temperature of -2°C (28°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 292 mm (11.5 in) over 22 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 96%. In contrast, January sees slightly cooler conditions, with minimum temperatures dropping to -25°C (-13°F) and a maximum of 8°C (47°F), resulting in an average of -4°C (25°F). Precipitation in January is lower, at 215 mm (8.4 in), and spread across 16 days, while humidity remains relatively stable at 94%. For a more detailed overview of the weather patterns in this month, visit Juneau weather in January.

In December, the weather in Juneau is quite cold, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -24°C (-10°F) to an average of -2°C (28°F), reaching a maximum of 10°C (50°F). This month experiences significant precipitation, with about 292 mm (11.5 in) over 22 days, coupled with high humidity of 96%. In contrast, February sees slightly milder conditions, with minimum temperatures still at -24°C (-12°F) but an average of -5°C (23°F) and a maximum of 9°C (48°F). February also brings less precipitation, totaling 182 mm (7.2 in) across 14 days, and a lower humidity level of 90%. For more detailed insights into February weather, you can visit Juneau weather in February.

December and March present notable differences in weather patterns. December typically experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -24°C (-10°F) and an average temperature of -2°C (28°F), while March sees slightly milder conditions, with a minimum of -18°C (0°F) and an average of -1°C (30°F). Precipitation is also higher in December, accumulating 292 mm (11.5 in) over 22 days compared to March's 175 mm (6.9 in) over 17 days. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly higher in December at 96%, compared to 92% in March, making for a chillier atmosphere during the final month of the year. For more details on March weather in Juneau, you can check Juneau weather in March.

When comparing December and April weather, December is significantly colder, with temperatures ranging from a low of -24°C (-10°F) to a high of 10°C (50°F), whereas April sees milder temperatures, with a minimum of -13°C (9°F) and a maximum of 12°C (55°F). Precipitation is also heavier in December, with 292 mm (11.5 in) spread over 22 days compared to April's 163 mm (6.4 in) over 17 days. Additionally, humidity remains high in both months, but December has a slightly higher humidity level at 96% compared to April's 92%. For more detailed information, check out Juneau weather in April.

December and May present contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -24°C (-10°F), with an average of around -2°C (28°F) and a maximum reaching 10°C (50°F). The month is marked by heavy precipitation, totaling 292 mm (11.5 inches), spread over 22 days, and a high humidity level of 96%. In contrast, May brings much milder conditions, with minimum temperatures of -3°C (26°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F), peaking at 21°C (70°F). Precipitation is considerably lower at 174 mm (6.9 inches) over 18 days, with humidity decreasing to 90%. This shift from the cold and damp December to the warmer and slightly drier May is quite striking. For more detailed insights, check out Juneau weather in May.

In December, the weather is marked by frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -24°C (-10°F) and an average around -2°C (28°F), reaching a maximum of only 10°C (50°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 292 mm (11.5 in) over 22 days, while humidity remains high at 96%. In contrast, June presents a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 25°C (77°F) and an average of 11°C (53°F). June also experiences precipitation, but at a reduced level of 189 mm (7.4 in) over the same number of days, maintaining that characteristic high humidity of 96%. For more insights, check out Juneau weather in June.

In December, the weather is characterized by cold temperatures, with a minimum of -24°C (-10°F) and an average that hovers around -2°C (28°F). The maximum temperature reaches only 10°C (50°F), and the month sees significant precipitation at 292 mm (11.5 in) over 22 days, accompanied by high humidity at 96%.

In contrast, July offers a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to an average of 13°C (56°F), peaking at 25°C (77°F). Precipitation is less intense than in December, amounting to 164 mm (6.5 in) over 18 days, though it is notable for its humidity level, reported at 104%.

For those interested in the specifics of July weather, you can find more information here: Juneau weather in July.

December and August boast starkly contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures plummet to an average of -2°C (28°F), with lows reaching as low as -24°C (-10°F) and highs capping at 10°C (50°F). This month is characterized by high humidity at 96% and frequent precipitation, occurring on 22 days, with a total of 292 mm (11.5 in) of rain. Conversely, August brings milder conditions, with an average temperature of 13°C (56°F) and a maximum of 27°C (80°F). The humidity is even higher at 108%, and while August sees slightly less precipitation—280 mm (11.0 in)—it occurs over just 20 days. For a closer look at weather trends specific to August, you can visit Juneau weather in August.

In December, the weather is significantly colder than in September, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -24°C (-10°F) to a milder high of 10°C (50°F), while September enjoys a more temperate range from -4°C (26°F) to 23°C (74°F). December sees an average temperature of -2°C (28°F) compared to September's average of 10°C (50°F). Additionally, December is characterized by higher precipitation, with 292 mm (11.5 in) falling over 22 days, whereas September experiences slightly less at 259 mm (10.2 in) over 17 days. Interestingly, September also has higher humidity levels at 101% compared to December's 96%. For more details, you can check out Juneau weather in September.

In comparing the weather of December and October, December experiences colder temperatures with a minimum of -24°C (-10°F) and an average of -2°C (28°F), whereas October's temperatures are milder, ranging from a minimum of -11°C (13°F) to an average of 4°C (40°F). Precipitation levels are slightly lower in December, totaling 292 mm (11.5 in) compared to October's 332 mm (13.1 in), although both months have about 22 days of precipitation. Humidity remains quite high in both months, with December at 96% and October at 98%, indicating a damp atmosphere. For more detailed information, you can refer to Juneau weather in October.

In December, the weather is colder than in November, with minimum temperatures dropping to -24°C (-10°F) compared to -15°C (6°F) in November. The average temperature in December is slightly lower at -2°C (28°F), while the maximum temperature remains similar at 10°C (50°F) in December and 8°C (47°F) in November. Precipitation increases slightly in December, totaling 292 mm (11.5 in) over 22 days, up from 267 mm (10.5 in) during the same number of days in November. Humidity remains high and fairly consistent between the two months, with December at 96% and November at 97%. For more detailed information, you can check Juneau weather in November.

Compare Juneau's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Juneau

As December rolls into Juneau, the weather takes a stark turn, embracing the heart of winter with its cold temperatures and high humidity. Unlike the milder months, December sees frosty days, where the mercury can dip significantly, making it one of the chilliest times of the year. With frequent precipitation across about three-quarters of the month, the atmosphere is often shrouded in a mix of rain and snowfall, enhancing the wintry landscape. This month’s relentless humidity, peaking at an impressive 96%, adds to the chill, making it feel even colder than it is. For a deeper understanding of what to expect from Juneau’s climate, check out Juneau Climate.