Last updated: February 24, 2025
In Sitka, United States, December presents a captivating winter landscape characterized by a wide temperature range, with maximums reaching 10°C (50°F) and minimums plunging to -14°C (7°F). The average temperature settles at a chilly 2°C (36°F), setting a crisp tone for the month. As cloud cover blankets the town, residents can expect significant precipitation totaling 293 mm (11.5 in) over 22 days, contributing to the region's lush scenery. Humidity levels remain high at 87%, enhancing the moisture-laden air that defines December in this picturesque Alaskan locale.
In December, Sitka experiences a notable drop in temperatures, marking the onset of winter. The month opens with a minimum of -14°C (7°F), and the average temperature settles around a chilly 2°C (36°F), making it one of the colder months of the year. While the maximum can reach a mild 10°C (50°F), the overall trend shows a clear descent from the milder temperatures of fall. As the holiday season approaches, Sitka transforms into a winter wonderland, inviting both residents and visitors to embrace the crisp air and festive spirit, despite the colder conditions.
December in Sitka, United States, marks the peak of the wet season, as the city receives an impressive 293 mm (11.5 in) of precipitation, making it one of the rainiest months of the year. This significant amount is accompanied by 22 days of rainfall, indicating that residents can expect almost daily wet weather. Following a trend from the preceding months, where October and November also saw high precipitation levels (276 mm and 284 mm respectively), December further elevates the rainfall totals, cementing the winter months as particularly soggy. Notably, while the overall precipitation during the month is high, the number of rainy days does not exceed that of November, suggesting a consistent pattern of rainfall that characterizes Sitka's December climate. As the year closes, the relentless drizzle lends a unique charm to the landscape, vital for sustaining the region’s lush green surroundings.
In December, Sitka, United States, experiences a humidity level of 87%, consistent with the trend seen throughout the year. The fall and winter months maintain a relatively high humidity, with November recording 85%, reflecting the area's oceanic climate. Interestingly, early summer peaks with a staggering 101% in July and a close 100% in August, showcasing the region's moist, lush environment. As the year progresses into winter, the humidity dips slightly but remains elevated, mirroring January's 87%. This steady level of moisture not only characterizes Sitka's weather but also contributes to its vibrant ecosystems and breathtaking landscapes.
In December, Sitka experiences a low UV Index of 1, similar to the previous month, November, where sun exposure is minimal. With a burn time of 45 minutes, residents and visitors can enjoy outdoor activities without the intense worry of sunburn. This trend of low UV levels typically continues through the winter, highlighting a seasonal shift from the higher UV Indexes seen in the summer months. The peak of summer, especially in July and August, brings a notable increase to UV Indexes of 7, requiring more caution. As winter sets in, the focus shifts back to enjoying the beautiful surroundings with less concern for UV exposure. For more information about UV levels year-round, check out Sitka UV Index.
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As December ushers in winter’s embrace in Sitka, sunlight becomes a precious commodity, with the month delivering a modest 52 hours of brightness. This notable dip follows a gradual ascent from the year's low of just 44 hours in January, ultimately peaking at 222 hours in June. The growing intensity of sunlight from spring to summer showcases Sitka's seasonal rhythm, where each month builds toward a golden crescendo. However, as the year winds down, December marks the beginning of the twilight hours, dropping sharply from November’s 64 hours. This trend underscores the enchanting cycle of light in Sitka, weaving nature's tapestry from vibrant summer days to the serene hush of winter.
In Sitka, United States, the likelihood of enjoying sunny weather in December stands at 30%, which is notably higher than the preceding months of November and October, both at 16%. This increase hints at a slight seasonal shift, suggesting that while the winter months are generally overcast, December brings a refreshing chance for sunshine. Interestingly, this pattern contrasts with the peaks of sunnier months like February at 34% and April at 32%, indicating that while December may not boast the brightest days, it offers a notable respite in the typically cloudy Alaskan winter. Thus, for those seeking a cozy yet bright holiday season, December in Sitka presents a promising opportunity to soak up some rays amidst the winter chill.
As the year draws to a close in Sitka, United States, December experiences a notable decrease in daylight, with only 6 hours of light. This marks the culmination of a steady decline that begins after the long days of summer, where sunlight peaks at 17 hours in June and July. As autumn unfolds, daylight diminishes, falling to 8 hours by November, and finally reaching its winter nadir in December. The pattern is clear: residents of Sitka can expect the shortest days during this month, laying the groundwork for the gradual return of longer daylight hours that will start to emerge as the year turns to January. Despite the twilight of December, the anticipation of brighter days ahead creates a hopeful backdrop for the long winter nights.
In December, Sitka experiences an average wind speed of 3.5 m/s (approximately 8 mph), reflecting a slight decline from the windy months of January and October, where speeds peak at 4.7 m/s and 4.4 m/s respectively. This trend of diminishing wind continues from the autumn months, with November hovering around 4.1 m/s. As winter sets in, the winds become milder, creating a more tranquil atmosphere. It’s interesting to note that while December’s winds are gentler than the preceding months, they still maintain a higher velocity compared to the calmer spring and summer months. As you brace against the chill of December, the soft yet persistent breeze serves as a reminder of Sitka’s dynamic coastal climate.
The weather in Sitka 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 Sitka and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January show notable differences in weather conditions. December experiences an average temperature of 2°C (36°F), with a minimum of -14°C (7°F) and a maximum of 10°C (50°F). It is also characterized by higher precipitation, totaling 293 mm (11.5 in) over 22 days, while maintaining a consistent humidity of 87%. In contrast, January tends to be colder, with an average temperature of 1°C (33°F), a minimum of -17°C (2°F), and a maximum of 13°C (56°F). Precipitation decreases to 219 mm (8.6 in) over 18 days but retains the same humidity level of 87%. For a more detailed look at January's weather patterns, you can visit Sitka weather in January.
December and February in Sitka reveal notable differences in weather patterns despite both months being in the depths of winter. December experiences slightly milder average temperatures, with a minimum of -14°C (7°F) and an average of 2°C (36°F), while February sees colder temperatures, dipping to a minimum of -16°C (4°F) and an average of 0°C (32°F). Precipitation is more frequent in December, with 293 mm (11.5 in) over 22 days, compared to February's 179 mm (7.0 in) across 15 days. The humidity remains high in both months, at 87% in December and 85% in February, suggesting a consistently damp environment. For more specific details about February's weather, you can check Sitka weather in February.
December and March exhibit similar temperature ranges, with December showing a slightly cooler average temperature of 2°C (36°F) compared to March's 1°C (35°F). Both months experience frosty minimum temperatures, with December dropping to -14°C (7°F) and March to -13°C (9°F). Precipitation is more abundant in December, totaling 293 mm (11.5 in) over 22 days, while March sees less precipitation at 179 mm (7.0 in) across 18 days. Humidity levels are slightly higher in December at 87%, compared to March's 83%. For a more detailed look at March weather, you can visit Sitka weather in March.
December weather is characterized by colder temperatures, with a minimum of -14°C (7°F) and an average of just 2°C (36°F), while April is milder with a minimum of -6°C (21°F) and an average of 4°C (40°F). December also sees more precipitation, measuring 293 mm (11.5 in) over 22 days, compared to April's 174 mm (6.9 in) over 18 days. Additionally, the humidity levels are slightly higher in December at 87% compared to April's 83%. For a closer look at what to expect during this month, check out Sitka weather in April.
December and May showcase stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, the temperatures can plunge as low as -14°C (7°F), with an average around 2°C (36°F) and a maximum of 10°C (50°F). The month is characterized by frequent precipitation, totaling 293 mm (11.5 in) over 22 days, and high humidity levels at 87%. In contrast, May experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (35°F), an average of 8°C (46°F), and a maximum reaching 20°C (68°F). Precipitation in May is significantly lower, at 124 mm (4.9 in) over 19 days, accompanied by a slightly higher humidity of 88%. For a more detailed look at Sitka's weather during this pleasant spring month, check out Sitka weather in May.
December and June present striking contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures plummet with a minimum of -14°C (7°F) and an average of 2°C (36°F), while the maximum reaches only 10°C (50°F). This month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 293 mm (11.5 in) over 22 days, accompanied by high humidity at 87%. In contrast, June brings milder weather, featuring minimum temperatures of 4°C (40°F) and an average of 10°C (51°F), with a maximum of 21°C (71°F). Although June is also relatively wet with 137 mm (5.4 in) over 20 days, the humidity remains higher at 95%. This shift in weather not only affects daily life but also showcases the dramatic seasonal changes. For more specific information, check out Sitka weather in June.
December and July present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -14°C (7°F), with an average of 2°C (36°F) and a maximum of only 10°C (50°F). This month also experiences significant precipitation, totaling 293 mm (11.5 in) across 22 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 87%. In stark contrast, July boasts much milder temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (48°F), an average of 13°C (55°F), and a maximum reaching 22°C (72°F). Precipitation in July is considerably less, at 112 mm (4.4 in) over 15 days, and the humidity rises slightly to 101%. For more details on the warm and inviting July weather, check this Sitka weather in July.
December and August present contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures reach a minimum of -14°C (7°F) and typically average around 2°C (36°F), with a maximum of 10°C (50°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 87% and considerable precipitation, totaling 293 mm (11.5 in) over 22 days. In contrast, August is much milder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a comfortable maximum of 25°C (77°F), averaging 13°C (56°F). Although August sees slightly less rainfall at 201 mm (7.9 in) over 20 days, the humidity is notably higher at a full 100%. For more detailed insights into the weather conditions of August, check out Sitka weather in August.
In comparing the weather of December and September, notable differences emerge. December is characterized by much colder temperatures, with lows reaching -14°C (7°F) and an average of 2°C (36°F), whereas September enjoys milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F). Precipitation is more pronounced in December, with 293 mm (11.5 in) falling over 22 days compared to 224 mm (8.8 in) over 17 days in September. Additionally, December has a slightly lower humidity level at 87%, in contrast to the higher humidity of 94% experienced in September. For more details on September weather, you can explore Sitka weather in September.
When comparing the weather in December and October, December is significantly colder, with average temperatures hovering around 2°C (36°F), while October experiences milder temperatures averaging 7°C (45°F). In terms of extremes, December sees a minimum temperature drop to -14°C (7°F), compared to October’s coldest at -3°C (28°F). Precipitation levels are relatively close, with December receiving 293 mm (11.5 in) over 22 days, slightly more than October's 276 mm (10.9 in) also spread over 22 days. Interestingly, both months share the same humidity level of 87%, resulting in a persistently damp atmosphere during this period. For more details, you can explore Sitka weather in October.
In December, temperatures drop significantly compared to November, with averages around 2°C (36°F) and a minimum of -14°C (7°F), while November boasts a slightly warmer average of 4°C (39°F) and a minimum of -6°C (21°F). Despite their proximity, December experiences a bit more precipitation, with 293 mm (11.5 in) over 22 days, compared to November's 284 mm (11.2 in) across 23 days. Humidity levels also rise slightly in December, reaching 87%, compared to November's 85%. For more insights into November's conditions, you can visit Sitka weather in November.
In December, Sitka experiences a significant shift in weather, characterized by cooler temperatures and increased precipitation compared to other months. With an average temperature hovering around 2°C (36°F), the chilly air is accompanied by a notable humidity rate of 87%, creating a cold and damp atmosphere. Unlike the milder and drier conditions of summer, December sees an average of 22 days of precipitation, culminating in a total of 293 mm (11.5 in) for the month. This winter weather invites a unique charm to the landscape, transforming Sitka into a picturesque winter wonderland. For a deeper dive into the year-round climate of this beautiful Alaskan destination, check out Sitka Climate.