Last updated: February 24, 2025
In December, Skagway, United States, experiences a stark winter landscape characterized by a maximum temperature of 6°C (42°F) and an average low of -7°C (20°F), dipping to a brisk minimum of -26°C (-15°F). The town is cloaked in an atmosphere of high humidity, reaching up to 95%, which enhances the chill in the air. With 269 mm (10.6 in) of precipitation spread over 22 days, residents and visitors alike can expect a mix of snow and rain, creating a picturesque yet chilly environment. Whether wrapped in warm layers or enjoying the winter scenery, December in Skagway offers a unique experience bound by the beauty of its frosty wilderness.
In Skagway, Alaska, December presents a distinctive coldness, with temperatures consistently dipping to a minimum of -26°C (-15°F) and averaging around -7°C (20°F). This month showcases a sharp drop from earlier autumn, as the mercury descends from the milder November temps of around -7°C (20°F). While December's maximum reaches just 6°C (42°F), it is evident that the frigid winter fully sets in, paving the way for a beautiful snowy landscape that characterizes the town. The transition into winter is marked by a dramatic chill, continuing a trend of dropping temperatures as the year closes, contrasting with the more temperate climate experienced in the summer months, where highs regularly touch 25°C (78°F).
December in Skagway is typically a month of significant rainfall, with precipitation reaching 269 mm (10.6 in), making it the wettest month of the year. This spike in rainfall aligns with the trend of increasing precipitation leading into winter, as the region experiences a gradual uptick from the milder rainy months of late summer and early fall. Interestingly, December also shares the highest number of precipitation days at 22, similar to October and November, indicating that winter storms are frequent and persistent during this time. This combination of high precipitation amounts and frequency reflects the transition into a wetter, cooler season, setting the tone for Skagway's winter climate.
In December, Skagway experiences a humidity level of 95%, which is consistent with the region's generally high moisture content throughout the year. The winter months maintain a slightly lower humidity compared to the summer peaks, where humidity surged dramatically to over 100% in June and reached an astounding 117% in August. This trend reveals a seasonal fluctuation, with the coldest months retaining high humidity, yet never dipping below the 90% mark. Even as the year winds down, Skagway’s climate remains notably damp, setting the stage for the snowy landscapes that characterize its winters.
In December, Skagway experiences a low UV Index of 1, consistent with the trends observed in the winter months. Similar to January and November, residents and visitors can expect a burn time of approximately 45 minutes, allowing for leisurely outdoor activities without significant risk of sunburn. As the days get shorter and colder, the UV levels remain mild, highlighting the importance of protective measures during brighter spells of winter sun. This pattern of low UV exposure provides a welcome respite from the higher indices seen throughout the summer months, particularly the peak of July and August, where the UV Index reaches 7. For more detailed information, visit Skagway UV Index.
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In December, Skagway experiences a noticeable dip in sunshine hours, with only 41 hours of bright daylight, marking one of the darkest months of the year. This decline follows a gradual increase in sunlight from January's 45 hours up to the 288 hours basked in during the height of summer in July. After a peak in sunshine in mid-summer, the hours of light begin to wane, with autumn ushering in shorter days and culminating in December's subdued glow. As winter sets in, the city transitions from a sun-kissed haven to a more contemplative landscape, leaving residents and visitors yearning for the return of those sunlit days once spring arrives.
In December, the likelihood of sunny weather in Skagway stands at 20%, showing a slight upward trend compared to the preceding months, especially when considering the dismal sunshine chances in October and November, which hover around 5% and 10%, respectively. This seasonal improvement suggests that while December is still far from a sun-drenched paradise, it offers a glimmer of hope for clear skies amidst the winter conditions. Notably, February leads the pack with a striking 39% chance of sunshine, indicating that Skagway does experience periods of brightness in winter months, presenting opportunities for visitors to enjoy the stunning, snow-covered landscape under the sun.
In Skagway, United States, December heralds the return of short daylight hours, offering just 6 hours of sunlight each day, mirroring the early days of the new year. As the calendar year progresses from the frost of December through to the long days of summer, daylight gradually increases, peaking in June with an impressive 18 hours of light. Following this height, the daylight gradually diminishes, descending back to 7 hours in November before dropping to its winter low. This rhythmic pattern not only enhances the beauty of each season but also presents a unique backdrop for outdoor adventures, crafting a distinct experience for residents and visitors alike.
As December unfolds in Skagway, the winds remain consistently gentle, averaging 1.5 m/s (3 mph)—a continuation of the calm that has prevailed through much of the year. This month’s wind speed mirrors January's and November’s, demonstrating a subtle yet steady trend throughout the cooler months. While the summer months saw a slight uptick, reaching 1.8 m/s (4 mph) in August, the transition to winter brings a return to milder breezes. Overall, December embodies the tranquil spirit of Skagway, where the winds whisper softly, soothing the landscape as the year draws to a close.
The weather in Skagway 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 Skagway and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January present notably cold weather conditions, with January generally being the colder of the two months. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -26°C (-15°F) to a maximum of 6°C (42°F), with an average temperature of -7°C (20°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 269 mm (10.6 in) over 22 days, along with high humidity at 95%. In contrast, January sees even lower temperatures, with a minimum of -33°C (-27°F), an average of -10°C (15°F), and a maximum of 9°C (49°F). Precipitation decreases to 181 mm (7.1 in) over 15 days, while humidity remains slightly lower at 94%. For more detailed information on the weather patterns, you can check Skagway weather in January.
December and February both experience harsh winter conditions, but February tends to be colder overall. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -26°C (-15°F) to a maximum of 6°C (42°F), with an average of -7°C (20°F) and considerable precipitation of 269 mm (10.6 in) over 22 days. The humidity is quite high at 95%. In contrast, February's temperatures dip further, with minimums reaching -33°C (-28°F) and an average of -11°C (13°F), while precipitation decreases to 118 mm (4.7 in) over just 12 days and humidity falls to 90%. For more detailed information, you can check out Skagway weather in February.
In December, temperatures can drop as low as -26°C (-15°F), with an average of -7°C (20°F) and a maximum of 6°C (42°F). This month is characterized by high precipitation, totaling 269 mm (10.6 in) over 22 days, and humidity levels reaching 95%. In contrast, March sees similar minimum temperatures of -26°C (-15°F), but the average temperature slightly increases to -7°C (21°F) with a higher maximum of 9°C (49°F). Precipitation in March is reduced to 137 mm (5.4 in) over 18 days, with humidity slightly lower at 93%. For more detailed information about weather patterns in March, visit Skagway weather in March.
In December, the weather is significantly colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -26°C (-15°F) to a maximum of 6°C (42°F), and an average of -7°C (20°F). This month experiences substantial precipitation, totaling 269 mm (10.6 in) over 22 days, coupled with high humidity levels around 95%.
In contrast, April presents a notable warming trend, with temperatures fluctuating between -21°C (-5°F) and 11°C (52°F), leading to an average temperature of -1°C (30°F). Precipitation decreases to 102 mm (4.0 in) spread over 15 days, while humidity remains relatively high at 93%. For more detailed information about Skagway's weather during this month, check out Skagway weather in April.
December and May present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures plunge to a minimum of -26°C (-15°F), with an average of -7°C (20°F) and a maximum of 6°C (42°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 269 mm (10.6 in) across 22 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 95%. Conversely, May ushers in milder weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -8°C (18°F) to a pleasant maximum of 16°C (62°F), averaging around 3°C (38°F). Precipitation in May is notably lower at 113 mm (4.5 in) over 18 days, and the humidity also decreases slightly to 92%. For more details on May's weather, you can check out Skagway weather in May.
In December, Skagway experiences frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -26°C (-15°F) and an average of -7°C (20°F), while maximum temperatures only reach around 6°C (42°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation totaling 269 mm (10.6 in) over 22 days, coupled with a high humidity level of 95%. In contrast, June sees a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a comfortable maximum of 25°C (78°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F). The precipitation during this month is considerably less, totaling 124 mm (4.9 in) over 20 days, and humidity peaks at 100%. For a closer look at the specific weather conditions of June, check out Skagway weather in June.
December and July present strikingly contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures can plummet to a chilling minimum of -26°C (-15°F), with average temperatures hovering around -7°C (20°F) and occasional maxima reaching 6°C (42°F). The month is quite wet, featuring 269 mm (10.6 in) of precipitation over 22 days and a high humidity level of 95%. In stark contrast, July enjoys a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to an average of 11°C (52°F), peaking at 23°C (75°F). Rainfall is significantly reduced to 97 mm (3.8 in) across 18 days, while humidity reaches an even higher level of 110%. These differences highlight the extremes of Skagway's climate throughout the year. For more information, visit Skagway weather in July.
December and August present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plummet to a chilling minimum of -26°C (-15°F), with an average around -7°C (20°F) and a maximum of 6°C (42°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 95% and significant precipitation, totaling 269 mm (10.6 in) over 22 days. In contrast, August offers a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a comfortable maximum of 24°C (75°F), and an average of 10°C (51°F). While it experiences lower precipitation at 175 mm (6.9 in) across 20 days, the humidity soars to 117%, often making it feel quite muggy. For more detailed information on August weather, you can visit Skagway weather in August.
In comparing the weather of December and September, it is clear that December is significantly colder, with average temperatures ranging from a frigid -26°C (-15°F) to a mild maximum of 6°C (42°F). In contrast, September experiences milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 20°C (69°F). Additionally, December sees more precipitation with 269 mm (10.6 in) over 22 days, while September has a lower total of 162 mm (6.4 in) across 18 days. Notably, the humidity levels in September peak at 105%, slightly surpassing December's high of 95%. For those interested in specific weather patterns, you can find more details here: Skagway weather in September.
In comparing the weather of December and October, December is notably colder, with average temperatures hovering around -7°C (20°F) compared to October's milder average of -1°C (31°F). While both months experience a similar number of rainy days, December sees slightly higher precipitation at 269 mm (10.6 in), compared to October's 234 mm (9.2 in). Additionally, humidity levels are almost equivalent, with December at 95% and October at 98%. For a more detailed look at what to expect in October, check out Skagway weather in October.
December in Skagway tends to be colder and wetter compared to November. The average temperature remains consistent at -7°C (20°F) for both months, but December experiences slightly lower minimum temperatures, reaching -26°C (-15°F), contrasted with November's minimum of -21°C (-5°F). Precipitation increases significantly in December, with 269 mm (10.6 in) falling over 22 days, compared to November’s 199 mm (7.8 in) over 20 days. Humidity is also elevated in December at 95%, just a touch below November's 96%. For more on the weather conditions during this month, visit Skagway weather in November.
December in Skagway presents a stark contrast to the milder months of the year. As winter takes hold, temperatures drop significantly, resulting in a chilly average that can plunge to concerning lows. The high humidity further amplifies the cold, making the air feel even biteier. This month is characterized by frequent precipitation, leading to snow-covered landscapes that transform the town into a winter wonderland, with nearly three-quarters of the month seeing some form of moisture. For those looking to explore Skagway's unique winter offerings, the cold December weather offers a delightful, yet brisk, experience quite distinct from its summer charm. For more details, visit Skagway Climate.