December Weather in Berkeley, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

December in Berkeley, United States, offers a mild winter climate, where temperatures range from a maximum of 23°C (74°F) to a chilly minimum of 2°C (35°F), with an average around 10°C (51°F). This month sees approximately 80 mm (3.2 in) of rainfall over 8 days, contributing to an overall humidity level of 80%. As the year closes, residents can expect a blend of cool, crisp days interspersed with refreshing rain, enhancing the vibrant city landscape while creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying the season.

December Temperature in Berkeley

In December, temperatures in Berkeley, United States, begin to cool as the year draws to a close, with minimums averaging around 2°C (35°F) and averages hovering at 10°C (51°F). Daytime highs reach a comfortable 23°C (74°F), making it a pleasant month compared to the peaks seen in summer. This trend showcases a gradual decline from the higher averages earlier in the year, notably from a warm 19°C (66°F) in September. The transition into winter is marked by cooler days and nights, yet Berkeley's December climate remains mild relative to many other regions, offering a refreshing respite without the harshness of winter extremes.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Berkeley, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec515254576064646566625550
Data source: Temperature data for Berkeley 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 Berkeley

In December, Berkeley experiences a notable increase in precipitation, accumulating 80 mm (3.2 in) over 8 days, which reflects a consistent trend of wetter winter months following the drier summer season. This spike is in contrast to the scant 2 mm seen in June and 0 mm during the peak summer months of July and August, highlighting the shift to a more saturated climate. Interestingly, as the year transitions from the typically drier late fall months, December’s rainfall not only serves to replenish local reservoirs but also sustains the lush greenery that characterizes the region. With 5 rainy days in November setting the stage, December’s consistent precipitation solidifies its role in Berkeley’s overall climatic rhythm, leading into the heart of the rainy season.

December Precipitation Trends in Berkeley

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Berkeley, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec94917430182001244281
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Berkeley

As December settles in Berkeley, the humidity rises back to 80%, reflecting a significant increase from the drier summer months. After hitting a low of 54% in August, humidity levels have steadily climbed through the fall, culminating in this slight increase compared to November's 78%. This trend highlights the region's transition to cooler, wetter conditions typical of winter, as moisture levels begin to surge again. The fluctuation from winter's peak to summer's low illustrates Berkeley's dynamic climate, where the crispness of winter air contrasts sharply with the higher humidity levels that precede it.

December Average Humidity in Berkeley

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Berkeley, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec82%84%82%78%71%64%59%54%55%62%78%80%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Berkeley

In December, the UV Index in Berkeley returns to a moderate level of 3, mirroring the start of the year in January. This trend signifies a welcome reprieve from the intense UV exposure of the summer months, where values peaked at 11 in both June and July, indicating extreme conditions with a burn time of just 10 minutes. Following the fall months of gradually decreasing indices, December offers the same 30-minute burn time as January and November, making it a suitable time for outdoor activities while still reminding residents to protect their skin. To learn more about UV trends throughout the year, check out Berkeley UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Berkeley for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Berkeley 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3589101111109743
Data source: Berkeley 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 Berkeley

In December, Berkeley enjoys a modest 194 hours of sunshine, closing out the year with a gentle decline from the previous month’s 225 hours. This dip is characteristic of the season, contrasting sharply with the abundant sunlight of spring and summer, where peak hours reach a striking 355 hours in June. The trend throughout the year showcases a steady progression of increasing sunlight from winter to summer, culminating in May's impressive 341 hours. As the year winds down, Berkeley’s daylight hours may wane, but the city's vibrant energy remains undaunted, making every sunlit hour in December a cherished gift amidst the cooler climate.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Berkeley: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Berkeley 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec151h216h263h296h341h355h349h320h299h276h225h194h
Data source: Berkeley December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Berkeley During December

In December, the likelihood of enjoying sunny weather in Berkeley dips to 33%, marking a noticeable decline compared to the previous months. This trend is part of a broader seasonal pattern, as the winter months typically bring more cloud cover and precipitation. While the year kicks off with January's 39% chance of sunshine, it gradually climbs through the spring, peaking in May at an impressive 70%. However, as autumn sets in, the chances begin to wane, culminating in December's relatively gloomy outlook. For those hoping for bright spots in their winter days, it's wise to temper expectations as the sun takes a back seat to the cooler, cloudier weather of the season.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Berkeley

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Berkeley 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 Berkeley experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec39%56%62%57%70%62%51%61%60%54%46%33%
Data source: Berkeley December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Berkeley in December

In Berkeley, the transformation of daylight duration throughout the year showcases a captivating rhythm of light and shadow. Starting in December, when daylight lasts a mere 9 hours, the trend begins, moving towards the longer days of spring and summer. As the calendar flips to January and February, daylight incrementally increases, reaching about 10 hours in February, before embarking on a steady ascent. By March, the sun graces the sky for 11 hours, continuing its ascent to 14 hours by May and June, the pinnacle of brightness in Berkeley. However, just as summer peaks, daylight begins to taper off again, with August seeing a slight decline to 13 hours before transitioning to the shorter days of autumn. By November and back to 9 hours in December, the cycle completes, inviting the beauty of winter’s early twilight. This annual ebb and flow reflect not only the changing seasons but also the vibrant dance of life in Berkeley.

Average Daylight Hours in Berkeley for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Berkeley throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 52m10h 48m11h 59m13h 12m14h 13m14h 44m14h 27m13h 32m12h 22m11h 9m10h 6m9h 34m
Data source: Berkeley daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Berkeley

December in Berkeley gently ushers in the cooler months with an average wind speed of 2.6 m/s (6 mph), slightly above its November predecessor, which recorded a calm 1.9 m/s (4 mph). As the year winds down, a notable trend emerges: the wind speeds progressively increase from the depths of winter in January to the height of spring in May, peaking at 3.9 m/s (9 mph). The summer months maintain a gentle breeze, often stabilizing around 3.4 m/s (8 mph). However, as autumn settles in, we observe a gradual decline, culminating in November's lull. This December breeze, while moderately brisk, serves as a reminder of the shifting seasons and the dance of wind that defines Berkeley's climate.

Average December Wind Speed in Berkeley

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Berkeley, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.42.72.93.43.93.73.43.12.62.81.92.6 m/s
Data source: Berkeley December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Berkeley Compares to Other Months

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

In December, temperatures typically range from a minimum of 2°C (35°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F), with an average temperature of 10°C (51°F). The month experiences about 80 mm (3.2 in) of precipitation over 8 days, and the humidity levels hover around 80%. Conversely, January sees slightly cooler mornings, with minimum temperatures dipping to 0°C (32°F), while maximum temperatures rise a bit to reach 25°C (78°F), maintaining the same average of 10°C (51°F) as December. Precipitation increases to 94 mm (3.7 in) over the same number of rainy days, and humidity slightly edges up to 82%. For more detailed information about January weather, you can check Berkeley weather in January.

In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 2°C (35°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F), with an average of 10°C (51°F). The month experiences around 80 mm (3.2 in) of precipitation over 8 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, February sees slightly cooler minimum temperatures at 1°C (34°F) and higher maximums of 26°C (78°F), yielding an average of 11°C (53°F). Precipitation increases to 91 mm (3.6 in), but the number of rainy days remains the same at 8, with humidity rising to 84%. For more details on February weather, check this link: Berkeley weather in February.

In December, temperatures range from a chilly 2°C (35°F) to a comfortable 23°C (74°F), with an average of 10°C (51°F). The month sees about 80 mm (3.2 in) of precipitation over 8 days, accompanied by high humidity levels around 80%. In contrast, March experiences slightly warmer weather, with minimums of 3°C (37°F) and maximums reaching 27°C (81°F), averaging 12°C (54°F). Although it has slightly less precipitation at 73 mm (2.9 in) over 10 days, March maintains a similar humidity level at 82%. For more details on March weather in Berkeley, you can check Berkeley weather in March.

In December, the weather features a mild temperature range with minimums around 2°C (35°F) and maximums reaching 23°C (74°F), offering a comfortable average of 10°C (51°F). This month experiences more substantial precipitation, with about 80 mm (3.2 in) over 8 days and a high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, April enjoys warmer temperatures, starting at a minimum of 4°C (40°F) and peaking at 31°C (88°F), resulting in a pleasant average of 14°C (58°F). The rainfall significantly decreases during this month to 29 mm (1.2 in) spread over just 5 days, with humidity slightly lower at 78%. For more insights, you can check out the full details and averages during this month at Berkeley weather in April.

December and May present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly 2°C (35°F) at night to a warm 23°C (74°F) during the day, with an average of 10°C (51°F). The month typically experiences 80 mm (3.2 in) of precipitation spread over 8 days, resulting in a humid environment with an 80% humidity level. In contrast, May brings milder conditions, with nighttime temperatures of 6°C (44°F) and highs reaching up to 32°C (90°F), averaging 15°C (60°F). The month is significantly drier, featuring just 18 mm (0.7 in) of rainfall over 2 days and a slightly lower humidity of 71%. For more detailed information about the weather in May, you can check Berkeley weather in May.

December and June offer distinctly different weather experiences. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 2°C (35°F) to a mild average of 10°C (51°F), with highs reaching up to 23°C (74°F). This month also sees substantial precipitation, averaging 80 mm (3.2 in) over about 8 days, and the humidity remains relatively high at 80%. In contrast, June boasts warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (49°F), an average of 18°C (64°F), and scorching highs that can reach up to 37°C (99°F). Additionally, June is characterized by almost no rainfall, receiving just 2 mm (0.1 in) across the entire month and a lower humidity level of 64%. For more specifics on the pleasant June weather, you can check Berkeley weather in June.

In December, the weather is much cooler and more humid compared to July, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (35°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F). The month also experiences significant precipitation, totaling around 80 mm (3.2 in) over approximately 8 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, July boasts warmer temperatures, averaging between 11°C (53°F) and 32°C (90°F), while remaining dry with no recorded precipitation and lower humidity at 58%. For a closer look at July's weather specifics, you can visit Berkeley weather in July.

In December, the weather is considerably cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (35°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F) and an average of 10°C (51°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, with an average of 80 mm (3.2 in) spread over about 8 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, August brings much warmer temperatures, with highs reaching up to 37°C (99°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F). This month is characterized by dry weather, recording no precipitation and lower humidity at 54%. For more insights on August weather, you can check Berkeley weather in August.

In comparing the weather between December and September, notable differences emerge in both temperature and precipitation. December experiences a cooler range, with minimum temperatures dropping to 2°C (35°F) and average highs reaching only 10°C (51°F). In contrast, September boasts milder temperatures, highlighted by a minimum of 8°C (48°F) and a maximum soaring up to 40°C (104°F). Moreover, December is characterized by eight days of rainfall, accumulating 80 mm (3.2 in), which contributes to its higher humidity level of 80%. Conversely, September enjoys a drier climate, with virtually no precipitation and a lower humidity of 55%. For more specific insights, check out Berkeley weather in September.

In comparing the weather between October and December, we observe significant differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. October generally experiences warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F), an average of 17°C (63°F), and a maximum of 34°C (93°F). This month also boasts clear skies, as it sees very little precipitation, around 24 mm (1.0 in) over just one day, and a lower humidity level of 62%. In contrast, December's temperatures drop, with a minimum of 2°C (35°F), an average of 10°C (51°F), and a maximum of 23°C (74°F). December is considerably wetter as well, with 80 mm (3.2 in) of rain spread over eight days, accompanied by higher humidity at 80%. For more details about October weather, you can visit Berkeley weather in October.

In comparing the weather conditions of December and November, December tends to be cooler overall, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (35°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F), compared to November's slightly milder range from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F). December also experiences more precipitation, totaling 80 mm (3.2 in) over 8 days, which is significantly higher than November's 42 mm (1.7 in) across 5 days. While both months show relatively high humidity levels, December's humidity averages around 80%, just slightly higher than November's 78%. For further details, you can check out Berkeley weather in November.

Compare Berkeley's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Berkeley

In December, Berkeley experiences a notable shift in weather patterns compared to other months. The temperatures are cooler, with an average hovering around 10°C (51°F), making it a more brisk time of year. Rain becomes more frequent, contributing to a total precipitation of 80 mm (3.2 in) over about 8 days, which adds to the 80% humidity that can feel quite damp. This contrasts sharply with the warmer, sunnier months that enjoy lower humidity and less precipitation. As the year wraps up, those visiting can expect a refreshing yet variable climate, making it an excellent time to enjoy the city's unique charm during the holidays. For more detailed insights into how Berkeley's weather unfolds throughout the year, check out Berkeley Climate.