December Weather in Carlsbad, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

December in Carlsbad, United States, offers a delightful mix of cool temperatures and moderate rainfall. With a maximum temperature reaching 28°C (83°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F), the climate is pleasantly mild. On occasion, it dips as low as 3°C (39°F), necessitating warmer attire. The month sees about 70 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation spread over approximately 6 days, contributing to the area's lush greenery. With a humidity level of 74%, the air feels comfortably crisp, making December an inviting time to experience the beauty of Carlsbad's winter landscape.

December Temperature in Carlsbad

In Carlsbad, United States, December brings a refreshing chill as temperatures begin to dip, with minimums around 3°C (39°F). The average temperature settles at a mild 14°C (57°F), offering a comfortable reprieve from the warmer months. Despite the cooler start, daytime highs can still reach a pleasant 28°C (83°F), making it one of the more temperate times of the year. This month signifies a transition, with temperatures gradually lowering from the warm summer peaks, while still allowing for enjoyable outdoor activities in the moderate winter climate that defines Carlsbad.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Carlsbad, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec565657616368737573686356
Data source: Temperature data for Carlsbad 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 Carlsbad

In Carlsbad, December brings a notable return of precipitation, with the month recording 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain across 6 days. This marks a significant increase compared to the dry summer months, where June and July barely saw any rain, with only 3 mm and 4 mm recorded respectively. As the year concludes, December’s rainfall aligns closely with the wetter months of January and February, which also feature higher precipitation levels of 70 mm and 78 mm. This trend highlights Carlsbad's transition into its rainy season, providing a needed reprieve from the arid conditions that dominate the summer. The consistent rainfall pattern in late fall and winter ensures a vibrant ecology and replenished water sources as the region prepares for the year ahead.

December Precipitation Trends in Carlsbad

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Carlsbad, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec70786832243415123570
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

December Humidity in Carlsbad

As December rolls into Carlsbad, the humidity settles at a notable 74%, reflecting a slight uptick from the previous month. This increase is part of a consistent seasonal trend, as humidity levels tend to rise during the winter months after reaching their annual low in late summer, where August sees just 42%. The transition from the dry warmth of midsummer to the cooler, wetter winter months brings back the moisture in the air. With monthly averages fluctuating between 46% to 77% throughout the year, Carlsbad's climate presents a rhythmic pattern of humidity that complements its diverse seasons, culminating in a refreshing December atmosphere.

December Average Humidity in Carlsbad

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Carlsbad, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec72%77%67%56%46%48%46%42%52%58%66%74%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Carlsbad

In December, Carlsbad experiences a moderate UV Index of 4, indicating a safe level of sun exposure for most individuals, with a burn time of 30 minutes. This marks a decrease from the extreme levels seen in the summer months, particularly in May and June when the UV Index peaked at 11 and 12, respectively. The trend reveals a gradual decline from the high UV Indexes of late spring and summer, finally settling back into more moderate levels as winter approaches. As you enjoy the pleasant December weather, remember to be vigilant about sun protection during your outdoor activities, especially with the increased UV index earlier in the year. For detailed information, visit Carlsbad UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Carlsbad for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Carlsbad 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec469101112111010754
Data source: Carlsbad 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 Carlsbad

December in Carlsbad, United States, brings a gentle transition from the sun-drenched heights of summer, where July boasts an impressive 378 hours of sunshine, to a cozy 228 hours as the year winds down. As autumn gives way to winter, daylight diminishes gradually, with December showing a decline from November's 256 hours. This trend reflects a broader seasonal pattern where sunshine peaks in the warmer months, with a steady ascent from 191 hours in January to the springtime bloom in May, reaching a seasonal high of 364 hours. As the days shorten, the remaining sunlight in December offers a calm, golden glow, perfect for enjoying Carlsbad's scenic beauty even as the year comes to a close.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Carlsbad: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Carlsbad 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec191h243h298h324h364h369h378h361h319h296h256h228h
Data source: Carlsbad December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Carlsbad During December

As December rolls into Carlsbad, the likelihood of sunny weather dips to 48%, marking it as one of the cloudier months of the year. This decline is noteworthy when observed against the backdrop of the preceding months, where the chances of sunshine gradually increased from just 46% in May to a peak of 69% in November. The transition from the vibrant autumn months into winter showcases a clear trend: December often ushers in gray skies, contrasting sharply with the sunnier late summer and early fall. While the city is still blessed with some bright days, residents and visitors might want to prepare for a touch more gloom as the year winds down.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Carlsbad

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Carlsbad 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 Carlsbad experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec62%61%61%51%46%57%59%64%65%64%69%48%
Data source: Carlsbad December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Carlsbad in December

As December unfolds in Carlsbad, the city experiences its shortest daylight duration of the year, with only 9 hours of sunlight each day. This marks a gradual decline from the peak daylight of 14 hours seen in both June and July. The decreasing trend becomes particularly pronounced as autumn sets in, with November offering just 10 hours before the winter solstice tightens its grasp. As the days shorten, the transition from vibrant summer evenings to the cozy, candlelit moments of winter invites residents to embrace the festive season’s charm, highlighting the cyclical dance of daylight across the calendar year.

Average Daylight Hours in Carlsbad for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Carlsbad throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10h 13m11h12h13h 1m13h 52m14h 17m14h 3m13h 18m12h 19m11h 18m10h 25m9h 59m
Data source: Carlsbad daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Carlsbad

In Carlsbad, December ushers in a refreshing shift as wind speeds rise to an average of 2.2 m/s (5 mph), echoing the breezy vibes of the early spring months. This slight increase marks a return to the stable winds seen from March to May, contrasting with the more subdued gusts of the preceding months. Notably, December and the spring months show a consistent wind pattern, adding a crispness to the air that beckons outdoor enthusiasts. As the year wraps up, the gentle yet invigorating breezes serve as a reminder that even in winter, the elements in Carlsbad offer a delightful embrace, fostering a lively coastal charm.

Average December Wind Speed in Carlsbad

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Carlsbad, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.21.82.32.22.22.01.81.81.82.01.72.2 m/s
Data source: Carlsbad December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Carlsbad Compares to Other Months

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

The weather in December and January presents a subtle transition, with January experiencing slightly milder temperatures. December's average temperature is 14°C (57°F), with highs reaching 28°C (83°F) and lows around 3°C (39°F). In comparison, January's average temperature dips slightly to 13°C (56°F), yet it can still reach a maximum of 30°C (87°F), making for consistently warm days. Precipitation levels remain stable in both months, with December receiving around 70 mm (2.7 in) over six days, while January records similar precipitation of 70 mm (2.8 in) over just five days. Humidity levels are also comparable, with December at 74% and January slightly lower at 72%. For more detailed insights, you can explore Carlsbad weather in January.

December and February in Carlsbad exhibit similar temperature ranges, with December having an average of 14°C (57°F) and February slightly cooler at an average of 13°C (56°F). Both months experience minimum temperatures of around 3°C (39°F) to 3°C (37°F), while the maximum temperatures are comparable, reaching up to 28°C (83°F) in December and 29°C (85°F) in February. In terms of precipitation, February typically sees a slight increase, with 78 mm (3.1 in) over 6 days, compared to December's 70 mm (2.7 in). Humidity levels also rise slightly from 74% in December to 77% in February, contributing to a more humid feel as winter transitions into early spring. For more details on February weather specifically, you can visit Carlsbad weather in February.

In December, the weather features a minimum temperature of 3°C (39°F) and averages around 14°C (57°F), reaching a maximum of 28°C (83°F), with 70 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation spread over 6 days and a humidity level of 74%. In contrast, March sees a slightly higher minimum temperature of 5°C (41°F) while maintaining the same average and maximum temperatures as December. However, March experiences slightly less precipitation at 68 mm (2.7 in) over a longer span of 10 days, along with a lower humidity level of 67%. For more specific insights on March weather, you can visit Carlsbad weather in March.

In comparing the weather between December and April, we see notable differences in temperatures and precipitation levels. December experiences a more moderate range of temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (39°F) and a maximum of 28°C (83°F), while April boasts a milder minimum of 8°C (46°F) and can reach up to 34°C (93°F). Additionally, April tends to be drier, receiving only 32 mm (1.3 in) of precipitation over three days, compared to December’s 70 mm (2.7 in) over six days. Humidity is also lower in April at 56%, compared to December’s higher humidity of 74%. For more detailed information on Carlsbad's April weather, visit Carlsbad weather in April.

In December, the weather is cooler with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (39°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F), and the month experiences approximately 70 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over about 6 days, accompanied by a higher humidity level of 74%. In contrast, May brings milder conditions, featuring average temperatures from a minimum of 9°C (49°F) to a maximum of 30°C (87°F). This month has significantly less precipitation, about 24 mm (0.9 in) spread over 4 days, and a lower humidity level of 46%. For more details on the weather in May, check out Carlsbad weather in May.

In December, the weather features a minimum temperature of 3°C (39°F) and can reach up to 28°C (83°F), with an average of 14°C (57°F). The month sees about 70 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation on approximately 6 days, contributing to a relatively high humidity level of 74%. In contrast, June boasts a warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F) and an average of 20°C (68°F). Precipitation is minimal in June, totaling only 3 mm (0.1 in) and occurring over 0 days, resulting in a lower humidity of 48%. For more details, check Carlsbad weather in June.

December and July present stark contrasts in weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 3°C (39°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F), with an average of 14°C (57°F). The month sees about 70 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over six days, resulting in a humidity level of 74%. In contrast, July is much warmer, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 15°C (60°F) and soaring to highs of 40°C (105°F), averaging 23°C (73°F). This month experiences significantly less rainfall, with only 4 mm (0.2 in) and no rainy days, leading to a much lower humidity level of 46%. For more detailed insights, you can check the Carlsbad weather in July.

The weather in December presents a cooler climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (39°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F). December also sees greater precipitation, with about 70 mm (2.7 in) falling over 6 days, contributing to a higher humidity level of 74%. In contrast, August experiences much warmer conditions, with a minimum temperature of 16°C (62°F), an average of 24°C (75°F), and a maximum of 34°C (94°F). August is characterized by minimal precipitation, registering only 1 mm (0.1 in) and no rainy days, and a significantly lower humidity of 42%. For more specific insights, check out Carlsbad weather in August.

When comparing the weather in December and September, notable differences emerge. December tends to be cooler, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (39°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F). In contrast, September offers much warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 13°C (55°F) and soaring up to a maximum of 40°C (104°F). Additionally, precipitation levels in December are significantly higher, averaging 70 mm (2.7 in) over six days, while September sees only 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain on just one day, contributing to its lower humidity at 52%. For more detailed insights into September's weather patterns, you can visit Carlsbad weather in September.

When comparing the weather in October to December, we can see some notable differences. October experiences higher temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (47°F) and an impressive maximum of up to 39°C (103°F), making it significantly warmer on average at 20°C (69°F). In contrast, December cools down, with a range from a minimum of 3°C (39°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F), averaging 14°C (57°F).

Precipitation also differs considerably; October sees only 12 mm (0.5 in) over about 2 days, while December has a higher total of 70 mm (2.7 in) spread over 6 days, contributing to a more humid winter atmosphere with humidity at 74% compared to October’s 58%. For a more detailed look at October weather, you can visit Carlsbad weather in October.

Comparing the weather between November and December, we see a noticeable shift. December offers cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (39°F) and a maximum of 28°C (83°F), while November boasts a milder range, featuring a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum of 33°C (92°F). Additionally, December experiences more precipitation, with 70 mm (2.7 in) over 6 days, compared to November's 34 mm (1.4 in) over just 3 days. Humidity is also higher in December at 74%, compared to November's 66%. For more detailed insights, check out Carlsbad weather in November.

Compare Carlsbad's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Carlsbad

As December settles into Carlsbad, it brings a marked transition from the milder and more arid conditions of fall. Temperatures dip significantly, with cooler nights becoming a hallmark of the season, while the average warmth is tempered by crisp air. This winter month sees a noticeable increase in precipitation, with rain gracing the landscape on several days, enhancing the region's lush greenery. The humidity, higher compared to the drier summer months, adds a certain chill to the atmosphere, making it a cozy time to enjoy firesides and holiday festivities. For more insights into Carlsbad's unique seasonal shifts, visit Carlsbad Climate.