Last updated: February 24, 2025
December in Columbia, United States, showcases a blend of winter chill and occasional warmth, with maximum temperatures reaching a comfortable 22°C (72°F) while the average settles at 8°C (46°F). As the month progresses, residents experience minimum temperatures dipping to a brisk -2°C (28°F), reminding us of the season's bite. Precipitation is a notable feature, totaling 148 mm (5.8 in) over the month, with rainfall occurring on 9 days. Coupled with a high humidity level of 80%, December presents a unique tapestry of weather, making it a time of both coziness and preparation for the cold winter ahead.
In December, temperatures in Columbia, United States begin to dip, marking the onset of winter's chill. The month typically sees minimum temperatures around -2°C (28°F), while the average hovers at a cool 8°C (46°F), creating a crisp atmosphere ideal for cozy activities. Daytime highs can reach a comfortable 22°C (72°F), offering a pleasant reprieve from the colder mornings. This trend indicates a gradual decline in temperatures as the year wraps up, transitioning from the milder fall months into the stark cold of winter, yet still allowing for a touch of warmth in the afternoons that can be perfect for outdoor gatherings or holiday festivities.
December brings a notable shift in precipitation patterns in Columbia, United States, as the month records 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain over 9 days. This significant amount underscores a gradual increase following the drier summer months, where July and August saw no precipitation at all. As autumn transitions into winter, the rainfall in December is more substantial than many preceding months, notably higher than the meager totals of just 4 mm in June and 49 mm in May. Additionally, it acts as a precursor to the wetter months of January and March, which average around 183 mm (7.2 in) and 197 mm (7.7 in), respectively. Overall, December serves as a pivotal month, bridging the light rains of fall with the more intense precipitation that characterizes the early winter season in Columbia.
In December, Columbia, United States, experiences a notable increase in humidity, reaching 80%, as the year draws to a close. This month's level reflects a slight rise from the 78% humidity recorded in November, showcasing a trend of fluctuating moisture levels that typically peak in the winter. As the seasons shift, humidity steadily decreases from the spring highs of 71% in May to a low of 54% in August, before starting to climb again in the latter part of the year. December's humidity not only signals the colder months ahead but also emphasizes the city’s climate's unique rhythm, where moisture levels lightly dip and rise throughout the year, offering a blend of seasonal variations.
In December, Columbia experiences a moderate UV Index of 3, similar to the early winter months of January and November. This consistent rating indicates that while the sun's intensity is relatively low, caution is still advisable during peak exposure times, with a burn time of approximately 30 minutes. As the year progresses from the intense summer months—with UV Index levels reaching as high as 11 in May through July—to milder winter conditions, residents can enjoy the seasonal transitions without the heightened risk of sunburn. For more detailed information, visit Columbia UV Index.
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In Columbia, United States, the month of December brings a shift in daylight, offering 203 hours of sunshine as the year draws to a close. This marks a noticeable decline from the sun-drenched heights of June and July, which boast the highest hours of sunshine at 388 and 396 respectively. As winter approaches, daylight dwindles, falling from the highs of spring and summer to the more tranquil embrace of fall and early winter. Despite the decrease, December’s sunshine intertwines with the holiday spirit, creating a cozy environment that invites moments of warmth and reflection amid the crisp air. As the year transitions, the lingering sunlight serves as a gentle reminder of the brighter days to come.
In December, the chances of sunny weather in Columbia, United States, dip to 40%, marking a noticeable decrease compared to the sunnier months that precede it. As the year winds down, the likelihood of clouds thickening increases, reflecting a trend where the sunniest months, like August and May, boast over 85% sunny days. This shift emphasizes the seasonal transition, moving from the 96% sunshine of late summer to the 62% experienced in November, before culminating in the year's least sunny month. While December may bring a chill in the air and a sense of winter's approach, the prospect of clearer skies feels less promising than earlier in the year.
As the year draws to a close, Columbia, United States, experiences a notable decline in daylight, culminating in just 9 hours of sunlight in December. This reduction marks a return to the shorter days that began in late fall; November also saw only 10 hours of daylight. The gradual decrease from a peak of 14 hours in June through August showcases the region's seasonal rhythm, where longer days of summer gracefully transition to the stark, darker months of winter. This pattern underscores the natural shift, reminding residents of both the extremes and comforts associated with changing seasons in Columbia.
As December settles in Columbia, the average wind speed picks up slightly to 2.4 m/s (5 mph), a refreshing change from the calm of November's 1.8 m/s (4 mph). Throughout the year, wind conditions have remained relatively stable, oscillating between 2.2 m/s and 2.6 m/s, with summer months exhibiting the slightest increase. Notably, December's wind is comparable to the spring averages, suggesting an invigorating transition as the region embraces winter. This gentle yet consistent breeze not only keeps temperatures bearable but also heralds the festive season with whispers of change in the air.
The weather in Columbia 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 Columbia and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January weather exhibit some notable differences. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -2°C (28°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F), with an average temperature of 8°C (46°F). This month experiences a total precipitation of 148 mm (5.8 in) over 9 days, with a humidity level of 80%. Conversely, January sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (22°F) and a maximum of 22°C (73°F), while still maintaining the same average temperature of 8°C (46°F). Precipitation increases to 183 mm (7.2 in) over 8 days, coupled with a marginal rise in humidity to 82%. For a detailed look at January's weather, you can visit Columbia weather in January.
In December, temperatures typically range from a minimum of -2°C (28°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F), with an average of 8°C (46°F). The month sees about 148 mm (5.8 in) of precipitation over approximately 9 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 80%. In contrast, February experiences slightly colder nights with a minimum temperature of -6°C (22°F) and warmer days that peak at 24°C (75°F), averaging at around 8°C (47°F). The precipitation increases to 180 mm (7.1 in) over the same number of days, with a slight rise in humidity to 84%. For those looking to explore Columbia's February climate, more details can be found here: Columbia weather in February.
In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -2°C (28°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F), with an average of 8°C (46°F) and an overall humidity of 80%. The month experiences around 148 mm (5.8 in) of precipitation over 9 days. In contrast, March sees slightly higher temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (28°F) and a maximum of 27°C (80°F), while the average temperature rises to 10°C (51°F). However, March also brings increased precipitation, totaling 197 mm (7.7 in) over 13 days, accompanied by a similar humidity level of 82%. For a more detailed look at March weather in Columbia, you can check Columbia weather in March.
December and April present quite different weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -2°C (28°F) at night to a warm 22°C (72°F) during the day, with an average of 8°C (46°F). The month also sees higher precipitation levels, with 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain spread over about 9 days, contributing to an average humidity of 80%. Conversely, April experiences milder conditions, with a minimum temperature of -1°C (31°F) and a maximum of 30°C (87°F), alongside a comfortable average of 14°C (57°F). Precipitation decreases significantly to 83 mm (3.3 in) over 6 days, with humidity slightly lower at 78%. For more detailed insights into the weather patterns in Columbia during April, you can check Columbia weather in April.
December and May present contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures fluctuate more dramatically, with a minimum of -2°C (28°F) and an average of 8°C (46°F), reaching a maximum of 22°C (72°F). The month is characterized by higher precipitation, totaling 148 mm (5.8 in) over about 9 days, coupled with a humidity level of 80%, which can create a damp and chilly atmosphere.
In contrast, May features milder conditions, with temperatures starting from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) and averaging 17°C (63°F), peaking at 35°C (94°F). The month experiences significantly less rainfall, only 49 mm (1.9 in) over 5 days, and lower humidity at 71%, resulting in a more pleasant and comfortable climate. For more details on May weather, you can visit Columbia weather in May.
In December, the weather is significantly cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (28°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F), and an average of 8°C (46°F). This month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 148 mm (5.8 in) over about 9 days, along with high humidity levels of 80%. In contrast, June brings much warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a scorching maximum of 39°C (103°F) and an average of 22°C (73°F). Precipitation is minimal, at just 4 mm (0.1 in), typically occurring over only 1 day, and the humidity is lower at 64%. For more detailed climate information, you can visit Columbia weather in June.
December and July present stark contrasts in weather. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -2°C (28°F) at night to a mild 22°C (72°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 8°C (46°F). This month also sees significant precipitation, totaling 148 mm (5.8 in) over about 9 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 80%. In contrast, July boasts much warmer temperatures, with minimums of 13°C (55°F), average highs of 26°C (79°F), and peaks reaching a scorching 39°C (103°F). Notably, July is dry, with no recorded precipitation and a lower humidity level of 58%. For more details on July weather, you can visit Columbia weather in July.
December and August present stark contrasts in weather characteristics. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -2°C (28°F) to a pleasant maximum of 22°C (72°F), with an average of 8°C (46°F). This month also sees considerable precipitation with 148 mm (5.8 in) spread over 9 rainy days, and humidity levels are high at 80%. In contrast, August boasts a much warmer climate with minimum temperatures of 12°C (54°F) and maximums soaring up to 40°C (105°F), averaging 25°C (78°F). Remarkably, August experiences no rainfall whatsoever, with humidity levels dipping to a comfortable 54%. For more details on August weather, you can check Columbia weather in August.
December and September present stark contrasts in weather. December experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (28°F) and an average of 8°C (46°F), and can reach a maximum of 22°C (72°F). This month also brings considerable precipitation, averaging 148 mm (5.8 in) over about 9 days, accompanied by higher humidity levels at 80%. In contrast, September is significantly warmer, showcasing a minimum temperature of 7°C (45°F) and an average of 22°C (72°F) with maximums soaring to 40°C (105°F). Rainfall is minimal during September, with only 4 mm (0.2 in) occurring over just one day and lower humidity at 55%. For a more detailed look at the weather in this month, you can visit Columbia weather in September.
When comparing the weather in December to that of October, it's clear that December is significantly cooler and wetter. December features a minimum temperature of -2°C (28°F) and an average of 8°C (46°F), while October enjoys milder temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and an average of 16°C (62°F). The maximum temperatures in December reach 22°C (72°F), which is notably lower than the scorching highs of 34°C (93°F) experienced in October. Additionally, December sees more precipitation, with 148 mm (5.8 in) over about 9 days compared to October's 44 mm (1.7 in) spread over just 2 days. The humidity levels are also higher in December at 80%, compared to October's 62%. For more detailed insights into October weather, check out Columbia weather in October.
In comparing the weather of December and November, December tends to be slightly cooler overall, with an average temperature of 8°C (46°F) compared to November's warmer average of 11°C (52°F). The minimum temperatures are similar, with December's at -2°C (28°F) and November's at -1°C (30°F), while December can reach a maximum of 22°C (72°F), slightly lower than November's maximum of 27°C (80°F). Additionally, December experiences more precipitation at 148 mm (5.8 in) over 9 days, making it wetter than November, which sees 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain over 6 days. The humidity levels are comparable, with December at 80% and November at 78%. For more information on November weather, you can check Columbia weather in November.
As December rolls into Columbia, the landscape transforms under a notable shift in weather patterns. The month brings a cooler average temperature, significantly lower than the milder months that precede it, while the contrast between the daytime highs and nighttime lows becomes more pronounced. With increased precipitation, averaging over a week of rain, the month stands out for its moisture content, leading to a notable uptick in humidity that envelops the region. This blend of cooler temperatures and higher humidity not only refreshes the air but also sets a unique atmosphere, making December a distinct departure from the warmth and dryness of earlier months. For a more comprehensive overview of what to expect throughout the year, check out Columbia Climate.