Last updated: February 24, 2025
December weather at the United States Air Force Academy presents a striking contrast between the chill of winter and occasional mild spells. The maximum temperature can reach a pleasant 20°C (68°F), but average temps plummet to a frigid -2°C (29°F), with minimums dipping as low as -23°C (-9°F). This month sees an average precipitation of 11 mm (0.4 in) over just 3 days, contributing to a relatively dry atmosphere despite the cold. Additionally, humidity hovers around 80%, adding a damp chill to the air that characterizes the frosty landscapes of December.
In December, temperatures at the United States Air Force Academy showcase a transition into the winter chill, with minimums hovering around -23°C (-9°F). The average temperature dips to -2°C (29°F), hinting at the stark cold typical of winter months. However, the season does bring occasional warmth, as temperatures can reach a maximum of 20°C (68°F)—an inviting contrast to the frigid lows. Notably, December sets the stage for a continued drop in temperatures leading into January, emphasizing a broader trend of decreasing averages as the winter deepens. This interplay between brisk cold and fleeting warmth encapsulates the unique climate experienced at the academy during this month.
In December, precipitation at the Air Force Academy tends to taper off, with only 11 mm (0.4 in) recorded, marking it as one of the driest months of the year. The number of precipitation days also decreases, averaging just 3 days, highlighting a notable shift from the wetter months of spring and summer. This trend of reduced rainfall is consistent, as it follows a peak in May rainfall of 86 mm (3.4 in) and a steady decline through the fall. As the year winds down, the Colorado winter sets in, providing crisp, snowy days rather than the frequent rains characteristic of earlier months, indicating a transition into the drier conditions of winter.
As December rolls in at the Air Force Academy, humidity levels peak at a notable 80%, marking a significant rise that aligns with the trend observed throughout the warmer months. After a consistent drop from April’s 62% to November’s 74%, the month of December experiences a sudden shift, mirroring the higher humidity recorded in August. This transition reflects the backdrop of winter, where moisture in the air tends to linger, resulting in a perceptibly damp atmosphere. Overall, December's humidity not only stands out as one of the highest of the year but also underscores a pattern of increased moisture that defines the Academy's climatic rhythm as it heads into the depths of winter.
As the year winds down in December, the UV Index at the Air Force Academy dips to 4, categorizing it as moderate and allowing for a longer burn time of 30 minutes before sun exposure becomes a concern. This marks a gentle slide from the extreme levels experienced during the peak summer months of May through July, which consistently held an index of 12 and demanded heightened caution with just 10 minutes of safe exposure. Notably, a trend emerges as winter approaches: UV levels generally decrease, offering respite from the aggressive sun of earlier months. This seasonal variation underscores the importance of remaining mindful of UV exposure throughout the year, even in December. For more details on UV levels and safety tips, check out the Air Force Academy UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
December at the Air Force Academy in the United States offers a gentle transition from the brilliant highs of summer to the cooler, crisper days of winter. While basking in 244 hours of sunshine, December experiences a notable decline compared to the sun-drenched peaks of the preceding months, like June and July, which boast an impressive 365 and 372 hours, respectively. This month, however, still shines brighter than the gloom of early winter, contrasting sharply with the year's lowest figures recorded in January at 189 hours. As the year wraps up, December encapsulates a significant trend: while sunlight may dwindle, the lingering warmth of earlier months lingers, providing a soft, golden glow as the Academy prepares for the New Year ahead.
December in the Air Force Academy boasts a promising likelihood of sunny weather, with a 74% chance of sunshine that sets it apart from the surrounding months. This surge in bright days follows a gradual upward trend, peaking higher than the previous November's 65% and significantly outpacing the gloomier spring months like April and May. As the year winds down, residents can expect more sun-drenched days compared to earlier in the year, making December a particularly optimistic time for outdoor activities amid the holiday cheer. Overall, the sunny disposition of December positions it as one of the most favorable months for those craving sunlight in the region.
As December unfolds at the Air Force Academy in the United States, residents experience a return to shorter days, with daylight lasting only 9 hours. This marks a notable drop from the 10 hours seen in November, following a gradual descent from the long sunlit days of summer. The trend of diminishing daylight begins in late September and continues through the year's end, reflecting the natural rhythm of the seasons. What follows is a seasonal dance—from 14 hours of light in June, the peak of summer, to this year-end retreat into longer nights. The return to shorter days serves as a poignant reminder of nature's cycles, inviting reflection during the winter months.
As December arrives at the Air Force Academy, the wind begins to pick up slightly, reflecting an average speed of 2.6 m/s (6 mph). Interestingly, this month's wind speed matches that of April and October, showcasing a subtle yet noticeable shift in the winter air. Throughout the year, wind speeds remain relatively consistent, hovering between 2.2 m/s (5 mph) and 2.8 m/s (6 mph), with March marking the only peak ahead of the colder months. The overall trend indicates a gentle breeze, ideal for those contemplating outdoor activities amid the breath-taking landscapes, as the crisp December air encapsulates the essence of the season's transition.
The weather in Air Force Academy 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 Air Force Academy and find detailed weather information for every month.
In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -23°C (-9°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), with an average of -2°C (29°F). The month experiences low precipitation of 11 mm (0.4 in) over 3 days and sees a high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, January is slightly colder, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -27°C (-16°F) and a maximum of 16°C (61°F). The average temperature for January is -3°C (26°F), and precipitation increases to 15 mm (0.6 in), also spread over 3 days, but with lower humidity at 74%. For more detailed information on January weather, you can visit Air Force Academy weather in January.
December and February present contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -23°C (-9°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), with an average of -2°C (29°F) and relatively low precipitation of 11 mm (0.4 in) occurring over just 3 days. The humidity sits at 80%, creating a chilly atmosphere. Conversely, February experiences even colder temperatures, with a minimum of -31°C (-24°F) and a maximum of 21°C (70°F), averaging -4°C (25°F). The month is wetter, receiving 24 mm (0.9 in) of precipitation over 7 days, while humidity drops slightly to 75%. For more detailed information, you can refer to the Air Force Academy weather in February.
When comparing the weather between December and March, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation. December typically experiences temperatures ranging from a minimum of -23°C (-9°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), with an average around -2°C (29°F) and low precipitation of 11 mm (0.4 in) over about 3 days, contributing to a higher humidity level of 80%. In contrast, March sees slightly colder minimum temperatures at -24°C (-11°F), but a warmer average of 2°C (35°F) and a maximum of 23°C (74°F). It also has significantly higher precipitation at 55 mm (2.2 in) over about 7 days, resulting in a lower humidity level of 66%. For more details on March weather specific to the Air Force Academy, you can check out this link: Air Force Academy weather in March.
December and April exhibit distinct weather patterns that highlight the transition from winter to spring. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -23°C (-9°F) to a mild maximum of 20°C (68°F), with an average of -2°C (29°F). Precipitation is minimal, totaling just 11 mm (0.4 in) over three days, coupled with a higher humidity level of 80%.
In contrast, April sees a notable warming trend, with minimum temperatures around -18°C (0°F) and maximums reaching up to 27°C (80°F). The average temperature rises to a more comfortable 6°C (42°F). However, April experiences significantly more rainfall, accumulating 47 mm (1.9 in) across 11 days, and a decrease in humidity to 62%. For a more in-depth look at the weather in April, you can visit Air Force Academy weather in April.
December and May present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plunge to a chilling minimum of -23°C (-9°F), with an average hovering around -2°C (29°F) and a maximum reaching up to 20°C (68°F). The month sees minimal precipitation, totaling only 11 mm (0.4 in) over just 3 days, and the humidity is relatively high at 80%. In contrast, May experiences more moderate temperatures, with a minimum of -8°C (19°F), an average of 11°C (52°F), and a maximum that peaks at a warm 30°C (86°F). Precipitation significantly increases to 86 mm (3.4 in) over 14 days, and humidity drops to 74%. For more detailed information on the weather in May, check out Air Force Academy weather in May.
December and June present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -23°C (-9°F) with an average of -2°C (29°F) and a peak reaching 20°C (68°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 80%, but it experiences relatively low precipitation with only 11 mm (0.4 in) over about 3 days. In contrast, June boasts a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures of 1°C (35°F), an average of 18°C (64°F), and highs soaring up to 35°C (96°F). This month receives almost five times more precipitation than December, totaling 44 mm (1.8 in) spread over 10 days, while maintaining a slightly lower humidity level of 76%. For more details on June weather, you can check Air Force Academy weather in June.
When comparing the weather in December and July, it's clear that these two months offer starkly different conditions. December experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -23°C (-9°F) and an average of -2°C (29°F), while July boasts a minimum of 8°C (46°F) and an average of 20°C (68°F). The maximum temperature in December can reach a relatively mild 20°C (68°F), whereas July can soar to a sweltering high of 35°C (94°F). Precipitation patterns also differ significantly, with December seeing only 11 mm (0.4 in) over just 3 days compared to July's 85 mm (3.3 in) spread over 16 days. Humidity levels are slightly higher in December at 80%, while July maintains a more comfortable 75%. For more details about the weather during this summer month, you can refer to Air Force Academy weather in July.
December and August present contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plummet as low as -23°C (-9°F), with an average of -2°C (29°F) and occasional highs reaching 20°C (68°F). The month sees limited precipitation, totaling only 11 mm (0.4 in) over just 3 days, while the humidity remains high at 80%. Conversely, August is significantly warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (43°F) to a maximum of 32°C (91°F) and an average of 19°C (67°F). This month experiences more rainfall, accumulating 53 mm (2.1 in) over 11 days, but maintains the same humidity level of 80%. For detailed insights into August weather, you can visit Air Force Academy weather in August.
In December, the temperatures plunge dramatically, with a minimum of -23°C (-9°F) and an average of -2°C (29°F), contrasted with much milder September weather, where temperatures range from a low of -4°C (26°F) to an average of 16°C (61°F) and can reach highs of 33°C (91°F). December experiences significantly less precipitation, with only 11 mm (0.4 in) over just three days, compared to September's wetter conditions, which deliver 36 mm (1.4 in) across five days. Interestingly, both months share similar humidity levels, hovering around 80% in December and 79% in September. For more details about the weather conditions in September, you can visit Air Force Academy weather in September.
When comparing the weather in December and October, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation. December experiences a more extreme temperature range, with nighttime lows plummeting to -23°C (-9°F) and an average of -2°C (29°F), while October maintains slightly milder temperatures, averaging 7°C (45°F) during the day and reaching a maximum of 28°C (82°F). Additionally, October tends to be wetter, with 38 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation over 7 days compared to December’s 11 mm (0.4 in) over just 3 days. Humidity levels are relatively similar, with December at 80% and October slightly lower at 77%. For a more detailed look at October weather, you can check the Air Force Academy weather in October.
December weather shows a slight increase in average temperatures compared to November, with a minimum of -23°C and an average of -2°C, while November features a minimum of -22°C and an average of 2°C. Interestingly, December experiences less precipitation, totaling 11 mm over 3 days, compared to November's 20 mm over 4 days. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in December at 80%, compared to 74% in November. For a detailed look at conditions during November, you can visit this link: Air Force Academy weather in November.
December at the Air Force Academy showcases a noteworthy contrast to the milder months earlier in the year. With winter officially in full swing, temperatures plunge significantly, making average daily highs a mere chill-inducing 2°C while nighttime lows can plunge to a biting -23°C. The crisp air is often accompanied by a sense of serenity, enhanced by low humidity levels around 80% and only a few precipitation days, resulting in minimal snowfall. This stark transition serves as a reminder of the beauty and challenges of winter in this stunning locale. For those interested in a deeper dive into weather patterns throughout the year, check out the comprehensive details here: Air Force Academy Climate.