December Weather in Colorado Springs, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

In December, Colorado Springs experiences a notable shift in climate, with temperatures ranging from a maximum of 20°C (69°F) to a chilly minimum of -18°C (-1°F), averaging around -1°C (31°F). This month tends to be characterized by occasional precipitation, totaling about 10 mm (0.4 in) over three days, which contributes to the crisp, winter atmosphere. Despite the cooler temperatures, humidity remains relatively high at 80%, adding a distinct chill to the air. This combination of temperature variations and moist conditions makes December a unique month, perfect for enjoying the picturesque snowy landscapes of Colorado Springs.

December Temperature in Colorado Springs

In December, Colorado Springs experiences a striking contrast in temperatures, showcasing the area's chilly winter climate. With minimums dipping to -18°C (1°F) and averages settling around -1°C (31°F), residents and visitors are reminded of the briskness that the season brings. Although daily highs can reach a more moderate 20°C (69°F), this month marks the transition to colder days ahead, following November's similar but slightly milder trends. The consistent fluctuation between lows and highs illustrates the unique climate of Colorado Springs, where winter's chill does not overshadow the potential for warmer glimpses of sunshine. This blend of crisp air and sunny afternoons invites outdoor activities while encouraging cozy indoor retreats to combat the winter chill.

December Weather in Colorado Springs: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Colorado Springs, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec292838455567716963473731
Data source: Temperature data for Colorado Springs 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 Colorado Springs

In Colorado Springs, December marks a quieter end to the year's precipitation patterns, with only 10 mm (0.4 in) of rainfall recorded over just 3 days. This is a significant drop compared to the wetter months of summer, such as July, which sees a peak of 77 mm (3.0 in) across 14 days. It's clear that as the seasons transition, rainfall becomes less frequent and lighter, with December's totals nearly halving from November's 17 mm (0.7 in). As winter solidifies its grip, residents can expect drier days and a gentle tapering off of moisture, making December a month of respite before the heavy snows typically roll in with the new year.

December Precipitation Trends in Colorado Springs

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Colorado Springs, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec142145467237775630311710
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

December Humidity in Colorado Springs

In Colorado Springs, December ushers in a notable spike in humidity, reaching 80%—a figure that mirrors the peak levels typically observed in August. This winter month stands out within the yearly trend, as humidity tends to fluctuate throughout the seasons, beginning high in January and gradually decreasing to a low of 62% in April before rising again. The consistent rise in humidity from November’s 74% to December showcases a pattern of increased moisture during the cold season, likely influenced by the shift in weather conditions as the region transitions to winter. As the year concludes, residents can expect a blend of cooler temperatures and elevated humidity, creating a unique atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the dry months of spring.

December Average Humidity in Colorado Springs

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Colorado Springs, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec74%75%66%62%74%76%75%80%79%77%74%80%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Colorado Springs

As the year winds down, December in Colorado Springs features a UV Index of 4, placing it in the moderate exposure category. This indicates that while it’s safer to enjoy outdoor activities, a burn time of 30 minutes suggests that even on cooler days, sun protection remains essential. The UV Index marks a noticeable decrease from the extreme levels seen throughout the summer months, with values peaking at 13 in June. Overall, a clear trend emerges: as winter approaches, the sun’s intensity lessens, making December a time when residents can comfortably enjoy outdoor pursuits without the heightened risk posed in the peak summer months. For more insights, please visit the comprehensive Colorado Springs UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Colorado Springs for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Colorado Springs 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec469111213121110754
Data source: Colorado Springs 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 Colorado Springs

In Colorado Springs, the trend in December sunshine reveals a gently waning daylight as the year closes, with the city enjoying 245 hours of sunshine. This winter month sits comfortably beneath the peak summer highs of 367 hours in July, showcasing the region's transition through the seasons. As the colder months approach, sunshine begins to taper off, falling from 332 hours in May to December's count. However, December still offers a noteworthy amount of sunlight, significantly brighter than the depths of winter found in January, which features a modest 193 hours. Such patterns not only highlight Colorado Springs' vibrant climatic shifts but also invite residents and visitors alike to savor the crisp, sunlit days that punctuate the cold of winter.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Colorado Springs: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Colorado Springs 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec193h241h293h312h332h360h367h350h305h271h250h245h
Data source: Colorado Springs December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Colorado Springs During December

In Colorado Springs, December emerges as a beacon of sunny optimism, boasting a remarkable 75% chance of sunshine. This trend stands out within the annual weather patterns, as the chance of clear skies continues to rise from November's 66%. The winter months, typically associated with gray skies and snow, reveal a surprisingly bright side, contrasting with the lower percentages seen earlier in the spring, where March and April hover around 58% and 56%, respectively. As the year winds down, residents and visitors can look forward to a more cheerful outlook, making December a delightful time to enjoy the outdoors under the sun's warm embrace.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Colorado Springs

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Colorado Springs 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 Colorado Springs experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec62%63%58%56%42%53%56%64%70%72%66%75%
Data source: Colorado Springs December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Colorado Springs in December

As the year winds down in Colorado Springs, December greets us with only 9 hours of daylight, a return to the shorter days that began with the deep of winter. This decline in sunlight reflects a broader trend throughout the year, where daylight duration gradually increased from a modest 9 hours in January to a peak of 14 hours during the summer months of June, July, and August. Once autumn sets in, daylight begins to diminish again, leading into winter's shorter spans. This cyclical pattern not only marks the passage of seasons but also highlights the beauty of nature's rhythm, encouraging residents to make the most of the luminous moments before the winter solstice ushers in the longest night.

Average Daylight Hours in Colorado Springs for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Colorado Springs throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 47m10h 45m11h 58m13h 14m14h 17m14h 49m14h 32m13h 35m12h 22m11h 7m10h 2m9h 29m
Data source: Colorado Springs daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Colorado Springs

In Colorado Springs, December ushers in a gentle shift with an average wind speed of 2.7 m/s (6 mph), marking a slight increase from the preceding months. This uptick reflects a subtle trend toward breezier conditions as the year draws to a close. Throughout the year, winds tend to remain relatively calm, oscillating between 2.3 m/s (5 mph) in January and November, and peaking modestly in March at 2.8 m/s (6 mph). The consistent wind patterns suggest a serene environment, where the crisp December air enhances the stunning winter landscapes, inviting both residents and visitors to revel in the beauty of the season.

Average December Wind Speed in Colorado Springs

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Colorado Springs, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.32.42.82.62.62.42.42.52.52.52.32.7 m/s
Data source: Colorado Springs December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Colorado Springs Compares to Other Months

The weather in Colorado Springs 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 Colorado Springs and find detailed weather information for every month.

December and January weather exhibit notable differences, particularly in temperature and precipitation patterns. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -18°C (1°F) to a maximum of 20°C (69°F), with an average of -1°C (31°F) and relatively low precipitation of 10 mm (0.4 in) over 3 days. The humidity during this month is higher at 80%, contributing to a colder feel. In contrast, January is colder overall, with minimum temperatures dropping to -24°C (-11°F) and a maximum of 17°C (62°F), averaging -2°C (29°F). Although it sees slightly increased precipitation at 14 mm (0.6 in) over the same number of days, the humidity drops to 74%. These factors create a distinctive shift in the winter atmosphere from December to January. For more detailed insights, check out Colorado Springs weather in January.

December and February exhibit notable differences in weather conditions despite their proximity in the winter season. In December, temperatures can range from a minimum of -18°C (1°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), with an average of -1°C (31°F). The month usually sees about 10 mm (0.4 in) of precipitation over roughly three days, accompanied by a relatively high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, February experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -29°C (-20°F) and a maximum of 21°C (70°F), averaging -2°C (28°F). This month has increased precipitation totaling 21 mm (0.8 in) spread over seven days, while humidity dips slightly to 75%. For more detailed insights on the climate, check out Colorado Springs weather in February.

December and March present contrasting weather patterns. December features a milder average temperature of -1°C (31°F), with maximums reaching up to 20°C (69°F) and relatively low precipitation at 10 mm over just three days. In contrast, March experiences colder nights, with a minimum temperature of -22°C (-7°F) and a higher average of 3°C (38°F). Additionally, March sees increased precipitation of 45 mm across seven days, resulting in a drier atmosphere with lower humidity at 66%. For a more detailed look at the weather conditions during this month, you can visit Colorado Springs weather in March.

Comparing the weather in December and April reveals significant differences in temperature and precipitation. December experiences much colder conditions, with minimum temperatures dropping to -18°C (1°F) and an average of -1°C (31°F), whereas April sees milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -11°C (13°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F). Additionally, December is relatively dry with only 10 mm (0.4 in) of precipitation over 3 days, while April is wetter, receiving more than four times that amount at 46 mm (1.8 in) across about 10 days. The humidity levels also differ, with December maintaining a higher humidity of 80% compared to April's 62%. For more details, check out Colorado Springs weather in April.

In December, temperatures in Colorado Springs can be quite chilly, with a minimum of -18°C (0°F) and an average of -1°C (31°F), while the maximum reaches a mild 20°C (69°F). The month sees limited precipitation, averaging only 10 mm (0.4 in) over about 3 days, and humidity levels are relatively high at 80%.

In contrast, May experiences a significant warming trend, with minimum temperatures around -4°C (26°F), an average of 13°C (55°F), and maximums soaring to 31°C (87°F). Precipitation is more abundant, totaling 72 mm (2.8 in) over approximately 13 days, though humidity is slightly lower at 74%. This makes May a much wetter and warmer month compared to the cold and drier December. For more details, check out Colorado Springs weather in May.

December and June present starkly contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -18°C (1°F), with an average of -1°C (31°F) and a mild maximum of 20°C (69°F). The month sees only about 10 mm of precipitation over just three days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 80%. In comparison, June experiences much warmer conditions, with a minimum temperature of 3°C (39°F), an average of 19°C (67°F), and a peak temperature soaring to 37°C (99°F). June is also wetter, with 37 mm of rainfall spread over nine days and slightly lower humidity at 76%. To explore more about the weather in June, check out Colorado Springs weather in June.

December and July showcase starkly contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a chilling minimum of -18°C (1°F) to a maximum of 20°C (69°F), with an average of -1°C (31°F) and relatively low precipitation of 10 mm (0.4 in) over just three days. The humidity sits at a high 80%, contributing to the cold, crisp air typical of winter. In contrast, July brings warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (49°F) and a scorching maximum of 36°C (97°F), averaging 21°C (71°F). The month also experiences significantly higher precipitation at 77 mm (3.0 in) across 14 days, along with slightly lower humidity levels at 75%. For more detailed information, check Colorado Springs weather in July.

December and August present contrasting weather experiences in Colorado Springs. In December, temperatures can plummet to as low as -18°C (1°F) at night, with an average temperature around -1°C (31°F), and occasional daytime highs reaching up to 20°C (68°F). Precipitation is relatively low, with only 10 mm (0.4 in) recorded over about three days, while humidity remains high at 80%. In stark comparison, August boasts much warmer temperatures, with nighttime lows around 7°C (46°F) and daytime averages soaring to 21°C (69°F), reaching highs of 35°C (94°F). The month experiences significantly more precipitation, totaling 56 mm (2.2 in) over approximately ten days, while also maintaining a humidity level of 80%. For a detailed breakdown of August weather in Colorado Springs, you can visit Colorado Springs weather in August.

In December, Colorado Springs experiences a starkly colder climate compared to September, with minimum temperatures plunging to -18°C (1°F) and an average around -1°C (31°F). In contrast, September offers much milder conditions, starting with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and average highs reaching 34°C (93°F). While December sees minimal precipitation of just 10 mm (0.4 in) over only 3 days, September is notably wetter, accumulating 30 mm (1.2 in) across 5 days. Despite the chilly December air, both months maintain a similar humidity level, hovering around 79-80%. For more information, check out Colorado Springs weather in September.

In comparing the weather of December and October, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. December features a milder average temperature of around -1°C (31°F) with maximum temperatures reaching up to 20°C (69°F), while October boasts colder conditions with an average of 8°C (47°F) and highs up to 29°C (85°F). Precipitation is also less frequent in December, with only 10 mm (0.4 in) over 3 days, contrasting with October's 31 mm (1.2 in) spread over 6 days. Humidity levels are slightly higher in December at 80%, compared to 77% in October, suggesting that although both months experience some cold, December tends to be more stable and drier. For more insights into the October climate, check out Colorado Springs weather in October.

In comparing December and November weather, December tends to be milder overall, with an average temperature of -1°C (31°F), while November sees a slightly cooler average of 3°C (38°F). Despite December's maximum temperature reaching as high as 20°C (69°F), it also experiences a minimum temperature of -18°C (-1°F), indicating significant temperature fluctuations. In contrast, November's temperatures range from a minimum of -22°C (-7°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F). Precipitation in December is lower, at 10 mm (0.4 in) over 3 days, compared to November's 17 mm (0.7 in) over 4 days, although December's higher humidity at 80% suggests a wetter feel. For more detailed insights, you can check Colorado Springs weather in November.

Compare Colorado Springs's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Colorado Springs

As December ushers in the winter months, Colorado Springs transforms into a cold yet enchanting landscape, contrasting sharply with the milder temperatures of the preceding months. With an average temperature hovering around freezing, the city experiences significant dips that remind residents and visitors alike of the chill in the air. Rainfall is modest, mostly falling as snow, with only a few precipitation days contributing to its serene winter beauty. The 80% humidity adds to the crisp atmosphere, creating a unique charm that's distinctly different from the drier summers. For those looking to explore the seasonal shifts, December in Colorado Springs offers a magical glimpse into winter's embrace. To learn more about the climate nuances throughout the year, visit Colorado Springs Climate.