Last updated: February 24, 2025
December in Denver, United States, presents a refreshing mix of winter chills and occasional warmth. With maximum temperatures reaching 22°C (72°F) and minimums plunging to a brisk -19°C (-1°F), residents experience a significant temperature range. On average, temperatures hover around 1°C (34°F), making it crucial to bundle up. The month sees light precipitation, accumulating to 14 mm (0.6 in) over just 3 days, while the humidity stays high at 89%, adding to the crisp, wintry atmosphere. Whether you're braving the cold or enjoying the rare warmer lull, December in Denver offers a unique seasonal charm.
In Denver during December, temperatures take a noticeable dip as the city embraces the winter chill. With minimums averaging around -19°C (-1°F) and maximums peaking at 22°C (72°F), residents experience a significant range that showcases Denver’s unique climate. The average temperature hovers around 1°C (34°F), indicating a brisk but manageable cold. Compared to the preceding months, which saw warmer temperatures, December marks a shift into the heart of winter. This variability not only highlights the striking contrast between daytime warmth and nighttime cold but also sets the stage for a festive holiday season amidst the stunning Rocky Mountain backdrop. Those venturing outdoors should prepare for chilly evenings while enjoying the milder days that December brings.
In December, Denver experiences a notable decrease in precipitation, with only 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain spread over three days. This trend of lower moisture is characteristic of the month, as it wraps up the year with some of the driest conditions compared to the bustling spring and summer months. As the city transitions into winter, the precipitation levels dwindle significantly from the highs seen in May (111 mm) and April (55 mm). With just a handful of rainy days, December sets the stage for the snowier months ahead while still offering a brief respite from the higher totals of the preceding months.
In December, Denver experiences a notable increase in humidity, reaching 89%, marking it as one of the wettest months of the year. This spike follows a gradual decline from the summer months, where humidity levels hover around 52% to 66%. As the temperatures drop in late fall, humidity levels rise sharply, culminating in a peak that often leaves the winter air feeling particularly crisp and invigorating. Interestingly, December's humidity is just a notch above November's 82%, showcasing a seasonal trend that emphasizes Denver's transition from a dry, sun-drenched summer to a chilly winter, where moisture begins to embrace the city once more.
As the year winds down, December in Denver features a UV Index of 4, placing it in the moderate exposure category. With a burn time of approximately 30 minutes, outdoor enthusiasts can still enjoy the winter sun, though it's important to remain cautious. This month mirrors the UV conditions found in January, emphasizing a seasonal trend of lower UV exposure during the winter months. Compared to the summer peaks of 12, where the UV Index reaches extreme levels, December offers a much more forgiving environment. Awareness of these fluctuations is crucial for maintaining skin health year-round, and for more detailed information, visit Denver UV Index.
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As December rolls in, Denver basks in an average of 242 hours of sunshine, offering a delightful contrast to the cold winter season. While this marks a slight dip from the peak of 375 hours in July, it remains a bright end to a year characterized by a steady increase in daylight as the months progress. In fact, the city witnesses a gradual rise from 187 hours in January to a sunny 335 hours in May, showcasing its reputation as a destination for bright skies and outdoor enthusiasts. Although the days grow shorter in the latter part of the year, with November holding onto 250 hours, December still offers enough golden rays to keep spirits high during the festive season. Each month in Denver paints a sunny picture, making it one of the brightest spots in the U.S., even as winter approaches.
In December, Denver enjoys a notable increase in sunny weather, with a 72% chance of sunshine, making it one of the sunniest months of the year. This trend stands out against the backdrop of other winter months, such as January and February, which hover around 59% and 57%, respectively. Interestingly, while the spring and summer months typically see variations in sun exposure, December's consistently high likelihood positions it as a bright spot in the colder season. As the year winds down, residents and visitors can look forward to ample opportunities for outdoor activities under a clear sky, highlighting Denver's unique winter charm.
As the year reaches its close, December in Denver sees daylight hours returning to a familiar low, mirroring the precursors of November with just 9 hours of daylight. This seasonal pattern highlights a trend of gradually diminishing light beginning in late autumn, where the days shorten significantly from the peak of summer, which boasted a generous 14 hours. Interestingly, daylight duration begins its slow ascent in earnest come February, fostering anticipation for longer days as spring approaches. Observing these fluctuations reveals a rhythmic dance of light and dark, distinctly characteristic of Denver’s climate, where the sun plays a pivotal role in shaping the outdoor experience through each changing month.
In December, the winds in Denver pick up slightly, with an average speed of 2.8 m/s (6 mph), marking a noteworthy increase compared to the preceding months. This uptick in wind speed is a gentle reminder of the shift in seasons, as the city transitions into winter. Interestingly, December's winds are among the most robust in the latter part of the year, suggesting a prevailing trend of slightly gustier conditions as winter approaches. The wind patterns show a consistent average throughout the year, but December concludes the year with a breezy flourish, setting the stage for the cold months ahead while echoing the calm yet changeable spirit of Denver's weather.
The weather in Denver 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 Denver and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January both bring cold temperatures, but January tends to be even chillier. In December, the average temperature hovers around 1°C (34°F), with minimums dipping to -19°C (-1°F). The month experiences light precipitation on about three days, totaling around 14 mm (0.6 in) with a relatively high humidity of 89%. In contrast, January sees a further drop in temperatures, averaging -1°C (31°F) and reaching lows of -23°C (-10°F). This month also receives more precipitation, approximately 23 mm (0.9 in) over four days, while humidity remains slightly lower at 88%. For more detailed information on January weather, you can visit Denver weather in January.
In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -19°C (-1°F) to a relatively mild maximum of 22°C (72°F), with an average temperature of around 1°C (34°F). The month sees minimal precipitation, totaling 14 mm (0.6 inches) over just three days, and high humidity levels at 89%. In contrast, February experiences even colder temperatures, with a minimum of -25°C (-12°F) and an average of -1°C (30°F), but it can also peak at a significant 25°C (78°F). Precipitation increases to 29 mm (1.1 inches) spread over six days, while humidity slightly decreases to 87%. For more detailed insights about February weather, visit Denver weather in February.
December and March present notably different weather patterns. In December, temperatures can drop as low as -19°C (-1°F) while averaging around 1°C (34°F) and reaching a maximum of 22°C (72°F). The month experiences relatively low precipitation, with about 14 mm (0.6 in) falling over just 3 days, and humidity is quite high at 89%. In contrast, March sees slightly harsher minimum temperatures around -20°C (-5°F) but averages a bit warmer at 4°C (40°F) and can climb up to 27°C (80°F). This month also brings more rainfall, with 57 mm (2.3 in) over 9 days, combined with a decrease in humidity to 81%. Overall, March offers a more varied weather experience compared to the colder and drier December. For more detailed information, you can check out Denver weather in March.
In December, weather conditions are typically cold, with average temperatures hovering around 1°C (34°F) and extreme lows plummeting to -19°C (-1°F). Precipitation is minimal, averaging only 14 mm (0.6 in) over about three days, and humidity is high at 89%, contributing to a brisk and frosty atmosphere. In contrast, April brings a significant warming trend, with average temperatures rising to 8°C (47°F) and maximums reaching up to 29°C (84°F). The month experiences more frequent rain, totaling 55 mm (2.2 in) over roughly ten days, and lower humidity at 76%, resulting in a much more comfortable and vibrant spring climate. For more detailed information on weather patterns, check out Denver weather in April.
December and May present contrasting weather patterns, highlighting the transition between winter and spring. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -19°C (-1°F) at their lowest to a mild 22°C (72°F) at their peak, with an average temperature of around 1°C (34°F). Precipitation is relatively low, occurring on just 3 days throughout the month, with humidity levels reaching a high of 89%. In stark contrast, May experiences a broader temperature range from -6°C (21°F) to a warm 33°C (91°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F). The month sees significantly increased precipitation, totaling 111 mm (4.4 in) over 14 days, accompanied by lower humidity levels at 66%. For more detailed insights, check out Denver weather in May.
December and June present contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures can plunge as low as -19°C (-1°F) and average around 1°C (34°F), while maximum temperatures reach a relatively mild 22°C (72°F). The month sees about 14 mm (0.6 in) of precipitation, distributed over roughly 3 days, with humidity levels at a high 89%. In stark contrast, June offers a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures of 5°C (42°F) and averages soaring to 20°C (68°F), peaking at a sweltering 37°C (99°F). Precipitation in June is higher, totaling 48 mm (1.9 in) over 9 days, and humidity drops to a more comfortable 58%. For more detailed information, check out Denver weather in June.
December and July present contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures can drop as low as -19°C (-1°F), with an average of 1°C (34°F) and maximums reaching up to 22°C (72°F). The month experiences relatively low precipitation, amounting to 14 mm (0.6 in) over just three days, coupled with high humidity at 89%. In stark contrast, July boasts much warmer temperatures, with minimums around 10°C (51°F), an average of 23°C (74°F), and maximums soaring to 36°C (98°F). Additionally, July sees more precipitation, totaling 43 mm (1.7 in) over approximately nine days, yet the humidity is significantly lower at 52%. For more details on Denver's summer weather, visit Denver weather in July.
December and August present contrasting weather patterns. December experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -19°C (1°F) and an average of 1°C (34°F), whereas August boasts warmer conditions, featuring a minimum of 10°C (50°F) and an average of 22°C (72°F). Precipitation is more frequent in August, occurring over seven days with a total of 35 mm (1.4 in), compared to December's 14 mm (0.6 in) over just three days. Additionally, humidity levels are notably higher in December at 89%, while August enjoys a drier atmosphere with humidity at 56%. For further details, check out Denver weather in August.
In comparing the weather between September and December, we see significant differences in temperature and humidity. December experiences much colder temperatures, with an average of 1°C (34°F) and a minimum plunging to -19°C (-1°F), while September boasts a much warmer average of 19°C (66°F) and can peak at a sweltering 36°C (98°F). Additionally, December has higher humidity at 89%, compared to September's 65%, which can make the cold feel more biting. Precipitation is also distinct, with December receiving 14 mm (0.6 in) over 3 days and September seeing more substantial rainfall at 29 mm (1.2 in) over 5 days. For more detailed insights into September's weather, you can check out Denver weather in September.
In December, temperatures show a notable decrease, with average highs around 1°C (34°F) compared to October's warmer average of 9°C (49°F). The minimum temperatures in both months are quite similar, but December can reach some surprisingly high maximums at 22°C (72°F). Additionally, December experiences less precipitation overall, with only 14 mm (0.6 in) recorded over three days, while October sees more frequent rain with 37 mm (1.5 in) spread over seven days. Humidity is also higher in December at 89%, compared to October's 76%. This contrast highlights the shift from the milder fall weather of October, where you can explore Denver weather in October, to the chill of winter in December.
In comparing the weather of December and November, December shows a broader temperature range, with minimum temperatures dropping to -19°C (around -1°F) and maximums reaching 22°C (72°F), resulting in an average temperature of 1°C (34°F). In contrast, November's temperatures are slightly milder, with a minimum of -16°C (3°F) and a maximum of 25°C (78°F), averaging 5°C (41°F). Precipitation is also noteworthy; December receives less rain, totaling 14 mm (0.6 in) over 3 days, compared to November's 24 mm (1.0 in) over 4 days. Despite December having slightly higher humidity at 89%, November remains reasonably humid at 82%. For a closer look at the specifics of November weather, you can refer to Denver weather in November.
As December unfolds in Denver, it brings a noticeable chill compared to the rest of the year. With temperatures dipping significantly, culminating in cold nights, the landscape transforms into a winter wonderland. The average temperature hovers around just above freezing, and while brief moments of warmth can occur, the potential for frigid lows emphasizes the stark contrast to the milder months. Additionally, December's humidity lingers around 89%, intensifying the cold feel, and though there’s limited precipitation, the few snowy days add a magical touch to the city. Embrace the winter vibes while exploring the unique weather dynamics of this month by visiting Denver Climate.