Last updated: February 24, 2025
In December, Key West offers a delightful tropical escape with average temperatures hovering around 23°C (74°F), making it an ideal time to enjoy the outdoors. Daily highs can reach up to 27°C (80°F), while the nights cool down to a pleasant 15°C (59°F). Visitors can expect some moisture, with precipitation totaling 44 mm (1.7 in) over approximately 5 days, and an inviting humidity level of 81% maintains that quintessential island feel. Whether you’re basking in the sun or exploring vibrant local culture, December’s weather sets the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable getaway.
In December, Key West experiences a delightful transition into winter, with temperatures showing a slight dip compared to the balmy highs of previous months. The minimum temperature hovers around 15°C (59°F), providing a crisp yet comfortable feel, while the average settles at 23°C (74°F). Daytime warmth peaks at an inviting 27°C (80°F), creating perfect conditions for outdoor adventures and beach strolls. As the year draws to a close, visitors can enjoy the pleasant climate that remains significantly milder than many other destinations, making this tropical paradise a perfect escape from colder regions.
In December, Key West experiences a notable shift in its precipitation patterns as the year winds down. With 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, the month is relatively dry compared to the significant downpours seen in the preceding months, particularly September, which recorded a hefty 172 mm (6.8 in). December brings an average of just 5 rainy days, aligning with the drier conditions of January and February, each averaging 27 mm (1.1 in). This trend underscores a transition from the lush, tropical showers of summer and early fall to a more tranquil and cooler winter season, perfect for those looking to enjoy the island's natural beauty without the frequent interruptions of rain.
In Key West, December marks a notable shift in humidity levels, as the percentage rises to 81%, mirroring January's averages. This slight uptick indicates a return to the more humid conditions characteristic of winter in the region. Observing the month-by-month trends, it is evident that humidity levels tend to peak during the colder months, with a gradual decline from April’s 73% to June’s lowest point of 69%. From mid-summer’s more comfortable 71% in May, moisture levels rebound as the year closes, creating a warm and tropical atmosphere perfect for island festivities. Overall, December’s humidity not only reflects the season but also emphasizes the charm of the Florida Keys as a year-round destination.
As December rolls into Key West, the UV Index dips to 6, categorized as high, allowing for a burn time of 25 minutes before sun protection becomes crucial. This decline in UV intensity signifies a shift from the extreme levels seen in the peak summer months, where indices often hit 12 or higher, demanding careful sun exposure management. While December offers a slight respite, with more time to enjoy outdoor activities, it's still essential to remain vigilant against UV radiation. For more information on UV Index levels throughout the year, visit Key West UV Index.
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Key West experiences a delightful transition into winter with 288 hours of sunlight in December, maintaining a vibrant glow as the year draws to a close. This month marks a slight dip from the vibrant summer months, which peaked in July with a sunny 351 hours. Despite this decrease, December's sunshine remains generous compared to the earlier months of the year, providing a perfect backdrop for holiday festivities. As the days grow cooler, the steady consistency in sunshine hours hints at a charming tropical escape for those seeking warmth and brightness amidst the winter chill elsewhere. Key West’s sunny December is not only a comforting conclusion to the year but also sets the stage for an inviting start to the new one.
In December, Key West enjoys a remarkable 73% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the sunniest months of the year in this tropical paradise. Following a slight dip in sunshine during the sweltering summer months of June and July, the trend visibly shifts towards brighter skies as the year draws to a close. After a moderate 50% in November, the substantial increase in sunshine hours offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for escaping the winter chill elsewhere. With such favorable odds for sunbathing and outdoor activities, December stands out as an ideal time for visitors to bask in Key West's sunshine.
In Key West, December marks the return to shorter days, with daylight lasting around 10 hours. This follows a gradual ascent from January's brief daylight, peaking in the vibrant spring and summer months, where evenings stretch to a generous 13 hours in June, July, and August. As fall fades, the daylight duration begins to decrease again, mirroring the seasonal cycle, with November dipping to 10 hours before settling into December's shorter daylight. This rhythmic pattern reflects the unique climatology of the region, where the intensity of the sun and the duration of daylight shift steadily throughout the year. Visitors and residents alike can embrace the cozy charm of winter evenings in this tropical paradise, even as the days grow shorter.
As December settles into Key West, a gentle breeze dances through the island, with an average wind speed of 5.5 m/s (12 mph). This marks a slight decrease from the brisk winds of November, which peaked at 6.3 m/s (14 mph). Interestingly, the transition into winter sees a gradual decline in wind speed, with January’s winds averaging 5.6 m/s (13 mph), hinting at a more tranquil atmosphere. Throughout the year, the winds tend to gain strength from late winter into spring, reaching their peak in March at 6.8 m/s (15 mph), before softening again in the summer months. By December, the slightly diminished winds create a soothing backdrop, perfect for enjoying the vibrant sunsets and serene beaches, truly embodying the laid-back charm of the Florida Keys.
The weather in Key West 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 Key West and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January in Key West exhibit relatively similar weather patterns, though there are some notable differences. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 15°C (59°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F), with an average of 23°C (74°F). The month also experiences 44 mm (1.7 in) of precipitation over five days. In contrast, January sees a slight dip in temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (55°F), an average of 22°C (71°F), and a maximum of 26°C (79°F). Additionally, January has less rainfall, totaling 27 mm (1.1 in) over the same number of rainy days. Humidity remains consistent at 81% for both months, creating a humid yet comfortable environment. For a more detailed look at January weather, visit Key West weather in January.
In December, temperatures in Key West typically range from a minimum of 15°C (59°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F), with an average of 23°C (74°F). The month experiences around 44 mm (1.7 in) of precipitation over approximately 5 days, resulting in a humidity level of 81%. In contrast, February presents slightly milder conditions, with minimum temperatures at 14°C (58°F) and maximum temperatures around 26°C (80°F), maintaining the same average of 23°C (74°F). Precipitation in February decreases to 27 mm (1.1 in) over just 4 days, and humidity slightly lowers to 79%. For more detailed insights, check out Key West weather in February.
In December, the weather tends to be warmer with a minimum temperature of 15°C (59°F) and an average of 23°C (74°F), while March sees a slight increase in the minimum temperature, reaching 17°C (62°F), yet maintains a similar average. Interestingly, both months experience similar maximum temperatures, with December peaking at 27°C (80°F) and March at 26°C (80°F). Precipitation is more frequent in December, amounting to 44 mm (1.7 in) over five days compared to just 18 mm (0.7 in) across four days in March, indicating a drier climate as spring approaches. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly higher in December at 81%, compared to 76% in March. For a detailed look at the weather during March, you can visit Key West weather in March.
In December, the weather tends to be quite warm, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 15°C (59°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F), averaging at 23°C (74°F). The month experiences about 44 mm (1.7 in) of precipitation across approximately 5 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 81%. In contrast, April is slightly warmer with minimum temperatures at 19°C (67°F) and a maximum of 29°C (84°F), averaging 25°C (77°F). April has a bit less rainfall, totaling 40 mm (1.6 in) over roughly 7 days, and the humidity decreases to 73%. For a more detailed look at what to expect, you can check out Key West weather in April.
When comparing the weather in December and May, December experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of 15°C (59°F) and an average of 23°C (74°F), while May sees warmer conditions, starting with a minimum of 22°C (72°F) and an average of 26°C (79°F). Precipitation also differs significantly; December has 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain over about 5 days, whereas May faces increased rainfall, totaling 139 mm (5.5 in) over 11 days. Additionally, December has higher humidity at 81%, compared to May's 71%. For more detailed insights on the delightful weather in May, check out Key West weather in May.
In December, the weather is characterized by milder temperatures, with a minimum of 15°C (59°F) and an average of 23°C (74°F), peaking at a maximum of 27°C (80°F). This month experiences relatively low precipitation at 44 mm (1.7 in) over just 5 days, accompanied by high humidity at 81%. In contrast, June brings warmer conditions with a minimum of 24°C (76°F) and an average of 28°C (82°F), reaching highs of 30°C (87°F). However, June is notably wetter, receiving 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain across 14 days, while humidity drops to 69%. For more details on June weather, visit Key West weather in June.
In December, the weather is milder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 15°C (59°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F), while the average temperature hovers around 23°C (74°F). This month sees lower precipitation levels at 44 mm (1.7 in) over just five days, accompanied by high humidity at 81%. In contrast, July brings significantly warmer conditions, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 25°C (78°F) and peaking at 30°C (87°F), averaging around 28°C (83°F). However, July is also wetter, experiencing 103 mm (4.0 in) of rainfall over 15 days, while humidity decreases to 70%. For a more detailed look at the weather during this summer month, you can check Key West weather in July.
In December, the weather features a milder temperature range, with minimums around 15°C (59°F) and maximums peaking at 27°C (80°F), along with relatively low humidity at 81%. Precipitation is moderate, totaling 44 mm (1.7 in) over about 5 days, making it a generally pleasant time to enjoy the outdoors. In contrast, August is significantly warmer, with minimum temperatures starting at 25°C (78°F) and averaging 29°C (84°F), hitting a maximum of 30°C (87°F). However, it experiences much higher rainfall, with 100 mm (3.9 in) spread across 15 days, coupled with lower humidity at 72%. For more insights on the weather during this time, check out Key West weather in August.
When comparing the weather in December and September, December tends to be milder with a minimum temperature of 15°C (59°F) and an average temperature of 23°C (74°F), while September enjoys warmer conditions with a minimum temperature of 25°C (77°F) and an average of 28°C (83°F). December also experiences significantly less rainfall, with only 44 mm (1.7 in) of precipitation over about 5 days, compared to September's much wetter conditions, which see 172 mm (6.8 in) of rain over 17 days. Additionally, while December has a higher humidity level at 81%, September's humidity is somewhat lower at 76%. For more detailed insights into September weather, visit Key West weather in September.
In comparing the weather of December and October, October tends to be warmer with minimum temperatures starting at 20°C (69°F) and averaging 27°C (81°F), while December shows a cooler trend with minimums around 15°C (59°F) and averages of 23°C (74°F). Additionally, October experiences significantly more precipitation, tallying 133 mm (5.2 in) over 18 days, in contrast to December’s 44 mm (1.7 in) over just 5 days. Despite the lower rainfall in December, humidity remains relatively high at 81%, slightly above October’s 79%. For a detailed look at weather patterns during October, you can visit Key West weather in October.
When comparing the weather in December to November, December tends to be slightly cooler, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 15°C (59°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F), compared to November's milder range of 18°C (65°F) to 28°C (83°F). Additionally, December experiences less precipitation, with 44 mm (1.7 in) falling over five days, while November sees a significantly higher total of 83 mm (3.3 in) over ten days. Humidity levels remain relatively similar, with December at 81% and November at 80%. For a more detailed overview of November weather, you can check out Key West weather in November.
December in Key West marks a delightful transition to cooler, more comfortable conditions compared to the sweltering summer months. With average temperatures hovering around a pleasant 23°C (74°F), December offers a refreshing escape while still basking in the sun, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. The humidity levels remain moderate at 81%, providing a mild climate that can feel invigorating. Though precipitation increases slightly, with about 44 mm (1.7 in) over roughly five days, it rarely disrupts the vibrant atmosphere of the island. For anyone seeking to enjoy a blend of warmth and relief from the summer heat, December is a perfect choice. Discover more about what to expect with the weather by visiting Key West Climate.