Last updated: February 24, 2025
December in Notre Dame, United States is characterized by a pronounced temperature range, with maximums reaching 17°C (63°F) and minimums plummeting to -21°C (-6°F). The average temperature hovers around 1°C (34°F), painting a picture of a chilly yet exhilarating winter month. Alongside these frigid temperatures, the region experiences 62 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days, contributing to a damp atmosphere with a notable humidity level of 86%. This blend of cool temperatures and consistent moisture creates a quintessential winter setting, making December a distinctive month in the heart of Notre Dame.
In December, temperatures in Notre Dame, United States start to plunge as winter solidifies its grip on the region. The month typically experiences a minimum temperature of around -21°C (-6°F), an early indicator of the deeper cold yet to come in January and February. On average, temperatures hover near 1°C (34°F), providing a chill that contrasts sharply with the mild falls of earlier months. The maximum temperature can reach about 17°C (63°F), hinting at the fleeting warmth of late autumn. As daylight wanes and snowflakes begin their descent, December signifies a month of transition into the heart of winter, with frosty mornings becoming a hallmark of the season.
December in Notre Dame marks the onset of winter, bringing with it a notable dip in precipitation levels. Averaging 62 mm (2.5 in) of rain across roughly 10 days, December stands out as one of the driest months of the year. This decrease from the wetter autumn months reflects a broader trend; rainfall peaks in late spring and summer, with May often recording the highest totals at 161 mm (6.3 in). As the year wraps up, the shift towards drier conditions provides a stark contrast to the heavier precipitation seen in previous months, particularly in April and October, which both exceed 100 mm. The transition into winter is subtle yet significant, setting the stage for the colder months ahead.
In December, Notre Dame experiences a humidity level of 86%, which is slightly below the peak seen in November at 89%. The trend across the colder months shows a gradual increase in humidity from October to April, reaching its highest in early winter before dipping slightly in the late fall. Notably, while January and February maintain a steady 85% humidity, March sees a minimal rise, suggesting a consistent moisture presence throughout the winter months. Overall, December's humidity reflects a typically moist winter climate, contributing to the area's characteristic chill and often overcast skies.
As December arrives in Notre Dame, the UV Index dips back to a comfortable 3, placing it in the moderate exposure category. This follows a dramatic summer where the Index soared to 10, highlighting a seasonal trend that sees the year peak in high to very high levels from April through August, requiring a swift 15-minute burn time for sun safety. In contrast, both the fall and winter months offer a reprieve, with burn times extending to 30 minutes in November and December, as UV levels wane. This seasonal fluctuation underscores the importance of adapting sun protection habits throughout the year. For more in-depth information, check the Notre Dame UV Index.
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In December, Notre Dame experiences a gentle transition from the vibrant sunshine of summer to the coziness of winter. With 163 hours of sunlight, this month showcases a notable decline from the peak of 358 hours in July, reflecting the ebb of daylight as the year closes. Unlike the earlier months where sunshine climbs steadily to a June zenith, December signals a softer, more subdued light, reminiscent of the calming embrace of winter. Even as daylight dwindles, the serene beauty of the season lingers, inviting both reflection and celebration against the picturesque backdrop of the university, transforming the campus into a winter wonderland.
In Notre Dame, United States, December offers a moderate 28% chance of sunny weather, marking a slight dip from the previous months. This trend follows a gradual decline in sunlit days, with the likelihood peaking in the fall, particularly in September at 55%. As the year winds down, both October and November see chances of sunshine decrease to 31% and 35% respectively. While December’s sunniest days may be fewer compared to the vibrant fall, the colder month still holds a charming allure, making every rare sunny day feel like a special gift as the community prepares for winter festivities.
In Notre Dame, United States, the daylight duration follows a captivating seasonal pattern throughout the year. As winter approaches, December settles in with 9 hours of daylight—echoing the scant light of November. However, this short span is just the beginning of a gradual increase that builds momentum as spring unfolds, culminating in 15 hours of vibrant daylight by June. The long summer days give way to a slow decline, leading to a familiar cycle as daylight wanes again, wrapping the year back to December’s quiet, reflective hours. This rhythmic ebb and flow illuminates the changing seasons, offering a reminder of nature's cyclical beauty.
As December arrives in Notre Dame, the wind begins to pick up, averaging 4.0 m/s (9 mph), a refreshing breeze that mirrors the festive spirit of the season. Interestingly, this month holds steady with the wind speeds noted in November, indicating a potential transition into winter's embrace. Throughout the year, wind speeds show a gentle fluctuation, peaking in the spring months of March and November, while the summer sees the calmest days, with July and August recording the lowest speeds. Overall, December's wind, brisk and invigorating, sets the stage for the winter festivities, while highlighting an annual rhythm of moderation and variation in Notre Dame's atmospheric charm.
The weather in Notre Dame 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 Notre Dame and find detailed weather information for every month.
In December, the weather features an average temperature of 1°C (34°F), with minimums dropping to -21°C (-6°F) and maximums reaching 17°C (63°F). This month experiences around 62 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 10 days, coupled with high humidity at 86%. In contrast, January tends to be colder, with average temperatures falling to -3°C (28°F) and minimums plummeting to -26°C (-15°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 73 mm (2.9 in) over 11 days, while humidity remains relatively stable at 85%. For a detailed look at the specifics, you can check the weather for January at Notre Dame weather in January.
December and February present contrasting yet noteworthy winter weather patterns. In December, temperatures fluctuate more widely, with minimums around -21°C (-6°F) and an average around 1°C (34°F), while February experiences a colder minimum of -28°C (-18°F) and an average of -2°C (29°F). Both months showcase high humidity levels, hovering around 86% in December and slightly lower at 85% in February. Precipitation is more frequent in February, totaling 75 mm (2.9 in) across 12 days compared to December's 62 mm (2.5 in) over 10 days. For a closer look at February weather in a specific location, check out Notre Dame weather in February.
In December, temperatures at Notre Dame can drop as low as -21°C (-6°F), with an average of around 1°C (34°F) and a maximum of 17°C (63°F). The month sees approximately 62 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation spread over about 10 days, with humidity levels remaining high at 86%. In contrast, March brings slightly warmer weather, with minimum temperatures reaching -14°C (7°F) and an average of 4°C (39°F), peaking at 25°C (78°F). Precipitation increases to 97 mm (3.8 in) over roughly 12 days, while humidity remains consistent at 86%. For more detailed insights into March weather, you can visit Notre Dame weather in March.
When comparing December and April weather, a stark contrast emerges. December experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -21°C (-6°F) and an average of just 1°C (34°F), whereas April sees milder conditions, with a minimum temperature of -8°C (18°F) and an average of 9°C (48°F). The maximum temperatures also highlight this shift, with December peaking at 17°C (63°F) compared to April's highs of 28°C (83°F). Precipitation is more frequent in April, with 106 mm (4.2 in) recorded over 14 days, compared to December's 62 mm (2.5 in) over 10 days. Humidity levels remain similar, with December at 86% and April at 87%. For a deeper look into April weather specifics, check out Notre Dame weather in April.
In December, temperatures can be quite frigid, with lows plunging to -21°C (-6°F) and an average of just 1°C (34°F), while occasionally peaking at a relatively mild 17°C (63°F). In contrast, May experiences significantly warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a low of -2°C (29°F) to an average of 16°C (61°F) and highs reaching up to 35°C (94°F). Additionally, December records 62 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over about 10 days, whereas May sees a marked increase in precipitation at 161 mm (6.3 in) across 15 days, although with slightly lower humidity levels at 81%. For a more detailed look at May weather specifics in the region, you can refer to Notre Dame weather in May.
December weather is notably colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -21°C (-6°F) to a maximum of 17°C (63°F) and an average of 1°C (34°F). In contrast, June brings a much warmer climate, featuring temperatures that range from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a scorching maximum of 35°C (95°F), with an average of 22°C (72°F). While December experiences around 62 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days, June sees a higher total precipitation of 139 mm (5.5 in) across 13 days. Notably, humidity levels are slightly higher in December at 86%, compared to 82% in June. For more details, you can visit Notre Dame weather in June.
December and July showcase a striking contrast in weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plunge as low as -21°C (-6°F), with an average of 1°C (34°F) and a maximum of 17°C (63°F). The month experiences significant humidity at 86%, contributing to a chilly and damp atmosphere, with 62 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 10 days. In contrast, July brings warmth and vitality, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 13°C (55°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F) and an average of 24°C (75°F). Although July sees slightly more precipitation at 117 mm (4.6 in) over 12 days, the humidity is lower at 81%, offering a more comfortable, summer-like feel. For a detailed look at the climate during this vibrant month, visit Notre Dame weather in July.
December and August present strikingly different weather conditions. In December, temperatures can drop as low as -21°C (-6°F), with an average of around 1°C (34°F) and a maximum reaching 17°C (63°F). The month experiences significant humidity at 86% and sees about 62 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days. In contrast, August boasts milder minimum temperatures of 9°C (49°F), with averages around 22°C (73°F) and highs soaring to 33°C (92°F). With a total precipitation of 109 mm (4.3 in) occurring over 12 days, August is slightly wetter but has lower humidity levels at 79%. For a detailed overview of weather trends, visit Notre Dame weather in August.
In comparing the weather of December and September, one can see stark contrasts. December typically showcases much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -21°C (-6°F) and an average of around 1°C (34°F), while September enjoys a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures around 3°C (38°F) and average highs reaching 19°C (67°F). Additionally, September can occasionally see maximum temperatures soaring up to 34°C (93°F), making it significantly warmer than December's peak of 17°C (63°F).
Precipitation levels are comparable, with December receiving about 62 mm (2.5 in) over 10 days, slightly less than September’s 79 mm (3.1 in) over 9 days. Humidity also plays a role, with December’s average humidity at a higher 86% in contrast to September’s milder 78%. For a more detailed insight into the weather patterns during September, you can visit Notre Dame weather in September.
December and October present distinctly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a chilling minimum of -21°C (-6°F) to a mild maximum of 17°C (63°F), with an average hovering around 1°C (34°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 62 mm (2.5 in) over about 10 days and humidity levels at a high 86%. In contrast, October showcases a wider temperature range, with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and a maximum that can soar to 31°C (87°F), averaging 13°C (55°F). Precipitation is more prevalent in October, reaching 136 mm (5.4 in) over 14 days, but the humidity is slightly lower at 81%. For more detailed information about October's weather, visit Notre Dame weather in October.
December's weather presents a notable decline in temperature compared to November, with average temperatures dipping from 4°C (40°F) in November to a chilly 1°C (34°F). The minimum recorded temperature in December is significantly lower at -21°C (-6°F) versus November's minimum of -13°C (9°F). While December experiences slightly less precipitation at 62 mm (2.5 in) compared to November's 74 mm (2.9 in), both months have about 10 days of precipitation. Humidity remains relatively high in both months, with December at 86% and November at 89%, indicating a similar level of moisture in the air. For a more in-depth look at November's conditions, visit Notre Dame weather in November.
As December settles in at Notre Dame, it brings a notable chill that starkly contrasts with the milder months preceding it. The temperatures dip significantly, shifting from the comforts of autumn to a brisk wintry feel, further accentuated by a high level of humidity. Precipitation becomes more frequent, with over a week of days likely to see some form of moisture, which is characteristic of the transition towards winter. This month’s weather not only captures the essence of a festive season but also prepares the campus for the snowy months ahead. For a deeper understanding of how December aligns with the annual climate patterns, explore more at Notre Dame Climate.