Last updated: February 24, 2025
December in Ocean City, United States, brings a captivating blend of weather elements that define the winter season. With average temperatures hovering around 8°C (46°F), the maximum can reach up to 19°C (66°F), while chilly nights can dip to a minimum of -6°C (22°F). The month sees 117 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation spread across about 10 days, contributing to a humid atmosphere with levels peaking at 84%. This unique combination of temperature and moisture creates a dynamic coastal environment perfect for those who appreciate the beauty of winter by the sea.
In Ocean City, United States, December ushers in a noticeable shift as temperatures begin to dip, reflecting the transition into winter. The month starts with a minimum temperature of -6°C (22°F), while the average hovers around 8°C (46°F), offering a crisp chill in the air. Daytime highs can reach 19°C (66°F), providing a contrasting warmth as the sun breaks through the coolness. This gradual descent from the milder autumn months, where November capped at 22°C (72°F), signals a significant cooling trend that paves the way for the colder January weather. Thus, December serves as a bridge between the colorful fall and the stark winter, inviting visitors and residents alike to enjoy the cozy ambiance of the season.
In Ocean City, December brings a noticeable uptick in precipitation, matching February's average with 117 mm (4.6 in) of rainfall over 10 days. This trend signals the transition into winter, as the month experiences a consistent wetness akin to the earlier months of the year, particularly after a relatively dry summer. The recurring pattern of rainfall, peaking in October at 137 mm (5.4 in), suggests that while December is rainy, it’s not the absolute wettest month. Moreover, the 10 precipitation days in December reflect the steady drizzle that often accompanies the cooler temperatures. This interplay between precipitation and seasonal shifts indicates that Ocean City, while known for its summer allure, also wears its winter coat with a rich tapestry of rainfall, keeping the landscape lush and vibrant even in the chillier months.
In Ocean City, December sees humidity levels at 84%, continuing a trend of high moisture in the air typical for winter months. This figure mirrors January's humidity, suggesting a stable climate that favors a damp atmosphere during the colder season. As the year progresses, humidity generally decreases from a peak of 85% in November to 81% in October, before slightly rising again in December. Throughout the warmer months, July and August experience the lowest humidity levels, dropping to 74% and 72%, respectively, making them the most comfortable for beachgoers. Despite the seasonal fluctuations, Ocean City maintains a relatively high humidity, marrying coastal breezes with a refreshing chill, particularly in the latter part of the year.
As the year winds down in Ocean City, December brings a notable shift in the UV Index, settling at 3, which falls under the moderate exposure category. This is a decline from the high values seen in the summer months, where the UV Index consistently reached a peak of 10. With a burn time of 30 minutes, skin protection remains important, especially for those who enjoy outdoor activities. The trend throughout the year clearly indicates that while the summer months demand vigilance against UV exposure, December provides a reprieve, encouraging residents and visitors alike to enjoy the milder sun safely. For more details, check out the Ocean City UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In December, Ocean City experiences a delightful mix of sunshine and holiday spirit, with an average of 192 hours of sunlight. This brings a warm close to the year, especially after the trend of decreasing daylight from the vigorous summer months. While July boasts the most sunshine at 365 hours, the gradual decline into fall showcases a consistent drop, tapering off with November's 226 hours. December's luminosity, while lower than the peak summer months, still offers enough cheerful light to brighten the shorter days, making it an ideal time for leisurely winter strolls along the beach, embracing the tranquil beauty of the ocean waves under the softer winter sun.
In December, Ocean City experiences a 41% chance of sunny weather, reflecting a trend of variability as the year transitions into winter. This likelihood is notably lower than the 58% seen in September, hinting at the impending chill of winter months. As we move from the warmer seasons, the chances of sunshine fluctuate, with January offering a modest 47%, which suggests a generally overcast atmosphere is likely as the year winds down. However, despite the dip in sunshine, December still promises occasional clear days, inviting visitors to enjoy the winter charm of this seaside destination.
As December unfolds in Ocean City, United States, residents and visitors can expect around 9 hours of daylight, mirroring the shorter days of January. This seasonal dip in daylight is part of a larger trend, where daylight gradually increases from the depths of winter in December, building up to a peak of 14 hours in the vibrant summer months of May through July. The transition from winter to spring brings a steady rise in daylight hours, starting at 10 in February and reaching 11 by March. As the year progresses, the pleasing increase in sunlight invigorates the community, creating a welcoming atmosphere before the cycle begins anew with the return of shorter days in late fall. Embracing these variations not only highlights the beauty of each season but also invites opportunities for different kinds of outdoor enjoyment year-round.
As December rolls into Ocean City, the winds begin to whisper with an average speed of 5.6 m/s (12 mph), reflecting a slight tapering compared to the brisker months that preceded it. November, with its energetic 6.5 m/s (15 mph) gusts, heralds the onset of winter's approach, yet December's breezes provide a gentle transition, softening the chill without losing their character. From the vivid 6.8 m/s (15 mph) winds of February to the calmer 3.9 m/s (9 mph) of late summer, the pattern reveals a natural ebb and flow of maritime breezes, creating a dynamic but predictable rhythm through the seasons. This December breeze, though milder, still carries the salty essence of the ocean, offering a refreshing reminder of the vibrant coastal life that thrives even in the cooler months.
The weather in Ocean City 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 Ocean City and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January weather in the region displays distinct contrasts. December typically experiences milder temperatures, with averages around 8°C (46°F), reaching a maximum of 19°C (66°F). In comparison, January is colder with an average of 5°C (41°F) and a lower maximum temperature of 17°C (63°F). Precipitation is slightly reduced in January at 88 mm (3.5 inches) over 9 days, compared to December's 117 mm (4.6 inches) over 10 days. Both months share the same humidity level of 84%, indicating that the air remains consistently moist. For a more detailed look at January's weather, you can check Ocean City weather in January.
December and February in Ocean City present distinct weather characteristics despite having similar precipitation levels. December typically sees milder temperatures with a minimum of -6°C (22°F) and an average of 8°C (46°F), peaking at 19°C (66°F). In contrast, February is colder, with a minimum of -9°C (15°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), while the maximum reaches only 16°C (61°F). Both months experience significant humidity, around 84% in December and slightly lower at 83% in February. Notably, February also has a longer stretch of precipitation days, with 12 days compared to December's 10. For more detailed information about February weather, check out Ocean City weather in February.
In comparing the weather of December and March, both months experience similar maximum temperatures, peaking at 19°C (66°F). December, however, tends to be cooler on average, with temperatures fluctuating from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to an average of 8°C (46°F), while March sees slightly milder temperatures with a minimum of -3°C (26°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F). Precipitation levels are relatively close, with December receiving 117 mm (4.6 in) and March slightly less at 98 mm (3.9 in), both accumulating over approximately 10 days. Humidity remains fairly consistent across the two months, with December at 84% and March at 83%. For more specific details about the climate during March, check Ocean City weather in March.
When comparing the weather in December and April, notable differences can be observed in temperature and precipitation. December experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (22°F) and an average of 8°C (46°F), while April shows a moderate rise, from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to an average temperature of 12°C (53°F). The maximum temperature also increases in April, reaching up to 21°C (71°F), compared to December's maximum of 19°C (66°F). Additionally, precipitation is slightly lower in April at 88 mm (3.5 in) over 11 days, compared to December's 117 mm (4.6 in) over 10 days. Humidity levels remain relatively comparable, with December at 84% and April at 81%. For more detailed insights about April weather, visit Ocean City weather in April.
In December, the weather is significantly colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a maximum of 19°C (66°F), resulting in an average of 8°C (46°F). The month is characterized by higher humidity at 84% and a total precipitation of 117 mm over about 10 days. In contrast, May brings milder temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (42°F) and a maximum reaching 27°C (81°F), averaging 16°C (61°F). Although May has slightly less precipitation at 107 mm over the same number of days, the humidity is lower at 78%. For a closer look at what to expect, check out Ocean City weather in May.
December and June showcase contrasting weather patterns, reflecting the shift from winter to summer. In December, temperatures can dip as low as -6°C (22°F), with an average of 8°C (46°F) and a maximum of 19°C (66°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 117 mm (4.6 in) over about 10 days, accompanied by high humidity at 84%. In contrast, June brings milder weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 13°C (55°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), averaging around 21°C (71°F). Rainfall is lighter in June, at 76 mm (3.0 in) over 9 days, and humidity decreases slightly to 79%. For more details on June's weather, check out Ocean City weather in June.
In December, the weather is significantly colder, with temperatures ranging from a brisk minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a mild maximum of 19°C (66°F), averaging around 8°C (46°F). The month typically experiences higher precipitation levels, totaling 117 mm (4.6 in) over about 10 days, accompanied by increased humidity at 84%. In contrast, July boasts a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a comfortable minimum of 20°C (67°F) to a hot maximum of 32°C (90°F), averaging 25°C (78°F). Precipitation in July is slightly lower at 101 mm (4.0 in) over the same 10 days, with a decreased humidity of 74%. For more insights into the warm summer weather, check out Ocean City weather in July.
December weather contrasts sharply with that of August, showcasing a stark shift in temperatures and conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -6°C (22°F) at their lowest to a mild 19°C (66°F) at their peak, with an average of 8°C (46°F). The month experiences substantial precipitation, totaling 117 mm (4.6 in) over approximately 10 days, coupled with high humidity at 84%. In contrast, August brings warmth and comfort, with minimum temperatures around 19°C (66°F) and maximums reaching up to 30°C (87°F), averaging 25°C (77°F). Precipitation in August is slightly lower at 105 mm (4.1 in) but occurs over more days, totaling 13, with a relative humidity of 72%. For more details on August conditions, you can visit Ocean City weather in August.
December and September display quite contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a mild maximum of 19°C (66°F), with an average of 8°C (46°F). The month is characterized by higher precipitation levels, totaling 117 mm (4.6 in) over about 10 days, alongside a high humidity of 84%. In contrast, September boasts warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 15°C (60°F) and a maximum reaching 29°C (84°F), averaging at 23°C (73°F). Precipitation in September is slightly lower at 95 mm (3.8 in) over the same number of days, and humidity levels are also more comfortable at 75%. For a closer look at September's pleasant weather, visit Ocean City weather in September.
December weather is notably colder than October, with minimum temperatures dropping to -6°C (22°F) compared to October's milder minimum of 8°C (47°F). While both months experience an average maximum temperature of 19°C (66°F), October enjoys warmer conditions overall, peaking at 28°C (83°F). Precipitation levels are relatively similar, with December receiving 117 mm (4.6 in) and October getting slightly more at 137 mm (5.4 in). Despite October's higher precipitation, December's increased humidity at 84% creates a chillier atmosphere. For a more detailed analysis, you can check out Ocean City weather in October.
In comparing the weather of December and November, December exhibits a broader temperature range, with minimums dropping to -6°C (22°F) and maximums reaching up to 19°C (66°F). In contrast, November maintains milder temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and a maximum of 22°C (72°F). December also sees slightly more precipitation, with 117 mm (4.6 in) over 10 days, compared to November's 99 mm (3.9 in) over 9 days. Humidity levels are quite similar, with December at 84% and November at 85%. The contrast in temperatures and precipitation highlights the transition into winter during December, which can be explored further here: Ocean City weather in November.
As December rolls into Ocean City, the weather significantly shifts from the milder temperatures of earlier months. With a maximum warmth of just 19°C and a chilly minimum dipping to -6°C, it’s clear that winter is establishing its presence. The average temperature settles around a brisk 8°C, making it a time for cozy layers and warm beverages. Alongside this drop in temperature, December brings about increased humidity at 84% and an uptick in precipitation, with about 117 mm of rain over 10 days. This combination of factors heralds a more wintry atmosphere, contrasting sharply with the warmth and activity of the summer season. For more detailed insights on the yearly weather patterns, check out Ocean City Climate.