December Weather in Cambridge, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

December in Cambridge, United States ushers in a chilly ambiance, marked by an average temperature of 2°C (35°F) and a maximum of 16°C (62°F), stark contrasts that highlight the season's variability. The month can plunge to a biting minimum of -18°C (0°F), underlining its wintry essence. Alongside frigid temperatures, precipitation makes its presence felt with a total of 129 mm (5.1 in), spread over 10 days, fostering a humid atmosphere with levels reaching 81%. This blend of cold and dampness defines December’s character, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the unique charm of winter in Cambridge.

December Temperature in Cambridge

In December, Cambridge, United States, ushers in the chill of winter, with temperatures dropping significantly compared to the preceding months. The minimum temperature reaches a brisk -18°C (0°F), while the average settles at a chilly 2°C (35°F), offering a stark contrast to the milder conditions of November. Daytime highs, although still cool, peak at a manageable 16°C (62°F), hinting at the subtle warmth of the sun breaking through the winter clouds. This month marks a continuation of the descending trend in temperatures, as the city transitions deeper into winter. Snow and frosty mornings become more common, inviting a picturesque holiday atmosphere while reminding residents to bundle up against the biting cold.

December Weather in Cambridge: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Cambridge, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec313337475766727266564435
Data source: Temperature data for Cambridge 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 Cambridge

December in Cambridge sees a notable increase in precipitation, with 129 mm (5.1 inches) of rainfall over the month, contributing to its position as one of the wetter months of the year. With 10 days of precipitation, December's rainfall is a slight dip from the heavier totals of October, which recorded 146 mm (5.8 inches). This month not only wraps up the year with an average rainfall conducive to winter's final preparations but also reflects a trend of increasing moisture as the seasons shift, setting the stage for the colder months ahead. Overall, December’s precipitation is a vital factor in shaping the region’s winter landscape.

December Precipitation Trends in Cambridge

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Cambridge, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec77969614191871167284146101129
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

December Humidity in Cambridge

In December, Cambridge, United States experiences a relative humidity of 81%, marking a slight decline from the wetter months of late fall. The trend throughout the year showcases a gradual decrease in humidity, peaking at a high of 86% in January and steadily declining to 66% in August. As the year progresses into late fall, humidity rises again, with November reaching 84% before settling at 81% in December. This pattern highlights a seasonal cycle where humidity is generally higher during the cold months, creating a cozy yet damp atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the festive season in the region.

December Average Humidity in Cambridge

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Cambridge, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec86%84%82%80%72%72%67%66%71%79%84%81%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Cambridge

In December, Cambridge experiences a notable decline in UV Index levels, dropping to a low of 2, which allows for a more leisurely outdoor enjoyment without the intense sun exposure typical of summer months. With a burn time extending to 45 minutes, this represents a shift from the high and very high indices seen in the preceding months, where protection was crucial even for short stints outside. As the year winds down, residents can appreciate longer periods under the sun without the heightened risks, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. For more detailed insights, check out the Cambridge UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Cambridge for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Cambridge 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3558910997642
Data source: Cambridge 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 Cambridge

In December, Cambridge experiences a gentle winding down of sunlight, with 178 hours of sunshine gracing the month. This marks a noticeable decrease from the peak summer months of June and July, which bask in an impressive 327 hours of sunlight each. As the year draws to a close, the transition from the vibrant spring and summer—characterized by an abundance of sunshine—eventually gives way to the enchanting, albeit shorter, winter days. Notably, November retains a healthy 201 hours of sun, hinting at a lingering warmth as the chill of December sets in. This seasonal ebb and flow showcases Cambridge's diverse climate, where every month brings its own unique light and charm.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Cambridge: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Cambridge 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec152h188h253h240h289h327h334h327h278h221h201h178h
Data source: Cambridge December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Cambridge During December

In December, the likelihood of sunny weather in Cambridge, United States, stands at a modest 32%, making it one of the cloudier months of the year. This trend aligns with the preceding few months, where November offers a more favorable 55% chance of sunshine, hinting at a gradual drop in sunny days as winter approaches. Interestingly, despite December's relatively low sunshine odds, it follows a pattern observed in the late fall and winter months, where January’s chances are only slightly higher at 44%. The data indicates a notable decrease from the sunnier days typically experienced in spring, as March boasts a robust 61% chance, highlighting the seasonal transition and the often overcast skies that define December's climate in the region.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Cambridge

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Cambridge 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 Cambridge experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec44%34%61%41%38%40%33%30%44%39%55%33%
Data source: Cambridge December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Cambridge in December

As the year comes to an end in December, daylight in Cambridge, United States dwindles to a brief 9 hours, marking a trend of diminishing sunlight from the summer months. Starting from a peak of 15 hours in June, the daylight gradually decreases, reflecting the seasonal transition. This rhythmic change sees a steady decline through autumn, with October and November also boasting just 10 and 9 hours of light, respectively. The cycle of daylight resembles a natural ebb and flow, highlighting the crisp, shorter days that define the winter season in this picturesque city. As December's shadows lengthen, residents are reminded of the cozy charm that these longer nights bring.

Average Daylight Hours in Cambridge for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Cambridge throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 26m10h 33m11h 57m13h 24m14h 38m15h 14m14h 54m13h 49m12h 26m10h 59m9h 44m9h 5m
Data source: Cambridge daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Cambridge

As December settles over Cambridge, the city experiences an average wind speed of 4.2 m/s (9 mph), mirroring the steady breezes felt in November and October. This slight dip in wind intensity compared to earlier months hints at the calm that often accompanies winter's arrival. Throughout the year, wind speeds fluctuate, peaking in March at 4.9 m/s (11 mph), reflecting the seasonal transitions. Overall, the year charts a pattern where the winds soften during the summer months, reaching their lowest in July and August at 3.3 m/s and 3.2 m/s (7 mph) respectively. Yet, as December approaches, a gentle reminder of the briskness of winter lingers, suggesting the seasonal shift is well underway with a signature Cambridge charm.

Average December Wind Speed in Cambridge

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Cambridge, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.54.44.94.24.03.83.33.23.74.24.24.2 m/s
Data source: Cambridge December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Cambridge Compares to Other Months

The weather in Cambridge 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 Cambridge and find detailed weather information for every month.

December and January present distinctly chilly weather, but with some notable differences. December has a slightly milder average temperature of 2°C (35°F) and experiences a maximum of 16°C (62°F), while January is colder, with an average of 0°C (32°F) and a peak of 19°C (67°F). Precipitation is heavier in December, amounting to 129 mm (5.1 in) over 10 days, compared to January's 77 mm (3.0 in) over 9 days. Additionally, January exhibits higher humidity levels at 86%, compared to December’s 81%. For more detailed weather insights, check out Cambridge weather in January.

December and February share a chilly winter ambiance, but they exhibit some notable differences in weather patterns. December tends to be slightly colder, with average temperatures around 2°C (35°F) and nightly lows dropping to -18°C (0°F). In contrast, February sees a marginal increase in temperatures, averaging 1°C (33°F) and peaking at around 19°C (66°F). While December experiences more precipitation, totaling 129 mm (5.1 in) over 10 days, February has slightly less with 96 mm (3.8 in) spread over 11 days. Additionally, February's humidity is a bit higher at 84%, compared to December's 81%. To learn more about February weather specifics, you can check out Cambridge weather in February.

In December, the weather is characterized by colder temperatures, with a minimum of -18°C (0°F) and an average of 2°C (35°F), while the maximum can reach 16°C (62°F). This month sees significant precipitation, totaling 129 mm (5.1 in) over around 10 days, and the humidity is relatively high at 81%. In contrast, March brings slightly milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -14°C (7°F) to an average of 3°C (38°F) and a maximum of 19°C (66°F). The month also experiences less precipitation, amounting to 96 mm (3.8 in) over the same number of days, and humidity rises slightly to 82%. For more details on March weather, visit Cambridge weather in March.

December and April present contrasting weather patterns characterized by notable differences in temperature and precipitation. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -18°C (0°F) to a maximum of 16°C (62°F), with an average of 2°C (35°F) and 129 mm (5.1 in) of precipitation over 10 days, accompanied by a high humidity of 81%. In contrast, April sees milder temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (28°F) and a maximum of 26°C (79°F), and an average of 8°C (47°F). During this month, precipitation slightly increases to 141 mm (5.6 in) spread over 13 days, with humidity marginally lower at 80%. This shift from the cold, damp conditions of December to the gradually warming, wetter climate of April is indicative of the transition from winter into spring. For more detailed weather insights, you can check Cambridge weather in April.

In comparing the weather of December and May, there is a stark contrast in temperatures and overall conditions. December experiences a much colder climate, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -18°C (0°F) to a mild 16°C (62°F) on warmer days, while May boasts a significantly warmer range from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a pleasant maximum of 30°C (87°F). Precipitation is also notable in both months, with December receiving 129 mm (5.1 in) over approximately 10 days and May experiencing 91 mm (3.6 in) across 11 days. Additionally, humidity levels in December are higher at 81%, compared to May’s more comfortable 72%. For those curious about what to expect, you can find more detailed information at Cambridge weather in May.

December and June present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -18°C (0°F), with an average of around 2°C (35°F) and a maximum of 16°C (62°F), creating a chilly atmosphere. Additionally, the month experiences a significant amount of precipitation, totaling 129 mm (5.1 in) over approximately 10 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 81%. In contrast, June boasts much milder temperatures, starting at a minimum of 8°C (46°F) and reaching an average of 19°C (66°F), with highs soaring up to 32°C (91°F). The precipitation in June is lower, at 87 mm (3.4 in) over the same 10 days, and humidity is somewhat reduced at 72%. For more detailed insights, you can explore Cambridge weather in June.

December and July present stark contrasts in weather. December sees much colder temperatures, ranging from a chilling minimum of -18°C (0°F) to a milder average of 2°C (35°F) and a maximum of 16°C (62°F). In contrast, July boasts significantly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 14°C (57°F), an average of 22°C (73°F), and a high of up to 33°C (91°F). While December experiences a higher humidity level of 81% and more precipitation (129 mm over 10 days), July is drier with 116 mm of rain over 11 days and lower humidity at 67%. For more details on July weather, you can check Cambridge weather in July.

When comparing December and August, the stark contrast in temperatures is immediately apparent. December experiences much colder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -18°C (0°F) to a mild max of 16°C (62°F), while August boasts a more comfortable range of 13°C (56°F) to a warm 32°C (91°F). The average temperature in December hovers around 2°C (35°F), making it a significantly chillier month, whereas August enjoys a pleasant average of 22°C (73°F). Precipitation levels are also different; December sees 129 mm (5.1 in) of precipitation over 10 days, while August has a lighter total of 72 mm (2.8 in) spread across the same number of days. Humidity levels are higher in December at 81%, compared to 66% in August, further emphasizing the seasonal variations. For more specifics, you can check out Cambridge weather in August.

December weather presents a stark contrast to that of September. In December, temperatures can plummet as low as -18°C (0°F), with an average temperature of around 2°C (35°F), while September boasts much warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 32°C (90°F) and an average of 19°C (66°F). Precipitation is more frequent in December, occurring on 10 days with a total of 129 mm (5.1 in), compared to the 8 days of rainfall in September, which accumulates to 84 mm (3.3 in). Additionally, December's higher humidity level at 81% creates a colder and more damp atmosphere, contrasting with the more comfortable 71% humidity in September. For more insights, check out Cambridge weather in September.

December weather is characterized by colder temperatures, with nightly lows reaching as chilling as -18°C (0°F) and an average temperature of around 2°C (35°F). In contrast, October offers a more temperate climate, featuring milder temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F) and an average of 13°C (57°F). While both months experience significant precipitation, December records 129 mm (5.1 in) over 10 days, slightly less than October's 146 mm (5.8 in) across 11 days. The humidity remains similar, with December averaging 81% compared to October's 78%. For more detailed weather insights, check Cambridge weather in October.

December weather shows a notable drop in temperature compared to November, with average highs reaching only 2°C (35°F) in contrast to November's warmer average of 6°C (44°F). The minimum temperatures in December can plummet to -18°C (0°F), making it significantly colder than November's low of -11°C (13°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 129 mm (5.1 in) over the same number of days, though humidity remains relatively stable, hovering around 81% in December compared to 84% in November. For more details, you can check out Cambridge weather in November.

Compare Cambridge's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Cambridge

As December settles in Cambridge, the weather takes a notable turn, contrasting sharply with the milder months preceding it. With average temperatures hovering around 2°C (35°F), chilly days become the norm, and residents might experience the occasional drop to as low as -18°C (0°F). Precipitation is also more frequent, with about ten days of rain totaling around 129 mm (5.1 in), creating a distinctly damp atmosphere. The humidity levels rise to 81%, contributing to a crisp, cold feel in the air. This blend of reduced temperatures and increased precipitation makes December a month of transition as the region wraps itself in winter's embrace. For more insights into the unique weather patterns throughout the year, visit Cambridge Climate.