December Weather in Orleans, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

In December, Orleans experiences a notable shift in weather, characterized by a maximum temperature of 15°C (60°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F). The minimum temperature can drop to a chilly -10°C (14°F), making warm clothing essential for outdoor activities. This month brings 138 mm (5.4 in) of precipitation over 12 days, contributing to the region's winter charm. With an humidity level of 80%, residents and visitors alike should prepare for damp conditions, adding a cozy atmosphere to the holiday season. Whether you're exploring festive events or enjoying indoor pursuits, December in Orleans offers a unique winter experience.

December Temperature in Orleans

December in Orleans, United States, marks a significant transition into winter, with temperatures reflecting the seasonal shift. The month typically starts with a minimum of around -10°C (14°F), reaching an average of 5°C (41°F) and peaking at 15°C (60°F). This gradual rise in temperature from the frigid lows of earlier months like November, where the minimum plummeted to -6°C (21°F), indicates the cooling grip of winter beginning to loosen slightly by month's end. As the festive season approaches, the crisp air provides a chilly backdrop for holiday activities, aligning perfectly with the average December climate that encourages cozy gatherings indoors while still allowing for brisk outdoor explorations.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Orleans, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec363638455261697066594840
Data source: Temperature data for Orleans 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 Orleans

In December, Orleans experiences a significant uptick in precipitation, with 138 mm (5.4 in) falling over approximately 12 days. This marks one of the wetter months of the year, following a trend seen in the fall when rainfall often peaks. Notably, December’s precipitation is higher than the amounts recorded in the summer months, illustrating a seasonal shift as the region transitions into winter. This increase is emblematic of the overall pattern in Orleans, where the latter half of the year exhibits notably higher rainfall, particularly in the October to December timeframe, compared to the drier summer periods. The consistent precipitation throughout late fall into early winter sets the stage for the vibrant growth of the local ecosystem, preparing Orleans for the upcoming cold months.

December Precipitation Trends in Orleans

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Orleans, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec95124119131121887783116169106138
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Orleans

In December, Orleans experiences a humidity level of 80%, maintaining a trend observed throughout the latter part of the year. Following a gradual decline from 84% in January and February to 75% in the warmer months, humidity levels see a slight uptick in November before stabilizing in December. This consistent pattern indicates that while the air retains some moisture, the shift towards lower humidity during the spring and summer is noticeable, offering a refreshing contrast to the more humid winter months. Overall, December’s humidity reflects the city's characteristic transition as it prepares for cooler weather, still keeping a touch of that New Orleans moisture in the air.

December Average Humidity in Orleans

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Orleans, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec84%84%82%79%75%78%76%76%76%75%80%80%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Orleans

As December arrives in Orleans, the UV Index drops to a low level of 2, indicating a more forgiving sun exposure, with a burn time of 45 minutes—a noticeable shift from the very high levels seen in the summer months. This trend reflects the seasonal progression, where the UV Index reaches its peak in the summer, especially in June and July with values of 10, requiring much shorter exposure times to avoid sunburn. Conversely, winter months like December and January offer a more moderate environment, making it safer to enjoy outdoor activities for longer periods. As you plan your sun-soaked adventures, be sure to check the full details at Orleans UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Orleans for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Orleans 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec34689101098642
Data source: Orleans 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 Orleans

December in Orleans may herald the arrival of winter, but it still shines with a respectable 159 hours of sunshine. As the year closes, the sunlight gradually diminishes from the peak of 344 hours in July, a month drenched in summer brilliance. The trend shows a steady decline during the latter half of the year, with October and November recording 238 and 202 hours respectively, hinting at shorter days. Despite this, December’s sunshine offers a warm farewell to the year, vibrant enough to lift spirits as the community gears up for the new year ahead. The relatively high sunshine in winter months underscores Orleans' moderate climate and encourages residents to embrace outdoor activities, even in the chill of December.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Orleans: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Orleans 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec136h179h257h243h298h325h344h331h280h238h202h159h
Data source: Orleans December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Orleans During December

In Orleans, the likelihood of sunny weather in December is notably low, at just 26%, marking it as one of the cloudiest months of the year. This trend is consistent with the overall cooler months, as January and February also show diminished sunshine, with chances dropping to 33% and 26%, respectively. Interestingly, as the year progresses into spring, sunny probabilities rise significantly, peaking in March at 55%. October and November offer a more favorable transition with 44% and 50% chances of sunshine, suggesting that while the cold December days may be less bright, the promise of sunny skies returns as winter gives way to spring.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Orleans

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Orleans 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 Orleans experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec34%26%56%44%41%38%38%36%51%44%50%27%
Data source: Orleans December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Orleans in December

As December arrives in Orleans, the daylight duration dwindles back to 9 hours, mirroring the shorter days experienced in January and November. This winter month marks the seasonal nadir of sunlight, following a gradual increase throughout the spring and summer, peaking at 15 hours in June. The dramatic shift from the vibrant 14 hours in May to the wintry evenings creates a sense of anticipation for longer days ahead. Despite the decrease, the soft winter light casts a unique charm over the city, inviting locals to embrace the beauty of the season while looking forward to the impending arrival of spring's longer days.

Average Daylight Hours in Orleans for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Orleans throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 31m10h 36m11h 58m13h 22m14h 33m15h 9m14h 49m13h 46m12h 25m11h 1m9h 48m9h 10m
Data source: Orleans daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Orleans

As December descends upon Orleans, the wind picks up with an average speed of 7.4 m/s (17 mph), maintaining the same brisk pace that characterized November. This month marks a subtle shift from the warm summer breezes, which saw a peak in July at 5.5 m/s (12 mph) and August at 5.1 m/s (12 mph), to the more invigorating gusts of late fall. Interestingly, the wind speeds gradually fluctuated throughout the year, with a notable decline from April's 7.1 m/s (16 mph) down to May’s 6.4 m/s (14 mph). As the year wraps up, December’s winds encourage a reflective ambiance, inviting residents and visitors alike to bundle up and embrace the captivating spirit of the season.

Average December Wind Speed in Orleans

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Orleans, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7.98.07.77.16.46.75.55.16.37.17.47.4 m/s
Data source: Orleans December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Orleans Compares to Other Months

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

In December, temperatures in Orleans vary from a chilly minimum of -10°C (14°F) to a mild maximum of 15°C (60°F), with an average temperature of around 5°C (41°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 138 mm (5.4 in) over 12 days, and an average humidity of 80%.

In comparison, January brings colder temperatures, with minimums dropping even further to -13°C (10°F) and a slightly lower maximum of 12°C (54°F), resulting in an average of 2°C (37°F). Precipitation decreases to 94 mm (3.7 in) over 10 days, and the humidity remains relatively high at 84%. For more detailed insights on January weather, you can check Orleans weather in January.

December and February share relatively similar weather patterns, but there are notable differences. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -10°C (14°F) to a maximum of 15°C (60°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 138 mm (5.4 in) over 12 days, along with 80% humidity. In contrast, February is slightly colder, with a minimum of -11°C (12°F) and a maximum of 11°C (53°F), and an average temperature of 2°C (37°F). The precipitation in February is slightly less at 124 mm (4.9 in) over the same number of days, and humidity increases to 84%. This slight increase in both humidity and precipitation in February suggests a somewhat gloomy atmosphere, even as temperatures remain frigid. For more detailed weather insights, check out Orleans weather in February.

In December, the weather tends to be colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -10°C (14°F) to a maximum of 15°C (60°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F). The month experiences relatively high humidity at 80% and significant precipitation, totaling 138 mm (5.4 in) over 12 days. By contrast, March brings slightly milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -8°C (18°F) and peaking at 12°C (54°F), averaging around 3°C (38°F). Precipitation decreases modestly to 119 mm (4.7 in), occurring over 11 days, and the humidity remains relatively high at 82%. For more detailed information, you can check Orleans weather in March.

December and April present contrasting weather patterns, with December often characterized by colder temperatures and higher humidity. In December, temperatures range from a chilling minimum of -10°C (14°F) to a milder maximum of 15°C (60°F), while the monthly average sits around 5°C (41°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 138 mm (5.4 in) over approximately 12 days. In contrast, April sees a more moderate temperature profile, with minimums around 1°C (33°F) and maximums reaching 14°C (57°F), averaging 7°C (45°F). Despite similar levels of precipitation, with April recording 131 mm (5.1 in) over 14 days, the humidity slightly decreases to 79%, providing a fresher feel to the springtime air. For more specific details on April conditions, you can check out Orleans weather in April.

In December, the weather is quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -10°C (14°F) to a maximum of 15°C (60°F), averaging around 5°C (41°F). The month also sees significant precipitation, totaling 138 mm (5.4 in) over about 12 days, and a high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, May brings milder conditions, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and reaching a comfortable maximum of 19°C (66°F), averaging around 11°C (52°F). Precipitation is slightly lower at 121 mm (4.8 in) over the same number of days, accompanied by a humidity level of 75%. For more details on this month’s weather, check out Orleans weather in May.

December and June weather differ significantly, reflecting the stark contrast between winter and summer seasons. In December, temperatures can plummet as low as -10°C (14°F), with an average of around 5°C (41°F) and maximum highs reaching 15°C (60°F). This month also sees considerable precipitation, amounting to 138 mm (5.4 in) over roughly 12 days, and a high humidity level of 80%. On the other hand, June brings milder temperatures, with minimums of 10°C (50°F) and maximums around 22°C (73°F), resulting in a comfortable average of 16°C (61°F). The month is relatively drier, with precipitation totaling 88 mm (3.5 in) across about 10 days, and a slight decrease in humidity at 78%. For more details on what to expect, check out Orleans weather in June.

December and July present contrasting weather patterns, showcasing the dramatic seasonal differences. In December, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -10°C (14°F), with an average around 5°C (41°F) and a maximum of 15°C (60°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, measuring 138 mm (5.4 in) over approximately 12 days, coupled with high humidity levels of 80%. In contrast, July boasts much milder temperatures, with a minimum of 16°C (61°F) and an average of 20°C (69°F), reaching up to 26°C (79°F) at its warmest. Additionally, July sees lower precipitation at 77 mm (3.0 in) across 8 days and a humidity of 76%. For a detailed overview of the warm summer climate, check out Orleans weather in July.

December and August present markedly different weather conditions. In December, temperatures can drop as low as -10°C (14°F), with an average around 5°C (41°F) and highs reaching 15°C (60°F). Humidity is relatively high at 80%, and the month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 138 mm (5.4 in) over 12 days. In contrast, August boasts much milder conditions, with minimum temperatures of 16°C (61°F), an average of 21°C (71°F), and maximums peaking at 26°C (78°F). The humidity in August is slightly lower at 76%, and it sees less rainfall, with 83 mm (3.3 in) over 8 days. For more details on the specifics of August weather, visit Orleans weather in August.

In December, the weather in Orleans is significantly colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -10°C (14°F) to a maximum of 15°C (60°F), and an average temperature of about 5°C (41°F). The month is also relatively wet, with 138 mm (5.4 in) of precipitation over approximately 12 days and a high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, September offers a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from 13°C (56°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F) and an average of 19°C (66°F). Precipitation is slightly lower at 116 mm (4.6 in), spread over about 10 days, accompanied by a more comfortable humidity level of 75%. This stark contrast highlights how December's cold and wet conditions differ greatly from September's warmer and drier atmosphere. For more insights, check out Orleans weather in September.

In comparing the weather between December and October, it's evident that October enjoys milder temperatures, with minimums around 4°C (40°F) and maximums reaching up to 21°C (70°F), while December experiences colder conditions with minimums plummeting to -10°C (14°F) and maximums only reaching 15°C (60°F). October also has slightly more precipitation at 169 mm (6.7 in) over 11 days compared to December's 138 mm (5.4 in) over 12 days. Additionally, humidity levels are a bit lower in October at 75%, compared to December's higher average of 80%. For more specifics on October weather, you can visit Orleans weather in October.

December weather typically presents a broader temperature range compared to November, with minimums dropping to -10°C (14°F) and maximums reaching 15°C (60°F), compared to November's minimum of -6°C (21°F) and maximum of 18°C (65°F). While December sees more precipitation at 138 mm (5.4 in) over 12 days, November is slightly drier with 106 mm (4.2 in) across 10 days. Both months share the same humidity level of 80%, but the cooler temperatures in December contribute to a more winter-like atmosphere. For a more detailed look at November's weather patterns, you can check Orleans weather in November.

Compare Orleans's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Orleans

As December settles in, Orleans experiences a distinct shift in weather characterized by cooler temperatures and increased precipitation compared to the preceding months. The chilly air brings a brisk ambiance, with average lows that can plunge below freezing, making this month notably colder than the milder fall months that came before. The rainy days also contribute to an aura of moisture, with humidity levels soaring, presenting a stark contrast to the drier weeks of autumn. For those looking to understand more about the seasonal transitions, details on the overall climate can be explored at Orleans Climate.