Last updated: February 24, 2025
December in Salem, United States, presents a captivating winter landscape, characterized by a maximum temperature of 16°C (62°F) and a minimum that plunges to -18°C (0°F). With an average temperature of 2°C (35°F), the month is defined by cool, crisp air. Visitors can expect 129 mm (5.1 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days, contributing to the region’s atmospheric charm. The humidity level remains high at 81%, often creating a picturesque, fog-laden environment that envelops the city, making December a unique experience in Salem.
As December settles over Salem, temperatures dip significantly, with a minimum around -18°C (0°F), creating a crisp chill in the air. The average temperature hovers at 2°C (35°F), marking a transition from the milder November weather, where temperatures ranged from -11°C to 6°C (13°F to 44°F). Daytime highs peak at a modest 16°C (62°F), yet these still offer brief respite from the cold. This month notably signals the onset of winter, as conditions grow colder than the preceding months, which have seen averages well above freezing. As Salem embraces December, residents prepare for a stretch of chilly days ahead, reinforcing the seasonal changes that define the region's climate.
In December, Salem experiences a notable shift in precipitation patterns, with 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain falling over 10 days. This marks a moderate increase compared to previous months, particularly after October’s peak of 146 mm (5.8 in). As winter settles in, December sees a consistent level of rainfall that is slightly above average but reflects the tendentious drop that typically follows the autumn months. Interestingly, while November has a comparable amount of precipitation at 101 mm (4.0 in), it does so with a similar number of rainy days, suggesting that despite the volume of rain, December's weather may feel more drizzly and persistent as the year wraps up. The trend indicates a well-established wet season that prepares Salem for a wintry January ahead.
In December, Salem, United States, experiences a notable shift in humidity levels as they settle at 81%. This marks a slight decrease from the wetter fall months of October and November, which both hovered around 84%. Interestingly, the trend throughout the year reveals a gradual decline in humidity leading into the summer months, peaking at 86% in January and dropping to a low of 66% in August. As winter approaches, December's humidity reflects an increasing comfort level compared to earlier in the year, suggesting a transition toward drier, cooler months ahead while still maintaining a moderate level of moisture in the air.
In December, Salem experiences a noticeably lower UV Index, dropping to 2—indicating a low exposure category and extending potential burn time to 45 minutes. This reflects a gradual decrease in UV intensity as the year progresses, contrasting sharply with the very high levels seen in the summer months, where indices reached 10 in June. The trend showcases a seasonal fluctuation; even moderate months like November and March hold a UV Index of 4 to 5, but as winter settles in, the risk of UV exposure significantly diminishes. For those planning outings, it’s a great time to enjoy the outdoors with less concern over sunburn while still remaining mindful of the sun's rays. For more information about UV levels throughout the year, visit Salem UV Index.
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In Salem, the enchanting month of December brings a gentle decline in sunshine, with the city basking in 178 hours of daylight. This marks a shift from the peak summer months, where residents enjoy up to 334 hours of sun in July. As the year winds down, the hours of sunshine gradually decrease from the vibrant 289 hours in May to December's cozy warmth. Notably, while December offers less sunshine than most months, it still radiates a comforting glow compared to the bleak mid-winter’s chill that many anticipate. Following a consistent downward trend from August, Salem's December light sets the stage for reflective moments and cozy gatherings as the festive season unfolds, reminding us that even in the darker days, there's beauty in the fading light.
In Salem, the likelihood of sunny weather in December tends to fall short, with only a 32% chance of sunshine. This figure is notably lower compared to the preceding months; for instance, November boasts a 55% chance, reflecting a general decline as winter approaches. Throughout the year, sunny days are most prevalent in March, reaching 61%, but the pattern shifts sharply as the temperatures drop. As we dive deeper into the colder months, it becomes evident that December's gray skies mark the transition into winter, making it one of the least sunny months in Salem after August. As such, those planning outdoor activities in December should be prepared for a greater likelihood of cloudy weather.
As December settles over Salem, daylight seems to retreat, mirroring the cold embrace of winter. With just 9 hours of daylight, this month ties with November for the shortest days of the year, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for indoor activities. The gradual increase in daylight begins with January's return to the same duration, but remains notably low compared to the vibrant 15 hours of daylight experienced in June. This rhythmic ebb and flow of light highlights the changing seasons, inviting residents to cherish the brief hours of sunshine as they wrap up the year and look forward to the gradual lengthening of days that follows.
In Salem, United States, the December wind arrives with an average speed of 4.2 m/s (9 mph), drawing a stark contrast to the summer months when breezes barely whisper at around 3.2 m/s (7 mph) in August. As we move into the winter season, wind speeds exhibit a slight uptick, mirroring a gradual trend of increasing gusts throughout late autumn. Notably, while December holds steady with the same average wind speed as November, it still reflects the region's characteristic shift from warm, languid summers to brisk, refreshing winter air. This consistent wind pattern enhances Salem's charm, inviting both locals and visitors to embrace the crisp, invigorating atmosphere of the month.
The weather in Salem 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 Salem and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January both exhibit cold weather patterns, but January tends to be a bit chillier overall. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -18°C (0°F) to a maximum of 16°C (62°F), with an average temperature of 2°C (35°F). The month experiences 129 mm (5.1 inches) of precipitation over approximately 10 days and has a humidity level of 81%. In contrast, January sees slightly lower temperatures, with a minimum of -20°C (-3°F) and an average of 0°C (32°F), peaking at 19°C (67°F). January is also drier, with only 77 mm (3.0 inches) of precipitation across 9 days, but it has a slightly higher humidity of 86%. For a more detailed look at the weather specifics, check out Salem weather in January.
In comparing the weather of December and February, both months experience cold temperatures, but December tends to be slightly milder on average. December has an average temperature of 2°C (35°F), with a maximum reaching 16°C (62°F) and a minimum of -18°C (0°F). In contrast, February's average temperature is a bit lower at 1°C (33°F), with a maximum of 19°C (66°F) and a minimum of -16°C (4°F). Precipitation is more abundant in December, totaling 129 mm (5.1 in) over 10 days compared to February’s 96 mm (3.8 in) across 11 days. Additionally, February has slightly higher humidity at 84% compared to December's 81%. For those looking for more details, you can check out Salem weather in February.
In December, temperatures in Salem can plunge as low as -18°C (0°F), with an average of 2°C (35°F) and reaching a maximum of 16°C (62°F). Precipitation during this month totals 129 mm (5.1 in) over approximately 10 days, accompanied by humidity levels around 81%. In contrast, March sees slightly milder conditions, with minimum temperatures of -14°C (7°F), an average of 3°C (38°F), and highs peaking at 19°C (66°F). Precipitation decreases to 96 mm (3.8 in) while maintaining similar humidity levels at 82% across 10 days. For a comprehensive look at what to expect in March, check out Salem weather in March.
In December, temperatures tend to be colder, with a minimum of -18°C (0°F) and an average of 2°C (35°F), while April offers a milder experience, featuring a minimum of -2°C (28°F) and an average temperature of 8°C (47°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in April, with 141 mm (5.6 in) over 13 days compared to December's 129 mm (5.1 in) over 10 days. Humidity levels remain relatively consistent between the two months, standing at 81% in December and dropping slightly to 80% in April. For a more detailed look at April conditions in Salem, you can explore Salem weather in April.
December and May present stark contrasts in weather. In December, temperatures can plummet as low as -18°C (0°F), with an average hovering around 2°C (35°F) and a maximum reaching 16°C (62°F). This cold month also experiences significant precipitation, totaling 129 mm (5.1 in) over about 10 days, accompanied by high humidity at 81%. In contrast, May brings much milder conditions, with minimum temperatures around 3°C (37°F) and averages rising to 14°C (57°F), peaking at a warm 30°C (87°F). Although May sees slightly more rainy days, totaling 11, the overall precipitation is less at 91 mm (3.6 in) and humidity is lower at 72%. For a more detailed look at local weather trends, you can check out Salem weather in May.
December and June present contrasting weather experiences. In December, temperatures can drop to a chilling minimum of -18°C (0°F), with average highs around 2°C (35°F) and occasional peaks reaching 16°C (62°F). The month sees considerable precipitation of 129 mm (5.1 in), spread over about 10 days, contributing to an overall humidity of 81%. Conversely, June enjoys much milder conditions, with minimum temperatures at 8°C (46°F) and average highs of 19°C (66°F), potentially soaring to 32°C (91°F). Precipitation decreases to 87 mm (3.4 in), also across 10 days, and humidity lowers to 72%. For a closer look at June's weather patterns, you can explore Salem weather in June.
In December, the weather is characterized by much colder temperatures, with minimums dropping to -18°C (0°F) and an average temperature of around 2°C (35°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 129 mm (5.1 inches) over approximately 10 days, coupled with high humidity levels averaging 81%. In contrast, July brings a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures of around 14°C (57°F) and an average heightening to 22°C (73°F), peaking at a maximum of 33°C (91°F). During this month, precipitation is slightly lower at 116 mm (4.6 inches) over about 11 days, but humidity decreases to 67%. This stark difference highlights December's chilliness compared to the warmth of July. For more details on July's climate, check out Salem weather in July.
In December, the weather is significantly colder, with temperatures ranging from a frigid minimum of -18°C (0°F) to a mild maximum of 16°C (62°F), averaging around 2°C (35°F). The month experiences more precipitation, totaling 129 mm (5.1 in) over about 10 days, coupled with high humidity of 81%. In contrast, August boasts much warmer conditions, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 13°C (56°F) to a pleasant maximum of 32°C (91°F), averaging 22°C (73°F). Precipitation in August is lower, at 72 mm (2.8 in) over the same number of days, and humidity is comparatively lower at 66%. For more details on August weather, you can visit Salem weather in August.
In December, temperatures range from a chilly -18°C (0°F) to a mild 16°C (62°F), with an average of 2°C (35°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 129 mm (5.1 in) over about 10 days, and the humidity levels are relatively high at 81%. In contrast, September brings much warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 32°C (90°F), averaging 19°C (66°F). Precipitation is lower at 84 mm (3.3 in), spread over 8 days, and humidity levels are more comfortable at 71%. For more detailed information, you can visit Salem weather in September.
December and October present quite contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures drop significantly, ranging from a chilling -18°C (0°F) at night to a mild 16°C (62°F) during the day, with an average of 2°C (35°F). The month experiences about 129 mm (5.1 in) of precipitation over 10 days, coupled with high humidity at 81%. In stark contrast, October boasts milder temperatures, with nighttime lows around 0°C (33°F) and daytime highs reaching up to 27°C (81°F), averaging 13°C (57°F). While October also has a slightly higher precipitation total of 146 mm (5.8 in) spread over 11 days, the humidity is slightly lower at 78%. For a more detailed look at October weather, check out Salem weather in October.
In comparing December and November, December exhibits a wider range of temperatures, with a minimum of -18°C (0°F) and a maximum of 16°C (62°F), resulting in a lower average temperature of 2°C (35°F) compared to November's average of 6°C (44°F). Additionally, December experiences slightly higher precipitation, totaling 129 mm (5.1 in) over 10 days, while November records 101 mm (4.0 in) across the same number of days. The humidity levels remain quite similar, with December at 81% and November slightly higher at 84%. For a more detailed look at November weather, you can check Salem weather in November.
As December settles over Salem, the weather takes a notable turn, bringing a chill that contrasts sharply with the warmer months. With an average temperature hovering around 2°C, the frigid air is often interspersed with the slight warmth of occasional maximums reaching 16°C. The stark possibility of plunging to as low as -18°C adds to December's bite. Rainfall is frequent, with 129 mm accumulating over roughly 10 days, contributing to a humid feel that enhances the cold. This month’s weather schema is a reminder of winter’s arrival, painting a season distinctly different from the balmy days of summer. For further insights on the year-round climate patterns, visit Salem Climate.