Last updated: February 24, 2025
December weather at Lake Michigan Beach presents a captivating blend of conditions for visitors and locals alike. With a maximum temperature peaking at 15°C (60°F) and an average of 2°C (35°F), the month experiences a dramatic plunge towards winter as minimum temperatures can drop to a chilly -17°C (1°F). This period is characterized by 67 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation spread across approximately 11 rainy days, contributing to the cool, damp atmosphere. Additionally, humidity levels soar to 86%, adding a brisk edge to the seaside experience. Whether you're exploring the serene winter landscape or seeking cozy indoor activities, December at Lake Michigan Beach offers a unique seasonal charm.
In December, Lake Michigan Beach experiences a distinct chill as winter settles in, with temperatures ranging from a brisk -17°C (1°F) as a minimum to a maximum of 15°C (60°F). The average temperature hovers around 2°C (35°F), marking a significant drop from the preceding months, hinting at the cold season ahead. This month stands out as a transitional period, where the biting cold of late fall gives way to more stable winter conditions. The gradual decline in temperatures from November’s slight warmth reflects the area's characteristic shift, as daylight shortens and snow begins to dust the landscape. Consequently, December at Lake Michigan Beach offers a serene yet chilly atmosphere, perfect for those who appreciate the quiet beauty of winter.
As December wraps up the year in Lake Michigan Beach, it brings a modest precipitation total of 67 mm (2.6 in), marking a decline from the wetter months of late spring and fall. With 11 precipitation days, this month sees slightly less rain than its November predecessor, which had 72 mm. Notably, December's total is among the lower counts in the annual cycle, giving way to more tranquil weather as winter sets in. This trend reflects the progression from spring's peaks, with May's 151 mm (5.9 in) leading the charge, through the summer's gradual decline, culminating in December's serene yet cool atmosphere, a clear indication of seasonal transition.
In December, Lake Michigan Beach experiences a humidity level of 86%, continuing the trend of elevated moisture typical for the region during the winter months. This month closely follows the high humidity figures of 87% recorded in both January and February. The gradual decline from 87% in November showcases a slight shift, yet overall, the humidity remains relatively consistent throughout the colder season. Interestingly, the late spring months witness a drop, with humidity peaking in the colder months before tapering off to 78% in the heat of July. The fluctuations highlight the seasonal patterns and climatic quirks of this picturesque lakeside locale.
As winter sets in at Lake Michigan Beach, the UV Index reflects a notable decline, with December registering a modest UV Index of 2—the same low exposure level seen in January. This seasonal dip indicates a welcome respite from sun intensity, allowing for longer outdoor enjoyment with a burn time of 45 minutes. The previous months exhibited a dramatic increase in UV exposure, peaking during the summer when UV Index values reached 10, necessitating caution and quick reapplication of sunscreen due to the very high burn potential. As we transition from the vibrant highs of summer, December's low UV levels offer a safe opportunity to embrace the winter landscape without the fear of sunburn. For more detailed insights, visit Lake Michigan Beach UV Index.
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In December, Lake Michigan Beach experiences a marked shift in sunlight, offering 141 hours of radiant sunshine that hints at the gem of winter’s charm. This month captures a beautiful blend of seasonality, as the days gradually shorten following the peak of 363 hours in July but still provide ample opportunities to bask in the crisp, refreshing air. As autumn fades and winter begins, sunlight gracefully dips from 167 hours in November, showcasing a gentle decline that invites locals and visitors alike to enjoy the tranquil beauty of the lakeshore. The essence of December sunshine serves as a reminder that even in the colder months, nature’s light continues to inspire, casting a warm glow over the serene landscapes of Lake Michigan Beach.
When it comes to sunny weather in December at Lake Michigan Beach, the chances are relatively modest at 27%. This figure reflects a gradual decline in sunlight as the year progresses towards winter, with December showing a notable drop after the sunnier months of late summer and early fall. For instance, areas like September witness 56% sunshine, while even the preceding months of October and November only reach 31% and 32%, respectively. As temperatures cool, residents and visitors can expect cloudier skies, making the brief moments of sun in December all the more cherished.
As December settles over Lake Michigan Beach, the daylight duration remains at a brief 9 hours, mirroring the twilight of November’s shorter days. This month marks a subtle pause in the progression of daylight that characterizes the changing seasons, contrasting sharply with March's 11 hours and the summer highs of 15 hours in June. The gradual descent begins in September, peaking in the summer months and then gently tapering off, before winter casts its long shadow, bringing us back to those shorter days. While the crisp air and serene views define December's charm, the daylight's retreat serves as a gentle reminder of nature's rhythmic cycles, paving the way for the return of longer days in the coming months.
In Lake Michigan Beach, December ushers in a notable shift in wind patterns as the average wind speed reaches 4.7 m/s (11 mph), making it one of the breezier months of the year. This increase follows the trend established in November, which also experienced gusty conditions at 4.9 m/s (11 mph). As the year draws to a close, the winds seem to dance with more vigor, bouncing back from the calmer summer months where speeds dipped to 2.8 m/s (6 mph) in August. Interestingly, despite the colder temperatures, December's winds are robust, contributing to the beach's wintry charm and making it a captivating time for those who brave the elements to witness the serene beauty of the lakeshore.
The weather in Lake Michigan Beach 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 Lake Michigan Beach and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January present notably different weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -17°C (1°F) to a maximum of 15°C (60°F), with an average of 2°C (35°F) and a relatively high humidity of 86%. The month sees a total precipitation of 67 mm (2.6 in) spread across about 11 days. In contrast, January experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum dropping to -25°C (-12°F) and an average of -2°C (28°F), while the maximum is slightly lower at 13°C (55°F). January also sees an increase in precipitation to 74 mm (2.9 in) over 13 days, along with a slight rise in humidity to 87%. For more details on winter conditions, check out the Lake Michigan Beach weather in January.
In December, temperatures in the region typically range from a chilling -17°C (1°F) at night to a milder 15°C (60°F) during the day, with an average around 2°C (35°F). The month sees about 67 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation over 11 days and maintains a high humidity level of 86%. In contrast, February is slightly colder, with minimum temperatures dropping to -20°C (-4°F) and an average of -2°C (29°F), while daytime highs are similar, reaching up to 16°C (61°F). This month experiences slightly more precipitation at 73 mm (2.9 in) spread over 13 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 87%. To learn more about February conditions specifically, you can check out Lake Michigan Beach weather in February.
December and March showcase notable differences in weather patterns despite having similar humidity levels of 86%. In December, temperatures can drop as low as -17°C (1°F) and typically average around 2°C (35°F) with a maximum of 15°C (60°F). The month experiences 67 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation over approximately 11 days. Conversely, March sees slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of -14°C (7°F) and an average of 3°C (37°F), peaking at 20°C (68°F). Precipitation also increases to 79 mm (3.1 in) over 12 days. For more detailed insights into March weather, you can check Lake Michigan Beach weather in March.
When comparing December and April weather, it’s evident that April experiences milder temperatures and increased precipitation. December's average temperature hovers around 2°C (35°F) with a minimum of -17°C (1°F), while April sees a more comfortable average of 8°C (46°F) and minimum temperatures of -4°C (25°F). Additionally, April typically has more rainfall, with 102 mm (4.0 in) of precipitation over 14 days, compared to December's 67 mm (2.6 in) over 11 days. Despite the increase in rainfall, the humidity levels remain quite similar, with December at 86% and April slightly higher at 87%. For those interested in specific weather conditions during April, visit Lake Michigan Beach weather in April.
December and May present stark contrasts in their weather patterns. In December, temperatures can plummet to a chilling minimum of -17°C (1°F), leading to an average of just 2°C (35°F) and a maximum of 15°C (60°F). The month sees a total precipitation of 67 mm (2.6 in) over about 11 days, combined with high humidity levels averaging 86%. In contrast, May offers a much milder climate with a minimum temperature of 1°C (34°F) and an average of 14°C (58°F), peaking at a warm 33°C (91°F). This month experiences significantly higher precipitation at 151 mm (5.9 in) across approximately 14 days, but with a slightly lower humidity level of 82%. For those interested in specific conditions, you can check the detailed forecast at Lake Michigan Beach weather in May.
December and June present vastly different weather experiences. In December, temperatures can plunge as low as -17°C (1°F) with an average around 2°C (35°F), while the maximum reaches a mild 15°C (60°F). This month sees substantial precipitation, totaling 67 mm (2.6 in) over 11 days, accompanied by high humidity at 86%, creating a cold and damp atmosphere. In contrast, June offers a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures starting at 10°C (51°F) and averaging 21°C (70°F), peaking at a pleasant 31°C (89°F). This month is wetter, with 133 mm (5.3 in) of precipitation over 12 days, though humidity is slightly lower at 81%. For those curious about June conditions specifically, you can check out Lake Michigan Beach weather in June.
December and July showcase stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -17°C (1°F) with an average around 2°C (35°F), while the maximum does not exceed 15°C (60°F). The month experiences significant humidity at 86% and receives about 67 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation over 11 days. In contrast, July boasts much milder temperatures, with lows of 16°C (60°F) and averages reaching 24°C (75°F), peaking at a warm 32°C (90°F). July also sees increased precipitation at 106 mm (4.2 in) over 12 days but enjoys a lower humidity level of 78%. For those interested in the summer vibe, you can find more information about Lake Michigan Beach weather in July.
December and August offer strikingly different weather experiences. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -17°C (1°F), with an average of 2°C (35°F) and a maximum of 15°C (60°F). This month sees an average humidity of 86% and approximately 67 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation spread over 11 days, creating a chilly and often damp atmosphere.
In contrast, August brings much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (53°F), an average of 23°C (73°F), and a high reaching up to 31°C (89°F). The humidity is slightly lower at 79%, and while August experiences similar precipitation levels of 78 mm (3.1 in) over 11 days, the conditions feel far more comfortable and inviting. For those looking to enjoy the summer weather, check out the detailed forecast at Lake Michigan Beach weather in August.
December and September present striking contrasts in weather. December typically sees much colder temperatures, with lows plummeting to -17°C (1°F) and an average temperature around 2°C (35°F), while September enjoys much milder conditions, with minimums around 6°C (43°F) and average highs reaching 20°C (67°F). Precipitation levels are relatively similar, with December receiving 67 mm (2.6 in) over 11 days and September slightly higher at 75 mm (3.0 in) over just 9 days. Additionally, December's humidity is notably higher at 86% compared to September’s 79%, contributing to a chillier feel during the winter month. For those interested in exploring summer weather specifics, Lake Michigan Beach weather in September offers valuable insights.
The weather in December is significantly colder than in October, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -17°C (1°F) to a maximum of 15°C (60°F), compared to October's milder range of 2°C (36°F) to 28°C (82°F). December also sees higher humidity levels at 86%, while October's humidity is slightly lower at 82%. Precipitation is more frequent in October, with 146 mm (5.7 in) across 16 days, whereas December experiences less overall precipitation at 67 mm (2.6 in) over 11 days. For those interested in experiencing the autumn climate by the lake, more details can be found here: Lake Michigan Beach weather in October.
In comparing the weather of December and November, December experiences a wider temperature range with minimums dropping to -17°C (1°F) and maximums capping at 15°C (60°F), leading to a chilly average of 2°C (35°F). In contrast, November sees milder temperatures, with a minimum of -8°C (17°F), an average of 5°C (42°F), and maximums reaching 22°C (72°F). Precipitation is slightly lower in December at 67 mm (2.6 in) across 11 days, while November has a total of 72 mm (2.8 in) over 12 days, highlighting a relatively wet month. Humidity levels are marginally higher in November at 87%, compared to December's 86%. For more details on November’s conditions, you can check Lake Michigan Beach weather in November.
December at Lake Michigan Beach marks a distinct shift in weather compared to other months, characterized by its cool temperatures and increased precipitation. As the year comes to a close, visitors can expect a notable drop in warmth, with chilly averages hovering around 2°C (35°F) and the occasional biting cold dipping to -17°C (1°F). The humidity levels soar to 86%, giving the air a crisp, wintry feel. This month also brings about more frequent precipitation, with roughly 11 days of rain or snow contributing to a total of 67 mm (2.6 in). For those wanting to explore the unique climate patterns that define this beautiful destination, additional insights can be found at Lake Michigan Beach Climate.