December Weather in Mackinaw City, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

December in Mackinaw City offers a unique blend of chilly temperatures and wintry beauty, characterized by a maximum of 13°C (56°F) and an average of -2°C (29°F). With temperatures dipping as low as -19°C (-1°F), the month presents a frosty ambiance. Expect 77 mm (3.0 in) of precipitation over approximately 15 days, contributing to the region’s 89% humidity. This festive season transforms Mackinaw City into a picturesque winter wonderland, inviting visitors to experience the charm of its snowy landscapes and cozy holiday atmosphere.

December Temperature in Mackinaw City

In Mackinaw City, December ushers in the heart of winter, with temperatures dipping significantly as the year comes to a close. The month features chilly extremes, with a minimum of -19°C (-1°F) and an average temperature hanging around -2°C (29°F). While the maximum temperature can reach a relatively mild 13°C (56°F), the overall climate remains brisk, laying a stark contrast to the warmer months earlier in the year. As December progresses, the consistent drop in temperatures reflects a clear seasonal trend, transitioning from crisp autumn days to the deep chills of mid-winter, setting the stage for a serene snowy landscape that characterizes this bustling tourist destination.

December Weather in Mackinaw City: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Mackinaw City, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec222129385061686861503628
Data source: Temperature data for Mackinaw City generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

December Precipitation in Mackinaw City

In Mackinaw City, December brings a notable shift in precipitation patterns as the year draws to a close. With an average rainfall of 77 mm (3.0 in) spread over 15 days, this month marks a slight increase from November's 74 mm (2.9 in). The consistent rain, coupled with cold temperatures, sets the stage for a wintry landscape. Notably, December has a higher number of precipitation days compared to earlier months, reminiscent of October's peak at 17 days but more aligned with the wetter late fall conditions. This transition highlights a trend where the city's precipitation steadily accumulates towards the end of the year, creating a stark contrast that enhances the charm of the season while also signaling the approach of winter.

December Precipitation Trends in Mackinaw City

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Mackinaw City, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec50645794891008695971387477
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Mackinaw City

In Mackinaw City, December brings a notable humidity level of 89%, marking a slight increase from the 88% experienced in November. This trend indicates a persistent moisture presence as the year draws to a close, continuing the pattern seen since the beginning of the year when humidity levels hovered around 92% in January. As the seasons transition, humidity gradually decreases from spring onwards, reaching its lowest point of 75% during the summer months of June, July, and August. However, as autumn approaches, humidity levels begin to rise again, showcasing a cycle that reflects the region's climatic shifts. Ultimately, December's humidity serves as a reminder of winter's moisture-laden embrace, prevalent as Mackinaw City prepares for its cold, snowy months ahead.

December Average Humidity in Mackinaw City

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Mackinaw City, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec92%91%87%86%79%75%75%75%79%85%88%89%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Mackinaw City

As the year winds down, December in Mackinaw City brings a return to lower UV Index levels, with a reading of 2 indicating a low exposure category and a burn time of 45 minutes. This trend showcases a gradual decrease in UV radiation from the peak summer months, where indices soared to 9 in May through July, marked by very high exposure risks. The shift in seasons is evident, as spring and fall months present increasingly moderate levels of UV radiation. Overall, December provides a much more forgiving environment for sun-seekers, encouraging a more relaxed outdoor experience. For detailed information on UV exposure throughout the year, visit Mackinaw City UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Mackinaw City for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Mackinaw City 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec245799987532
Data source: Mackinaw City 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 Mackinaw City

In Mackinaw City, December brings a gentle shift as daylight hours dwindle to 99, contrasting sharply with the vibrant sunshine of the summer months. While December offers significantly less sunshine than the peak of 360 hours in July, it still holds its own amidst the colder climate, easing into a winter landscape. The gradual decline from November's 121 hours to December’s count mirrors the seasonal transition, inviting both reflection and comfort. As the year wraps up, the crisp days infused with occasional sunshine remind us of the splendid months just past, while hinting at the brighter days that lie ahead as spring approaches.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Mackinaw City: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Mackinaw City 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec87h136h228h239h304h331h360h332h275h192h121h99h
Data source: Mackinaw City December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Mackinaw City During December

In Mackinaw City, the likelihood of sunny weather in December significantly dips to 16%, making it one of the cloudier months of the year. This decline follows a trend where the chances of sunshine decrease as the year winds down; while December's sun probability is relatively low, it’s notable that the winter months generally see less sunlight compared to the spring and summer, where figures surge to over 50%. As the temperatures drop and the landscape transforms into a winter wonderland, residents and visitors alike must prepare for the more frequent gray skies characteristic of this time of year.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Mackinaw City

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Mackinaw City 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 Mackinaw City experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec13%19%39%34%49%45%55%50%51%34%30%16%
Data source: Mackinaw City December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Mackinaw City in December

In Mackinaw City, the rhythmic cycle of daylight hours reveals a clear seasonal trend. As winter settles in, December marks the annual low point, with only 8 hours of daylight. This reduction in sunlight stands in stark contrast to the summer months, where daylight peaks at a generous 15 hours in June and July. As the year progresses, daylight gradually increases from a mere 9 hours in January to its springtime ascent, reaching 14 hours in May. However, as the colder months arrive, the hours once again dwindle, highlighting the stark contrast between winter’s brief daylight and the longer, brighter days of summer. This cyclical pattern showcases Mackinaw City's unique relationship with the changing seasons, offering residents and visitors a chance to appreciate the beauty of each phase.

Average Daylight Hours in Mackinaw City for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Mackinaw City throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 7m10h 22m11h 57m13h 34m14h 57m15h 38m15h 15m14h 1m12h 28m10h 52m9h 27m8h 43m
Data source: Mackinaw City daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Mackinaw City

As December sweeps into Mackinaw City, the winds take on a notable intensity, averaging 5.8 m/s (13 mph), a gusty end to the year that typically marks the peak of wind speeds for the month. This seasonal spike contrasts sharply with the quieter summer months, where winds barely reach 3.4 m/s (8 mph) in July, creating a much calmer atmosphere. Interestingly, the transition from autumn to winter reveals a trend of increasing wind speeds; November also showcases robust winds at 5.2 m/s (12 mph), hinting at winter's approach. As temperatures drop and the landscape transforms, these December winds bring not only a chill but also an invigorating energy, making it a captivating time for visitors and locals alike to embrace the natural beauty of the season.

Average December Wind Speed in Mackinaw City

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Mackinaw City, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.24.75.24.74.14.03.43.74.34.05.25.8 m/s
Data source: Mackinaw City December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Mackinaw City Compares to Other Months

The weather in Mackinaw 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 Mackinaw City and find detailed weather information for every month.

In Mackinaw City, December tends to be slightly milder than January, with average temperatures ranging from -2°C (29°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F). In contrast, January experiences colder conditions, with average temperatures dropping to -5°C (22°F) and maximums reaching only 7°C (44°F). While December sees a bit more precipitation with 77 mm (3.0 in) over 15 days, January has lower precipitation at 50 mm (2.0 in) across 12 days. Humidity levels also rise slightly in January, reaching 92% compared to December's 89%. For more details, you can check Mackinaw City weather in January.

In December, Mackinaw City experiences a slightly milder climate compared to February, with average temperatures around -2°C (29°F), while February's average drops to -6°C (22°F). Both months see significant cold, with December's minimum temperature reaching -19°C (-1°F) and February dipping even lower at -20°C (-4°F). Precipitation is relatively consistent, with December receiving 77 mm (3.0 in) over about 15 days, compared to February's 64 mm (2.5 in) over 13 days. Humidity levels remain high in both months, at 89% in December and 91% in February, contributing to the overall chill in the air. For more details on specific conditions, check out Mackinaw City weather in February.

December and March in Mackinaw City present distinctly cold climates, yet with notable differences. In December, temperatures typically range from a frigid -19°C (-1°F) to a milder maximum of 13°C (56°F), with an average temperature hovering around -2°C (29°F). The month faces considerable precipitation, averaging 77 mm (3.0 in) over 15 days, and an elevated humidity level of 89%. Conversely, March sees slightly warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures of -18°C (0°F) and maximums reaching 16°C (61°F), maintaining the same average of -2°C (29°F). Precipitation decreases to 57 mm (2.3 in) over just 9 days, accompanied by a slightly lower humidity of 87%. For a more detailed look at the weather patterns, check out Mackinaw City weather in March.

In Mackinaw City, December weather is characterized by significantly colder temperatures, with a minimum of -19°C (-1°F) and an average around -2°C (29°F), compared to the relatively milder conditions in April, where temperatures range from a minimum of -9°C (16°F) to an average of 3°C (38°F). December also sees maximum temperatures only reaching up to 13°C (56°F), while April can warm up to 18°C (65°F). While both months experience considerable precipitation—77 mm (3.0 in) in December versus 94 mm (3.7 in) in April—the number of rainy days is similar, with December receiving precipitation on 15 days and April on 13 days. Additionally, December tends to be slightly more humid, registering at 89% compared to April's 85%. For a detailed look at what to expect during April, you can check out Mackinaw City weather in April.

The weather in December and May presents a striking contrast, showcasing the seasonal shift from winter to spring. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -19°C (-1°F), with an average of -2°C (29°F) and a maximum of 13°C (56°F), making it a chilly time of year. This month also experiences higher humidity at 89% and receives substantial precipitation over 15 days, totaling 77 mm (3.0 in). In comparison, May welcomes milder weather, where temperatures range from a minimum of -2°C (28°F) to an average of 10°C (50°F) and reaching highs of 27°C (80°F). Despite having slightly more precipitation at 89 mm (3.5 in), May has fewer wet days, contributing to a lower humidity level of 79%. For a detailed look at what to expect, check out Mackinaw City weather in May.

In Mackinaw City, December weather is characterized by frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -19°C (−1°F) and an average around -2°C (29°F). The month sees a fair amount of precipitation, totaling 77 mm (3.0 in) over approximately 15 days, and the humidity remains high at 89%. In contrast, June brings a much more pleasant climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F) and an average of 16°C (62°F). Although June has slightly higher precipitation at 100 mm (4.0 in) over about 10 days, the overall humidity is lower at 75%. For more information, you can check Mackinaw City weather in June.

December and July present stark contrasts in weather. In December, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -19°C (-1°F), with an average hovering around -2°C (29°F) and a maximum of 13°C (56°F). The month experiences high humidity at 89% and receives precipitation on 15 days, totaling 77 mm (3.0 in). Conversely, July brings a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures of 10°C (50°F) and an average of 20°C (69°F), peaking at a warm 31°C (88°F). Despite slightly higher precipitation at 86 mm (3.4 in), it falls over fewer days—only 9—resulting in lower humidity at 75%. For a more detailed look at July's weather, you can visit Mackinaw City weather in July.

December and August in Mackinaw City present stark contrasts in weather. December temperatures can plummet to a chilling minimum of -19°C (-1°F), with an average of -2°C (29°F) and a maximum reaching only 13°C (56°F). The month also sees considerable precipitation, totaling 77 mm (3.0 in) over 15 days, combined with high humidity at 89%. In contrast, August enjoys a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures around 8°C (48°F), average temperatures of 20°C (68°F), and maximums soaring to 31°C (87°F). August experiences slightly higher precipitation, totaling 95 mm (3.7 in) over just 9 days, but the humidity is notably lower at 75%. For more detailed insights, you can visit Mackinaw City weather in August.

December and September present stark contrasts in weather. December is characterized by much colder temperatures, with an average of -2°C (29°F) and occasional lows plunging to -19°C (-1°F). In contrast, September enjoys milder conditions, with average temperatures around 16°C (61°F) and highs reaching up to 29°C (85°F). While both months see a fair amount of precipitation, September's 96 mm (3.8 in) over 11 days offers a wetter experience compared to December's slightly lower 77 mm (3.0 in) over 15 days. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in December at 89%, compared to September's 79%. For more detailed information, you can explore Mackinaw City weather in September.

In comparing the weather between October and December, one can see a marked shift in temperatures and conditions. October enjoys milder temperatures with an average of 10°C (50°F), reaching highs of 24°C (76°F), while December presents a much colder climate, with average temperatures dropping to -2°C (29°F) and maximums of only 13°C (56°F). Additionally, October experiences higher precipitation levels, totaling 138 mm (5.4 in) over 17 days, compared to December's 77 mm (3.0 in) with precipitation occurring on 15 days. Humidity levels are also relatively high in both months, peaking at 89% in December, slightly higher than October's 85%. For a more detailed look at the October weather specifically, you can visit Mackinaw City weather in October.

December weather in Mackinaw City is notably colder than November, with average temperatures dropping from 2°C (37°F) in November to -2°C (29°F) in December. The minimum temperatures are also lower in December, plunging to -19°C (-1°F) compared to November's -12°C (11°F). While both months experience similar levels of precipitation, December sees slightly more at 77 mm (3.0 in) over 15 days, compared to November's 74 mm (2.9 in) over 14 days. Humidity levels remain comparable, with December hitting 89% and November at 88%. For further details on November weather patterns, visit Mackinaw City weather in November.

Compare Mackinaw City's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Mackinaw City

As December settles over Mackinaw City, the weather takes a notable shift compared to the milder months of the year. With an average temperature dipping to -2°C (29°F), residents and visitors can expect chillier conditions, punctuated by occasional precipitation on roughly half the days of the month. The high humidity of 89% often makes the cold feel even more penetrating, marking a distinct transition from the more temperate fall months. As snowflakes begin to fall, the landscape transforms into a winter wonderland, making this month unique in its raw beauty and harsh climate. To learn more about seasonal trends and averages, visit Mackinaw City Climate.