December Weather in Petoskey, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

In Petoskey, United States, December unveils a dynamic climate, characterized by an average temperature of -2°C (29°F), with daytime highs reaching up to 14°C (57°F) and plunging to a brisk -17°C (2°F) at night. This month sees a notable precipitation total of 91 mm (3.6 in) over approximately 17 days, contributing to the region's 87% humidity. Visitors can expect a wintry mix that defines the season, creating a picturesque yet chilly atmosphere in this charming locale.

December Temperature in Petoskey

In December, Petoskey, United States, ushers in the heart of winter with temperatures that reflect the deepening chill. The month sees minimum temperatures dropping to -17°C (2°F), setting a cold tone as the average hovers around -2°C (29°F), a stark contrast to the warmer months preceding it. However, the frosty air is occasionally softened by daytime highs reaching 14°C (57°F). This gradual decline in temperature compared to November suggests a more pronounced winter onset, with snowy days likely to blanket the landscape, creating a picturesque winter wonderland. As the year draws to a close, Petoskey’s December climate underscores the beauty of the season, inviting both residents and visitors to embrace the brisk air and seasonal festivities.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Petoskey, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec232330394960686861503729
Data source: Temperature data for Petoskey 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 Petoskey

In Petoskey, December wraps up the year with an average precipitation of 91 mm (3.6 in), spread over 17 days. This signal signifies a slight dip compared to the previous month, November, which received 97 mm but also had the same number of precipitation days. Notably, December's precipitation reflects a trend seen throughout the fall months, where rainfall tends to be consistent yet varies, indicating the shift towards winter. As the year closes, the fluctuating moisture levels highlight the transition from the milder autumn climate towards the more frigid winter conditions, offering a reminder of nature's rhythmic cycles.

December Precipitation Trends in Petoskey

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Petoskey, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec657663991081038997901599792
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Petoskey

In December, Petoskey's humidity levels settle at a moderately high 87%, maintaining the trend seen throughout the colder months. This winter humidity reflects a consistent pattern, beginning with a peak of 91% in both January and February, before gradually decreasing from March to July, where humidity drops to its annual low of 75%. As the year transitions back into the chillier seasons, humidity begins to creep back up, demonstrating a cyclic return to the higher moisture levels prevalent in November. Overall, December's humidity marks a return to mid-level moisture, setting the stage for a typically crisp and cold Midwestern winter.

December Average Humidity in Petoskey

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Petoskey, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec91%91%87%87%82%79%76%76%79%83%86%87%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Petoskey

As the year winds down, December in Petoskey sees a significant drop in UV exposure, with the UV Index at a low 2. This not only comes with a more leisurely burn time of 45 minutes, allowing for extended outdoor enjoyment without the worry of sunburn, but also highlights a clear trend—after a peak of very high UV levels from May through August, the sun’s intensity is noticeably diminished by winter. This seasonal shift is a stark contrast to the heightened caution needed during the summer months, when the UV Index reached as high as 9. As you navigate the crisp air of December, remember that while the risks are low, it's always wise to stay informed about local UV conditions. For more detailed information on UV levels throughout the year, visit the Petoskey UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Petoskey for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Petoskey 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: Petoskey 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 Petoskey

As December unfolds in Petoskey, the daylight hours begin to dwindle, offering just 99 hours of sunshine—a gentle farewell to the vibrant brightness of summer months. This reflects a gradual descent from a dazzling 363 hours in July, where sunlight graced the city the most. Following the peak of summer, the sunshine hours steadily decline through the autumn, with September still enjoying a respectable 279 hours before November's 127 hours signal the onset of winter. Despite the reduced daylight, December's soft glow casts a magical charm over Petoskey, inviting residents to embrace the serene beauty of the season as nature transitions to its winter palette.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Petoskey: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Petoskey 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec83h140h228h243h305h335h363h336h279h195h127h99h
Data source: Petoskey December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Petoskey During December

In Petoskey, December tends to usher in cloudy skies and chilly temperatures, with a mere 14% chance of sun, marking it as one of the least sunny months of the year. This trend highlights a significant drop from the 28% likelihood in November, as the winter months descend upon the area. As the year progresses from the bright days of summer—where chances soar to 52%—the sunlight diminishes steadily, particularly from late fall into winter. The gradual decline in sunny days from January’s modest 9% to the slightly better odds of February's 19% suggests that while December may not offer much sunshine, the promise of brighter days is just around the corner.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Petoskey

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Petoskey 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 Petoskey experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9%19%40%36%49%44%52%52%52%34%28%14%
Data source: Petoskey December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Petoskey in December

As the year winds down in Petoskey, the daylight duration experiences a steady decline, with December shining down for just 8 hours each day. This reduction marks the darkest month, following a gradual decrease from the 15 hours of sunlight enjoyed during the vibrant summer months of June and July. As autumn melts into winter, the daylight dwindles from November's 9 hours, taking a noticeable dip as the community prepares for the festive season. The contrast is striking: after basking in the generous light of spring and summer, residents now embrace the cozy, candlelit evenings of winter, reflecting the cyclical nature of the seasons in this charming lakeside town.

Average Daylight Hours in Petoskey for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Petoskey throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 10m10h 24m11h 57m13h 33m14h 54m15h 35m15h 12m13h 59m12h 28m10h 53m9h 29m8h 46m
Data source: Petoskey daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Petoskey

In December, Petoskey experiences a noticeable uptick in average wind speed, reaching 6.1 m/s (14 mph), making it one of the windiest months of the year. This surge marks a shift from the calmer summer months—July and August, where the winds dipped to as low as 3.5 m/s (8 mph). As autumn gives way to winter, the wind speeds escalate from 5.5 m/s (12 mph) in November, highlighting the transition that typically accompanies the changing seasons. This seasonal pattern reveals a trend where the winds tend to gain strength as the year closes, ushering in the chill of winter. Residents can anticipate brisk, invigorating gusts that invigorate the landscape, adding to the charm of December in this beautiful lakeside town.

Average December Wind Speed in Petoskey

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Petoskey, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.65.05.54.64.13.83.53.64.64.15.56.1 m/s
Data source: Petoskey December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Petoskey Compares to Other Months

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

December and January weather in Petoskey show notable differences in temperature and precipitation. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -17°C (2°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), with an average of -2°C (29°F) and 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation occurring over 17 days. The humidity during this month is relatively high, averaging at 87%. Conversely, January experiences colder conditions with a minimum temperature of -20°C (-4°F) and a maximum of 8°C (47°F), leading to a slightly lower average of -5°C (23°F). Precipitation also decreases to 65 mm (2.6 in) over 14 days, accompanied by an increase in humidity to 91%. For a more detailed look at January weather specifics, you can visit Petoskey weather in January.

In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -17°C (2°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), with an average of -2°C (29°F) and a higher humidity level of 87%. The month sees approximately 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 17 days. In contrast, February is slightly colder, with a minimum temperature of -18°C (1°F) and a maximum of 10°C (51°F), averaging -5°C (23°F). February experiences less precipitation overall, at 76 mm (3.0 in) over 16 days, and a slight increase in humidity to 91%. For more details on February weather patterns, check Petoskey weather in February.

In December, temperatures can drop as low as -17°C (2°F), with an average of -2°C (29°F) and a maximum reaching 14°C (57°F). The month also sees considerable precipitation, totaling 91 mm (3.6 in) over approximately 17 days, all while maintaining a high humidity level of 87%. In contrast, March experiences a similar minimum temperature of -17°C (2°F), but the average rises slightly to -1°C (30°F) and can peak at 17°C (63°F). Additionally, March brings a milder precipitation of 63 mm (2.5 in) spread across 12 days, yet it retains the same 87% humidity. For more detailed information, you can check Petoskey weather in March.

In December, the weather is notably colder, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -17°C (2°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), while April sees a milder variation, with minimum temperatures of -9°C (16°F) and highs reaching 20°C (68°F). Although December experiences slightly lower precipitation at 91 mm (3.6 in) over 17 days, April has a comparable rainfall of 99 mm (3.9 in) across 14 days. Despite both months sharing the same humidity level of 87%, the overall weather in April offers a more comfortable and warmer atmosphere suitable for outdoor activities. For more detailed information, you can check Petoskey weather in April.

In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -17°C (2°F), with an average of -2°C (29°F) and a maximum of 14°C (57°F), creating a chilly winter environment characterized by high humidity at 87%. The month sees substantial precipitation, totaling 91 mm (3.6 in) over approximately 17 days. In contrast, May offers a much milder climate with minimums around -2°C (29°F), average temperatures of 10°C (49°F), and highs reaching up to 29°C (84°F). This month receives slightly more precipitation at 108 mm (4.3 in) but over fewer days, just 11, and maintains a lower humidity level of 82%. For a detailed look at the weather conditions during May, check out Petoskey weather in May.

December and June present contrasting weather patterns in Petoskey. In December, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -17°C (2°F), with an average of -2°C (29°F) and a maximum of 14°C (57°F), accompanied by high humidity levels at 87%. The month also sees significant precipitation, with 91 mm (3.6 in) falling over 17 days. In stark contrast, June boasts milder temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (39°F), an average of 16°C (60°F), and a maximum reaching 28°C (82°F). Although it experiences slightly higher precipitation at 103 mm (4.1 in) over just 12 days, the humidity is lower at 79%. For more details, visit Petoskey weather in June.

December and July present stark contrasts in weather patterns. December typically sees frigid temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -17°C (2°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), with an average temperature hovering around -2°C (29°F). This cold winter month experiences significant precipitation over 17 days, resulting in a humidity level of 87%. In contrast, July boasts a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), averaging 20°C (68°F). The summer month receives slightly less precipitation—89 mm (3.5 in)—but over only 9 days, and the humidity is more comfortable at 75%. For a detailed look at July weather in Petoskey, you can refer to Petoskey weather in July.

December and August present stark contrasts in weather patterns. December features frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -17°C (2°F) and an average of -2°C (29°F), while August boasts a much warmer climate, characterized by a minimum of 10°C (50°F) and an average of 20°C (68°F). Precipitation levels are relatively close, with December receiving 91 mm (3.6 in) over 17 days, and August slightly higher at 97 mm (3.8 in) over just 10 days. The humidity in December is also notable at 87%, compared to 76% in August, creating a more comfortable atmosphere during the summer months. For those interested in specifics, you can find more about the weather details for the summer at Petoskey weather in August.

December and September showcase starkly contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures plummet, with minimums reaching as low as -17°C (2°F) and average temperatures hovering around -2°C (29°F), while September enjoys much milder conditions, with minimums around 5°C (41°F) and an average of 16°C (62°F). Precipitation levels are similar, with December receiving 91 mm (3.6 in) over 17 days and September slightly lower at 90 mm (3.5 in) over 12 days; however, the higher humidity in December at 87% contrasts with September's more comfortable 79%. For a closer look at September’s weather details, visit Petoskey weather in September.

When comparing the weather in December to that of October, it becomes clear that December is significantly colder, with average temperatures around -2°C (29°F) compared to October's milder average of 10°C (50°F). In December, temperatures can plunge as low as -17°C (2°F), while October enjoys a maximum of 24°C (75°F). Additionally, precipitation varies; October experiences more rainfall (159 mm) over 18 days, while December sees less precipitation (91 mm) across 17 days. Humidity levels are similar, with December at 87% and October slightly lower at 83%. For detailed insights on October weather patterns, check out Petoskey weather in October.

In comparing the weather of December and November, December tends to be colder overall, showcasing a notable drop in average temperatures from November's highs of 21°C (70°F) to just -2°C (29°F). The minimum temperatures in December can plunge to -17°C (2°F), while November's minimums are slightly higher at -13°C (10°F). Additionally, both months see similar levels of precipitation, with December receiving 91 mm (3.6 in) over 17 days compared to November's 97 mm (3.8 in) across 18 days. Humidity levels remain quite high in both months, with December at 87% and November slightly lower at 86%. For more detailed insights into November's climate, you can check Petoskey weather in November.

Compare Petoskey's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Petoskey

As December arrives in Petoskey, the weather shifts dramatically, ushering in a season of cold and dampness that sets it apart from the milder months. With average temperatures dipping to frigid lows, the landscape is often blanketed in frost and snow, unlike the warmer days of autumn. This month typically sees an increase in precipitation, with rain and snow showers making their appearance on nearly half the days, contributing to a notable rise in humidity levels. As residents bundle up, they are reminded that December in Petoskey is not just another month but the onset of winter's embrace. For a more detailed overview, visit Petoskey Climate.