December Weather in Sault Ste. Marie, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

December in Sault Ste. Marie, United States, presents a striking contrast of temperatures, with a maximum of 12°C (53°F) and a chilling minimum plunging to -29°C (-20°F). The month averages around -5°C (23°F), creating a crisp winter atmosphere. Residents can expect approximately 67 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over 14 days, contributing to the region’s high humidity level of 92%. This unique blend of cold temperatures and moisture sets the stage for a typical Northern winter, inviting both challenges and seasonal beauty.

December Temperature in Sault Ste. Marie

In December, Sault Ste. Marie, United States, embraces the chill of winter with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -29°C (-20°F). The average temperature hovers around -5°C (23°F), creating a stark contrast to the more temperate months preceding it. Despite the cold, daytime maximums can reach up to 12°C (53°F), offering brief respites from the biting winter air. As the year closes, December's temperatures not only highlight the onset of harsh winter conditions but also mark a continuation of the deep freeze that began in November, where temperatures plummeted to -20°C (-3°F). This consistent drop indicates a clear trend towards colder weather that Sault Ste. Marie residents can expect through the winter months ahead.

December Weather in Sault Ste. Marie: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Sault Ste. Marie, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec161725365061676558473223
Data source: Temperature data for Sault Ste. Marie 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 Sault Ste. Marie

December in Sault Ste. Marie ushers in a notable shift in precipitation patterns, with an average of 67 mm (2.7 in) falling over 14 days. This month marks a seasonal transition as temperatures drop, and the landscape transforms under the weight of winter moisture. Compared to the previous months, December's precipitation is lower than the wetter early fall months like October and September, but more consistent than January’s average. The steady rainfall sets the stage for the cold, snowy winter ahead, with December contributing to the annual rainfall totals that accumulate as snow in colder months. Overall, December serves as a bridge from the autumn deluges to the serene, chilly stillness of winter in this part of the United States.

December Precipitation Trends in Sault Ste. Marie

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Sault Ste. Marie, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4663548875113741131141347867
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Sault Ste. Marie

In Sault Ste. Marie, December presents a notable humidity level of 92%, reflecting the region's trend towards increased moisture as winter sets in. Beginning the year with humidity at an impressive 95% in January, the levels experience a gradual decline through the warmer months, reaching a low of 69% in July. However, as the leaves fall and the days grow shorter, humidity begins to climb once more, peaking again in late autumn and early winter. December’s humidity is thus a reminder of the approaching cold, with the air becoming increasingly saturated as the frigid temperatures establish themselves. This cyclical pattern underscores how Sault Ste. Marie's climate transforms, balancing between the dry warmth of summer and the damp chill of winter.

December Average Humidity in Sault Ste. Marie

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Sault Ste. Marie, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec95%94%89%87%74%72%69%72%77%85%88%93%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Sault Ste. Marie

As the year comes to a close, December in Sault Ste. Marie sees a UV Index of 2, placing it in the low exposure category with a burn time of 45 minutes. This is a gentle reminder of the seasonal shift towards milder sunlight, following a trend of increasing UV values peaking in the summer months, where values reached 9 during July and June. As the year progresses, the UV Index generally declines after a high in May and June, highlighting the importance of protective measures during those peak months. By December, residents can enjoy outdoor activities with a lesser need for sun protection, making it a safe time to relish the winter scenery. For more detailed information on UV trends throughout the year, check the Sault Ste. Marie UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Sault Ste. Marie for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Sault Ste. Marie 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec245789987532
Data source: Sault Ste. Marie 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 Sault Ste. Marie

As the year draws to a close, December in Sault Ste. Marie offers a modest 104 hours of sunshine, a slight dip from the previous months but still allowing for moments of brightness in the winter chill. This month’s sunshine reflects a broader trend throughout the year, where daylight hours climb steadily from a mere 101 hours in January to a peak of 347 hours in July. The gradual increase in sunlight from the winter depths of January, through the lush blooms of spring and the vibrant summer, showcases the region’s transformation. Even as winter winds begin to set in, December serves as a gentle reminder of the sunny days gone by, with the promise of renewal just around the corner.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Sault Ste. Marie: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Sault Ste. Marie 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec101h148h232h239h305h326h347h320h258h185h123h104h
Data source: Sault Ste. Marie December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Sault Ste. Marie During December

As December rolls into Sault Ste. Marie, the likelihood of sunny weather takes a noticeable dip, with only a 16% chance of sunshine. This marks a stark contrast to the sunnier months of May and July, where residents basked in 51% and 57% chances of sun, respectively. Following a mild transition through late spring and summer, the crisp December air ushers in a season where sun-soaked days become increasingly rare. In fact, December sees one of the lowest probabilities of sunshine, paralleling the gloomy percentages of January and November. This trend highlights the shift from vibrant, sunlit landscapes to the more muted, overcast skies typical of winter, compelling locals to embrace indoor festivities as they navigate the final month of the year.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Sault Ste. Marie

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Sault Ste. Marie 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 Sault Ste. Marie experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec18%22%41%32%51%41%57%49%46%31%28%16%
Data source: Sault Ste. Marie December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Sault Ste. Marie in December

As December blankets Sault Ste. Marie in winter's chill, the city experiences its shortest daylight duration of the year, with just 8 hours of sunlight. This decline follows a gradual pattern, starting from the peak of 15 hours in the summer months of June through August, when daylight lingers long into the evenings. As autumn progresses, daylight dwindles to 10 hours in October and further decreases to 9 hours in November. The month of December marks a significant drop, signaling the depth of winter, as the community embraces the cozy, darker days while anticipating the longer, brighter days that January will eventually bring.

Average Daylight Hours in Sault Ste. Marie for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Sault Ste. Marie throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 2m10h 19m11h 57m13h 36m15h 1m15h 44m15h 21m14h 5m12h 29m10h 50m9h 22m8h 37m
Data source: Sault Ste. Marie daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Sault Ste. Marie

As December rolls in, Sault Ste. Marie experiences a noticeable uptick in wind activity, with an average speed of 4.2 m/s (9 mph), marking the highest monthly average of the year. This increase sets the stage for a brisk winter atmosphere, contrasting with the calmest winds witnessed in July at 2.6 m/s (6 mph). Following the trend of autumn's gradual wind acceleration, November reaches 3.4 m/s (8 mph), hinting at the shift towards gustier conditions. The winds steadily build from the lull of summer, peaking in December, and finally creating a palpable chill that envelops the city as it heads into the heart of winter. This dynamic shift not only emphasizes the seasonal changes but also invigorates the crisp scenery, inviting both locals and visitors to embrace the unique beauty of Sault Ste. Marie in winter's embrace.

Average December Wind Speed in Sault Ste. Marie

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Sault Ste. Marie, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.93.54.13.93.33.12.63.03.42.93.44.2 m/s
Data source: Sault Ste. Marie December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Sault Ste. Marie Compares to Other Months

The weather in Sault Ste. Marie 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 Sault Ste. Marie and find detailed weather information for every month.

In December, temperatures in Sault Ste. Marie range from a brisk minimum of -29°C (-20°F) to a milder maximum of 12°C (53°F), with an average temperature of -5°C (23°F). The month sees precipitation on about 14 days, totaling 67 mm (2.7 in), and humidity levels average around 92%. In contrast, January tends to be colder, with minimum temperatures dropping to -34°C (-28°F) and an average of -9°C (17°F), while the maximum reaches only 5°C (41°F). Precipitation is slightly less frequent, occurring on 10 days and amounting to 46 mm (1.8 in), with humidity rising to 95%. For more detailed insights, you can explore Sault Ste. Marie weather in January.

In December, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -29°C (-20°F), with an average around -5°C (23°F), and a maximum of 12°C (53°F). The month sees about 67 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation spread over 14 days, with humidity levels reaching a high of 92%. In contrast, February experiences slightly milder conditions, with minimum temperatures of -27°C (-16°F) and an average of -8°C (17°F); the maximum temperature is 7°C (45°F). Precipitation in February is slightly less at 63 mm (2.5 in) over 12 days, accompanied by an even higher humidity level of 94%. For more detailed information, you can check out Sault Ste. Marie weather in February.

In comparing the weather of December and March, both months exhibit cold temperatures, but December experiences slightly harsher conditions. The minimum temperature in December can drop to -29°C (-20°F), compared to March's minimum of -22°C (-8°F). However, both months share an identical maximum temperature of 12°C (53°F). December averages a temperature of -5°C (23°F) while March is marginally warmer at -4°C (26°F). Precipitation is more frequent in December with 67 mm (2.7 in) over 14 days, whereas March sees less at 54 mm (2.1 in) across 10 days. Notably, December has a higher humidity level at 92%, compared to March's 89%. For more detailed insights, you can refer to Sault Ste. Marie weather in March.

December and April exhibit notable differences in temperature and conditions. December typically experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -29°C (-20°F) and an average around -5°C (23°F), reaching a maximum of 12°C (53°F). In contrast, April sees a significant warming trend, with minimum temperatures of -13°C (10°F) and averages rising to 2°C (37°F), peaking at 17°C (64°F). While both months have similar precipitation days (14), April's total precipitation is slightly higher at 88 mm (3.5 in) compared to December's 67 mm (2.7 in). The humidity is slightly lower in April at 87%, compared to December's 92%. For more details on the specific conditions in April, you can check Sault Ste. Marie weather in April.

December weather is characterized by its harsh cold, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -29°C (-20°F) to a slightly milder high of 12°C (53°F), averaging around -5°C (23°F). This month also experiences high humidity levels at 92% and significant precipitation, occurring on approximately 14 days with a total of 67 mm (2.7 in). In stark contrast, May offers a much more temperate climate, with minimum temperatures hovering around -3°C (27°F) and maximums reaching a pleasant 26°C (79°F), averaging 10°C (50°F). Although May sees slightly higher precipitation at 75 mm (2.9 in), it falls over just 9 days, and the humidity is significantly lower at 74%. For a detailed look at what to expect, check out Sault Ste. Marie weather in May.

December and June showcase a striking contrast in weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plummet to a chilling -29°C (-20°F) at their lowest and average around -5°C (23°F), while reaching a maximum of 12°C (53°F). This winter month is characterized by high humidity at 92% and 67 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over 14 days, often resulting in snow. In stark contrast, June experiences milder temperatures with a minimum of 3°C (38°F), an average of 16°C (61°F), and highs peaking at 29°C (85°F). With 113 mm (4.4 in) of precipitation over just 10 days and lower humidity at 72%, June sets the stage for a much more pleasant and vibrant climate. For a closer look at June conditions, check out Sault Ste. Marie weather in June.

December and July present stark contrasts in weather. In December, temperatures can plummet to a chilling minimum of -29°C (-20°F), with an average of -5°C (23°F) and a maximum reaching only 12°C (53°F). The month is characterized by high humidity levels at 92% and considerable precipitation, totaling 67 mm (2.7 in) over approximately 14 days. In contrast, July experiences much milder conditions, with minimum temperatures around 9°C (49°F), an average of 19°C (67°F), and maximums soaring to 30°C (87°F). Although precipitation rises slightly to 74 mm (2.9 in), it occurs on only about 7 days, and humidity is more comfortable at 69%. This makes July a welcoming time compared to the frigid and often overcast December. For more details, check Sault Ste. Marie weather in July.

In December, Sault Ste. Marie experiences a starkly colder climate, with temperatures ranging from a frigid minimum of -29°C (-20°F) to a maximum of 12°C (53°F), and an average of just -5°C (23°F). The month is quite damp, with 67 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over 14 days and a high humidity level of 92%. In contrast, August brings a much milder atmosphere, characterized by minimum temperatures of 6°C (44°F) and maximums reaching 28°C (83°F), leading to a comfortable average of 19°C (66°F). While August sees slightly more precipitation at 112 mm (4.4 in) over 11 days, the overall humidity is lower at 72%. For more details on the summer climate, check out Sault Ste. Marie weather in August.

December and September exhibit strikingly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures can drop as low as -29°C (-20°F), with an average of -5°C (23°F) and a maximum of 12°C (53°F). The month sees considerable precipitation, accumulating to 67 mm (2.7 in) over 14 days, and the air is quite humid at 92%. In contrast, September offers a much milder climate with minimum temperatures around 2°C (36°F) and an average of 14°C (58°F), peaking at 29°C (85°F). Although September receives more precipitation, totaling 114 mm (4.5 in) over 13 days, the humidity is lower at 77%. For more detailed insights, you can check Sault Ste. Marie weather in September.

The weather in December is characterized by much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -29°C (-20°F) and an average of -5°C (23°F), while October enjoys milder conditions, featuring a minimum of -8°C (19°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F). Additionally, December experiences less precipitation than October, with 67 mm (2.7 in) over 14 days compared to October's 134 mm (5.3 in) across 16 days. Despite December being colder, the humidity is slightly higher at 92%, compared to October's 85%. For more details on October's conditions, you can visit Sault Ste. Marie weather in October.

When comparing the weather in December to November, it's evident that December experiences colder temperatures overall, with an average of -5°C (23°F) compared to November's 0°C (32°F). The minimum temperatures in December drop significantly to -29°C (-20°F), while November's minimum is milder at -20°C (-3°F). Precipitation is slightly lower in December at 67 mm (2.7 in) across 14 days, compared to November's 78 mm (3.1 in) over 15 days. Additionally, December's humidity is slightly higher at 92% versus November's 88%. For more detailed insights on November's weather, check out Sault Ste. Marie weather in November.

Compare Sault Ste. Marie's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Sault Ste. Marie

As December settles over Sault Ste. Marie, the weather embodies a striking contrast to the milder months that precede it. With temperatures plunging into the negatives and a notable increase in humidity to around 92%, this month marks a dramatic shift into winter's embrace. Precipitation occurs on 14 days, adding a crisp chill to the air, while the average temperature hovers around -5°C (23°F), making it a stark departure from the more temperate fall. This transition sets the stage for a wintry wonderland, where the landscape transforms and the chill invites cozy gatherings. For a deeper understanding of the climate across the year, explore Sault Ste. Marie Climate.