Last updated: February 24, 2025
December in Duluth, United States, is marked by a wide range of temperatures, with daily maximums reaching a chilly 9°C (48°F), while the average plunges to a frigid -5°C (23°F). The month can witness bone-chilling minimums as low as -26°C (-15°F), making it essential for residents and visitors to bundle up. With 67 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days, snow often blankets the city, contributing to a 91% humidity level that enhances the wintery atmosphere. Embrace the season's beauty while preparing for its brisk realities!
In December, Duluth, United States experiences a notable drop in temperatures as winter fully settles in. With a minimum reaching -26°C (-15°F) and an average around -5°C (23°F), the chill sets a stark contrast against the relatively milder temperatures of autumn. The maximum daytime temperature may climb to 9°C (48°F), but the overall feel is decidedly brisk. This month marks a continuation of the frigid trend seen in November, which had just begun to plunge below freezing. As the year wraps up, the temperatures signal the onset of deeper winter, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the beauty of snow-laden landscapes and cozy indoor gatherings.
December in Duluth sees a notable increase in precipitation, with an average of 67 mm (2.6 in) falling over approximately 10 days. This marks a shift from the drier months preceding it, as November recorded only 52 mm (2.0 in). The trend into December is characterized by a consistent uptick in both precipitation amount and frequency, culminating in a colder, wetter winter season that lays the groundwork for the snow-covered landscape that defines the region. With December's precipitation slightly lower than the summer peaks but still substantial, it signals the beginning of winter's grip while maintaining a rhythm of moisture that fuels the lakes and rivers into the new year.
In Duluth, United States, December brings a return to high humidity levels, registering at 91%. This marks a slight decrease from the post-fall spike of 87% observed in November but still remains significantly above the dryer months of summer. Notably, the trend reveals a consistent pattern where winter months, particularly January and February, sustain a high humidity rate of 93%. As the year progresses, humidity generally shows a declining trend from the spring peak of 85% in April down to a low of 70% in July, before bouncing back in the fall. December’s humidity level, while slightly lower than early winter, reflects the transition into colder months, reinforcing Duluth's characteristic dampness during this season.
As December arrives in Duluth, United States, the UV Index drops to a low 2, indicating a significant decrease in sun intensity compared to the peak summer months. This reduction in UV exposure allows for a more leisurely outdoor experience, with a minimized risk of sunburn—about 45 minutes of unprotected sun exposure is generally safe. Following a trend of decreasing UV levels since the summer's high of 9 in both June and July, December invites residents to enjoy the crisp winter air without the burning sun overhead. The consistent decline from the earlier months reinforces the importance of monitoring UV levels year-round. For more detailed insights, visit Duluth UV Index.
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As December rolls in, Duluth experiences a notable shift in sunlight, with 143 hours of brilliant sunshine illuminating the winter landscape. This marks a gentle decline from the autumnal glow of November, which captured 156 hours of daylight. While December's sunshine may seem limited compared to the vibrant months of May and July, when residents basked in 297 and 355 hours respectively, it still provides a warm glow amidst the chilly temperatures. The trend throughout the year reveals a steady peak during the summer months, with sunlight gradually tapering off as winter approaches. Despite this reduction, the December sun brings a serene charm that complements the soft, snowy scenery, inviting Duluthians to embrace the winter season while relishing the crisp, fresh air.
Duluth experiences a noticeable decline in sunny weather as the year draws to a close, with December showing a mere 21% chance of sunshine. This is part of a broader trend observed throughout the colder months, where the likelihood of sun decreases significantly from the relatively bright days of summer, which boast over 60% chance of sun in July. As autumn fades, the shift to December brings fewer sunny days, reflecting a seasonal pattern that encourages cozy indoor activities and the beauty of a snowy landscape. Those dreaming of a bright December in Duluth may want to prepare for clouds rather than rays, as the sunshine becomes a rare winter delight.
As the calendar turns to December, Duluth experiences its shortest daylight duration of the year, basking in only 8 hours of daylight. This significant dip follows a gradual increase throughout the spring and summer months, where daylight reaches a peak of 15 hours in June and July. The transition into autumn sees a steady decline, mirroring the earlier ascent. By December, the diminishing light serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of seasons, creating a cozy atmosphere as residents brace for the long winter ahead. With daylight beginning to lengthen once more in January, the community eagerly anticipates the return of brighter days.
As December sweeps into Duluth, the wind begins to dance with a steady vigor; averaging 5.5 m/s (12 mph), it creates a brisk atmosphere that hints at the onset of winter. This increase in wind speed follows a notable rise from November’s average of 5.6 m/s (13 mph), showcasing a seasonal trend where the months leading into winter often exhibit stronger gusts. Interestingly, while December maintains a robust wind profile, it is slightly less blustery than November, suggesting a potential shift towards more sustained, yet cooler, breezes. As the year wraps up, Duluth’s December winds remind us of the dynamic nature of local weather, making it both a captivating and chillier time to be outdoors.
The weather in Duluth 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 Duluth and find detailed weather information for every month.
In December, the weather is relatively milder with average temperatures around -5°C (23°F) and a maximum of 9°C (48°F), while January sees a further drop in temperatures, averaging -10°C (15°F) with a maximum of only 5°C (41°F). December experiences more precipitation, totaling 67 mm (2.6 in) over approximately 10 days, whereas January has significantly less at 25 mm (1.0 in) across just 6 days. The humidity levels are similar, hovering around 91% in December and slightly higher at 93% in January. For more detailed information, check out Duluth weather in January.
December and February exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. December experiences milder temperatures, with an average of -5°C (23°F) compared to February's colder average of -10°C (14°F). While December has a maximum temperature of 9°C (48°F), February's peak only reaches 8°C (47°F). Precipitation in December is higher, with 67 mm (2.6 in) over 10 days, whereas February sees only 33 mm (1.3 in) across 7 days. Both months have high humidity levels, with December at 91% and February slightly higher at 93%. For a more detailed look into February weather, visit Duluth weather in February.
December and March exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. December temperatures range from a frigid minimum of -26°C (-15°F) to a maximum of 9°C (48°F), averaging around -5°C (23°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 67 mm (2.6 in) over approximately 10 days, coupled with high humidity at 91%. In contrast, March sees slightly milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from -22°C (-8°F) to a maximum of 10°C (51°F) and an average of -3°C (28°F). Precipitation decreases to 53 mm (2.1 in) over 6 days, and humidity levels also drop slightly to 89%. For a closer look at March weather specifics, check out Duluth weather in March.
In December, the weather in Duluth is characterized by much colder temperatures, with averages hovering around -5°C (23°F) and minimums plunging to -26°C (-15°F), creating a frigid winter atmosphere. The month experiences an average of 67 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation over about 10 days, accompanied by high humidity at 91%. In contrast, April brings a noticeable shift as temperatures rise, with averages at 2°C (35°F) and maximums reaching 18°C (65°F), marking the transition to spring. Precipitation slightly increases to 74 mm (2.9 in) over the same number of days, while humidity decreases to 85%. For more detailed information, check out the Duluth weather in April.
December and May present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plummet to a chilling minimum of -26°C (-15°F), with an average of -5°C (23°F) and a maximum of 9°C (48°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 91% and about 67 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation over 10 days, often falling as snow. In contrast, May sees much milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -1°C (30°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F), with an average of 8°C (47°F). The precipitation increases slightly to 94 mm (3.7 in) over 11 days, accompanied by a lower humidity level of 76%. For more detailed information on the weather in Duluth during May, you can check out this link: Duluth weather in May.
In December, temperatures can plunge to a chilling minimum of -26°C (-15°F), with an average of -5°C (23°F) and highs reaching just 9°C (48°F). The month sees about 67 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days, contributing to a notably high humidity level of 91%. In stark contrast, June offers a milder climate, with minimum temperatures around 5°C (42°F) and an average of 15°C (59°F), peaking at a pleasant 28°C (82°F). This month experiences slightly more precipitation at 76 mm (3.0 in), but over just 9 days, resulting in lower humidity levels of 71%. For more detailed weather insights, check out Duluth weather in June.
December and July present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -26°C (-15°F), with an average of -5°C (23°F) and highs reaching only 9°C (48°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 91% and approximately 67 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation over 10 days. In contrast, July boasts significantly milder temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (53°F), an average of 19°C (66°F), and maximums soaring to 27°C (82°F). July experiences slightly higher precipitation at 95 mm (3.8 in) but over fewer days (8), along with lower humidity at 70%. For more about the weather during this sunnier month, check out Duluth weather in July.
The weather in December and August presents a striking contrast. December features frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -26°C (-15°F) and an average of -5°C (23°F), while August enjoys much milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 13°C (55°F) to an average of 19°C (67°F). Precipitation levels are also notable, with December receiving 67 mm (2.6 in) over 10 days, compared to August's higher precipitation of 109 mm (4.3 in) over 11 days. Additionally, December's humidity is a chilly 91%, while August's humidity is notably lower at 71%. For those interested in more detailed information, check out Duluth weather in August.
December and September present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures plummet to a minimum of -26°C (-15°F), with an average of -5°C (23°F) and a maximum of 9°C (48°F). This month is characterized by high humidity at 91% and approximately 67 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation over 10 days. In contrast, September enjoys milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 26°C (80°F), with an average of 16°C (62°F). While it’s also a wetter month, experiencing about 119 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation across 12 days, the humidity is considerably lower at 73%. For a closer look at Duluth's September climate, you can visit Duluth weather in September.
In comparing the weather of October and December, the stark differences are evident. October typically features milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -5°C (24°F) to a maximum of 22°C (71°F), with an average of 9°C (48°F). In contrast, December brings much colder conditions, with temperatures dropping significantly to a minimum of -26°C (-15°F) and averaging at -5°C (23°F). Precipitation is also more pronounced in October, totaling 153 mm (6.0 in) over 13 days, compared to December's lower precipitation of 67 mm (2.6 in) over 10 days. Additionally, humidity levels tend to be higher in December at 91%, compared to October's 81%. For more details on October weather, you can check Duluth weather in October.
In comparison to November, December experiences significantly colder temperatures, with a minimum of -26°C (-15°F) and an average temperature of -5°C (23°F), while November has milder conditions, starting with a minimum of -12°C (11°F) and an average of 1°C (34°F). December also sees a maximum of only 9°C (48°F), in stark contrast to November's higher peak of 17°C (63°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in December at 67 mm (2.6 in) from 10 days of rainfall, compared to November's 52 mm (2.0 in) over the same number of days. Additionally, December has a higher humidity level of 91%, compared to November’s 87%. For more details on November's weather, you can check Duluth weather in November.
As December unfolds in Duluth, it marks a distinct shift from the milder months, bringing with it a characteristically cold and humid atmosphere. Temperatures often dip below freezing, presenting a stark contrast to the more temperate conditions of autumn. With an average chill settling in at -5°C, residents experience a dramatic increase in precipitation, often in the form of snow, adding to the winter wonderland vibe that defines the season. This month, with its high humidity levels, can feel especially brisk, as the city prepares for the depths of winter. For a deeper dive into what each season holds for Duluth, check out the detailed information on Duluth Climate.