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December Weather in Raleigh, United States

Last updated: June 24, 2025

In December, the average temperature in Raleigh, United States is a cool 11°C (52°F). During this month, temperatures can range from a chilly -6°C (22°F) to a warm 27°C (80°F). Expect about 130 mm (5.1 in) of precipitation over 12 days, with an average humidity of 87%, making it a decidedly damp period.

December Temperature in Raleigh

In December in Raleigh, the average temperature is 11°C (52°F). The maximum can reach 27°C (80°F), while the minimum can drop as low as -6°C (22°F). This variation in temperatures suggests that travelers should be prepared for both warm and chilly weather, making layering essential for a comfortable experience.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Raleigh, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Raleigh, December typically has an average temperature of 11°C (52°F), with highs reaching up to 27°C (80°F) and lows dropping to around -6°C (22°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec495461657479818178695652
Data source: Temperature data for Raleigh 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 Raleigh

In Raleigh in December, the precipitation amount is 130 mm (5.1 in) over a span of 12 days.

December Precipitation Trends in Raleigh

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Raleigh, 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. In Raleigh, December typically receives around 130 mm (5.1 inches) of precipitation spread over approximately 12 days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec111142128142145166129143959473130
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Raleigh

In Raleigh in December, humidity is 87%. With an average temperature of 11°C (52°F), this humidity feels like a damp chill that can make your clothes cling uncomfortably, leaving you feeling slightly weighed down while exploring the area.

December Average Humidity in Raleigh

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Raleigh, with December’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In December, average humidity in Raleigh is approximately 87%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec82%80%80%78%73%71%79%78%80%76%83%87%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Raleigh

In Raleigh in December, the maximum UV index reaches 4, which corresponds to a moderate Exposure Category. With a time to burn of 30 minutes, it’s important to take precautions to protect your skin. You can find more details in the Hourly UV Index in Raleigh for better planning.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Raleigh for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Raleigh 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. In December, the maximum UV index in Raleigh typically reaches 4, which falls under the moderate exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec479111112111110864
Data source: Raleigh 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.

How December Weather in Raleigh Compares to Other Months

Weather in Raleigh varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares December’s weather to other months in Raleigh, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

This table compares monthly weather conditions in Raleigh, showing how December’s temperature, precipitation, humidity, and UV index levels differ from those of other months.
 TemperaturePrecipitationHumidityUV
January Weather9°C (49°F)110 mm (4.3 inches)82%moderate
February Weather12°C (55°F)142 mm (5.6 inches)80%high
March Weather16°C (61°F)128 mm (5.0 inches)80%very high
April Weather18°C (65°F)142 mm (5.6 inches)78%extreme
May Weather23°C (74°F)145 mm (5.7 inches)73%extreme
June Weather26°C (79°F)166 mm (6.5 inches)71%extreme
July Weather27°C (81°F)129 mm (5.1 inches)79%extreme
August Weather27°C (81°F)143 mm (5.6 inches)78%extreme
September Weather26°C (78°F)95 mm (3.7 inches)80%very high
October Weather21°C (70°F)94 mm (3.7 inches)76%very high
November Weather13°C (56°F)73 mm (2.9 inches)83%high
December Weather11°C (52°F)130 mm (5.1 inches)87%moderate

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