December Weather in Kansas City, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

December in Kansas City offers a captivating blend of winter's chill and occasional warmth. The maximum temperature reaches a mild 23°C (73°F), appealing to those seeking respite from the cold, while the average temperature hovers around a brisk 3°C (38°F). Nights can be frigid with minimum temperatures plunging to a biting -18°C (-1°F). Despite the chill, the month sees only four days of precipitation, totaling 33 mm (1.3 in), keeping the landscape mostly dry amidst the 86% humidity. This dynamic weather sets a picturesque backdrop for the festive season, enticing residents and visitors alike to enjoy the charms of winter in the heart of the Midwest.

December Temperature in Kansas City

In December, Kansas City experiences a notable drop in temperatures as winter settles in, with average lows around -18°C (-1°F) and highs reaching up to 23°C (73°F). This month serves as a stark contrast to the milder autumn, showing a clear transition into the colder part of the year. The average temperature hovers at 3°C (38°F), reflecting a chill that prompts many to embrace the season's warm attire. While the frigid temperatures can reach as low as -18°C, the fleeting highs provide brief moments of warmth, making it essential for residents to adapt to the dynamic range of the month. Overall, December’s weather heralds the full arrival of winter, marked by the crisp air and occasional snow flurries that define this time of year in Kansas City.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Kansas City, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec313346546677797672574438
Data source: Temperature data for Kansas City 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 Kansas City

December marks a subtle shift in Kansas City's precipitation patterns, with total rainfall dropping to 33 mm (1.3 in), making it one of the driest months of the year. This consistent decrease from the spring and summer peaks reflects a transition into winter, where fewer rain days—only 4 in December—contribute to a drier climate. The month typically sees a noticeable drop compared to the more humid months preceding it, such as May, which averages a significant 215 mm (8.5 in) with 15 rain-filled days. As Kansas City embraces the chill of winter, its landscape remains largely dry, providing a contrast to the seasonal abundance experienced earlier in the year.

December Precipitation Trends in Kansas City

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Kansas 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5640979321594118126871134733
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Kansas City

In Kansas City, December ushers in a notable increase in humidity, reaching 86%, marking the highest level for the year. As the seasons transition from the drier months of autumn, where October and September recorded modest humidity levels of 72%, the trend clearly indicates a shift towards the more moisture-laden air typical of winter. This increase is especially pronounced following the chill of November, which also sees elevated humidity at 84%. Throughout the year, values fluctuate with the highest concentrations typically occurring in the summer months of June and July, yet December’s remarkable rise suggests the onset of winter’s cooler, damper conditions—a characteristic climate embrace for the last month of the year.

December Average Humidity in Kansas City

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Kansas 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec80%78%75%77%82%83%81%78%72%72%84%86%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Kansas City

In December, Kansas City experiences a UV Index of 3, falling under the moderate exposure category, which indicates a relatively low risk for most individuals. During this month, you can expect a burn time of 30 minutes, allowing for ample outdoor enjoyment with minimal concern for sunburn. As the year progresses, a notable trend emerges: the UV Index steadily rises from winter into summer, peaking at an extreme level of 11 in June and July. This seasonal shift highlights the importance of sun protection as those warmer months approach. For more detailed information on Kansas City UV trends, check out Kansas City UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Kansas City for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Kansas 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3569101111109643
Data source: Kansas 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 Kansas City

In Kansas City, the sunshine in December marks a notable transition, with 216 hours of bright sunlight gracing the month, mirroring the hours in November and trailing only slightly behind the peak of fall. This pattern showcases a gradual decline from the summer's peak bask of 363 hours in July, transitioning through the vibrant colors of autumn before settling into the chill of winter. As the year draws to a close, the sunshine in December serves as a gentle reminder of the warmth that lingers even in the coldest months, hinting at a bright start to the new year ahead. The city enjoys a consistent presence of sunlight, setting the stage for an optimistic atmosphere as residents look forward to the longer days of spring.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Kansas City: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Kansas 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec148h196h216h259h282h335h363h329h286h249h214h216h
Data source: Kansas City December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Kansas City During December

In Kansas City, the likelihood of encountering sunny weather in December is relatively promising at 57%. This trend reflects a notable progression from the winter months, with sunshine chances steadily increasing from 32% in January to 38% in February, and peaking in the summer months like August with 59%. After a slight dip in the early spring and an increase in late summer, December maintains a healthy probability of sunshine, suggesting that while the winter chill may wrap the city, blue skies are still within reach. With 55% chance in November, the start of winter ushers in a pleasantly sunny conclusion to the fall, hinting at a favorable transition to the new year.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Kansas City

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Kansas 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 Kansas City experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec32%38%46%50%26%47%52%59%74%50%55%57%
Data source: Kansas City December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Kansas City in December

As the year draws to a close, December in Kansas City offers only about 9 hours of daylight, marking a return to the shorter days experienced in January. This period of diminished sunlight is a stark contrast to the longer days of spring and summer, where sunlight peaks at 14 hours in May through July. As the season transitions, daylight gradually decreases from 11 hours in October to 10 hours in November, before reaching its winter nadir in December. The rhythm of daylight reflects the seasonal cycle, reminding residents of the impending spring as they cozy up during these shorter, darker days. With each month, Kansas City showcases a beautiful ebb and flow of light, inviting reflection and warmth during the brisk winter afternoons.

Average Daylight Hours in Kansas City for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Kansas 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 46m10h 44m11h 58m13h 15m14h 19m14h 50m14h 33m13h 36m12h 23m11h 7m10h 1m9h 27m
Data source: Kansas City daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Kansas City

As December settles in Kansas City, the winds pick up slightly, averaging 4.0 m/s (9 mph), which is a refreshing change from the calmer summer months. Compared to the prevailing trend throughout the year, where wind speeds tend to hover between 2.4 m/s (5 mph) in July and 4.4 m/s (10 mph) in March, December's breezy conditions signal a gradual increase as winter approaches. This uptick is indicative of the dynamic seasonal shifts, as colder air masses begin to dominate the landscape, making the winds feel crisper and invigorating. The embrace of December's winds serves as a reminder of the changing seasons, inviting residents to bundle up and enjoy the beauty of winter in Kansas City.

Average December Wind Speed in Kansas City

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Kansas 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.53.64.43.83.32.82.43.13.43.53.74.0 m/s
Data source: Kansas City December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Kansas City Compares to Other Months

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

December and January exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. December tends to be milder, with average temperatures around 3°C (38°F) and maximum highs reaching up to 23°C (73°F). In contrast, January is considerably colder, featuring average temperatures of 0°C (31°F) and a minimum of -23°C (-9°F), making it the coldest month of the year. Additionally, January experiences more precipitation, totaling 56 mm (2.2 in) over 5 days, compared to December's 33 mm (1.3 in) over 4 days. Humidity levels are slightly lower in January at 80%, compared to December's 86%. For a detailed look at the weather conditions during this time, you can explore Kansas City weather in January.

When comparing the weather in December and February, December typically offers milder conditions with an average temperature of 3°C (38°F) and a maximum of 23°C (73°F). However, temperatures can drop as low as -18°C (1°F). In terms of precipitation, December sees about 33 mm (1.3 in) over approximately 4 days, with a humidity level of 86%. In contrast, February tends to be colder, featuring an average temperature of 0°C (33°F) and a minimum of -26°C (-15°F), though it can reach a maximum of 24°C (76°F). Precipitation increases slightly with 40 mm (1.6 in) falling across 7 days, while humidity decreases to 78%. For a more detailed look at February’s weather, you can check Kansas City weather in February.

December and March present contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -18°C (1°F) to a maximum of 23°C (73°F), with an average of about 3°C (38°F). This month experiences relatively low precipitation, totaling 33 mm (1.3 in) over about 4 rainy days, and high humidity levels at 86%. Conversely, March sees cooler minimum temperatures at -19°C (-3°F) but boasts a higher average of 8°C (47°F) and a maximum of 29°C (84°F). It is also wetter, with precipitation reaching 97 mm (3.8 in) spread over 11 days, accompanied by a lower humidity of 75%. For more specific details on March conditions, visit Kansas City weather in March.

In December, temperatures in Kansas City can drop as low as -18°C (1°F) and typically hover around an average of 3°C (38°F), with occasional highs reaching up to 23°C (73°F). The month experiences around 33 mm (1.3 in) of precipitation over approximately four days, alongside a high humidity level of 86%. In contrast, April sees a more moderate climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (19°F) to an average of 12°C (54°F), and peaks that can reach up to 30°C (87°F). This month is noticeably wetter, with total precipitation at 93 mm (3.7 in) spread over 11 days, and humidity levels are relatively lower at 77%. For more details, check out Kansas City weather in April.

December and May present strikingly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -18°C (1°F), with an average of 3°C (38°F) and a maximum reaching 23°C (73°F). The month experiences relatively low precipitation at 33 mm (1.3 in) over just 4 days, along with high humidity averaging 86%. Conversely, May brings a significant rise in temperature, with a minimum of 3°C (38°F), an average of 19°C (66°F), and peaks at 34°C (93°F). Precipitation also increases dramatically to 215 mm (8.5 in), falling over 15 days, while humidity remains slightly lower at 82%. For more specific details, you can check Kansas City weather in May.

December weather is marked by colder temperatures, with averages around 3°C (38°F) and a minimum dipping as low as -18°C (1°F). The month typically experiences only 33 mm (1.3 in) of precipitation over about four days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 86%. In contrast, June brings warmer and more varied conditions, with temperatures averaging 25°C (77°F) and highs reaching up to 37°C (99°F). Rainfall is more frequent in June, accumulating to 94 mm (3.7 in) over approximately ten days, and the humidity remains relatively high at 83%. For more details, check out Kansas City weather in June.

December and July present distinctly contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures can range from a frigid -18°C (1°F) to a relatively mild 23°C (73°F), with an average of 3°C (38°F). This month sees low precipitation at 33 mm (1.3 in) over just 4 days and high humidity at 86%. In contrast, July experiences a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures of 16°C (61°F), averaging 26°C (80°F), and maximums soaring up to 37°C (99°F). Precipitation is significantly higher in July at 118 mm (4.6 in) over 9 days, but humidity remains slightly lower at 81%. For more information on Kansas City weather during July, you can check this link: Kansas City weather in July.

When comparing December and August weather, a stark contrast emerges. In December, temperatures can range from a frigid minimum of -18°C (1°F) to a mild maximum of 23°C (73°F), with an average hovering around 3°C (38°F). The month experiences relatively low precipitation, totaling 33 mm (1.3 in) over just four days, complemented by a high humidity level of 86%. In contrast, August showcases much warmer conditions, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to a scorching maximum of 35°C (96°F) and an average temperature of 25°C (77°F). The summer month is significantly wetter, receiving 126 mm (5.0 in) of precipitation over twelve days, while maintaining a lower humidity level of 78%. For more details, you can refer to Kansas City weather in August.

December and September display striking contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -18°C (1°F), with an average of about 3°C (38°F), and a maximum reaching 23°C (73°F). The month is relatively dry, with only 33 mm (1.3 in) of precipitation over 4 days, but the humidity is high at 86%. In contrast, September offers milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a comfortable average of 22°C (72°F) and a peak of 33°C (92°F). This month sees higher precipitation, totaling 87 mm (3.4 in) over 7 days, and lower humidity levels at 72%. For more insights on September's weather, you can check out Kansas City weather in September.

In comparing the weather patterns between December and October, substantial differences emerge. December experiences much colder temperatures, ranging from a chilling minimum of -18°C (1°F) to a mild maximum of 23°C (73°F), with an average temperature of around 3°C (38°F). In contrast, October presents a much warmer climate, with temperatures spanning from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a maximum of 32°C (89°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F). Precipitation is notably higher in October, with 113 mm (4.5 in) occurring over 11 days, as opposed to December's 33 mm (1.3 in) across just 4 days. Additionally, December's humidity remains high at 86%, compared to October's more moderate 72%. For a more detailed insight into October's weather, you can check Kansas City weather in October.

In comparing the weather of December and November, it is evident that December experiences slightly cooler temperatures overall, with an average of 3°C (38°F) compared to November's 7°C (44°F). While December records a lower minimum temperature of -18°C (1°F), both months see relatively similar maximum temperatures, with December reaching 23°C (73°F) and November peaking at 24°C (76°F). Precipitation in December is also lower, totaling 33 mm (1.3 in) over 4 days, compared to November's 47 mm (1.8 in) over 5 days. Humidity remains fairly high in both months, with December at 86% and November at 84%. For a more detailed look at November's climate, check this link: Kansas City weather in November.

Compare Kansas City's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Kansas City

December in Kansas City marks a distinct shift in weather compared to the mild conditions of earlier months. With average temperatures dipping to a brisk 3°C, residents experience the chill of winter as maximums only reach a cozy 23°C and sometimes plunge to -18°C. This month also brings increased humidity at 86%, making the air feel even cooler. While precipitation remains relatively low, it is concentrated over just a few days, often manifesting as light snow or rain. As you prepare for the holiday season, understanding the December climate can help you dress appropriately and enjoy the festive atmosphere. For more detailed insights into the weather trends year-round, visit Kansas City Climate.