December Weather in Bozeman, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

In Bozeman, United States, December brings a chilly embrace as temperatures fluctuate between a maximum of 14°C (57°F) and a stark minimum of -29°C (-20°F), with an average temperature resting at -7°C (20°F). The month experiences 37 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation over 10 days, contributing to a humid atmosphere that can reach up to 94%. This blend of cold temperatures and frequent precipitation not only shapes the local landscape but also sets the stage for a winter wonderland, perfect for seasonal activities and reflecting the unique beauty of Montana winters.

December Temperature in Bozeman

In Bozeman, United States, December presents a chilly tapestry of winter temperatures, where the minimum dips to a frigid -29°C (-20°F). The average temperature hovers around -7°C (20°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. Despite the prevalent cold, daytime brings a slight respite, with maximums reaching 14°C (57°F). This monthly trend showcases the city's characteristic winter chill, reflecting a gradual increase from the bone-numbing lows seen in previous months. As December transitions towards the new year, the landscape is painted in a serene winter white, inviting outdoor enthusiasts to embrace the brisk, invigorating air.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Bozeman, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec191829354657656354382820
Data source: Temperature data for Bozeman 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 Bozeman

December in Bozeman ushers in the winter season with an average precipitation of 37 mm (1.5 in) over 10 days, marking a notable dip from the wetter months of late spring and early fall. As the year draws to a close, it's clear that the robust rainfall of May and June, averaging over 100 mm, gives way to a more subdued atmosphere; compare this to November's 50 mm and the stark difference becomes apparent. While snow typically dominates December weather, the moderate precipitation indicates a shift from the higher totals experienced earlier in the year, where April and May reached their peaks. This trend reflects Bozeman’s transition into winter, with precipitation amounts steadily declining as the chill of December sets in.

December Precipitation Trends in Bozeman

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Bozeman, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec30654786102104394859685037
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Bozeman

In December, Bozeman experiences a notable spike in humidity, reaching 94%, which is the highest level recorded throughout the year. This increase comes on the heels of November's 89%, indicating a significant uptick as the region transitions into winter. The trend shows that as the year progresses from summer's low of 69% in August, humidity steadily rises towards winter, culminating in December's damp conditions. This seasonal shift aligns with the colder temperatures, creating an atmospheric balance that enhances the area's winter charm. As snow blankets the landscape, the elevated humidity levels contribute to a crisp, refreshing feel, perfect for holiday festivities and winter activities.

December Average Humidity in Bozeman

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Bozeman, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec93%92%90%83%79%76%74%69%67%72%89%94%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Bozeman

As the year winds down in Bozeman, December brings a notable dip in the UV Index, which drops to a low of 2, indicating minimal risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. This trend reflects a general decrease in UV intensity as the seasons transition from scorching summer months, where values soared to 11, to the cooler, cloudier winter days. With a burn time of approximately 45 minutes, December allows for easier outdoor enjoyment without the immediate concern of sunburn, contrasting sharply with summer's urgency. As you plan your winter activities, remember that even in this lower UV period, it's wise to stay informed; for further details, explore Bozeman UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Bozeman for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Bozeman 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3578111110108642
Data source: Bozeman 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 Bozeman

December in Bozeman, United States, ushers in 181 hours of sunshine, marking a noticeable dip from the sun-drenched summer months. As the year winds down, sunlight shifts from a peak of 389 hours in July, gradually tapering off through the colder months. This trend highlights the seasonal ebb and flow of sunshine, with each month presenting its own unique character. Despite the decrease, December still boasts a respectable amount of daylight, offering a warm embrace of sunshine as the community prepares for winter festivities. As winter solstice approaches, the contrast between the vibrant summer and the serene winter days becomes strikingly evident, inviting residents to savor every glimmer of sunlight before the year concludes.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Bozeman: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Bozeman 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec145h175h267h272h311h350h389h345h277h239h192h181h
Data source: Bozeman December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Bozeman During December

In Bozeman, the likelihood of sunny weather takes a noticeable dip in December, reaching just 28%. This marks a significant decline from the sunnier months of late summer and early fall, where August enjoys a 56% chance of clear skies and September peaks at 70%. As the year transitions into winter, it's common to see a decrease in sunshine, reflecting the region's shift towards colder, cloudier conditions. With December's figures dropping below average, residents can expect longer nights and shorter days, making the warmer months of June and July—with their respective 74% and 67% chances of sunshine—seem like a distant memory.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Bozeman

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Bozeman 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 Bozeman experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec37%27%51%42%41%74%68%56%70%47%36%28%
Data source: Bozeman December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Bozeman in December

As the year winds down in Bozeman, December greets residents with a mere eight hours of daylight, the shortest span of the year. This stark reduction marks a continuation of the trend seen from November's nine hours, signaling the onset of winter and its shorter days. Following the long, sun-soaked days of summer, where daylight reached a generous 15 hours in June and July, the gradual decrease into the winter months creates a rhythmic ebb and flow. Each month, as sunshine dwindles, the transition from the brighter spring days into darker winter months is palpable, offering a unique charm in the heart of winter despite the limited daylight hours. The gradual return to longer days begins in January, paving the way for an eventual resurgence of sunlight as the cycle continues.

Average Daylight Hours in Bozeman for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Bozeman throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 8m10h 23m11h 57m13h 34m14h 56m15h 37m15h 15m14h 1m12h 28m10h 52m9h 27m8h 43m
Data source: Bozeman daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Bozeman

As December arrives in Bozeman, the winter winds begin to stir, bringing an average wind speed of 2.5 m/s (6 mph), slightly up from November's 2.6 m/s (6 mph). This modest increase in wind speed marks a subtle shift as the year draws to a close, contrasting with the generally stable conditions seen earlier months, where speeds consistently hovered around 2.2 m/s (5 mph) for much of the year. The trend appears to indicate that while winter initiates a slight uptick in blustery days, the winds remain relatively gentle, offering a calmness that blankets the picturesque landscapes of Bozeman. The moderate breezes create a crisp atmosphere, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the season's charm amidst the stunning backdrop of snow-capped mountains.

Average December Wind Speed in Bozeman

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Bozeman, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.22.22.12.22.22.11.82.12.12.22.62.5 m/s
Data source: Bozeman December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Bozeman Compares to Other Months

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

In December, temperatures can drop as low as -29°C (-20°F), with an average of -7°C (20°F) and a maximum of 14°C (57°F). The month typically sees about 37 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation over 10 days, accompanied by high humidity levels around 94%. In contrast, January shares the same minimum temperature of -29°C (-20°F) and maintains an average temperature of -7°C (20°F) but experiences a slightly lower maximum of 6°C (43°F). Precipitation decreases to 30 mm (1.2 in) over 8 days, with humidity slightly lower at 93%. For more detailed information on January weather, you can visit Bozeman weather in January.

December and February present contrasting winter conditions, with February typically being colder and wetter. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -29°C (-20°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), averaging around -7°C (20°F) with precipitation totaling 37 mm (1.5 in) over about 10 days. In contrast, February's temperatures drop even further, featuring a minimum of -36°C (-32°F) and a maximum of 9°C (48°F), with an average of -8°C (18°F). Additionally, February sees increased precipitation, around 65 mm (2.5 in), spread over 14 days, and a slightly lower humidity level of 92%. For more detailed information, you can check Bozeman weather in February.

In comparing the weather of December and March, we see notable differences despite their proximity on the calendar. December experiences a colder average temperature of -7°C (20°F) with a maximum of 14°C (57°F), while March warms up slightly with an average of -2°C (29°F) and a maximum of 16°C (61°F). Precipitation is also higher in March, totaling 47 mm (1.8 in) over 11 days compared to December's 37 mm (1.5 in) over 10 days. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly lower in March at 89% compared to December's 94%. For a detailed look at the weather patterns in March, check out Bozeman weather in March.

When comparing the weather of December and April, one can observe significant differences in both temperature and precipitation. December typically experiences much colder temperatures, with average lows around -7°C (20°F) and highs reaching only up to 14°C (57°F). In contrast, April sees a milder average temperature of 2°C (35°F), with maximum temperatures soaring to 22°C (72°F). Precipitation also varies, with December receiving 37 mm (1.5 in) over about 10 days, while April has higher precipitation levels at 86 mm (3.4 in) across roughly 15 days. Humidity is slightly higher in December at 94%, compared to April's 83%. For more detailed insights, check out Bozeman weather in April.

When comparing the weather in December and May, stark contrasts emerge in both temperature and precipitation. December experiences frigid conditions with average temperatures hovering around -7°C (20°F) and a maximum of just 14°C (57°F), accompanied by high humidity levels at 94%. This month also sees a modest amount of precipitation, with about 37 mm (1.5 in) falling over 10 days. In contrast, May brings a significant warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -10°C (13°F) to a comfortable maximum of 25°C (77°F). Precipitation also increases in May, with 102 mm (4.0 in) spread over 18 days, but humidity drops to a more moderate 79%. For more detailed insights into the weather specifics, you can click on Bozeman weather in May.

December and June present strikingly different weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -29°C (-20°F), with an average of -7°C (20°F) and a maximum reaching only 14°C (57°F). This month typically sees about 37 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation over 10 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 94%. In contrast, June experiences a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures around 0°C (32°F), an average of 14°C (57°F), and maximums soaring to 33°C (92°F). Precipitation increases significantly to 104 mm (4.1 in) over 14 days, though humidity is notably lower at 76%. For more information on June weather in Bozeman, check out Bozeman weather in June.

December and July showcase markedly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures can plunge as low as -29°C (-20°F), with an average of -7°C (20°F) and a maximum of just 14°C (57°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 94% and a total precipitation of 37 mm (1.5 in) over approximately 10 days. In stark contrast, July offers a more comfortable climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 34°C (94°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F). Although July sees slightly higher precipitation at 39 mm (1.5 in), it occurs over fewer days, only 8, and comes with a significantly lower humidity level of 74%. For a detailed look at July weather, visit Bozeman weather in July.

December and August showcase starkly contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures plummet, with lows reaching -29°C (-20°F) and average temperatures hovering around -7°C (20°F). In contrast, August experiences a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures around 2°C (36°F) and averages of 17°C (64°F). While December sees about 37 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation over 10 days and high humidity at 94%, August is slightly wetter, with 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain over just 8 days and lower humidity at 69%. For more insights into the warm conditions of this summer month, visit Bozeman weather in August.

In December, temperatures in Bozeman plunge significantly, with a minimum of -29°C (-20°F) and an average of -7°C (20°F), while the maximum temperature reaches only 14°C (57°F). In contrast, September experiences a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures around -4°C (25°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F), peaking at a warm 33°C (92°F). Precipitation varies between the two months, with December receiving 37 mm (1.5 in) over 10 days and September slightly wetter at 59 mm (2.3 in) across 7 days. Humidity levels also differ significantly, as December boasts a high 94% compared to September's more comfortable 67%. For more details on the specific weather trends, you can check Bozeman weather in September.

In comparing December and October weather, December presents a much colder climate, with average temperatures hovering around -7°C (20°F) compared to October's average of 3°C (38°F). The minimum temperatures in both months are similar, with December seeing a low of -29°C (-20°F) and October slightly warmer at -27°C (-17°F). Precipitation levels are also notable: October receives more rainfall at 68 mm (2.7 in) over approximately 13 days, while December has 37 mm (1.5 in) over 10 days. Additionally, humidity is significantly higher in December at 94%, compared to 72% in October. For more detailed insights, you can check out Bozeman weather in October.

In comparing the weather of December to that of November, December experiences colder average temperatures, with a minimum of -29°C (-20°F), an average of -7°C (20°F), and a maximum of 14°C (57°F). In contrast, November's temperatures are milder, featuring a minimum of -22°C (-7°F), an average of -2°C (28°F), and a maximum of 19°C (66°F). Additionally, December has slightly lower precipitation at 37 mm (1.5 in) over 10 days compared to November's 50 mm (2.0 in) over 11 days. Humidity is generally higher in December at 94%, compared to November's 89%. For more details, you may refer to Bozeman weather in November.

Compare Bozeman's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Bozeman

December in Bozeman marks a distinct shift in weather, with temperatures diving significantly lower than in the previous months, creating a crisp winter atmosphere. The average chill of -7°C (20°F) highlights the stark contrast to the milder autumn days, while the occasional peaks at 14°C (57°F) provide brief respites amid the frosty landscape. December also ushers in increased precipitation with snow carpeting the ground and a high humidity level of 94% adding to the wintry feel. While rainfall is relatively moderate, the beauty of December lies in its unique winter charm, making it a month that truly showcases Bozeman's seasonal cycle. For a deeper understanding of how Bozeman's weather varies throughout the year, check out Bozeman Climate.