December Weather in Columbus, United States

Last updated: June 24, 2025

In December, the average temperature in Columbus, United States hovers around -3°C (28°F), with extremes ranging from a chilling -26°C (-14°F) to a mild 18°C (64°F). This month also sees 29 mm (1.1 in) of precipitation spread over about 7 days, contributing to an average humidity level of 87%, making it a notably damp and cold time of year.

December Temperature in Columbus

In December in Columbus, the average temperature is -3°C (28°F), with maximums reaching 18°C (64°F) and minimums dropping as low as -26°C (-14°F). Travelers should be prepared for a wide range of temperatures and pack accordingly for both cold and mild conditions.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Columbus, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Columbus, December typically has an average temperature of -3°C (28°F), with highs reaching up to 18°C (64°F) and lows dropping to around -26°C (-14°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec241834425364727060433427
Data source: Temperature data for Columbus 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 Columbus

In Columbus in December, the precipitation amount is 29 mm (1.1 in) over a span of 7 days.

December Precipitation Trends in Columbus

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Columbus, 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 Columbus, December typically receives around 29 mm (1.1 inches) of precipitation spread over approximately 7 days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec184838667861202147453229
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Columbus

In Columbus in December humidity is 87%. With an average temperature of -3°C (28°F), this humidity feels like a biting chill that clings to your skin, making travel quite uncomfortable and forcing you to bundle up extra just to stay warm.

December Average Humidity in Columbus

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Columbus, 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 Columbus is approximately 87%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec85%85%79%74%76%79%81%80%76%74%81%87%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Columbus

In Columbus in December, the maximum UV index is 2, which corresponds to a low exposure category. With this level of UV radiation, the time to burn is approximately 45 minutes. To learn more about the hourly UV index in Columbus, you can visit Hourly UV Index in Columbus.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Columbus for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Columbus 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 Columbus typically reaches 2, which falls under the low exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec35689111098532
Data source: Columbus 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 Columbus Compares to Other Months

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

This table compares monthly weather conditions in Columbus, showing how December’s temperature, precipitation, humidity, and UV index levels differ from those of other months.
 TemperaturePrecipitationHumidityUV
January Weather-4°C (24°F)18 mm (0.7 inches)85%moderate
February Weather-8°C (19°F)48 mm (1.9 inches)85%moderate
March Weather1°C (34°F)37 mm (1.5 inches)79%high
April Weather5°C (42°F)66 mm (2.6 inches)74%very high
May Weather12°C (53°F)78 mm (3.1 inches)76%very high
June Weather18°C (65°F)61 mm (2.4 inches)79%extreme
July Weather22°C (72°F)20 mm (0.8 inches)81%very high
August Weather21°C (70°F)21 mm (0.8 inches)80%very high
September Weather15°C (60°F)47 mm (1.9 inches)76%very high
October Weather6°C (43°F)45 mm (1.8 inches)74%moderate
November Weather1°C (34°F)32 mm (1.3 inches)81%moderate
December Weather-3°C (28°F)29 mm (1.1 inches)87%low

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