December Weather in West Yellowstone, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

In West Yellowstone during December, temperatures can be quite chilly, with an average of -9°C (15°F) and maximums reaching up to 5°C (42°F). Minimum temperatures plummet to a frigid -29°C (-20°F), creating a stark winter landscape. The month sees an average precipitation of 59 mm (2.3 in) over approximately 14 days, contributing to the area's heavy humidity of 94%. This combination of cold temperatures and consistent moisture makes December a quintessential winter month in this picturesque location, ideal for snow enthusiasts and those looking to experience the beauty of a snowy wilderness.

December Temperature in West Yellowstone

In West Yellowstone, United States, December ushers in the heart of winter, marked by chilly temperatures that reflect a broader trend in the region. With a minimum temperature dipping to a brisk -29°C (-20°F) and an average hovering around -9°C (15°F), this month showcases the season's frosty grasp. The maximum reaches only 5°C (42°F), underscoring the substantial contrast to the milder months preceding it. Notably, December serves as a precursor to January and February, which continue to wrestle with extreme cold, suggesting that winter's chill is firmly established. Visitors seeking to embrace the seasonal beauty will find the crisp air and serene snow-covered landscapes characterize this time beautifully.

December Weather in West Yellowstone: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in West Yellowstone, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec151626313851605849322215
Data source: Temperature data for West Yellowstone 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 West Yellowstone

In December, West Yellowstone experiences a transition into winter, marked by 59 mm (2.3 in) of precipitation spread over 14 days. This fits into a larger pattern where monthly precipitation tends to peak in the colder months; notably, February stands out with 96 mm (3.8 in), likely influenced by seasonal snow. December's precipitation, while a bit lower than the preceding November's 62 mm (2.4 in), suggests a steady accumulation of moisture typical for this period. As the year draws to a close, the ongoing precipitation helps maintain the pristine winter landscape, setting the stage for outdoor activities like skiing and snowshoeing in the beautiful surroundings of West Yellowstone.

December Precipitation Trends in West Yellowstone

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in West Yellowstone, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec549663736768303650576259
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

December Humidity in West Yellowstone

As winter settles in, December in West Yellowstone ushers in a notable rise in humidity, reaching a peak of 94%. This increase contrasts sharply with the drier months of summer, where humidity levels dip to as low as 69% in August. Following a slight uptick in November, December marks a pronounced return to the high humidity characteristic of early winter months, which hover around 93% to 92% in January and February. The gradual decline from spring to fall is evident, but the final month of the year brings a pronounced shift back to a moist atmosphere, setting the stage for the cheer of winter landscapes.

December Average Humidity in West Yellowstone

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in West Yellowstone, 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 West Yellowstone

As December rolls into West Yellowstone, the UV Index drops to 2, categorized as low, allowing for a more leisurely outdoor experience with a burn time of 45 minutes—the longest of the year. This stark decline follows a steady ascent in UV intensity from the early winter months of January and February, where values hovered at 3 and 5 respectively. The gradual increase through spring and into summer reached a peak of 11 in June and July, marking those months as extreme in terms of sun exposure risk. However, by December, the UV levels have settled into a safe zone, making it a perfect time to enjoy the winter landscapes without the immediate worry of sunburn. For more details on monthly variations, check out the comprehensive West Yellowstone UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in West Yellowstone for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for West Yellowstone 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3579111111109642
Data source: West Yellowstone 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 West Yellowstone

In West Yellowstone, December brings a delightful blend of winter charm and sunshine, as 168 hours of sunlight grace the month. While this is a dip from the month's sunny peak, it still reflects a vibrant trend seen throughout the year. From January's bleak 131 hours to the summer’s 396 hours in July, the area enjoys a gradual increase in daylight that peaks mid-year, only to oscillate back as autumn approaches. December’s ample sunshine, though decreased from earlier months, offers a gentle reminder of the year’s brighter days, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the crisp, clear winter skies amidst the snow-covered landscapes.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in West Yellowstone: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours West Yellowstone 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec131h167h263h278h332h363h396h355h293h250h189h168h
Data source: West Yellowstone December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in West Yellowstone During December

As December rolls into West Yellowstone, the likelihood of sunny weather takes a notable dip, with chances falling to a mere 14%. This stark contrast to the sunnier months, such as June and September, where the probability soars to 74%, highlights a distinct seasonal shift. The early winter months, particularly November with 26%, already signal a decline in sunlight, and December marks the tail end of this trend before the promise of brighter days returns in spring. This makes December one of the least favorable months for sunshine seekers, as the region embraces colder, cloudier conditions typical of the season.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in West Yellowstone

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in West Yellowstone 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 West Yellowstone experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec25%29%48%48%41%74%64%56%74%37%26%14%
Data source: West Yellowstone December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in West Yellowstone in December

In West Yellowstone, the shift in daylight hours throughout the year reveals a captivating seasonal rhythm. December marks the shortest day of the year, with just 8 hours of daylight, a stark contrast to the long, sunlit days of June and July when daylight peaks at 15 hours. As winter sets in, the gradual decline from November's 9 hours to December's 8 hours reminds residents of the early evenings and extended nights that accompany colder weather. This trend continues into January, when daylight begins to slowly lengthen again, gradually shifting towards spring and longer days, with light slowly returning to enhance the vibrant beauty of the region, drawing the community and visitors alike to embrace outdoor winter activities under the enchanting snowy landscape.

Average Daylight Hours in West Yellowstone for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in West Yellowstone throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 14m10h 26m11h 57m13h 31m14h 50m15h 29m15h 7m13h 56m12h 27m10h 54m9h 33m8h 51m
Data source: West Yellowstone daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in West Yellowstone

As December descends upon West Yellowstone, the wind begins to pick up, reaching an average speed of 3.6 m/s (8 mph)—a noticeable increase compared to the earlier months of the year. This uptick marks a distinct transition into winter, with winds becoming brisker as the cold settles in. While January typically sees the calmest winds of the year at 2.4 m/s (5 mph), December’s gusts are a reminder of the shifting seasons, often carrying the crisp, refreshing chill of impending snow. The trend in wind speed over the months reveals a gradually increasing pattern as the year concludes, peaking in December, setting the stage for a lively snowy landscape and inviting outdoor adventures in the frosty air.

Average December Wind Speed in West Yellowstone

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in West Yellowstone, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.42.92.62.72.42.72.12.52.62.62.93.6 m/s
Data source: West Yellowstone December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in West Yellowstone Compares to Other Months

The weather in West Yellowstone 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 West Yellowstone and find detailed weather information for every month.

In December, the weather in West Yellowstone features a chilling minimum temperature of -29°C (-20°F) and an average temperature of -9°C (15°F), peaking at a maximum of 5°C (42°F). The month experiences a notable 59 mm (2.3 in) of precipitation over 14 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 94%. In contrast, January delivers similarly harsh conditions, with a minimum temperature of -28°C (-17°F) and an average of -9°C (15°F), but a slightly lower maximum of 2°C (36°F). Precipitation decreases to 54 mm (2.1 in) over 12 days, with humidity slightly lower at 93%. For detailed insights on the January weather, you can check West Yellowstone weather in January.

In December, the weather features a minimum temperature of -29°C (-20°F) and an average temperature of -9°C (15°F), with daytime highs reaching just 5°C (42°F). The month sees moderate precipitation of 59 mm (2.3 in) spread over 14 days, along with high humidity levels at 94%. In contrast, February experiences a slightly milder minimum temperature of -28°C (-19°F) while maintaining a similar average high of 5°C (41°F). Precipitation increases to 96 mm (3.8 in) over 18 days, and humidity is slightly lower at 92%. For more detailed insights on February weather, you can visit West Yellowstone weather in February. Overall, while both months have similar temperature ranges, February tends to be wetter, contributing to a distinct winter atmosphere.

When comparing December and March weather, December presents a much colder profile, with average temperatures hovering around -9°C (15°F) and maximums reaching only 5°C (42°F). In contrast, March sees a slight warming trend, with average temperatures rising to -4°C (26°F) and maximums climbing to 10°C (51°F). Precipitation is relatively similar, with December receiving 59 mm (2.3 in) over 14 days compared to March's 63 mm (2.5 in) over 13 days. The humidity also decreases slightly from December's 94% to March's 89%, suggesting a less oppressive atmosphere as winter begins to transition into spring. For more details, you can check West Yellowstone weather in March.

December and April in West Yellowstone present contrasting weather experiences. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -29°C (-20°F), with an average of -9°C (15°F) and a peak of 5°C (42°F). This month is characterized by high humidity at 94% and frequent precipitation, averaging 59 mm (2.3 inches) over 14 days. In comparison, April begins to warm up with minimum temperatures of -19°C (-2°F) and an average temperature rising to -1°C (31°F). Max temperatures can reach 14°C (57°F), and while the precipitation increases slightly to 72 mm (2.9 inches) across 15 days, the humidity drops to 83%. For more detailed information about April weather, you can visit West Yellowstone weather in April.

When comparing the weather in December and May, it's clear that May offers a much milder climate. In December, temperatures plummet with an average low of -9°C (15°F) and can dip as low as -29°C (-20°F), creating a frigid atmosphere. On the other hand, May brings a noticeable warmth with average temperatures rising to around 3°C (38°F), and highs reaching up to 22°C (71°F). Precipitation levels are slightly higher in May at 67 mm (2.6 in) over about 13 days, compared to December’s 59 mm (2.3 in) over 14 days, but the humidity is significantly lower in May at 79%, compared to a damp 94% in December. To explore more about the weather trends in May, you can check out West Yellowstone weather in May.

December and June present stark contrasts in weather. In December, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -29°C (-20°F), with an average of -9°C (15°F) and a maximum of 5°C (42°F). The month sees frequent precipitation, occurring on 14 days and resulting in a total of 59 mm (2.3 in), while the humidity is notably high at 94%. In contrast, June experiences much milder temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (21°F), an average of 11°C (51°F), and a maximum reaching 27°C (80°F). Rainfall is slightly higher, at 67 mm (2.7 in) over 13 days, but the humidity drops to 76%. For a closer look at June weather, you can visit West Yellowstone weather in June.

The weather in December and July presents a stark contrast, reflecting the seasonal extremes. In December, temperatures can plummet as low as -29°C (-20°F), with an average of -9°C (15°F) and a maximum of just 5°C (42°F). This month sees significant precipitation, averaging 59 mm (2.3 in) over about 14 days, coupled with high humidity at 94%. In comparison, July boasts much milder temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (30°F), an average of 16°C (61°F), and a maximum of 30°C (86°F). The summer month experiences only 29 mm (1.2 in) of precipitation across about 7 days, and humidity decreases to a more comfortable 74%. For more details about July weather, visit West Yellowstone weather in July.

December weather in West Yellowstone is characterized by its frigid temperatures, with minimums dipping to -29°C (-20°F) and an average hovering around a chilly -9°C (15°F). In contrast, August offers a much warmer climate, with lows only reaching -1°C (30°F) and maximums soaring up to 30°C (87°F). The stark difference in precipitation also highlights the contrast between the two months: December sees 59 mm (2.3 in) of snow spread over 14 days, while August experiences milder conditions with only 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain across 8 days. Additionally, the humidity is significantly higher in December at 94%, compared to August's more moderate 69%. This seasonal shift brings about dramatically differing weather patterns, making each month uniquely appealing. For more details, check out West Yellowstone weather in August.

In December, the weather in West Yellowstone is characterized by frigid temperatures, with averages around -9°C (15°F) and occasional highs reaching only 5°C (42°F). The month experiences significant precipitation over approximately 14 days, resulting in a high humidity level of 94%. In contrast, September offers a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -8°C (18°F) to a comfortable maximum of 28°C (82°F) and an average of 9°C (49°F). Precipitation in September is less frequent, occurring over just 6 days and accompanied by a lower humidity level of 67%. For more details about September weather, visit West Yellowstone weather in September.

In December, the weather in West Yellowstone is colder on average, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -29°C (-20°F) to a maximum of 5°C (42°F), compared to October, which has a broader range from -32°C (-25°F) to a warmer maximum of 19°C (66°F). Precipitation levels are slightly higher in December at 59 mm (2.3 in) over 14 days, while October experiences 56 mm (2.2 in) over 11 days. Additionally, December maintains a much higher humidity level at 94%, compared to October's 72%. For more details on October's weather, you can check West Yellowstone weather in October.

In December, temperatures typically range from a minimum of -29°C (-20°F) to a maximum of 5°C (42°F), with an average of -9°C (15°F). This is slightly colder than November, where the temperatures range from -24°C (-12°F) to a maximum of 12°C (54°F), averaging -6°C (22°F). Both months experience similar levels of precipitation, with December receiving 59 mm (2.3 in) over 14 days and November slightly higher at 62 mm (2.4 in) over 12 days. December also sees increased humidity at 94%, compared to November's 89%. For more detailed insights into November's weather, you can refer to West Yellowstone weather in November.

Compare West Yellowstone's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in West Yellowstone

In December, West Yellowstone transforms into a winter wonderland, marked by notably colder temperatures and increased precipitation compared to other months. The average chill settles in at a brisk -9°C (15°F), with the occasional dip reaching as low as -29°C (-20°F). This frigid backdrop is accompanied by a high humidity level of 94%, creating a distinct and crisp atmosphere. With just over half the month seeing precipitation, the serene snowfall builds a captivating landscape perfect for winter adventures. For a deeper understanding of how December fits into the broader seasonal patterns, explore the detailed insights at West Yellowstone Climate.