December Weather in Reno, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

December in Reno, United States, presents a captivating winter tableau with temperatures ranging from a chilly minimum of -15°C (5°F) to a comfortable maximum of 14°C (58°F). The month features an average temperature of 0°C (32°F), signaling the onset of winter's chill. Precipitation is notable, with 64 mm (2.5 in) falling over approximately 8 days, contributing to an 82% humidity level that adds a crispness to the air. This combination of cold temperatures and moisture creates a uniquely serene atmosphere, ideal for those looking to embrace the seasonal beauty of Reno.

December Temperature in Reno

In Reno, United States, December heralds the onset of winter, characterized by chillier temperatures that reflect a gradual cooling trend from the previous months. The average temperature hovers around 0°C (32°F), with nighttime lows dipping to -15°C (5°F), offering a frosty embrace as the year winds down. Though daytime highs can reach a comfortable 14°C (58°F), the overall drop in temperatures signals a clear shift from the mild fall weather to a more wintry landscape. The month serves as a bridge to the coldest part of the year, setting the stage for January’s frigid depths while still providing moments of warmth reminiscent of autumn.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Reno, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec323338475566747364504132
Data source: Temperature data for Reno 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 Reno

December in Reno marks a significant uptick in precipitation, with 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain falling over 8 days, setting the stage for the winter season. This increase contrasts sharply with the dry summer months, where precipitation dipped as low as 8 mm in June and September. Reflecting on the year's trends, December's rainfall comes just after a relatively wet November, emphasizing a seasonal shift as winter approaches. This transition is also notable when compared to the preceding months—December's rainfall is notably higher than April’s 32 mm and October's 33 mm, underscoring Reno's marked change in weather patterns as the year closes. As the city embraces the chill of winter, these rainfalls not only replenish local water sources but also hint at the promise of snow, setting the stage for winter activities to come.

December Precipitation Trends in Reno

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Reno, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9187713239811118333965
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Reno

As the year progresses in Reno, United States, December sees the humidity levels rise to 82%, reflecting a typical trend of increased moisture as winter sets in. Beginning with a notably high 85% humidity in January, levels fluctuate throughout the year, peaking again in February at 87% before gradually declining during the warmer months. From June to August, humidity drops to its lowest point at just 34%, creating a dry and arid climate perfect for summer activities. However, as the seasons change, moisture levels rebound in the fall, culminating in November’s 81% before December's notable uptick. This seasonal rhythm underscores Reno's distinctive climate, where the transition from dry summer to the wetter winter months plays a vital role in shaping the area's annual weather patterns.

December Average Humidity in Reno

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Reno, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec85%87%84%78%64%56%44%34%41%60%81%82%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Reno

As December settles in Reno, the UV Index dips to 3, placing it in the moderate exposure category. This marks a noticeable decline from the extreme levels seen during the summer months, where indices peaked at 12 in both June and July. With a burn time of 30 minutes, December offers a more forgiving sun, encouraging residents to enjoy outdoor activities without excessive concern for UV exposure. It's a time to embrace the cooler temperatures while remaining aware of the sun's potential impact. For those looking for a comprehensive overview of UV trends throughout the year, check out Reno UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Reno for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Reno 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec46891112121110743
Data source: Reno 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 Reno

As the year comes to a close, Reno's December sunshine shines brightly, albeit with a decrease in hours compared to the summer peak. With 199 hours of sunlight, December offers a cozy contrast to the brighter months of June and July, which boast nearly 400 hours each. Interestingly, December's sunshine reflects a gradual decline from the vibrancy of May and June, revealing a trend of shorter days as winter approaches. While it may be less luminous than its summer counterparts, this month still provides a refreshing dose of winter sunshine, perfect for those looking to embrace the season's charm while enjoying the stunning views Reno has to offer.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Reno: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Reno 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec159h224h276h317h355h388h396h362h322h287h237h199h
Data source: Reno December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Reno During December

In Reno, the likelihood of sunny weather dramatically varies throughout the year, showcasing a clear trend towards brighter skies as the seasons progress. Starting from the depths of winter, December experiences a relatively low chance of sunshine at 37%, which is one of the lowest figures of the year. This contrasts sharply with the summer months, where August peaks at an impressive 91% chance of sun. As we transition from winter to spring, the probability of sunny days steadily increases, reaching a delightful 69% in April. This pattern indicates that while December may bring about the holiday charm accompanied by overcast skies, the approach of spring promises a welcome return to sunnier days for Reno residents and visitors alike.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Reno

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Reno 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 Reno experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec38%57%58%69%72%78%74%92%82%54%55%37%
Data source: Reno December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Reno in December

In Reno, United States, the daylight duration experiences a rhythmic ebb and flow throughout the year, with December marking a return to shorter days, offering only 9 hours of sunlight. Following a gradual increase from January's 9 hours to a peak of 14 hours in the mid-year months of June and July, daylight begins to wane as autumn sets in. By December, the cycle concludes with daylight levels that mirror those at the year's start, signifying a time of introspection and cheer as the festive season unfolds under the comforting glow of the winter sun. As the days shorten, the community embraces the charm of longer nights, highlighting the unique seasonal contrasts that define this vibrant region.

Average Daylight Hours in Reno for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Reno throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 43m10h 43m11h 58m13h 16m14h 21m14h 54m14h 36m13h 38m12h 23m11h 6m9h 58m9h 24m
Data source: Reno daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Reno

As winter sets in, December’s winds in Reno whisper at an average speed of 1.9 m/s (4 mph), a gentle lull after a year of slightly increasing breezes. The trend shows a gradual rise from the 1.6 m/s recorded in November, with the summer months maintaining a steady 2.1 m/s to 2.4 m/s range. This shift marks the transition into colder weather, where breathy gusts become more pronounced but remain mild compared to the stronger winds found in the spring. Overall, December’s calmness serves as a serene prelude to the harsher winds that often accompany the New Year, highlighting the natural ebb and flow of Reno's seasonal breezes.

Average December Wind Speed in Reno

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Reno, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1.82.12.22.32.42.22.12.02.02.01.61.9 m/s
Data source: Reno December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Reno Compares to Other Months

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

December and January exhibit notable similarities and differences in weather. December experiences milder temperatures with a minimum of -15°C (5°F) compared to January's colder -20°C (-3°F). While both months have the same average temperature of around 0°C (32°F), January slightly edges out December with a maximum temperature of 16°C (60°F) versus December's 14°C (58°F). Precipitation is higher in January, totaling 91 mm (3.6 in) over 7 days, compared to December's 64 mm (2.5 in) over 8 days. Both months maintain high humidity levels, with January at 85% and December at 82%. For more detailed insights into January weather, you can explore Reno weather in January.

December and February exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. December typically features a milder temperature range with minimums around -15°C (5°F) and averages hovering at 0°C (32°F), while February experiences colder minimums down to -20°C (-4°F) but slightly warmer maximums that can reach up to 19°C (66°F). In terms of precipitation, February is slightly wetter with 87 mm (3.4 in) compared to December's 64 mm (2.5 in), although both months see precipitation on approximately 8 days. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly higher in February at 87%, versus December's 82%. For a more detailed look at February's weather, check out Reno weather in February.

In December, temperatures typically range from a minimum of -15°C (5°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), with an average around 0°C (32°F). The month sees about 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over approximately 8 days, coupled with a humidity level of 82%. In contrast, March experiences slightly lower minimum temperatures at -16°C (4°F), but a warmer average of 3°C (38°F) and a higher maximum of 21°C (71°F). This month also has increased precipitation, totaling 71 mm (2.8 in) over around 11 days and a similar humidity of 84%. For a more detailed look at March weather in Reno, check out Reno weather in March.

December and April present quite contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures can dip as low as -15°C (5°F), with an average around 0°C (32°F) and a maximum reaching 14°C (58°F). The month is relatively humid, with an average humidity of 82% and about 64 mm of precipitation over approximately 8 days. In contrast, April features a milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -12°C (10°F) to a comfortable maximum of 27°C (80°F), resulting in an average temperature of 8°C (47°F). The precipitation decreases to 32 mm over about 6 days, coupled with slightly lower humidity at 78%. For more information, visit Reno weather in April.

December weather features colder temperatures, with a minimum of -15°C (5°F) and an average of 0°C (32°F), while May experiences much milder conditions, with a minimum of -7°C (19°F) and an average of 13°C (55°F). The maximum temperatures in December reach up to 14°C (58°F), whereas in May, they can soar as high as 32°C (90°F). In terms of precipitation, December sees higher rainfall at 64 mm (2.5 in) over eight days compared to May's 39 mm (1.5 in) over the same number of days. Additionally, December maintains a higher humidity level at 82%, while May enjoys a more comfortable 64%. For a more detailed look at the weather in May, you can explore Reno weather in May.

When comparing December and June weather, the differences are striking. December brings much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -15°C (5°F) and an average of 0°C (32°F), while June is significantly warmer, featuring a minimum of just 1°C (33°F) and an average of 19°C (67°F). Additionally, June can see high temperatures reaching up to 36°C (98°F), contrasting sharply with December's maximum of 14°C (58°F). Precipitation patterns also differ, as December experiences 64 mm (2.5 in) over 8 days, contributing to a humidity level of 82%. In contrast, June is relatively dry, with only 8 mm (0.3 in) of precipitation across just 3 days and a lower humidity of 56%. For more detailed information about June weather, check out Reno weather in June.

December and July present starkly contrasting weather in terms of temperature and overall climate. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -15°C (5°F) to a mild maximum of 14°C (58°F), with an average hovering around 0°C (32°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 64 mm (2.5 in) over about 8 days, coupled with high humidity levels of 82%. In sharp contrast, July experiences a much warmer climate, with a comfortable average temperature of 24°C (75°F) and peaks reaching up to 37°C (99°F). Rainfall is scarce during this month, providing only 11 mm (0.4 in) across 4 days, and humidity drops to a drier 44%. For a more in-depth look at the temperatures and conditions during this summer month, check out Reno weather in July.

December and August present strikingly different weather conditions. In December, temperatures can drop as low as -15°C (5°F) with an average around 0°C (32°F) and can reach a maximum of 14°C (58°F). The month is characterized by higher humidity at 82% and a relatively decent amount of precipitation, totaling 64 mm (2.5 in) over about 8 days. In contrast, August boasts a much milder and warmer climate, with minimum temperatures around 8°C (47°F), an average high of 23°C (73°F), and extreme highs reaching up to 37°C (98°F). This summer month is much drier, with only 11 mm (0.4 in) of precipitation over just 3 days and a lower humidity level of 34%. For more details on the warm conditions in August, you can check Reno weather in August.

December and September exhibit striking contrasts in weather patterns. December features colder temperatures with a minimum of -15°C (5°F), an average of around 0°C (32°F), and a maximum of 14°C (58°F). The month experiences higher precipitation with about 64 mm (2.5 in) spread over 8 days and a humidity level of 82%. In comparison, September enjoys a much milder climate, where temperatures range from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 36°C (97°F), averaging a comfortable 18°C (64°F). Precipitation is minimal in September, with only 8 mm (0.3 in) over two days and lower humidity levels at 41%. For more specific details, check out Reno weather in September.

In comparing the weather patterns of December and October, a significant shift in temperature and conditions is evident. December experiences much colder temperatures with a minimum of -15°C (5°F) and an average of 0°C (32°F), while October boasts milder conditions with a minimum of -8°C (18°F) and an average temperature of 10°C (51°F). Moreover, October enjoys more sunny days with only 2 days of precipitation, resulting in a total of 33 mm (1.3 in) of rainfall. In contrast, December is characterized by a wetter climate, with precipitation on 8 days amounting to 64 mm (2.5 in) and higher humidity levels at 82%. For further details on October's weather, you can check this Reno weather in October.

In comparing the weather of December and November, December experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -15°C (5°F) and an average of 0°C (32°F), compared to November's milder minimum of -13°C (9°F) and an average of 5°C (42°F). Additionally, December sees a significant increase in precipitation, totaling 64 mm (2.5 in) over 8 days, whereas November has only 39 mm (1.5 in) across 5 days. Humidity levels remain quite similar, at 82% in December and 81% in November. For more detailed insights about November's weather, you can explore Reno weather in November.

Compare Reno's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Reno

As December settles into Reno, the weather takes a noticeable turn, presenting a stark contrast to the milder months. With temperatures dipping to a chilly average of 0°C (32°F), residents experience the unique charm of a winter season characterized by cooler days and freezing nights. The increased humidity can make the cold feel even more biting, while the month sees a fair share of precipitation, averaging 64 mm (2.5 in) over about 8 days. This shift not only adds a cozy touch to the city but also invites outdoor enthusiasts to embrace winter sports. To explore more about how Reno's climate evolves throughout the year, visit Reno Climate.