Last updated: February 24, 2025
December in Cape May, United States offers a mix of chilly days and occasional precipitation, setting the scene for a tranquil coastal winter. With a maximum temperature reaching a comfortable 17°C (64°F) and an average hovering around 6°C (44°F), residents and visitors can expect brisk yet refreshing weather. The minimum temperatures can dip to a brisk -7°C (20°F), reminding everyone that winter is in full swing. Rainfall is notable this month, with 118 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation spread over 11 days, complemented by a relatively high humidity level of 84%. This blend of temperatures and moisture creates a unique atmosphere, perfect for experiencing Cape May’s winter charm.
As December settles in Cape May, the chill of winter begins to embrace the coastal town, with temperatures ranging from a brisk -7°C (20°F) at night to a comfortable 17°C (64°F) during the day. The average temperature hovers around 6°C (44°F), marking a distinct drop from the milder fall months. This monthly shift signifies a transition from the lingering warmth of November, which boasts averages of 10°C (51°F). As the year comes to a close, residents and visitors can expect not only cooler temperatures but also a serene, festive atmosphere, making December a unique time to experience the charm of Cape May.
In December, Cape May experiences a remarkable shift as the year draws to a close, with precipitation totaling 118 mm (4.6 in) spread over 11 days. This places December among the wetter months, comparable to late spring, with only a slight decrease in rainfall compared to October's peak of 142 mm (5.6 in). The relatively consistent precipitation from November to December indicates a transition into winter, where the days grow longer and wetter. Interestingly, December's rain patterns precede the January lull, which typically sees a drop to 74 mm (2.9 in) over just 9 days. Overall, December's rainfall signals a robust end to the seasonal cycle, ensuring a vibrant and verdant landscape as the region prepares for winter's embrace.
In December, Cape May experiences a humidity level of 84%, echoing the moist conditions of the winter months. This places December among the months with higher humidity levels, closely trailing November's peak at 85%. Interestingly, as the year progresses from summer into fall, humidity levels see a gradual decrease, reaching their lowest in August at 72%. However, as winter sets in, the humidity climbs back up, indicating a return to the wetter conditions characteristic of late fall and winter. Overall, December reinforces the trend of increased humidity typical within this coastal town, maintaining a consistent atmosphere that blends the chill of winter with the lingering moisture from preceding months.
In Cape May, the UV Index exhibits noteworthy seasonal trends throughout the year. Starting from a moderate UV Index of 3 in December, the sun's intensity gradually escalates, peaking at a striking 10 from May to August, marking a period of very high exposure where sunburn can occur in as little as 15 minutes. This seasonal shift highlights a sharp increase in UV radiation as spring transitions into summer, ultimately tapering off to a low 4 in November before returning to a moderate level in the following December. For those enjoying the sun, staying informed about these changes is crucial. To learn more, visit Cape May UV Index.
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As December arrives in Cape May, residents and visitors can still enjoy a generous amount of sunshine, totaling 188 hours for the month. While this marks a noticeable decline from the sizzling peak of summer in July, which boasts 361 hours of sunlight, the sunlight throughout December is a comforting reminder of the region's milder winter climate. Interestingly, despite the shorter days, December's sunlight remains relatively steady when compared to the preceding months, welcoming individuals into the holiday season with a soft glow. Visitors can relish the brisk coastal air while strolling through the historic streets, embracing the festive spirit with the knowledge that just a few months prior, the sunshine had been abundant, offering a seamless transition into the cozy charm of winter.
In Cape May, United States, the likelihood of sunny weather in December stands at a modest 37%, marking a notable drop as winter fully settles in. This decline follows a slight uptick in November, which boasts a sunnier 55% chance. Analyzing the year, we see a general trend of fluctuating sunshine, with the summer months of July and September showcasing the highest probabilities at 54% and 56% respectively. As the seasons transition, December's sunless days may evoke a sense of hibernation, contrasting sharply with the vibrancy of the summer sun. As we wrap up the year, these patterns remind us of the cyclical nature of coastal weather, where every season brings its own charm, even if it’s wrapped in winter’s chill.
As winter settles over Cape May, December heralds the return of shorter days, where daylight lasts about 9 hours—a contrast to the longer, sun-filled days of summer. This seasonal dip in daylight, which begins in November and reaches its minimum in December, reflects a gradual trend as the year transitions from the bright, 14-hour days of June and July to the crisp, fleeting light of winter. Following December, the days will slowly begin to lengthen again as the new year advances, leading into the brighter months of spring. This cyclical pattern highlights the ever-changing nature of daylight in this charming coastal destination.
As December settles in Cape May, the gusty embrace of winter begins to reveal itself, with average wind speeds dipping to 5.0 m/s (11 mph). This marks a slight decrease from the brisk winds of November, which saw an average of 5.9 m/s (13 mph). Throughout the year, Cape May experiences a subtle ebb and flow in wind speeds, peaking during the earlier months. January kicks off with 5.5 m/s (12 mph), while the summer months enjoy a more tranquil atmosphere, especially in August, where winds reach their annual low of 3.7 m/s (8 mph). As the year draws to a close, the December breezes reflect the transition into a serene winter, hinting at the promise of shifting seasons in this charming coastal town.
The weather in Cape May 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 Cape May and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January both feature chilly temperatures, but January tends to be slightly colder overall. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 17°C (64°F), with an average of 6°C (44°F). January experiences even lower temperatures, with a minimum of -12°C (11°F) and an average of 3°C (38°F), though the maximum only slightly decreases to 16°C (62°F). Precipitation is more prevalent in December, with 118 mm (4.6 in) falling over 11 days, compared to January's 74 mm (2.9 in) over 9 days. Both months share the same humidity level of 84%. For more detailed information, you can check Cape May weather in January.
December and February exhibit distinctly cold weather patterns, though with some similarities. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 17°C (64°F), featuring an average of 6°C (44°F) and experiencing 118 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation over 11 days, alongside high humidity levels at 84%. Conversely, February presents slightly chillier conditions, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -11°C (12°F) and peaking at 15°C (60°F), giving an average of 5°C (40°F). Precipitation is slightly less in February at 113 mm (4.4 in) over 12 days, with humidity remaining relatively stable at 83%. For more detailed insights into this month’s weather, visit Cape May weather in February.
In December, temperatures typically range from a cold minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a milder maximum of 17°C (64°F), with an average of 6°C (44°F). The month sees considerable precipitation, with around 118 mm (4.6 in) falling over 11 days, combined with high humidity levels of 84%. In contrast, March offers slightly warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (24°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F) and an average of 7°C (44°F). Precipitation levels are similar, with 111 mm (4.4 in) over approximately 10 days, while humidity remains relatively steady at 83%. For more insights into what to expect during this transition, you can check Cape May weather in March.
December weather tends to be much colder than April, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -7°C (20°F) at the low end to a mild 17°C (64°F) at the high end, while April sees a more moderate range from 2°C (35°F) to 25°C (78°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in December, with 118 mm (4.6 in) over 11 days compared to April's 94 mm (3.7 in) during the same number of days. Additionally, December’s humidity peaks at 84%, making it feel even colder, while April's humidity, at 81%, contributes to a rather pleasant spring atmosphere. For more detailed insights into the weather patterns, you can check out Cape May weather in April.
December and May showcase distinct weather patterns. In December, temperatures can plunge as low as -7°C (20°F), with an average of 6°C (44°F) and a maximum reaching 17°C (64°F). The month sees substantial precipitation of 118 mm (4.6 in) over approximately 11 days, accompanied by high humidity at 84%. In contrast, May presents a much milder climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a comfortable maximum of 27°C (81°F), averaging around 16°C (61°F). Although May has slightly more precipitation at 125 mm (4.9 in) over about 12 days, the humidity is lower at 78%. To get a more detailed understanding of May's weather, you can check out Cape May weather in May.
In December, temperatures can drop as low as -7°C (20°F), with an average of 6°C (44°F) and a maximum of 17°C (64°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 84% and about 118 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation spread over 11 days. In contrast, June enjoys a much milder climate, featuring minimum temperatures of 13°C (55°F) and averages around 22°C (71°F), reaching maximums of 30°C (85°F). Precipitation is lower in June, at 77 mm (3.0 in) over just 9 days, and humidity is slightly reduced to 79%. For more detailed insights into June weather, you can check Cape May weather in June.
The weather in December and July presents a stark contrast in Cape May. December temperatures range from a chilly -7°C (20°F) to a mild 17°C (64°F), with an average of 6°C (44°F), while July enjoys much warmer conditions, with lows of 19°C (67°F) and highs reaching up to 32°C (90°F), averaging 25°C (78°F). Precipitation in December totals 118 mm (4.6 in) over 11 days, creating a damp atmosphere with high humidity at 84%. In contrast, July brings a slightly higher rainfall of 129 mm (5.1 in) but over just 10 days, and a lower humidity of 74%, making it feel more comfortable despite the warmth. For more specific insights, check out Cape May weather in July.
In December, the weather is notably colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 17°C (64°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F). The month experiences significant precipitation at 118 mm (4.6 in) over about 11 days, coupled with high humidity levels of 84%. In contrast, August offers a much warmer climate, with temperatures varying from a comfortable minimum of 18°C (65°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F) and an average of 25°C (77°F). While precipitation is slightly less at 115 mm (4.5 in), it occurs over 14 days, and the humidity is comparatively lower at 72%. For more details on the weather during this month, visit Cape May weather in August.
In comparing the weather between December and September, significant differences emerge. December experiences much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -7°C (20°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F), compared to September’s milder minimum of 13°C (56°F) and an average of 22°C (72°F). While both months have similar precipitation levels—with December receiving 118 mm (4.6 in) over 11 days and September slightly less at 107 mm (4.2 in) over 10 days—December’s humidity is notably higher at 84%, compared to September’s 75%. This results in a stark contrast in weather, making September a more pleasant and warmer month overall. For more details on September's climate, you can check out Cape May weather in September.
Comparing the weather in December and October reveals a significant shift in temperatures and conditions. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -7°C (20°F) with an average of 6°C (44°F), while October enjoys much milder weather, starting at a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and reaching an average of 18°C (64°F). While December experiences a notable humidity level of 84% and 118 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation over 11 days, October has slightly lower humidity at 81% and greater overall precipitation of 142 mm (5.6 in) but over just 9 days. For a detailed look at the pleasant October weather, you can visit Cape May weather in October.
December weather showcases a colder climate compared to November, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to an average of 6°C (44°F) and maximums reaching 17°C (64°F). In contrast, November experiences milder temperatures, ranging from -3°C (27°F) on the low end to an average of 10°C (51°F) and highs of 22°C (71°F). Additionally, December sees increased precipitation, totaling 118 mm (4.6 inches) over 11 days, while November has less rain at 90 mm (3.5 inches) over 8 days. Humidity levels remain similar, with December at 84% and November slightly lower at 85%. For more detailed information on November weather, visit Cape May weather in November.
As you explore Cape May in December, you'll experience a distinct shift in the weather compared to other months. While daytime temperatures may peak at a mild 17°C (64°F), the chill of winter is evident, with average temperatures hovering around 6°C (44°F) and nighttime dips reaching as low as -7°C (20°F). Precipitation, though significant with around 118 mm (4.6 in) over approximately 11 days, adds a wintry touch that transforms the coastal scenery. Coupled with a high humidity level of 84%, the atmosphere can feel brisk and damp. Despite the chill, December offers a quiet charm that makes Cape May a unique winter destination. For a deeper dive into what to expect throughout the year, check out the detailed Cape May Climate.