Last updated: February 24, 2025
December in Ruidoso, United States, offers a seasonal chill characterized by a maximum temperature of 17°C (63°F) and a minimum plummeting to -15°C (5°F). With an average temperature hovering around 3°C (38°F), residents and visitors can expect to bundle up for the cold. The month sees 19 mm (0.8 in) of precipitation over approximately 4 days, contributing to the crisp winter atmosphere. Humidity levels remain high at 82%, adding to the wintry feel of this picturesque mountain town.
In December, Ruidoso, United States, transitions into the chill of winter, showcasing a notable drop in temperatures. The minimum dips to a brisk -15°C (5°F), providing a stark contrast to the milder autumn months. Meanwhile, the average temperature hovers around 3°C (38°F), emphasizing the cold, and the maximum reaches a moderate 17°C (63°F), hinting at occasional warmer spells. This month marks one of the chilly peaks of the year, following November’s similar but slightly warmer trends. As the year winds down, residents and visitors alike can expect a crisp, invigorating atmosphere perfect for winter activities amid the stunning mountain scenery.
In December, Ruidoso experiences a modest precipitation level of 19 mm (0.8 in), marking a slight decline from the wetter months preceding it. With four days of measurable rain this month, December fits into a pattern where precipitation remains relatively light, particularly when compared to the summer peak in July, which sees a substantial 123 mm (4.9 in) over 17 days. As the year wraps up, December continues a trend of decreased rainfall, consistent with the drier late autumn months, where November recorded just 18 mm (0.7 in) over two days. This gradual tapering reflects the seasonal shifts typical of the region, setting a tranquil backdrop for the winter landscape.
December in Ruidoso, United States, experiences a notable humidity level of 82%, which is part of a distinct pattern observed through the year. Following the higher humidity months of November (83%) and January (79%), December maintains a relatively moist atmosphere, reinforcing the trend of increased humidity during the winter months. This seasonal shift is contrasted by the drier conditions seen from April to June, when humidity levels dip below 55%. As temperatures cool and the year draws to a close, Ruidoso's December humidity serves as a reminder of the region's seasonal variations and enhances the crisp winter air.
In December, Ruidoso experiences a mild downturn in UV intensity, with a UV Index of 5, categorizing exposure as moderate. This brings a comfortable burn time of 30 minutes, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy outdoor activities while still taking precautions. As the year progresses from January's moderate levels to the extreme conditions of the summer months, December's index reflects a necessary respite. This trend underscores the importance of remaining aware of UV levels throughout the year; while December may be gentler on the skin, vigilance is always key. For more detailed information, visit Ruidoso UV Index.
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December in Ruidoso, United States, captures the essence of winter sunshine with 254 hours of glorious daylight, slightly trailing the preceding months. While the year kicks off with a modest 208 hours in January, we see a steady climb into spring, peaking in May at a brilliant 368 hours. This robust sunshine lingers through the summer months, with July boasting an impressive 364 hours. As the seasons transition and autumn approaches, hours gradually decrease, reflecting the natural rhythm of the year. Even in December, the 254 hours of sunlight provide a warm embrace, offering a gentle farewell to the year, while underscoring Ruidoso’s charm, where each season brings its unique glow.
In December, Ruidoso, United States, enjoys a 62% chance of sunny weather, marking a cozy conclusion to the year. While this percentage dips slightly from the sunnier months of October (83%) and May (75%), it still showcases a relatively bright winter compared to the more cloud-covered summer months, such as July (43%). The consistent trend of sunshine throughout the fall, peaking in early autumn, suggests that December maintains a solid probability for enjoying clear skies, making it a delightful time for both locals and visitors seeking winter activities under the sun.
In Ruidoso, December marks a notable shift as daylight hours dwindle to just nine hours, the shortest of the year. This decline follows a gradual transition from longer days in the summer months, where June and July bask in a generous 14 hours of sunlight each. As the year progresses, daylight steadily decreases, with November providing a brief respite at 10 hours before winter takes hold. The trend highlights the natural rhythm of the seasons, emphasizing the cozy, introspective atmosphere of December as the community prepares for the holidays amidst the earlier sunset.
As December sweeps into Ruidoso, the town experiences a noticeable briskness, with the average wind speed reaching 3.9 m/s (9 mph)—the highest of the year. This uptick in wind serves as a reminder of winter's arrival, contrasting sharply with the calmer summer months, where July and August saw winds dip to a gentle 1.6 m/s (4 mph). Throughout the year, wind speeds began to pick up gradually from the stillness of June, peaking in December just as the landscape gets adorned with a blanket of winter snow. Thus, the month encapsulates not only the transition of seasons but also a shift in atmospheric dynamics, inviting residents and visitors alike to enjoy the refreshing, invigorating chill in the air.
The weather in Ruidoso 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 Ruidoso and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January exhibit similar weather patterns, but there are subtle differences. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -15°C (5°F) to a mild 17°C (63°F), with an average of 3°C (38°F), and the month typically sees 19 mm (0.8 in) of precipitation over 4 days. The humidity is relatively high at 82%. Conversely, January presents slightly warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures of -13°C (9°F) and maximums reaching 14°C (58°F), resulting in an average of 2°C (36°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 21 mm (0.8 in) over the same number of days, accompanied by a marginally lower humidity of 79%. For more detailed information, check out Ruidoso weather in January.
When comparing the weather in December and February, we notice some intriguing differences despite both months experiencing similar patterns. December typically has a milder average temperature of 3°C (38°F), with a maximum reaching 17°C (63°F), while February sees a slightly cooler minimum temperature of -19°C (-3°F) but can peak at 20°C (68°F). Precipitation in February is also higher at 28 mm (1.1 in), compared to December's 19 mm (0.8 in), although both months have about four days of recorded precipitation. Humidity remains relatively stable, with December at 82% and February slightly lower at 79%. For a closer look at weather specifics in February, you can explore Ruidoso weather in February.
In December, temperatures can be quite chilly, with a minimum of -15°C (5°F) and an average of 3°C (38°F), while the maximum can reach up to 17°C (63°F). The month typically sees about 19 mm (0.8 in) of precipitation over four days, coupled with a high humidity level of 82%. In contrast, March brings milder weather, with a minimum temperature of -6°C (22°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F), peaking at a maximum of 24°C (75°F). Although March experiences slightly more precipitation at 26 mm (1.0 in) over just three days, the humidity drops significantly to 65%. For more detailed insights, check out Ruidoso weather in March.
December and April present contrasting weather conditions. December tends to be much colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -15°C (5°F) to a maximum of 17°C (63°F), and an average temperature of about 3°C (38°F). In addition, December experiences higher humidity at 82% and generally has four days of precipitation totaling 19 mm (0.8 in). In contrast, April brings milder weather, with temperatures varying from -3°C (27°F) to a comfortable maximum of 26°C (79°F) and an average of 13°C (55°F). The humidity drops significantly to 55%, and precipitation is slightly higher at 22 mm (0.9 in) over just three days. For more details about conditions in this spring month, check out Ruidoso weather in April.
December and May present a striking contrast in weather conditions. December typically features cold temperatures, with a minimum of -15°C (5°F) and an average of 3°C (38°F), while May enjoys milder warmth, ranging from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a pleasant average of 17°C (63°F). Additionally, May can peak with temperatures as high as 30°C (86°F), contrasted with December's maximum of just 17°C (63°F). Despite both months experiencing similar precipitation levels of about 19 mm (0.8 in) in December and 18 mm (0.7 in) in May, the humidity in December is significantly higher at 82% compared to May's 54%. For more detailed insights into May's charming climate, you can explore Ruidoso weather in May.
In comparing December and June weather, December experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum reaching -15°C (5°F) and an average of 3°C (38°F), while June enjoys milder conditions, with minimum temperatures starting at 6°C (44°F) and averaging 21°C (70°F). Precipitation also varies significantly; December sees only 19 mm (0.8 in) over approximately 4 days, whereas June receives a heftier 50 mm (2.0 in) over about 7 days. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in December at 82%, compared to a more comfortable 53% in June. For more specifics on the June climate, check out Ruidoso weather in June.
The weather in December is significantly colder than in July, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -15°C (5°F) to a maximum of 17°C (63°F), averaging around 3°C (38°F). December experiences relatively low precipitation, totaling 19 mm (0.8 in) over just 4 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 82%. In contrast, July sees much warmer conditions, with a temperature range of 11°C (51°F) to 35°C (95°F) and an average of 21°C (70°F). This summer month also brings about a considerable increase in precipitation, accumulating 123 mm (4.9 in) over 17 days, but with a much lower humidity level of 55%. For more detailed information, check out Ruidoso weather in July.
When comparing the weather in December and August, it's clear that these months present contrasting climates. December experiences much colder temperatures, with averages around 3°C (38°F) and a chilly minimum of -15°C (5°F), while August is noticeably warmer, with average temperatures reaching 20°C (69°F) and maximums of up to 32°C (91°F). Additionally, December is characterized by higher humidity levels at 82%, compared to August's 57%. Precipitation also differs significantly; December sees about 19 mm (0.8 in) over just 4 days, while August experiences a much wetter climate, receiving 107 mm (4.2 in) over 16 days. For more specific details on August weather, you can refer to Ruidoso weather in August.
December and September showcase starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures can dip as low as -15°C (5°F), with an average of around 3°C (38°F) and a maximum of 17°C (63°F). This month sees relatively low precipitation at 19 mm (0.8 in) over four days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 82%. In contrast, September offers a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures around 3°C (38°F) and an average of 18°C (64°F), peaking at a pleasant 30°C (86°F). However, it experiences more rainfall, totaling 42 mm (1.7 in) over nine days, and a lower humidity of 70%. For more insights into September weather, you can explore Ruidoso weather in September.
In comparing the weather of December to that of October, we see distinct differences in temperature and precipitation. December experiences colder conditions, with minimum temperatures dropping to -15°C (5°F) and an average of around 3°C (38°F), while October is milder, showcasing a minimum of -9°C (16°F) and an average of 13°C (55°F). Additionally, October can reach higher maximum temperatures of 27°C (81°F), compared to December's peak of 17°C (63°F). Precipitation levels in October are also higher at 39 mm (1.5 in) over 5 days, compared to December’s 19 mm (0.8 in) over just 4 days. Humidity is slightly higher in December at 82%, while October holds a lower level of 75%. For more details on October weather in Ruidoso, you can check this link: Ruidoso weather in October.
In comparing the weather between November and December, December experiences lower minimum temperatures, reaching as low as -15°C (5°F), compared to November's minimum of -9°C (17°F). The average temperature also dips in December to 3°C (38°F), while November boasts a more moderate average of 8°C (46°F). Despite both months having similar precipitation levels—19 mm (0.8 in) for December and 18 mm (0.7 in) for November—December sees slightly more precipitation days, with rain occurring on four days compared to just two in November. Additionally, humidity remains quite consistent, with December at 82% and November at 83%. For more details on November weather, you can check Ruidoso weather in November.
As December blankets Ruidoso in a picturesque winter wonderland, the weather distinctly shifts from the milder conditions of earlier months. Temperatures drop significantly, offering a chilly embrace with colder nights and occasional sunny days, making it a unique time for both residents and visitors. Compared to the preceding autumn, December brings a sharper bite in the air and a higher chance of precipitation, with snowflakes occasionally gracing the landscape. The elevated humidity adds to the brisk feel, creating that classic winter atmosphere. For anyone looking to explore the seasonal charm of Ruidoso, understanding this shift is essential. Discover more about the weather nuances throughout the year at Ruidoso Climate.