Last updated: February 24, 2025
December in Santa Fe, United States brings a unique blend of chilly weather and occasional moisture, perfect for those who appreciate winter's charm. The maximum temperature reaches a pleasant 17°C (63°F), while the average dips to a brisk 1°C (33°F), and nights can be quite frigid with temperatures plunging to a minimum of -18°C (0°F). With humidity levels at 79%, the air feels crisp, and during this month, the region experiences an average of 18 mm (0.7 in) of precipitation over 4 days, adding a touch of magic to the scenic landscapes. Whether you're enjoying outdoor activities or cozying up indoors, December offers a distinctively enchanting atmosphere in Santa Fe.
In December, Santa Fe experiences a chilling transition into winter, with temperatures reflecting the cold snap typical of this time of year. Minimums can plunge to -18°C (0°F), while average temperatures hover around 1°C (33°F), offering a brisk reminder of the season. However, the daytime brings a more moderate touch, with highs reaching up to 17°C (63°F), allowing for mild afternoons amidst the frosty backdrop. This trend of significant temperature variation highlights Santa Fe's unique climate, where cold nights can give way to pleasant sunny days, making December a month of both stark beauty and vibrant outdoor opportunities.
December in Santa Fe sees an average precipitation of 18 mm (0.7 in), signaling the onset of winter with moisture levels lower than those of the warmer months. The city experiences about 4 days of precipitation, consistent with November's patterns. This trend reflects a slight decline in rainfall compared to the wetter summer months, such as July, which receives 42 mm (1.6 in) over 9 days. Although December's precipitation is modest, it plays a crucial role in supporting the region's ecology as it transitions into the drier winter season. With colder temperatures setting in, the relatively low moisture levels prepare the landscape for a serene, snow-dusted aesthetic as the year comes to a close.
In December, Santa Fe experiences a moderate humidity level of 79%, maintaining a pattern observed throughout the year. This month marks a slight drop from the high of 81% seen in November but remains consistent with the elevated levels typically present during the colder winter months. The humidity in December is notably higher than the mid-year lows of 55% in June and 57% in May, reflecting the overall trends towards increased moisture in the air as the seasons transition. With humidity levels gradually rising again into the new year, December's moderate figures are emblematic of Santa Fe's climatic rhythm, showcasing a blend of cool air and a touch of winter warmth.
In December, Santa Fe experiences a slight dip in UV exposure, with a UV Index of 4, placing it in the moderate category and allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes. This decrease signals a transition from the peak summer months, which showcase extreme UV levels often reaching as high as 13 in June and July. As the year comes to a close, the UV Index generally trends downward, peaking in April and May before gradually tapping off in the cooler months. This seasonal shift emphasizes the importance of adjusting sun protection measures accordingly. For detailed insights on UV exposure throughout the year, explore the Santa Fe UV Index.
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In Santa Fe, December marks a gentle decline in sunshine hours, offering approximately 250 hours of bright days—a notable drop from the sun-drenched heights of summer but still a source of warmth during the winter chill. As the year winds down, this month reflects a transitional phase; from a peak of 372 hours in July, sunlight gradually wanes, with the year's sunniest months primarily spanning May through July. Despite this decrease, December’s sunshine continues to provide a vibrant backdrop for the city’s unique holiday charm, hinting at the brighter days of the New Year just around the corner. The consistent presence of sun throughout the year in Santa Fe contributes to an inviting climate, making even the colder months feel warm and welcoming.
In Santa Fe, the likelihood of sunny weather in December stands at 66%, reflecting a consistent trend that aligns with the city's overall climate pattern. As the year progresses from the cooler months of January through March, sun probability hovers around 62% to 67%, gradually increasing as spring approaches. Notably, October and November boast higher sun chances, reaching 76% and 77% respectively, before dipping slightly in December. This seasonal fluctuation hints at Santa Fe’s enchanting blend of sunny days and crisp winter air, making December a charming time to explore the city, even as slightly fewer rays appear than in the preceding fall months.
As the calendar turns to December, daylight in Santa Fe dips to a modest 9 hours, marking one of the shortest days of the year. This gradual decrease in daylight from January's 10 hours reflects a seasonal trend where winter months present significantly less sunlight than their summer counterparts. From March's 11 hours increasing to a peak of 14 hours during the summer months of May through July, the transition illustrates a vibrant shift as the days lengthen and then retract, reinforcing the rhythm of nature. As the year closes, December’s limited daylight serves as a reminder of the approaching winter solstice, when the days will begin to elongate once again, heralding the return of longer, sunnier days ahead.
As December settles in Santa Fe, the average wind speed experiences a slight uptick, reaching 2.9 m/s (6 mph). This trend marks a mild increase from the calmer breezes of late autumn, where November pulsed at 2.2 m/s (5 mph). Throughout the year, the wind speeds generally exhibit a gradual rise from early spring to late fall, peaking in April at 3.6 m/s (8 mph). However, as summer wanes into the cooler months, a noticeable decline occurs. Despite this decrease, December’s winds bring a refreshing chill, bridging the seasonal transition as Santa Fe wraps itself in winter's embrace.
The weather in Santa Fe 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 Santa Fe and find detailed weather information for every month.
In December, the weather showcases a milder climate with average temperatures around 1°C (33°F) and a maximum reaching up to 17°C (63°F), while January tends to be chillier, featuring an average temperature of -1°C (30°F) and a maximum of just 14°C (57°F). December experiences less precipitation, totaling 18 mm (0.7 in) over approximately 4 days, compared to January's increased moisture levels of 23 mm (0.9 in) spread over 5 days. Humidity levels are quite similar, with December at 79% and January slightly lower at 78%. For a more detailed look at January conditions, visit Santa Fe weather in January.
In comparing the weather of December and February, both months experience similar average temperatures, with December averaging around 1°C (33°F) and February slightly warmer at around 1°C (34°F). However, February tends to be a bit colder at night, with minimum temperatures dipping to -21°C (-6°F), compared to December's minimum of -18°C (0°F). Precipitation is more pronounced in February, with 24 mm (0.9 in) falling over 5 days, whereas December experiences 18 mm (0.7 in) across just 4 days. Both months maintain a steady humidity level of 79%. For a more detailed look at February's weather specifically, you can visit Santa Fe weather in February.
In comparing the weather between December and March, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation. December experiences colder conditions with a minimum temperature of -18°C (0°F) and an average of 1°C (33°F), while March brings milder warmth, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -10°C (14°F) to an average of 6°C (43°F). Additionally, March records higher maximum temperatures, reaching 22°C (73°F) compared to December's max of 17°C (63°F). Although March has slightly more precipitation at 24 mm (0.9 in) over 5 days versus December's 18 mm (0.7 in) over 4 days, the overall humidity is lower in March at 66%, down from December's 79%. For more detailed weather information, check out Santa Fe weather in March.
December weather tends to be much colder compared to April, with temperatures ranging from a frigid minimum of -18°C (0°F) to an average of 1°C (33°F) and a maximum of 17°C (63°F). In contrast, April sees a significant increase in warmth, with minimum temperatures around -6°C (21°F), an average of 11°C (51°F), and highs reaching up to 26°C (80°F). While both months experience a similar number of precipitation days, April's total precipitation is slightly higher at 27 mm (1.1 in) compared to December's 18 mm (0.7 in). The humidity also differs, as December has higher humidity levels at 79%, while April's humidity drops to 60%. For more details, check Santa Fe weather in April.
In December, temperatures in Santa Fe can range significantly, with lows dropping to as low as -18°C (0°F) and averaging around 1°C (33°F). Despite the chill, daytime highs can reach a mild 17°C (63°F). Precipitation is light, with only 18 mm (0.7 in) falling over about four days, accompanied by relatively high humidity at 79%.
In contrast, May brings a much warmer climate, characterized by milder temperatures that range from a minimum of -5°C (24°F) to an average of 16°C (60°F), peaking at a comfortable 29°C (85°F). Similar to December, May also experiences light precipitation, with around 17 mm (0.7 in) over four days, but the humidity is notably lower at 57%. For more details on the weather in May, check Santa Fe weather in May.
In December, temperatures in Santa Fe can drop significantly, with a minimum as low as -18°C (0°F) and an average of around 1°C (33°F), topping out at a maximum of 17°C (63°F). The humidity level is relatively high at 79%, and the month sees about 18 mm (0.7 in) of precipitation over four days. In contrast, June offers a much warmer climate, featuring minimum temperatures of 4°C (40°F) and an average of 21°C (70°F), with highs reaching as high as 35°C (95°F). Precipitation is lower at 16 mm (0.6 in) over just three days, and the humidity drops to 55%. For more details on the June weather, you can check out Santa Fe weather in June.
December and July present a stark contrast in weather, with December characterized by chilly temperatures ranging from a minimum of -18°C (0°F) to an average of 1°C (33°F), and occasional highs reaching 17°C (63°F). In this winter month, Santa Fe experiences about 18 mm (0.7 in) of precipitation over just 4 days, coupled with relatively high humidity at 79%. Conversely, July brings much warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (51°F) to an average of 22°C (72°F) and highs soaring up to 36°C (97°F). July also sees increased precipitation at 42 mm (1.6 in) over 9 days, but with lower humidity at 56%. For a detailed look at typical weather in July, check out Santa Fe weather in July.
Comparing December and August weather reveals a stark contrast in temperatures and conditions. December experiences a much colder range, with minimum temperatures plunging to -18°C (0°F) and an average of just 1°C (33°F). In addition, it sees relatively low precipitation, with only 18 mm (0.7 in) over four days and higher humidity at 79%. In contrast, August boasts milder temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (51°F) and an average of 21°C (71°F), peaking at 34°C (93°F). The month also experiences increased rainfall, totaling 28 mm (1.1 in) over seven days, accompanied by lower humidity levels at 65%. For a closer look at August's climate, you can visit Santa Fe weather in August.
In December, temperatures in Santa Fe can be quite chilly, with a minimum of -18°C (0°F) and an average of 1°C (33°F), while the maximum reaches only 17°C (63°F). Precipitation is relatively low at 18 mm (0.7 in) over just 4 days, coupled with a higher humidity level of 79%. In contrast, September offers a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures around 2°C (36°F) and an average of a pleasant 18°C (65°F), peaking at a maximum of 33°C (92°F). Although September experiences slightly more precipitation at 27 mm (1.1 in) over 3 days, the humidity is lower at 72%, creating a more comfortable atmosphere. For a detailed look at September's conditions, check out Santa Fe weather in September.
In comparing the weather between December and October, it's clear that December is much colder overall, with average temperatures hovering around 1°C (33°F) compared to October's milder average of 11°C (52°F). While December experiences a low of -18°C (0°F), October rarely dips below -7°C (19°F). Precipitation in October is also higher, totaling 30 mm (1.2 in) over 5 days, compared to December's 18 mm (0.7 in) spread across 4 days. Both months have similar humidity levels, with December at 79% and October slightly lower at 78%. For more details on October weather, check out Santa Fe weather in October.
December weather contrasts notably with that of November. While December experiences lower average temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -18°C (0°F) to a maximum of 17°C (63°F), November boasts a slightly warmer range, with temperatures between -14°C (6°F) and 20°C (69°F). Both months see similar levels of precipitation, with December receiving 18 mm (0.7 in) and November a touch more at 21 mm (0.8 in), yet they have the same number of rainy days at four. Humidity levels remain fairly consistent, with December at 79% and November slightly higher at 81%. For more detailed insights, you can check Santa Fe weather in November.
In December, Santa Fe experiences a notable shift in weather compared to other months, with cooler temperatures dipping to average lows and occasional frosts that can reach freezing levels. The pleasant daytime warmth contrasts sharply with the chilly nights, making it a great time for cozy indoor activities or enjoying the crisp winter air during the day. Despite only a few days of precipitation, the increase in humidity adds to the seasonal feel, showcasing the unique charm of this time. For more insights into how the weather unfolds throughout the year, check out Santa Fe Climate.