December Weather in Taos, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

December in Taos, United States, brings a chilly yet picturesque winter atmosphere. With maximum temperatures reaching 14°C (57°F), the days are cold but can be surprisingly mild for the season. The average temperature hovers around -5°C (24°F), while the minimum can plummet to a frosty -24°C (-10°F), making warm layers essential for outdoor activities. The month sees about 31 mm (1.2 in) of precipitation spread across 6 days, contributing to the enchanting winter scenery enveloped in 85% humidity, creating a cozy, wintry landscape perfect for celebrating the season.

December Temperature in Taos

In December, Taos, United States, experiences a significant chill, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -24°C (-10°F), while the average hovers around -5°C (24°F). This month marks a notable transition into winter, as it presents some of the coldest conditions of the year, particularly when compared to the preceding months. The **maximum temperature reaches a mild 14°C (57°F), offering brief respites from the biting cold. As the year draws to a close, residents and visitors alike can expect a landscape coated in frost, perfect for winter sports and cozy gatherings, encapsulating the enchanting yet brisk atmosphere of Taos in December.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Taos, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec212333415161646257453424
Data source: Temperature data for Taos 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 Taos

December in Taos ushers in a gentle wave of moisture, typically registering 31 mm (1.2 in) of precipitation over approximately 6 days. This marks a slight decline from the wetter months of summer and fall, where July peaked at 91 mm (3.6 in), showcasing the region's seasonal shift. Unlike the dramatic rain of mid-year, December’s moisture tends to be more consistent, laying down a neat blanket of snow in the surrounding mountains. As winter deepens, these modest but steady precipitation levels not only aid in replenishing local ecosystems but also set the stage for an invigorating snowy landscape, perfect for winter sports enthusiasts. Overall, the precipitation trend in December reflects a balanced transition into the colder months, maintaining Taos's charm while preparing it for the holiday season.

December Precipitation Trends in Taos

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Taos, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec343245294435915735342831
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Taos

In December, Taos experiences a notable uptick in humidity, reaching 85%, higher than any other month of the year. This winter peak follows a gradual decline from early summer's low of 54% in July. As the seasons transition, humidity levels steadily rise, culminating in a notably damp atmosphere as winter sets in. This pattern reflects a broader trend of increasing moisture in the air from late fall through early winter, providing Taos with a unique, crisp charm amidst its scenic landscapes. The shift from the relative dryness of summer to the rich humidity of December underscores the region's diverse climatic shifts throughout the year.

December Average Humidity in Taos

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Taos, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec84%84%75%68%62%55%54%61%70%78%81%85%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Taos

As December arrives in Taos, the UV Index declines to 4, marking a return to the moderate exposure category. This shift means that residents and visitors can enjoy around 30 minutes of sun exposure without the risk of burning. Following the extreme levels seen from April to August, where UV ratings soared to 12 and 13, December offers a welcome respite from intense sun exposure. Interestingly, this month’s lower UV levels echo January's similar conditions, suggesting a trend of gradual moderation as winter settles in. For more detailed insights and updates, check the Taos UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Taos for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Taos 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5710111213131211864
Data source: Taos 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 Taos

In Taos, United States, December ushers in a cozy atmosphere, boasting 250 hours of sunshine that contrast beautifully with the winter chill. As the year winds down, sunlight peaks in the summer months, with July clocking in the highest at 367 hours. Notably, the transition from fall to winter reveals a gradual decline in sunshine hours, from the warm glow of 310 hours in September to December's more subdued aura. Despite this decrease, Taos remains a charming winter wonderland where the sun still graces the scenery, inviting residents and tourists alike to bask in the crisp, clear days amidst the majestic mountains.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Taos: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Taos 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec196h252h298h326h360h364h367h348h310h284h264h250h
Data source: Taos December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Taos During December

In Taos, United States, December brings a 62% chance of sunny weather, marking a notable dip from the preceding months. As autumn unfolds, November peaks at a 77% likelihood of sun, showcasing the region's propensity for clearer skies as the seasons change. Interestingly, while December's chances are lower than those of late fall, they remain relatively high compared to the summer months, where sunshine is less reliable, averaging around 52% in July. This trend highlights Taos's unique climate, offering a beautiful balance of sun and winter charm as the year draws to a close.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Taos

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Taos 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 Taos experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec63%62%65%66%57%55%52%63%73%72%77%62%
Data source: Taos December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Taos in December

In December, Taos experiences a return to shorter days, with only 9 hours of daylight—the same as in January. This period marks the end of a gradual decrease in daylight that began in late summer, peaking at 14 hours in May, June, and July. As the seasons shift, the daylight diminishes more noticeably, dropping from 13 hours in August to a steady decline through the fall months. This cycle highlights the beauty of Taos's landscape, transitioning from the sun-drenched days of summer to the quieter, darker winter months, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the serene beauty of the snowy season.

Average Daylight Hours in Taos for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Taos throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 58m10h 51m11h 59m13h 8m14h 7m14h 35m14h 19m13h 28m12h 21m11h 12m10h 12m9h 42m
Data source: Taos daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Taos

As December sweeps into Taos, the average wind speed picks up, reaching 3.2 m/s (7 mph), marking a notable increase from the calmer winds of the summer months. In contrast to the gentle breezes that characterize July and August, which see averages around 1.6 m/s (3 mph), December's winds usher in a refreshing chill that signals the onset of winter. This seasonal shift is part of a broader trend observed throughout the year: after a gradual rise in spring, culminating at 3.0 m/s (7 mph) in April, wind speeds experience fluctuations but generally hover near the 2.0 m/s (4 mph) mark during the warmer months. As the year closes, the brisk December winds invigorate the landscape, preparing Taos for the scenic winter season ahead.

Average December Wind Speed in Taos

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Taos, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.22.62.83.02.82.11.62.02.22.62.23.2 m/s
Data source: Taos December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Taos Compares to Other Months

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

In comparing December and January weather, December tends to be slightly milder, with average temperatures hovering around -5°C (24°F) compared to January's average of -6°C (21°F). Both months experience frigid minimum temperatures, with December dipping to -24°C (-10°F) and January even colder at -25°C (-13°F). Precipitation levels are similar, with December receiving 31 mm (1.2 in) and January slightly higher at 34 mm (1.3 in), both occurring over six days. Humidity remains consistent between the two months, at 85% in December and 84% in January, contributing to the chilly, damp conditions typical of winter. For more detailed insights, you can check Taos weather in January.

December and February present similar average temperatures, both hovering around -5°C (24°F), but February tends to be slightly colder at night with a minimum temperature of -25°C (-13°F) compared to December's -24°C (-10°F). Both months experience comparable levels of precipitation, with December recording 31 mm and February slightly higher at 32 mm, though February sees precipitation one additional day. Humidity remains consistently high in both months, with December at 85% and February at 84%. For more detailed insights into February's weather, check out Taos weather in February.

December weather is characterized by colder temperatures, with minimums plummeting to -24°C (-10°F) and an average of -5°C (24°F). Precipitation is relatively moderate at 31 mm (1.2 in) over six days, and the humidity remains high at 85%. In contrast, March sees slightly milder conditions, with minimum temperatures around -18°C (0°F) and an average of 0°C (33°F). Despite the average daily maximum reaching 15°C (60°F), March experiences more precipitation at 45 mm (1.8 in) over nine days, accompanied by lower humidity at 74%. For more specific insights on the weather during this month, check out Taos weather in March.

December and April present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plummet to a chilling minimum of -24°C (-10°F), with an average hovering around -5°C (24°F), while the maximum reaches only 14°C (57°F). This month experiences higher humidity at 85%, alongside a modest precipitation of 31 mm (1.2 in) spread over six days. Conversely, April showcases a more moderate climate, with minimum temperatures of -12°C (11°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F), peaking at a pleasant 20°C (68°F). Precipitation is slightly lower at 29 mm (1.2 in) with the same frequency of rainy days, but the humidity drops to a more comfortable 68%. For a detailed view of the weather in April, you can check out Taos weather in April.

December and May present strikingly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -24°C (-10°F) and typically hover around an average of -5°C (24°F), while the maximum reaches only 14°C (57°F). With high humidity at 85% and limited daylight, December is characterized by cold, dry conditions, receiving around 31 mm (1.2 inches) of precipitation over six days. In contrast, May sees a significant warming trend, with minimum temperatures of -6°C (21°F) and average highs climbing to 25°C (78°F). The month experiences increased precipitation, totaling 44 mm (1.7 inches) over nine days, but with a more moderate humidity level of 62%. For those interested in the specifics of late spring weather, check out Taos weather in May.

December and June present strikingly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -24°C (-10°F), with an average temperature around -5°C (24°F) and a maximum of 14°C (57°F). The month tends to be quite humid, with an 85% humidity level and 31 mm (1.2 in) of precipitation over about 6 days. In contrast, June boasts much milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a warm average of 16°C (61°F) and a peak of 30°C (86°F). The humidity decreases to 55%, with slightly higher precipitation at 35 mm (1.4 in) across 8 days. For more information on June weather, visit Taos weather in June.

December and July in Taos present starkly contrasting weather conditions. December is characterized by frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -24°C (-10°F) and an average of -5°C (24°F), while July enjoys a much milder climate, with minimums of 6°C (43°F) and an average of 18°C (64°F). Precipitation is more frequent in July, occurring on 17 days compared to just 6 days in December, and the total rainfall is significantly higher at 91 mm (3.6 in) for July versus 31 mm (1.2 in) for December. Additionally, humidity levels are notably higher in December at 85%, while July boasts a more comfortable 54% humidity. For more details on the summer weather, check out Taos weather in July.

December and August present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -24°C (-10°F), with an average temperature around -5°C (24°F) and maximums reaching 14°C (57°F). This month experiences a relatively low amount of precipitation, totaling 31 mm (1.2 in) over six days, but the humidity remains high at 85%. In contrast, August brings warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (43°F), an average of 17°C (62°F), and maximums soaring up to 30°C (86°F). Precipitation increases to 57 mm (2.3 in) spread over eleven days, but the humidity is significantly lower at 61%. For those looking to explore the weather dynamics in August specifically, you can visit Taos weather in August.

In December, the weather is notably colder with temperatures ranging from a frigid minimum of -24°C (-10°F) to an average of -5°C (24°F), occasionally peaking at 14°C (57°F). This month experiences higher humidity at 85% and a total precipitation of 31 mm (1.2 in) over six days. In contrast, September boasts milder temperatures, featuring a minimum of -2°C (29°F), an average of 14°C (57°F), and a maximum of 28°C (83°F). Despite slightly higher precipitation of 35 mm (1.4 in) over the same six days, September enjoys lower humidity at 70%. For more detailed information about the September climate, visit Taos weather in September.

When comparing the weather in December and October, it's clear that December is considerably colder, with average temperatures around -5°C (24°F), while October enjoys a milder average of 7°C (45°F). December's minimum temperature can plunge to -24°C (-10°F), starkly contrasting with October's milder minimum of -13°C (9°F). Both months experience similar levels of precipitation, with December receiving 31 mm (1.2 in) and October slightly more at 34 mm (1.4 in), yet the humidity is slightly higher in December at 85% compared to 78% in October. To explore more about the weather during October, you can visit Taos weather in October.

In comparing the weather of December and November, December tends to be colder, with average temperatures of -5°C (24°F) compared to November's milder average of 1°C (34°F). While both months experience low humidity, December's 85% is slightly higher than November's 81%. Precipitation wise, both months are similar, with December receiving 31 mm (1.2 in) over 6 days, just a touch more than November's 28 mm (1.1 in) over 5 days. Notably, the minimum temperature in December dips to -24°C (-10°F), whereas November's low is -20°C (-3°F). For further details on November's weather, you can view Taos weather in November.

Compare Taos's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Taos

In December, Taos experiences a distinct shift in weather compared to the rest of the year. With a chilly average temperature hovering around -5°C (24°F), the month stands out for its crispy atmosphere and higher humidity levels at 85%, creating a cozy, wintry charm. Although precipitation is relatively low, with only about six days of measurable snow or rain, the month’s maximum temperatures can reach a mild 14°C (57°F), offering brief respites from the cold. This unique blend of winter conditions makes December an enchanting time to explore the beauty of Taos. For a deeper understanding of the region's climate, visit Taos Climate.