Last updated: February 24, 2025
December in Ithaca, United States, showcases a chilly climate, with temperatures ranging from a maximum of 17°C (63°F) to a biting minimum of -17°C (1°F), averaging around the freezing point at 0°C (32°F). Residents and visitors can expect the month to be quite wet, as precipitation totals reach 97 mm (3.8 in) over approximately 15 days, resulting in a humid atmosphere with an average humidity level of 86%. This blend of cold temperatures and frequent precipitation creates a beautifully wintry landscape, making December a picturesque yet brisk time to experience Ithaca's natural charm.
As December arrives in Ithaca, the grip of winter becomes increasingly evident, with temperatures reflecting a notable plunge compared to the milder months that preceded it. The month starts with a minimum of -17°C (1°F) and averages around 0°C (32°F), setting the stage for chilly days ahead. Although daytime highs can reach a moderate 17°C (63°F), the overall trend showcases a transition from the crisp fall air to the more biting winter cold. The stark contrast between the low of -17°C and the daytime maximum highlights the typical wintry fluctuations that characterize December in this region, making it a time when residents should bundle up and prepare for the transformative beauty of snow-capped landscapes.
In December, Ithaca experiences a noteworthy increase in precipitation, with 97 mm (3.8 in) of rainfall spread over approximately 15 days. This pattern reflects the onset of winter, where the relatively high precipitation aligns with the colder months. Interestingly, December's rainfall is slightly above November's 95 mm (3.7 in), marking it as one of the wetter months as the year comes to a close. The steady rainfall this month complements the consistent wet weather seen throughout the fall, creating an overall trend of increased moisture that leads into the winter season. As the landscape transforms under a blanket of snow and ice, December stands out as a month of transition, hinting at the snowy conditions yet to come.
Ithaca experiences a notable trend in humidity levels throughout the year, with December showcasing a humidity average of 86%. This figure places it significantly higher than the mid-year months of July and August, which see their lowest averages at 78% and 76% respectively. Interestingly, December's humidity remains consistent with the fall months, peaking at 89% in November. As the year wraps up, residents can expect a gradual increase from the drier summer months, reflecting the onset of winter's chill and accompanying moisture. Overall, the humidity in Ithaca exhibits a distinct seasonal rhythm, hinting at the comfort and complexities of its climate.
As December arrives in Ithaca, the UV Index drops to 2, indicating a low exposure category and extending your burn time to 45 minutes. This decline marks a notable shift from the very high levels seen during the summer months, where a UV Index of 10 prevailed from June to August, demanding protective measures for much shorter periods. As the year progresses, residents and visitors can take comfort in longer safe exposure times during the winter months, ultimately reflecting a seasonal trend of decreasing UV radiation as the sun's intensity wanes. For more detailed information on UV levels throughout the year, visit Ithaca UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In December, the sun graces Ithaca with 110 hours of daylight, marking a slight dip as the year comes to a close. As we reflect on the yearly pattern, it’s evident that sunshine reaches its peak in the summertime months, with July basking in a robust 341 hours. Following the vibrant spring and summer, hours of sunlight steadily decrease into the cooler months. While December's sunlight may seem limited compared to the 264 hours enjoyed in May, the gentle light serves as a reminder of the seasonal rhythms that shape this charming corner of the United States. As daylight wanes, it invites residents to savor the series of festive moments and cozy celebrations that brighten the month.
As winter approaches in Ithaca, December brings a noticeable dip in the likelihood of sunny days, with a mere 20% chance of sunshine. This decline follows a generally upward trend from the earlier months, peaking in the summer with June's 43% chance and gradually waning as the year progresses. From a sunny 39% in November, the transition to December highlights a shift towards increased cloud cover and the onset of colder weather. While December's sun is scant compared to the vibrant days of spring and summer, it serves as a reminder of the changing seasons and the stark contrast with the sunnier months, such as March's promising 40%.
In Ithaca, United States, December marks a period where daylight begins to dwindle, reflecting the lowest light levels of the year alongside January and November, with only 9 hours of daylight. This steady decrease from the sunniest month of June, which boasts a generous 15 hours, highlights a clear seasonal rhythm. As the year progresses from March's blooming 11 hours to April's vibrant 13 hours, daylight steadily increases, peaking mid-year before gradually tapering off again. This trend of fluctuating daylight encourages a sense of connection to the changing seasons, inviting residents to savor the rich charm of winter while eagerly anticipating the return of longer days ahead.
As December settles in Ithaca, the winds begin to pick up, with an average speed of 3.7 m/s (8 mph), marking a notable increase compared to the previous month. This uptick continues a trend observed throughout the colder months, where wind speeds generally rise from the calmer summer months. From the peak of July’s 2.4 m/s (5 mph), the colder air instigates a refreshing breeze, culminating in a significant gust by December. This seasonal shift not only invigorates the landscape but also prepares residents for the chill of winter, inviting the crisp, lively energy that characterizes Ithaca this time of year.
The weather in Ithaca 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 Ithaca and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January present quite different weather experiences, particularly in temperature and conditions. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -17°C (1°F) to an average of 0°C (32°F), peaking at a comfortable 17°C (63°F) on occasion. The month sees about 97 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over 15 days, with humidity levels around 86%. In contrast, January is notably colder, with minimum temperatures plunging to -25°C (-13°F) and an average temperature of -3°C (26°F), while still experiencing max temperatures up to 17°C (63°F). Precipitation slightly decreases to 82 mm (3.2 in) over 13 days, with an increased humidity level of 90%. For a detailed comparison of conditions, you can check Ithaca weather in January.
December and February present distinct weather characteristics, despite both being winter months. December enjoys a broader temperature range, with a minimum of -17°C (1°F) and a maximum of 17°C (63°F), averaging around 0°C (32°F). It experiences fairly high precipitation at 97 mm (3.8 in) over about 15 days, alongside a humidity level of 86%. In contrast, February typically sees colder temperatures, reaching a minimum of -23°C (-9°F) and a maximum of 20°C (69°F), with an average temperature of -2°C (28°F). Precipitation is slightly less at 89 mm (3.5 in) over 14 days, and humidity rises to 90%. For a detailed look at February weather in Ithaca, check out Ithaca weather in February.
December and March exhibit notable differences in weather, despite their close proximity in the calendar year. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -17°C (1°F) to a maximum of 17°C (63°F), with an average of around 0°C (32°F) and significant precipitation totaling 97 mm (3.8 in) over 15 days, contributing to a chilly and damp atmosphere with high humidity at 86%. In contrast, March sees a slight rise in average temperatures to around 1°C (34°F), with maximums reaching up to 23°C (73°F); however, the minimum stays the same at -17°C (1°F). Precipitation decreases slightly to 85 mm (3.4 in) over 13 days, maintaining a humidity level of 87%. For more detailed information on March weather in Ithaca, you can check Ithaca weather in March.
In December, temperatures range from a chilling minimum of -17°C (1°F) to a comfortable maximum of 17°C (63°F), with an average around freezing at 0°C (32°F). This month experiences 97 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over 15 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 86%. By contrast, April sees a significant warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F) and an average of 8°C (46°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 118 mm (4.6 in) spread over 16 days, along with a marginal rise in humidity to 88%. To delve deeper into the specifics of April weather, check out Ithaca weather in April.
December and May in Ithaca showcase stark contrasts in weather. December experiences a chilly average temperature of 0°C (32°F), with lows plummeting to -17°C (1°F) and occasional highs reaching up to 17°C (63°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 97 mm (3.8 in), spread across about 15 days, with an elevated humidity of 86%. In contrast, May brings a more moderate climate with an average temperature of 14°C (58°F), and minimum temperatures dipping only to -2°C (28°F) while peaking at 32°C (89°F). This spring month receives even more rainfall, totaling 127 mm (5.0 in) over 17 days, but with slightly lower humidity at 82%. For a more detailed look at May's weather, check out Ithaca weather in May.
When comparing the weather in December and June, there's a stark contrast in temperatures and overall climate conditions. December experiences frigid temperatures, with a minimum dropping to -17°C (1°F) and an average of 0°C (32°F), while June boasts much milder conditions, starting at a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and averaging 19°C (67°F). Precipitation levels are similar, with December receiving 97 mm (3.8 in) over 15 days and June experiencing 95 mm (3.7 in) over 12 days. However, December's higher humidity at 86% compared to June's 79% contributes to a more damp and chilly feel during the winter month. For more details on the weather during this vibrant summer month, check out Ithaca weather in June.
The weather in December contrasts sharply with that of July. In December, temperatures can plummet as low as -17°C (1°F), with an average hovering around 0°C (32°F) and highs reaching up to 17°C (63°F). This month experiences about 97 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over 15 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 86%. In stark contrast, July boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 10°C (51°F), an average of 22°C (72°F), and maximums soaring to 34°C (94°F). Additionally, July sees increased rainfall of 146 mm (5.8 in) also spread across 15 days, but with a lower humidity of 78%. For a more detailed look at Ithaca's weather during this warm month, check out Ithaca weather in July.
December and August in Ithaca present a stark contrast in weather conditions. December typically experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum reaching -17°C (1°F) and an average around 0°C (32°F), while August enjoys milder conditions, with minimums around 7°C (45°F) and average temperatures peaking at 21°C (70°F). Precipitation levels are somewhat similar, with December receiving 97 mm over 15 days and August slightly higher at 100 mm over 12 days, though the humidity is notably higher in December at 86% compared to 76% in August. To explore more about August weather specifically, you can check Ithaca weather in August.
December and September present contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plunge as low as -17°C (1°F), with an average around 0°C (32°F) and occasional highs reaching 17°C (63°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, averaging 97 mm (3.8 in) over 15 days, accompanied by high humidity at 86%. In comparison, September offers a much milder climate with minimum temperatures of 1°C (34°F), averaging 17°C (64°F), and maximums soaring to 33°C (91°F). Precipitation is slightly less, at 91 mm (3.6 in) over 9 days, with a lower humidity level of 78%. For more detailed information, check out Ithaca weather in September.
In comparing the weather of December and October, it's evident that October is generally milder and wetter. October sees temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), with an average temperature of 12°C (53°F). In contrast, December experiences colder conditions, with temperatures dipping as low as -17°C (1°F) and only reaching a maximum of 17°C (63°F), averaging around 0°C (32°F). Additionally, October has a higher level of precipitation at 150 mm (5.9 in) over 15 days, compared to December's 97 mm (3.8 in) over the same number of days. Despite October's greater rainfall, humidity levels are quite similar, with October at 84% and December at 86%. For more detailed insights, you can visit Ithaca weather in October.
In comparing the weather of December and November, December experiences slightly milder temperatures with an average of 0°C (32°F), while November's average is higher at 4°C (39°F). The minimum temperature in December is -17°C (1°F), which is warmer than November's colder minimum of -20°C (-3°F). Precipitation levels are almost equivalent, with December receiving 97 mm (3.8 in) over 15 days, compared to November’s 95 mm (3.7 in) over 14 days. Humidity remains high in both months, with December at 86% and November at 89%. For a more detailed look at November's climate, you can visit Ithaca weather in November.
As December arrives in Ithaca, it ushers in a notable shift in weather compared to the milder months preceding it. Temperatures drop significantly, with chilly average lows often dipping below freezing, while the atmosphere becomes increasingly humid, contributing to a damp, cold feel. Precipitation is not uncommon, spreading over approximately half the month, which can bring a mix of snowy and rainy days typical of early winter. This combination of factors creates a stark contrast to the warmer, dryer conditions experienced earlier in the year. For a deeper understanding of Ithaca's weather patterns, check out Ithaca Climate.