Last updated: February 24, 2025
In December, New York City experiences a dynamic climate characterized by a maximum temperature of 18°C (64°F) and an average of 4°C (39°F), while chilly nights can plunge to a minimum of -11°C (13°F). The city faces 106 mm (4.2 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days, contributing to the overall 80% humidity that envelops the city. This blend of temperatures and moisture creates a unique winter atmosphere, perfect for cozy adventures in the bustling streets of NYC. Whether it's the enchanting holiday lights or the first snowflakes of the season, December in the city offers a magical experience that captivates both locals and visitors alike.
In December, New York City ushers in the winter with temperatures that start to dip, showcasing a noticeable chill compared to the preceding months. With minimums around -11°C (13°F) and a modest average of 4°C (39°F), the city transforms into a frosty wonderland, perfect for holiday festivities. Though daytime highs can reach up to 18°C (64°F), the overall trend reflects a significant drop from November, marking a clear shift into the season’s embrace. As snowflakes begin to dance through the air, the city's vibrant energy remains, inviting both locals and visitors to enjoy cozy cafes and festive markets amidst the cool, crisp atmosphere.
In December, New York City experiences a notable average precipitation of 106 mm (4.2 in), falling over approximately 10 days. This amount places December as one of the wetter months of the year, though slightly less than the monthly highs of July and August. As the year winds down, the precipitation reflects a transition from the milder, rainier conditions of late spring and summer to the harsher winter weather. Throughout the month, light to moderate rainfall is common, contributing to an overall damp atmosphere that contrasts with the dry spells seen in the early winter months like November. This consistent moisture not only nurtures the city's winter landscapes but also offers a vivid backdrop to the festive holiday season.
In December, New York City experiences a notable 80% humidity, reflecting the traditional winter climate as the year draws to a close. This figure is relatively high compared to the summer months of July and August, which see the lowest humidity levels at 62% and 65%, respectively. As temperatures plunge through fall, humidity levels rise again, peaking in late autumn with November at 82%. The transition from autumn to winter signifies a shift in moisture retention within the air, showcasing New York's characteristic seasonal cycle. Overall, December's humidity is a reminder of the city's damp winters, aligning closely with the trends observed in previous months as humidity begins to stabilize before the depths of winter.
In December, New York City experiences a notable decline in UV exposure, with the UV Index dropping to 2, classified as low. This marks a significant shift from the intense highs of the summer months, where values soared to 10 in May and June, pushing burn times down to just 15 minutes. While the chill of winter coats the city, residents can enjoy up to 45 minutes of safe outdoor exposure without the same risk of sunburn. This trend highlights the protective effects of colder weather against harmful UV radiation, making December an ideal time for those who want to enjoy the outdoors without the usual sun-related concerns. For more detailed information, visit New York City UV Index.
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December in New York City sees 175 hours of sunshine, marking a noticeable dip as the year draws to a close. This reduction follows a steady increase from the winter months, beginning with a chilly 148 hours in January and gradually climbing through the spring to a peak of 339 hours in July. As autumn sets in, sunlight hours begin to wane again; November records 208 hours, providing a brief respite before the short days of December arrive. Despite the decrease, December still enjoys a bright charm, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the festive spirit amidst the city's striking winter landscape. The overall trend reveals a vibrant transition through the seasons, showcasing New York's unique ability to bask in sunny brilliance, even as temperatures drop.
In December, New York City experiences a 31% chance of sunny weather, which is one of the lowest probabilities of sunshine throughout the year. This statistic fits into a broader trend as the city transitions into winter, with the chances of sun steadily dropping from the more favorable conditions of late spring and early fall. For example, the peak sunshine months are evident in March and November, boasting 57% and 55% chances, respectively. As the year progresses towards December, the likelihood of cloudy or inclement weather increases significantly, making those rare sunny days particularly special during this time of year. Whether adorned with holiday lights or fresh snowfall, the charm of December in NYC remains undeniable, even if the sun isn't shining brightly.
As December descends upon New York City, the daylight duration settles at 9 hours, mirroring the trend seen in both January and November. This month ushers in the winter solstice, marking the shortest days of the year, which contrast sharply with the burgeoning daylight of spring. Following a gradual increase from a mere 10 hours in February to a robust 15 hours in June, daylight starts to wane as the year closes out, illustrating the natural ebb and flow of sunlight in this vibrant metropolis. While the long summer days provide ample opportunities for outdoor adventures, December’s shorter daylight serves as a reminder to embrace indoor activities and cozy gatherings, capturing the warm spirit of the season amidst the winter chill.
As December settles over New York City, a noticeable shift in wind patterns emerges, marking the transition from the brisk and lively autumn breezes to the gentler whispers of winter. With an average wind speed of 2.9 m/s (7 mph), the winds are slightly calmer compared to the preceding months, which often clocked in at around 3.1 m/s (7 mph). This trend depicts a gradual decline in wind intensity as the year draws to a close. While January and February usher in the coldest months, often bringing stronger gusts, December’s milder winds create a serene prelude to the winter chill, allowing the city to bask in a peaceful ambiance amidst the festive season. As the holiday lights twinkle, the soft breezes seem to cradle the streets, inviting citizens and visitors alike to embrace the magic of winter in the bustling metropolis.
The weather in New York City 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 New York City and find detailed weather information for every month.
In December, temperatures in the region range from a minimum of -11°C (13°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F), with an average temperature of 4°C (39°F). The month receives a total precipitation of 106 mm (4.2 inches) over approximately 10 days, and the humidity averages around 80%. In contrast, January experiences colder conditions, with temperatures dropping to a minimum of -18°C (-1°F) and an average of 1°C (34°F), while still peaking at 18°C (64°F). Precipitation decreases to 67 mm (2.7 inches) over about 7 days, and humidity rises slightly to 84%. For more detailed information, check out New York City weather in January.
In comparing the weather between December and February, December tends to showcase slightly milder temperatures with an average of 4°C (39°F), while February is colder, averaging around 2°C (36°F). The minimum temperatures in December drop to -11°C (13°F), whereas February can see lows of -16°C (4°F), highlighting February's chillier nights. Both months experience similar levels of precipitation, with December receiving 106 mm (4.2 in) and February 102 mm (4.0 in), and both have about 10 days of precipitation. Humidity remains fairly consistent, with December at 80% and February slightly higher at 82%. For more detailed weather information, you can visit New York City weather in February.
December and March exhibit notable differences in weather patterns, despite both months experiencing chilly temperatures and similar levels of precipitation. In December, average temperatures hover around 4°C (39°F), with minimums dipping to -11°C (13°F) and maximums reaching up to 18°C (64°F). The month sees about 106 mm (4.2 in) of rainfall spread over 10 days, contributing to a humidity level of 80%. In contrast, March brings slightly warmer conditions, with an average temperature of 5°C (42°F), minimums at -9°C (16°F), and a more pleasant maximum of 25°C (77°F). Precipitation in March is a bit lower at 98 mm (3.8 in), also across 10 days, while humidity remains slightly higher at 81%. For a detailed look at March weather, you can check New York City weather in March.
When comparing the weather in December and April, we observe notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. December features colder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -11°C (13°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F), with an average of 4°C (39°F). It also experiences significant precipitation, totaling 106 mm (4.2 in) over 10 days, and maintains a relatively high humidity of 80%. In contrast, April brings a milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a maximum of 27°C (82°F), averaging 11°C (52°F). Despite a slight increase in precipitation to 112 mm (4.4 in) across 12 days, the humidity remains slightly lower at 78%. For more detailed weather insights, check out New York City weather in April.
December and May present a striking contrast in weather conditions. December features colder temperatures, with a minimum of -11°C (13°F) and an average of around 4°C (39°F), while May enjoys milder conditions with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to an average of 17°C (62°F). Precipitation levels are fairly similar, with December receiving 106 mm (4.2 in) over approximately 10 days compared to May's 114 mm (4.5 in) over 13 days. Additionally, December's humidity is higher at 80%, compared to May's more comfortable 69%. For more insights into May's weather, you can explore New York City weather in May.
December and June present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures can drop to a chilling minimum of -11°C (13°F), with an average around 4°C (39°F) and a maximum of 18°C (64°F). This month also tends to be quite humid, with 80% humidity and substantial precipitation of 106 mm (4.2 in) spread over about 10 days. In contrast, June boasts much milder and warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 10°C (50°F), an average of 22°C (72°F), and highs reaching up to 35°C (94°F). Though June has slightly less precipitation, totaling 92 mm (3.6 in) across approximately 13 days, the humidity is lower at 69%. For more detailed information about the weather trends, you can visit New York City weather in June.
When comparing the weather in December and July, significant differences are evident. December experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -11°C (13°F) and an average of 4°C (39°F), while July boasts much warmer conditions, featuring a minimum of 17°C (62°F) and an average of 26°C (78°F). Additionally, December sees higher humidity levels at 80%, contributing to the chill, while July enjoys a lower humidity of 62%. In terms of precipitation, December receives about 106 mm (4.2 in) over 10 days, while July has slightly more, with 148 mm (5.8 in) over 13 days. For more specifics on July weather, you can refer to New York City weather in July.
When comparing the weather in December and August, it's clear that these months offer starkly different climates. December typically sees much colder temperatures, with minimums plummeting to -11°C (13°F) and an average of around 4°C (39°F), while maximums can reach up to 18°C (64°F). In contrast, August enjoys milder conditions with minimum temperatures of 16°C (61°F), an average of 25°C (76°F), and highs soaring to 34°C (93°F). Additionally, December experiences higher humidity levels at 80% compared to August’s 65%, yet it has less precipitation overall with 106 mm (4.2 in) across roughly 10 days, whereas August receives 127 mm (5.0 in) over about 14 days. For more detailed insights, you can explore New York City weather in August.
The weather in December is markedly colder than in September, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -11°C (13°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F), compared to September's more mild range of 9°C (49°F) to 33°C (92°F). December also experiences higher humidity at 80%, which contributes to its chilly feel, whereas September's humidity sits lower at 68%. Additionally, while both months see a significant amount of precipitation, December has slightly more at 106 mm (4.2 in) over about 10 days, compared to September's 92 mm (3.6 in) over 9 days. For more detailed insights, you can check New York City weather in September.
When comparing the weather in December and October, we see notable differences in temperature and overall conditions. December features a much cooler climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -11°C (13°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F), averaging around 4°C (39°F). In contrast, October enjoys milder weather, with temperatures from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) up to 33°C (91°F) and averaging 16°C (61°F). Additionally, while both months experience precipitation over 10 days, December receives slightly less rainfall at 106 mm (4.2 in) compared to October’s 128 mm (5.0 in). Another distinction is the humidity, which is higher in December at 80%, compared to October's 74%. For more information on October weather specifically, you can check New York City weather in October.
In December, temperatures experience a notable drop, with a minimum of -11°C (13°F) and an average of 4°C (39°F), compared to November's milder minimum of -9°C (17°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F). While both months are characterized by high humidity levels—80% in December and 82% in November—December sees an increase in precipitation to 106 mm (4.2 in) over 10 days, compared to November's 83 mm (3.3 in) over 8 days. This combination of lower temperatures and higher precipitation in December makes it feel much colder than November, which still retains some warmth with a maximum of 24°C (75°F). For more details about the November weather in New York City, you can visit New York City weather in November.
As December blankets New York City in the festive spirit, the weather marks a distinct shift from the milder months that precede it. With average temperatures dipping to a crisp 4°C (39°F) and occasionally flirting with the chill of -11°C (13°F) at night, residents and visitors alike are reminded to bundle up. The month's 106 mm (4.2 in) of precipitation, occurring over about ten days, often dampens the holiday cheer, making the city both gloomy and enchanting under the winter skies. Coupled with an 80% humidity level, December presents a unique blend of cool air and moisture, setting the stage for a quintessential New York winter experience. For more insights into the city's climate, explore the detailed information available at New York City Climate.