December Weather in Niagara Falls, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

December in Niagara Falls, United States, presents a chilly yet captivating atmosphere, with temperatures ranging from a maximum of 17°C (62°F) to a minimum of -18°C (0°F). The average temperature hovers around 1°C (34°F), creating a brisk, wintry setting ideal for holiday festivities. Throughout the month, the region experiences approximately 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation across 15 days, contributing to the enchanting winter landscape. Coupled with a high humidity level of 87%, these conditions create a picturesque scene where visitors can witness the mesmerizing beauty of frozen waterfalls amidst a tranquil, serene backdrop.

December Temperature in Niagara Falls

In December, Niagara Falls, United States, experiences a notable chill as winter sets in, with minimum temperatures dipping to -18°C (0°F). Despite the cold, the average temperature hovers around 1°C (34°F), offering a stark contrast to the warmer months just passed. As the month progresses, the maximum temperatures can reach up to 17°C (62°F), creating a brief respite from the frigid air, though the overall trend showcases a significant drop from the milder fall temperatures. This winter landscape sets the stage for stunning icy views of the falls, making December a captivating time to witness the natural beauty of Niagara, even as the chill invites cozy layers and warm drinks.

December Weather in Niagara Falls: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Niagara Falls, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec282935445666737265554134
Data source: Temperature data for Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls

In December, Niagara Falls experiences a moderate precipitation total of 91 mm (3.6 in), slightly higher than the preceding months. With 15 days of rainfall, this period suggests a gradual transition into winter, as the frequency of precipitation increases compared to the drier autumn months. Notably, the weather pattern reveals a peak in October with 128 mm, making it the wettest month of the year. As the year concludes, December's precipitation remains consistent with the trend of late fall, where moisture accumulation helps pave the way for the snowier conditions typical of January. This interplay of rainfall and temperature sets the stage for the picturesque winter landscapes that Niagara Falls is renowned for.

December Precipitation Trends in Niagara Falls

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Niagara Falls, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7782721161018112583751288791
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Niagara Falls

December in Niagara Falls sees humidity levels settling at 87%, slightly lower than the peak months earlier in the year. This is part of a notable trend where the region experiences its highest humidity during the winter months, with January and February consistently reaching a lofty 91%. As the seasons transition into spring, humidity begins to taper off, hitting a low of 72% in August before gradually increasing again in the fall. Overall, December marks a transition from the winter highs, as it navigates the seasonal fluctuations, reflecting both the chill in the air and a sense of moisture that characterizes the region.

December Average Humidity in Niagara Falls

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Niagara Falls, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec91%91%88%88%82%80%77%72%76%83%88%87%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Niagara Falls

In December, the UV Index in Niagara Falls, United States is quite low, sitting at 2, which indicates a minimal risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. As winter takes hold, residents and visitors can expect a burn time of 45 minutes before sunscreen should be applied. This pattern of decreasing UV levels is a stark contrast to the soaring indices seen in the sunnier months, where values peaked at 10 in June. Overall, the trend shows a seasonal decline in UV exposure, with December offering a welcome respite as the very high levels of summer give way to milder winter conditions. For more detailed information on the UV Index throughout the year, visit the Niagara Falls UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Niagara Falls for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Niagara Falls 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2458910997532
Data source: Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls

As December rolls into Niagara Falls, visitors can expect a notable shift in the sunlight hours, with an average of 115 hours illuminating the winter landscape. Although this may seem modest compared to the sun-soaked peak of July with 348 hours, December still offers a warm respite as the year winds down. Following the vibrant brightness of late spring and summer, the decrease in daylight reflects the natural rhythm of the seasons. Interestingly, November sees a slight drop to 157 hours, setting the stage for the last month of the year. The transition into winter is marked by shorter days, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying the festive holiday spirit, even as the sunlight wanes.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Niagara Falls: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Niagara Falls 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec108h151h232h240h292h341h348h345h304h206h157h115h
Data source: Niagara Falls December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Niagara Falls During December

In Niagara Falls, December tends to usher in chilly weather alongside a modest chance of sunshine, hovering around 23%—a noticeable dip as the year winds down. This trend reflects a broader pattern where the likelihood of sunny days decreases during the fall and winter months, starting from a peak of 46% in August and dropping significantly by December. As the region transitions from the vibrant autumn hues to the stark winter landscape, residents and visitors should prepare for a predominantly overcast sky. With such a low chance of sun, December presents a serene, albeit gray, experience as the festive season approaches.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Niagara Falls

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec14%24%45%40%45%44%40%47%43%29%37%23%
Data source: Niagara Falls December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Niagara Falls in December

As December casts its wintry spell over Niagara Falls, daylight lingers for approximately 9 hours, mirroring the lower daylight durations seen in both November and January. This succinct slice of sunlight marks the end of the year, following a gradual increase from the minimal light of winter's onset in November to the longer days of spring that emerge by March. Notably, the summer months shine with 15 hours of daylight, offering a stark contrast to December's shorter afternoons. As the seasons transition, Niagara Falls experiences a rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight, creating a beautiful backdrop for nature's transformations throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Niagara Falls for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Niagara Falls throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 25m10h 32m11h 57m13h 25m14h 39m15h 16m14h 56m13h 50m12h 26m10h 59m9h 42m9h 3m
Data source: Niagara Falls daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Niagara Falls

As December unfolds in Niagara Falls, an invigorating shift in conditions emerges, with average wind speeds reaching 5.1 m/s (11 mph)—the highest for the year. This brisk gustiness signals the onset of winter, contrasting sharply with the summer's gentle breezes that lingered around 3.1 m/s (7 mph) in August. A gradual climb in wind speeds throughout the later months, peaking from November's 4.6 m/s (10 mph) to December's lively measures, hints at nature's dramatic transformation. Such winds dance around the iconic falls, adding a refreshing chill that heightens the senses, inviting both locals and tourists alike to embrace the unique beauty of Niagara Falls during this enchanting season.

Average December Wind Speed in Niagara Falls

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Niagara Falls, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.04.64.83.93.54.33.33.14.03.94.65.1 m/s
Data source: Niagara Falls December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Niagara Falls Compares to Other Months

The weather in Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls and find detailed weather information for every month.

In December, temperatures in Niagara Falls range from a minimum of -18°C (0°F) to a maximum of 17°C (62°F), with an average temperature of around 1°C (34°F). The month experiences approximately 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 15 days, coupled with a humidity level of 87%. As January arrives, the weather becomes noticeably colder, with minimum temperatures dropping to -19°C (-1°F) and an average of -2°C (28°F). The precipitation also decreases slightly to 77 mm (3.0 in) over 12 days, while humidity rises to 91%. For more detailed information, see Niagara Falls weather in January.

In December, temperatures in the region can vary significantly, ranging from a chilly minimum of -18°C (0°F) to an average of 1°C (34°F), with a maximum temperature reaching up to 17°C (62°F). The month is characterized by approximately 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 15 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 87%. In contrast, February experiences slightly colder conditions, with minimum temperatures dropping to -19°C (-3°F) and an average of -2°C (29°F). Although the maximum temperatures remain similar at 16°C (61°F), February sees a reduction in precipitation to 82 mm (3.2 in) over 14 days, and humidity levels rise to 91%. For more details on specific weather patterns, you can check Niagara Falls weather in February.

In December, temperatures typically range from a minimum of -18°C (0°F) to a maximum of 17°C (62°F), with an average temperature of around 1°C (34°F). The month experiences about 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 15 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 87%. In contrast, March sees slightly milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from -15°C (5°F) to a maximum of 18°C (65°F) and an average of 2°C (35°F). Precipitation decreases to 72 mm (2.8 in) over 12 days, while humidity remains similar at 88%. Overall, March offers a gradual transition to warmer weather compared to the colder and wetter conditions of December. For more specific details about conditions during March, check out Niagara Falls weather in March.

When comparing the weather in December and April, December tends to be much colder, with average temperatures around 1°C (34°F) and minimum lows dropping to -18°C (0°F). In contrast, April sees a milder climate with average temperatures rising to 7°C (44°F) and maximum highs reaching up to 24°C (75°F). While both months feature significant precipitation, December experiences about 91 mm (3.6 in) over 15 days, whereas April receives a bit more at 116 mm (4.6 in) over 14 days. Humidity levels remain relatively high in both months, with December at 87% and April slightly higher at 88%. For a more detailed look at what to expect during this spring month, check out Niagara Falls weather in April.

In December, temperatures can plunge as low as -18°C (0°F), with an average around 1°C (34°F) and a maximum of up to 17°C (62°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation, with 91 mm (3.6 in) falling over about 15 days, accompanied by high humidity at 87%. In contrast, May brings milder weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a comfortable average of 13°C (56°F) and highs reaching 29°C (84°F). Although May sees slightly more precipitation at 101 mm (4.0 in) over 13 days, the humidity is a bit lower at 82%. For additional details on the pleasant conditions during this month, check out Niagara Falls weather in May.

December and June present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plunge as low as -18°C (0°F), with an average around 1°C (34°F) and highs reaching 17°C (62°F). This month also experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 91 mm (3.6 in) over about 15 days, alongside high humidity levels at 87%. In contrast, June offers a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures of 8°C (47°F) and an average of 19°C (67°F), peaking at a warm 30°C (87°F). Precipitation in June is slightly lower at 81 mm (3.2 in) but occurs over fewer days, around 10, and benefits from lower humidity at 79%. For a closer look at the weather during this vibrant month, check out Niagara Falls weather in June.

In December, the weather is notably colder, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -18°C (0°F) at night to a mild 17°C (62°F) during the day, averaging around 1°C (34°F). The month experiences high humidity at 87% and receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 15 days. In contrast, July boasts much warmer temperatures, with minimums of 15°C (58°F) and maximums reaching up to 32°C (90°F), averaging 23°C (73°F). Although July has slightly more precipitation at 125 mm (4.9 in), it falls over just 13 days, and the humidity is lower at 77%. For more details, check out Niagara Falls weather in July.

December and August showcase strikingly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -18°C (0°F), with an average of around 1°C (34°F) and a maximum of 17°C (62°F). This month also experiences higher humidity at 87% and sees precipitation on about 15 days, totaling 91 mm (3.6 in). Conversely, August enjoys a much milder climate, featuring minimum temperatures of 13°C (56°F), an average of 22°C (72°F), and maximums reaching 30°C (86°F). With slightly less precipitation at 83 mm (3.3 in) and 13 days of rain, humidity during August is considerably lower at 72%. For more details on the delightful weather, check out Niagara Falls weather in August.

In comparing the weather of December and September, it's clear that the two months present quite different climates. December is much colder, with average temperatures hovering around 1°C (34°F) and nighttime lows plummeting to -18°C (0°F). In contrast, September enjoys milder conditions, with average temperatures reaching 19°C (66°F) and highs soaring up to 30°C (86°F). Additionally, December experiences more humidity at 87% and more precipitation days (15), totaling 91 mm (3.6 in), compared to September's 76% humidity and 9 days of rainfall, accumulating 75 mm (3.0 in). For more specifics on September weather, you can check Niagara Falls weather in September.

In comparing the weather between October and December, we observe significant differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. October tends to be much warmer, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 26°C (80°F), while December is much colder, with temperatures dipping as low as -18°C (0°F) and averaging around 1°C (34°F). Furthermore, October receives higher overall precipitation at 128 mm (5.0 in) over 16 days, compared to December's 91 mm (3.6 in) over 15 days. Despite this, December has a slightly higher humidity level at 87%, compared to October's 83%. For those interested in more detailed insights, you can check Niagara Falls weather in October.

December weather tends to be colder than November, with average temperatures dropping from 5°C (42°F) in November to around 1°C (34°F) in December. The minimum temperatures also plunge significantly, from -9°C (16°F) in November to -18°C (0°F) in December. While precipitation levels are relatively similar, with December receiving 91 mm (3.6 in) on 15 days and November having 87 mm (3.4 in) over 13 days, December's slightly higher humidity at 87% compared to November's 88% adds to the chill. For more information on the weather conditions during this time, visit Niagara Falls weather in November.

Compare Niagara Falls's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Niagara Falls

As December descends upon Niagara Falls, the weather showcases a dramatic shift compared to other months. With maximum temperatures lingering around a cooler 17°C and dipping to a brisk -18°C, the winter chill intensifies, making it quite the contrast to the warmer seasons. Alongside this drop, the heightened humidity of 87% and increased precipitation totaling 91 mm over approximately 15 days contribute to a markedly different atmosphere. While the majestic falls continue to draw visitors, December brings a unique winter wonderland vibe, perfectly encapsulated in the frosty air and stunning icy formations. For more detailed insights into the region's weather patterns, feel free to explore Niagara Falls Climate.