Last updated: February 24, 2025
December on Shelter Island ushers in chilly temperatures, with maximums reaching 16°C (61°F) and averages dipping to 5°C (42°F), while nighttime can see lows down to a brisk -9°C (16°F). The month is notably wet, accumulating 147 mm (5.8 in) of precipitation over 12 days, contributing to the island's 80% humidity levels. Despite the crisp air and frequent rain, the beauty of winter on Shelter Island offers a serene backdrop for those who embrace the season's chill.
In December, Shelter Island ushers in the winter chill with temperatures reflecting a classic descent into colder months. The mercury dips to a minimum of -9°C (16°F), hinting at the frosty nights ahead, while the average temperature hovers around a brisk 5°C (42°F). Despite the cold snap, daily highs reach a comfortable maximum of 16°C (61°F), creating a contrast that encourages bundled outdoor adventures or cozy indoor gatherings. As the year draws to a close, the transition from the crisp November air into December’s colder embrace showcases a consistent decline in both low and average temperatures, marking this month as the exciting onset of winter’s grip on this serene island getaway.
As December unfolds in Shelter Island, the weather takes a notable turn, presenting a significant boost in precipitation with 147 mm (5.8 in) recorded over the month. This represents a rise from the more moderate levels seen in November, which experienced 113 mm (4.4 in). With 12 days of rain, December features a pattern of increased moisture, highlighting the transition to the wetter winter months. Interestingly, this trend mirrors that of October, which had the highest precipitation of the year at 160 mm (6.3 in), suggesting that late fall and early winter in Shelter Island often bring heavier rainfall. As the year closes, the climate leaves behind a refreshing, albeit soggy, mark on the island’s landscape.
In December, Shelter Island experiences a modest humidity level of 80%, which aligns closely with the trend observed in the preceding months. The data shows that winter months, particularly January and February, maintain a high humidity level of 84%. As the year progresses into spring, humidity gently declines to 79% in April, before dipping to its annual low of 75% during the summer months of May through September. Interestingly, October also maintains this lower level, but a notable increase in humidity to 80% returns in November, signifying a shift towards the drier conditions of summer. Overall, December perfectly echoes this seasonal ebb and flow, encapsulating the island's characteristic maritime climate as it transitions toward winter.
As we approach December on Shelter Island, the UV Index drops significantly to 2, placing it in the low exposure category. This trend is a welcome relief after several months experiencing very high levels, particularly during the summer when indices soared to 10 in both July and June. With this decrease in UV radiation, December offers an extended burn time of 45 minutes before skin damage occurs, making it a perfect month for leisurely outdoor activities without the same intensity of sun exposure seen in the warmer months. As you enjoy the seasonal changes, remember to keep an eye on the forecasted UV levels to stay protected. For more detailed information, check the Shelter Island UV Index.
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In Shelter Island, December brings a cozy respite from the vibrant summer months, with 177 hours of sunlight gracing the island. As the year winds down, daylight gradually diminishes from the peak of 349 hours in July, signaling a shift toward winter's embrace. Despite this decline, December still offers a delightful warmth, reminiscent of the bright spring days that begin to awaken in March with 261 hours of sunshine. The light, though less abundant, creates a tranquil atmosphere perfect for reflection and enjoying the serene beauty of the island. As the months unfold, Shelter Island showcases a stunning transition from bright summer days to the softer, quieter light of winter, enchanting visitors and residents alike.
In December, Shelter Island experiences a notably low likelihood of sunny weather, with only a 32% chance of sunshine. This marks a significant dip compared to the preceding months, especially November, which boasts a more favorable 53% chance. The trend indicates that as the year winds down, the chance for bright days diminishes, with December landing among the least sunny months. Interestingly, this follows a pattern seen earlier in the year, where other late fall and winter months, like February and August, also linger around the lower end of the spectrum. As sunshine becomes scarcer, residents and visitors may find themselves yearning for the brighter days of spring or summer, making December a time to embrace the cozy charm of Shelter Island.
In Shelter Island, United States, December embraces the onset of winter with a daylight duration of 9 hours, mirroring the shorter days of November. This decline in sunlight marks a steady trend as the year progresses, starting with January's similar length. As the months unfold, daylight gradually increases, peaking in June at a welcoming 15 hours. Following this high, daylight begins to wane again, leading back to the shorter days in late fall and winter. The rhythmic rise and fall of daylight throughout the year creates a beautiful pattern, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the unique charm of each season.
In December, Shelter Island experiences a mild transition in wind patterns, with an average wind speed of 6.6 m/s (15 mph). This marks a slight drop from the preceding months, consistent with the trend of decreasing wind speeds as the year draws to a close. Following the summer's peak breezes, which reached a gentle 4.8 m/s in July and 4.9 m/s in August, the winds began to pick up again in the fall, peaking at 6.8 m/s in November. Overall, December's winds remain relatively stable, reflecting the island's characteristic calm before the winds can potentially shift with the arrival of winter. As the year wraps up, these gentle breezes create a serene atmosphere, inviting both locals and visitors to embrace the crisp charm of a Shelter Island winter.
The weather in Shelter Island 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 Shelter Island and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January on Shelter Island showcase a gradual decline in temperatures, with December averaging 5°C (42°F) compared to January’s cooler average of 2°C (37°F). The minimum temperatures are notably lower in January, dipping to -13°C (8°F) versus December's minimum of -9°C (16°F). Precipitation is more frequent in December, with 147 mm (5.8 in) over 12 days, while January sees reduced rainfall of 89 mm (3.5 in) across 9 days. The humidity remains relatively high in both months, at 80% in December and 84% in January, contributing to the chilly maritime atmosphere. For more details on January's climate, you can visit Shelter Island weather in January.
December and February present quite distinct winter weather patterns, although both months experience cold temperatures. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -9°C (16°F) to a maximum of 16°C (61°F), with average temperatures hovering around 5°C (42°F). Precipitation is relatively high at 147 mm (5.8 in) over about 12 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 80%. Conversely, February is slightly colder, with a minimum temperature of -12°C (11°F) and a maximum of 12°C (53°F). The average temperature dips to 3°C (37°F), and precipitation decreases to 123 mm (4.8 in) over 11 days, with humidity rising to 84%. For more details on February weather, you can check Shelter Island weather in February.
December and March exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In December, temperatures fluctuate between a minimum of -9°C (16°F) and a maximum of 16°C (61°F), with an average of 5°C (42°F). The month experiences about 147 mm (5.8 in) of precipitation over 12 days and maintains a humidity level of 80%. In contrast, March features slightly milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 15°C (59°F), with an average of 4°C (39°F). Precipitation decreases to 113 mm (4.5 in) across 10 days, accompanied by a slightly higher humidity of 82%. For more details on the weather in March, you can check out Shelter Island weather in March.
In December, temperatures can dip as low as -9°C (16°F), but the average tends to hover around 5°C (42°F), with a maximum reaching up to 16°C (61°F). The month typically sees about 147 mm (5.8 inches) of precipitation over approximately 12 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, April welcomes slightly milder weather, with minimum temperatures starting at 0°C (33°F) and an average around 8°C (47°F) — still peaking at 16°C (61°F) just like December. Precipitation is slightly lower in April, at 137 mm (5.4 inches), over the same 12 days, and humidity remains comparable at 79%. For more specific insights into what to expect, check out Shelter Island weather in April.
December and May present contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures can plunge as low as -9°C (16°F), with an average of 5°C (42°F) and occasional highs reaching 16°C (61°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, accumulating to 147 mm (5.8 in) over about 12 days, accompanied by relatively high humidity of 80%. In contrast, May enjoys milder temperatures with a minimum of 4°C (39°F), an average of 12°C (54°F), and a maximum of 20°C (69°F). Although May experiences slightly less precipitation at 129 mm (5.1 in) across 13 days, the humidity is somewhat lower at 75%. For a more detailed look at weather conditions in May, visit Shelter Island weather in May.
When comparing December and June weather, a noticeable contrast can be observed. December experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -9°C (16°F) and an average of 5°C (42°F), leading to a chillier atmosphere. In contrast, June boasts milder temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (52°F) and an average of 18°C (64°F), making it a more pleasant time of year. Additionally, December sees higher precipitation, totaling 147 mm (5.8 in) over 12 days, compared to June's 72 mm (2.9 in) over just 8 days. Humidity remains relatively consistent, with December at 80% and June slightly lower at 78%. For more details about the weather in June, visit Shelter Island weather in June.
December and July present stark contrasts in weather, particularly in temperature and precipitation patterns. In December, temperatures can drop as low as -9°C (16°F) and average around 5°C (42°F), accompanied by a notable 147 mm (5.8 in) of precipitation over 12 days, resulting in a high humidity of 80%. In contrast, July enjoys much warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures of 16°C (61°F) and averaging 22°C (72°F), peaking at 28°C (82°F). During this month, rainfall is less frequent, totaling 99 mm (3.9 in) across just 10 days, and the humidity is slightly lower at 76%. For more specifics on July weather, you can visit Shelter Island weather in July.
December and August present strikingly different weather conditions. In December, temperatures can drop to a chilling minimum of -9°C (16°F), with an average high of around 5°C (42°F) and occasional peaks of up to 16°C (61°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 147 mm (5.8 in) over approximately 12 days, coupled with a high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, August enjoys much milder weather, with minimum temperatures of 17°C (63°F) and an average high of 23°C (73°F), peaking at 27°C (80°F). This summer month sees less rainfall, averaging 103 mm (4.0 in) across 9 days, and slightly lower humidity at 76%. For more detailed insights on August weather, you can check Shelter Island weather in August.
When comparing the weather in December and September, it's clear that December is significantly colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -9°C (16°F) to a maximum of 16°C (61°F), while September enjoys milder temperatures, averaging between 12°C (55°F) and 26°C (79°F). Precipitation is also more frequent in December, with 147 mm (5.8 in) falling over 12 days, compared to September's 99 mm (3.9 in) spread over 10 days. Additionally, December's humidity hovers around 80%, slightly higher than September's 75%, contributing to a damp, chilly atmosphere as the year comes to an end. For more details on September's climate, you can visit Shelter Island weather in September.
When comparing the weather in December and October, it's clear that October tends to be milder and more temperate. In October, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a pleasant maximum of 24°C (75°F), with an average of 16°C (61°F). Conversely, December sees much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -9°C (16°F) and a maximum of 16°C (61°F), averaging around 5°C (42°F). Additionally, while both months experience significant rainfall, October has slightly higher precipitation at 160 mm (6.3 in) over 14 days, compared to December's 147 mm (5.8 in) over 12 days. Humidity levels also differ, with October at 75% and December rising to 80%. For more details on October's weather, visit Shelter Island weather in October.
In comparing the weather of December and November, December tends to be colder with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -9°C (16°F) to a maximum of 16°C (61°F), while November's temperatures are milder, with a minimum of -5°C (24°F) and a maximum of 19°C (67°F). Precipitation also sees an increase in December, totaling 147 mm (5.8 in) over 12 days, compared to November’s 113 mm (4.4 in) over 10 days. Both months maintain similar humidity levels at around 80%, yet December’s chill is pronounced, making it a stark contrast to the relatively warmer November. For more details on November weather, you can check Shelter Island weather in November.
As December unfolds on Shelter Island, the weather takes a distinct turn, characterized by cooler temperatures and an increase in precipitation compared to the milder months that precede it. With average temperatures dipping significantly and a noteworthy rise in humidity, residents and visitors can expect a more crisp and damp atmosphere. This month also sees a shift towards more frequent rainy days, making it an ideal time for cozy indoor activities. For anyone looking to understand how this fits into the larger picture, take a closer look at the details in Shelter Island Climate.