Last updated: February 24, 2025
In Washington Heights, United States, December ushers in a varied climate that embodies the essence of winter. With maximum temperatures reaching 18°C (64°F) and dropping to a crisp minimum of -11°C (13°F), residents experience a striking range of weather. The average temperature hovers around 4°C (39°F), providing a brisk atmosphere that's perfect for cozy gatherings. This month also sees an average precipitation of 106 mm (4.2 in) over 10 days, contributing to the region's 80% humidity and creating a misty, enchanting winter landscape. As the year winds down, December's weather in Washington Heights offers a unique blend of chill and charm.
In Washington Heights, December brings a noticeable chill, with temperatures showcasing a shift from the previous month's milder patterns. The minimum dips to around -11°C (13°F), while the average hovers just above freezing at 4°C (39°F). This drop in temperature marks a stark contrast to the warmer autumn months, hinting at winter's arrival. As the month progresses, daily maximum temperatures typically reach about 18°C (64°F), offering a brief respite from the cold. Overall, December serves as a transitional month, where the early winter chill begins to solidify the neighborhood's seasonal character.
December in Washington Heights brings a notable shift in weather patterns, as the region experiences an average precipitation of 106 mm (4.2 in) over approximately 10 days. This figure reflects a slightly elevated humidity as winter settles in, contributing to the overall trend of increasing rain throughout the latter half of the year. July often stands out with its peak precipitation of 148 mm (5.8 in), which gradually tapers off but remains relatively high into the colder months. The consistent 10 precipitation days in December are comparable to other months like November, indicating a steady pattern of rainfall as the year closes. This hints at a seasonal rhythm where the early winter months maintain a balance of moisture, crucial for the ecosystem despite the drop in temperatures.
In December, Washington Heights experiences a notable shift in humidity, with levels reaching 80%. This marks a slight increase from November's 82%, as the winter season settles in. As the year progresses, humidity generally starts high in early winter, peaking in January at 84% and gradually tapering off through the spring months, before hitting its lowest in July at 62%. However, as temperatures drop again in late autumn and early winter, humidity levels creep back up, showcasing a yearly rhythm where the air feels particularly moist during the colder months. This trend highlights the region's characteristic seasonal changes, making December's humidity a blend of lingering warmth and the chill of approaching winter.
In December, the UV Index in Washington Heights drops to a low 2, indicating a significant decline in sun exposure compared to the sunnier months. With a burn time of 45 minutes, residents can enjoy outdoor activities with far less concern for UV-related skin damage. This trend of decreased UV levels continues from November’s moderate index of 4, reflecting the seasonal shift toward winter. As the year winds down, it's clear that winter brings a welcome respite from the intense UV rays experienced during the summer months, where indices reached as high as 10. For detailed insights and a month-by-month breakdown, visit Washington Heights UV Index.
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In Washington Heights, December marks a subtle transition as the hours of sunshine begin to wane, recording 175 hours of bright daylight. This is a notable decrease from the sun-drenched peak of 339 hours in July, showcasing the seasonal shift. The trend reveals a gradual increase in sunlight from January's 148 hours to a mid-year high in June, where the area basks in 310 hours. As the year draws to a close, December's sunniness reflects the natural ebb and flow of daylight, hinting at a cozy, if somewhat grey, atmosphere perfect for warm gatherings and festive cheer. The vibrant patterns of sunshine serve as a reminder of the region's seasonal rhythms, moving from the long, luminous days of summer through to the shorter, softer light of winter.
December in Washington Heights brings a notable decline in the likelihood of sunny weather, with only a 31% chance of sunshine gracing the month. This drop is part of a seasonal trend where the odds of clear skies start to wane as autumn gives way to winter. Comparatively, November offers a more optimistic 55% chance, hinting at the lingering brightness of late fall before the dreariness sets in. Following the relatively sunnier months of March and April, which boast 57% and 45% respectively, December can feel particularly subdued, reminding residents to prepare for more overcast days and colder temperatures as the year winds down.
In Washington Heights, December marks a shift back to 9 hours of daylight, a continuation of the shorter daylight experienced in November. As the year progresses from January's 9 hours to the long, sun-drenched days of June with 15 hours, the daylight hours gradually increase, peaking in mid-summer. However, as the seasons transition back toward winter, the sunlight diminishes, leading to shorter days in both November and December. This cyclical pattern highlights the natural ebb and flow of daylight throughout the year, creating a rhythm that residents and visitors alike experience in this vibrant neighborhood.
As December settles over Washington Heights, residents experience a gentle decline in wind speeds, with an average of 2.9 m/s (7 mph). This month, like the quiet exhale that follows a snowy breath, brings a noticeable calm compared to the brisker conditions earlier in the year. January through March feature the region's highest winds, typically reaching around 3.5 to 3.7 m/s (8 mph), creating a lively, bustling atmosphere. However, as the year winds down, the summer's soft breezes—reflecting lower averages of 2.5 to 2.8 m/s (6 mph) from June to August—become more pronounced again in October and November, maintaining a steady 3.1 m/s (7 mph). This year's transition into winter encapsulates a soothing rhythm of changing seasons, as the winds whisper softly through the streets, hinting at the cozy hibernation that the cold months inspire.
The weather in Washington Heights 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 Washington Heights and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January present notable differences in weather patterns. In December, the temperature fluctuates between a minimum of -11°C (13°F) and a maximum of 18°C (64°F), with an average of 4°C (39°F). The month experiences a total precipitation of 106 mm (4.2 in) over 10 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 80%. In contrast, January is colder, with a minimum temperature dropping to -18°C (-1°F) and an average of 1°C (34°F), while still reaching a maximum of 18°C (64°F). Precipitation decreases to 67 mm (2.7 in) over just 7 days, and humidity rises slightly to 84%. For more detailed information about January weather, check out Washington Heights weather in January.
When comparing the weather in December and February, we see a notable shift in temperatures and conditions. December experiences a milder average temperature of 4°C (39°F) with maximums reaching up to 18°C (64°F), while February tends to be chillier, with an average of 2°C (36°F) and minimum temperatures dipping to -16°C (4°F). Both months have similar precipitation levels, with December averaging 106 mm (4.2 in) and February slightly lower at 102 mm (4.0 in), and both months see about 10 days of rain. Additionally, humidity remains relatively high in both months, at 80% for December and 82% for February. For more detailed insights, you can check out Washington Heights weather in February.
December and March present distinct contrasts in weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -11°C (13°F) to a milder maximum of 18°C (64°F), with an average of 4°C (39°F). The month experiences 106 mm (4.2 in) of precipitation over 10 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 80%. In contrast, March sees slightly warmer conditions with minimum temperatures around -9°C (16°F) and maximums peaking at 25°C (77°F), resulting in an average temperature of 5°C (42°F). The total precipitation in March is slightly less at 98 mm (3.8 in), yet it still spans 10 days and maintains a similar humidity level of 81%. For more details on specific weather conditions, you can check Washington Heights weather in March.
December and April offer distinct weather experiences, reflecting the transition from winter to spring. In December, temperatures can plunge as low as -11°C (13°F), with a chilly average of 4°C (39°F) and highs reaching just 18°C (64°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, accumulating to 106 mm (4.2 in) over about 10 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, April brings a noticeable warming, with minimum temperatures around -1°C (31°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F), peaking at a pleasant 27°C (82°F). Rainfall is slightly higher in April, totaling 112 mm (4.4 in) over 12 days, but humidity remains relatively low at 78%. For a detailed look at what to expect during this vibrant month, check out Washington Heights weather in April.
December and May present strikingly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures can drop as low as -11°C (13°F), with an average temperature of 4°C (39°F) and a maximum of 18°C (64°F). The month typically experiences around 106 mm (4.2 in) of precipitation over 10 days, coupled with a high humidity of 80%, making it a cold and damp time of year. In contrast, May sees a significant warming trend, with minimum temperatures around 3°C (37°F), an average of 17°C (62°F), and highs reaching up to 31°C (88°F). Precipitation in May is slightly higher at 114 mm (4.5 in), spread over 13 days, but humidity decreases to 69%, lending a more comfortable feel to the atmosphere. For more details, check out Washington Heights weather in May.
December and June present striking contrasts in weather. In December, temperatures can drop to a minimum of -11°C (13°F) and only reach an average high of 4°C (39°F), with ample precipitation of 106 mm (4.2 in) spread over about 10 days, resulting in a chilly and humid atmosphere at around 80% humidity. Conversely, June showcases a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures rising to 10°C (50°F) and averages peaking at 22°C (72°F), while highs can soar to 35°C (94°F). Although June experiences slightly less precipitation at 92 mm (3.6 in) over 13 days, the overall humidity drops to 69%, making it a more comfortable month. For more detailed insights, you can check Washington Heights weather in June.
December and July present stark contrasts in weather patterns. December experiences 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). Precipitation levels are also notable; December sees 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain over about 10 days, compared to July's 148 mm (5.8 in) over 13 days. Additionally, humidity is higher in December at 80%, while July has a relative humidity of 62%. For a closer look at July weather specifics, you can check out Washington Heights weather in July.
When comparing the weather in December to that of August, significant differences emerge. December experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -11°C (13°F) and an average of only 4°C (39°F), while August features milder conditions, with minimum temperatures starting at 16°C (61°F) and an average of 25°C (76°F). Precipitation is also notable in both months; December records 106 mm (4.2 in) over approximately 10 days, while August sees slightly more with 127 mm (5.0 in) over 14 days. Additionally, December's higher humidity at 80% contrasts with August's relatively lower humidity level of 65%. For more detailed insights on August weather, visit Washington Heights weather in August.
December and September present stark contrasts in weather. In December, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -11°C (13°F) and average around 4°C (39°F), with maximums reaching 18°C (64°F). The month also sees significant precipitation, totaling 106 mm (4.2 in) over about 10 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 80%. In contrast, September experiences much milder temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (49°F) and an average of 21°C (70°F), peaking at 33°C (92°F). Precipitation is slightly lower at 92 mm (3.6 in) over 9 days, and humidity is more comfortable at 68%. For more details on September conditions, check out Washington Heights weather in September.
When comparing the weather in December to October, noticeable differences emerge. December typically features cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -11°C (13°F) and an average of only 4°C (39°F), while October enjoys milder conditions, with a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F). Additionally, December has a much lower maximum temperature of 18°C (64°F), whereas October can reach up to 33°C (91°F). Despite December's average precipitation being slightly lower at 106 mm (4.2 in) compared to October's 128 mm (5.0 in), both months see precipitation on about 10 days. Humidity is also higher in December at 80%, compared to October's 74%. For more details about the weather patterns in October, you can explore Washington Heights weather in October.
In comparing the weather of December to November, December experiences a slightly colder range with average temperatures fluctuating between -11°C (13°F) at night and a maximum of 18°C (64°F) during the day, whereas November sees milder conditions with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -9°C (17°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F). December also has increased precipitation, totaling 106 mm (4.2 in) over approximately 10 days, compared to November's 83 mm (3.3 in) across 8 days. Humidity levels remain relatively similar, with December at 80% and November slightly higher at 82%. For more details on the weather patterns in November, you can check Washington Heights weather in November.
As December settles into Washington Heights, the weather takes a notable turn from the milder months. Temperatures dip significantly, creating a chilly atmosphere that can range from mild days to frigid nights. The increased precipitation—with about ten days of rain—adds an extra layer of moisture, resulting in a humidity level that hovers around 80%. This shift transforms the vibrant streets into a wintry landscape, compelling residents and visitors alike to bundle up while enjoying the unique charm of the season. For a more detailed understanding of how the weather shifts throughout the year, check out the comprehensive overview at Washington Heights Climate.