Last updated: February 24, 2025
December in Banner Elk, United States presents a crisp winter climate characterized by a striking temperature range, with maximums reaching 20°C (69°F) and plunging to minimums of -14°C (7°F). The average temperature hovers around a chilly 4°C (39°F), creating a perfect backdrop for the season's festivities. This month also sees 117 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation distributed over 11 days, contributing to the region's enchanting winter scenery. With humidity levels at a notable 86%, the air feels particularly frosty, inviting outdoor enthusiasts to embrace the beauty of winter activities in this picturesque mountain town.
In Banner Elk, United States, December ushers in the chill of winter, characterized by minimum temperatures dipping to -14°C (7°F) and an average hovering around 4°C (39°F). The days are cool yet occasionally bright, with maximum temperatures reaching a moderate 20°C (69°F). As the year winds down, December’s climate marks a notable transition from the milder autumn temperatures, leading into the height of winter. Those visiting will experience the crispness in the air, making it a perfect time for cozy winter activities or enjoying the serene beauty of a snow-dusted landscape. With the year’s average gradually declining and the nights growing longer, December in Banner Elk offers a picturesque winter retreat.
In December, Banner Elk experiences an average precipitation of 117 mm (4.6 in), marking a notable transition as winter approaches. This month sees about 11 days of rainfall, contributing to a consistent pattern of wet weather typical of late autumn. Compared to the preceding months, December's precipitation is lighter than the peak seen in April and May, yet it remains higher than November, which recorded just 82 mm (3.2 in) over 9 days. The gradual increase from fall to winter is evident as December maintains a steady moisture level, setting the stage for the snowy blanket that characterizes the region in the heart of winter.
In December, humidity in Banner Elk hovers around 86%, maintaining a notable level of moisture in the air. This figure reflects an intriguing trend as humidity begins to drop from the highs of November's 89%, indicating a slight reprieve from the chill of winter. Throughout the year, a pattern emerges where the cold winter months of January and February see the highest humidity levels, both at a consistent 87%. As the seasons transition into spring and summer, humidity gradually decreases, reaching its lowest point in August at 66%. However, as December arrives, the humidity rises again, revealing the area's unique blend of seasonal characteristics that shape its cool, crisp climate.
As December arrives in Banner Elk, the UV Index dips to 3, categorizing the exposure risk as moderate. This marks a gentle shift from the extreme levels seen during the summer months, where values soared to 11, requiring mere 10 minutes of sun exposure before burning. Interestingly, while early winter brings a more manageable burn time of 30 minutes, the overall trend demonstrates that UV exposure is significantly lower compared to the spring and summer peaks. As you enjoy the holiday season in this picturesque town, it's still wise to remain vigilant about sun safety—especially during midday hours. For more detailed insights on UV levels throughout the year, be sure to check the Banner Elk UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
December in Banner Elk ushers in a cozy charm, characterized by 187 hours of sunshine as the year winds down. While this marks a dip compared to the sun-drenched summer months, it still offers a bright respite amidst winter’s chill. In fact, as we reflect on the year, a clear upward trend emerges from January's 152 hours to the summer peak of 355 hours in July. Following a gradual decline in the fall, December’s sunlight invites locals and visitors alike to embrace the crisp air and stunning mountain vistas, all while reminding us of the warmth the sunshine brings, even in the heart of winter.
In December, Banner Elk experiences a 41% chance of sunny weather, marking a slight decrease from November's 54%. This trend points to the seasonal shift as winter approaches, bringing cooler temperatures and potentially more overcast days. Interestingly, while December's sun chances are lower than the peak seen in April at 53%, they remain higher than the mid-year months of June and July. As the year winds down, residents and visitors alike can still expect a fair share of sunny moments amidst the chilly, festive atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the winter scenery.
As the year comes to a close, December in Banner Elk, United States, marks a return to shorter daylight hours, with the sun gracing the skies for just 9 hours each day. This trend is part of a natural ebb and flow, beginning with 11 hours in March, gradually extending to a peak of 14 hours during the summer months of June, July, and August, before descending back to the wintry daylight of winter. Each month paints a picture of changing seasons; October and November serve as a gentle transition, with daylight slipping from 11 hours to 10 hours as autumn gives way to the chill of winter. This cyclical rhythm not only influences the landscape but also encourages residents to savor each precious moment of daylight as they navigate through the heart of winter's grasp.
As December settles in Banner Elk, the average wind speed gently hovers at 2.6 m/s (6 mph), marking a slight decrease from the preceding months. This capricious winter month sees a continuance of the trend established throughout the year, where wind speeds gradually decline from the consistent breezes of January through April. With winds tapering off, locals and visitors alike can enjoy the crisp, cool air without the typically strong gusts, making it a perfect time for leisurely walks or cozy evenings by the fire. The transition into winter not only brings a serene atmosphere but also hints at the calmness frequently experienced in the heart of the season.
The weather in Banner Elk 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 Banner Elk and find detailed weather information for every month.
In December, temperatures in Banner Elk range from a minimum of -14°C (7°F) to a maximum of 20°C (69°F), with an average of 4°C (39°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 117 mm (4.6 in) over approximately 11 days, while the humidity hovers around 86%. In contrast, January is slightly colder, with minimum temperatures dropping to -17°C (1°F) and an average of just 1°C (35°F), though the maximum remains the same at 20°C (69°F). Precipitation in January decreases to 97 mm (3.8 in), also over 11 days, and humidity rises slightly to 87%. For more details, check out Banner Elk weather in January.
December and February present similar average temperatures, with December experiencing a minimum of -14°C (7°F) and February slightly warmer at -13°C (8°F). Both months have an average temperature around 4°C (39°F), but February reaches a higher maximum of 23°C (75°F), compared to December's 20°C (69°F). Precipitation levels are also notable, with December receiving 117 mm (4.6 in) over 11 days and February seeing a slight increase to 138 mm (5.4 in) across 15 days. Humidity remains relatively consistent, with December at 86% and February rising slightly to 87%. For more detailed information, check out Banner Elk weather in February.
In December, temperatures in Banner Elk range from a minimum of -14°C (7°F) to a maximum of 20°C (69°F), with an average temperature of 4°C (39°F). The month sees approximately 117 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation over 11 days, and humidity levels are relatively high at 86%.
In contrast, March experiences slightly milder weather, with minimum temperatures around -12°C (11°F) and maximum temperatures reaching 28°C (83°F), leading to an average of 7°C (45°F). Precipitation rises slightly to 121 mm (4.7 in) over 14 days, but humidity remains consistent at 86%.
For more detailed information, you can check out Banner Elk weather in March.
December and April present quite different weather experiences. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -14°C (7°F) to a mild maximum of 20°C (69°F), with an average of 4°C (39°F). The month sees about 117 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation over 11 days, while humidity remains high at 86%. In contrast, April offers a more temperate climate, with minimums around -6°C (21°F) and maximums reaching 26°C (79°F), yielding an average of 11°C (52°F). With a total of 155 mm (6.1 in) of precipitation spread over 13 days, April's humidity is somewhat lower at 84%. For more specific details on weather conditions in April, visit Banner Elk weather in April.
December and May present significantly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a brisk -14°C (7°F) at their lowest to a mild 20°C (69°F) at their highest, with an average of 4°C (39°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 117 mm (4.6 in) over approximately 11 days, accompanied by high humidity of 86%. In contrast, May offers much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (30°F), an average of 16°C (61°F), and a maximum of 27°C (81°F). While it has more precipitation at 148 mm (5.8 in) over 16 days, the humidity is slightly lower at 83%. For more details on May weather, check out Banner Elk weather in May.
December and June present two contrasting weather profiles. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -14°C (7°F), with an average of 4°C (39°F) and a maximum reaching 20°C (69°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 86% and about 11 days of precipitation totaling 117 mm (4.6 in). In contrast, June offers a much milder climate with minimum temperatures around 6°C (43°F), an average of 19°C (66°F), and a maximum of 28°C (84°F). While June experiences slightly more precipitation at 144 mm (5.7 in) over 17 days, it retains a lower humidity level of 83%. For more specific insights, check out Banner Elk weather in June.
December and July present contrasting weather extremes in terms of temperature and precipitation. In December, temperatures can plummet as low as -14°C (7°F), with an average of 4°C (39°F) and a maximum of 20°C (69°F). This month also experiences higher humidity at 86% and significant precipitation of 117 mm (4.6 in) over 11 days. In contrast, July boasts a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures around 11°C (51°F) and an average of 21°C (70°F), peaking at 30°C (85°F). Although July sees slightly more precipitation at 124 mm (4.9 in) over 17 days, the humidity is lower at 79%. For more on July weather specifics, visit Banner Elk weather in July.
In December, the weather is significantly colder, with temperatures ranging from a frigid minimum of -14°C (7°F) to a mild maximum of 20°C (69°F), averaging around 4°C (39°F). The month experiences considerable moisture, with 117 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation over 11 days, and a high humidity level of 86%. In contrast, August offers a much warmer climate, featuring minimum temperatures of 10°C (51°F) and maximums reaching 29°C (84°F), with an average temperature of 20°C (69°F). Precipitation in August is slightly higher at 147 mm (5.8 in) over 17 days, but the humidity is notably lower at 66%. For more insights into the summer conditions, check out Banner Elk weather in August.
In comparing the weather of December and September, it’s clear that these two months offer distinctly different climates. December typically experiences much lower temperatures, with a minimum of -14°C (7°F) and an average temperature of 4°C (39°F), while September boasts a milder minimum of 3°C (38°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F). Precipitation levels also show a slight variation, with December receiving 117 mm (4.6 in) over 11 days compared to September's 134 mm (5.3 in) over 13 days. Additionally, December's humidity is notably higher at 86%, compared to September's 68%, contributing to a more wintery feel. For more detailed information on September weather, check out Banner Elk weather in September.
In December, temperatures significantly drop, with a minimum of -14°C (7°F) and an average of 4°C (39°F), compared to the milder October, where temperatures range from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to an average of 13°C (56°F). While both months experience approximately 11 days of precipitation, December sees less rainfall overall at 117 mm (4.6 in) compared to October's 146 mm (5.7 in). Additionally, December's higher humidity level of 86% contributes to a colder and more damp atmosphere, in contrast to October's milder 78%. For more details, you can explore Banner Elk weather in October.
In comparing December and November weather, both months experience cool temperatures, but December tends to be slightly colder overall. In November, the temperatures range from a minimum of -10°C (14°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F), with an average of 6°C (43°F). In contrast, December sees a lower minimum temperature of -14°C (7°F) and an average temperature of 4°C (39°F), with a maximum reaching 20°C (69°F). Precipitation also increases in December, accumulating 117 mm (4.6 in) over 11 days, compared to November's 82 mm (3.2 in) over 9 days. Humidity remains fairly high in both months, with December averaging 86% and November at 89%. For more details on November weather specifically, visit Banner Elk weather in November.
As December settles in, Banner Elk transforms into a winter wonderland, with cooler temperatures making their mark compared to the milder months preceding it. The average chill wraps the town in a cozy, crisp atmosphere, while occasional snow showers add a charming touch to the scenery. With a notable increase in humidity and precipitation days, December stands out as a month that heralds the onset of winter activities. Whether it's enjoying the festive spirit or engaging in winter sports, the month's unique weather creates a magical backdrop that invites exploration and celebration. For a deeper dive into the seasonal nuances, visit Banner Elk Climate.