December Weather in Charlotte, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

In December, Charlotte, United States experiences a dramatic range of temperatures, with highs reaching a pleasant 25°C (78°F) and lows dipping to a chilly -7°C (19°F). The average temperature settles at a cool 8°C (47°F), inviting both festive cheer and cozy indoor activities. Rainfall contributes to the month’s ambiance, with 120 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation spread over 10 days, enhancing the lushness of the region. Coupled with a high humidity level of 87%, December in Charlotte offers a blend of crisp winter air and moisture, making it a captivating time for both residents and visitors alike.

December Temperature in Charlotte

In Charlotte, United States, December brings a noticeable chill as temperatures dip from the milder conditions of previous months. The average temperature hovers around 8°C (47°F), with nighttime lows settling at -7°C (19°F), while the days can still boast a pleasant maximum of 25°C (78°F). This month marks a transition into winter, as temperatures continuously decrease from the mild November averages. Even though December is cooler than the autumn months, the city enjoys a significant range, allowing for brisk, sunny days followed by colder nights. Such fluctuations create a unique landscape that captures the essence of the season, blending the last embrace of fall warmth with the impending chill of winter.

December Weather in Charlotte: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Charlotte, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec434954627177817974655147
Data source: Temperature data for Charlotte 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 Charlotte

In December, Charlotte experiences a notable increase in precipitation, with 120 mm (4.7 inches) of rain over approximately 10 days. This marks a slight rise compared to the previous month and contributes to a trend of heightened moisture as the year comes to a close. The wettest months typically range from September through December, where the city receives some of its highest rainfall amounts. With December's precipitation nearly matching the late summer peak, it suggests a shift in the climate dynamics, promoting a lush, green atmosphere amidst the chilly winter air. Overall, December acts as a transition period, setting the stage for the drier months ahead while still holding on to the remnants of fall's bounty.

December Precipitation Trends in Charlotte

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Charlotte, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9211683103113821141051339290120
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

December Humidity in Charlotte

In December, humidity in Charlotte, United States, remains notably high at 87%, mirroring the levels seen in November. As the year progresses from January’s peak of 86% down to a summer low of 74% in August, the humidity displays a trend of gradual decline, reaching its lowest point mid-year. However, as autumn sets in, humidity surges again, with December encapsulating the return to the year's wetter conditions. This seasonal rhythm emphasizes Charlotte's distinct climate shifts, where winter and late fall bring a noticeable increase in moisture, creating a rich, humid atmosphere as the year draws to a close.

December Average Humidity in Charlotte

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Charlotte, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec86%85%84%82%83%82%80%74%75%79%87%87%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Charlotte

In December, Charlotte experiences a moderate UV Index of 3, reflecting a noticeable decrease from the high and extreme levels observed during the summer months. With a burn time of 30 minutes, the risk of overexposure is significantly lower, allowing residents to enjoy outdoor activities with a bit more peace of mind. As the year wraps up, it's clear that the UV Index trends in Charlotte demonstrate a seasonal fluctuation; while spring and summer months demand vigilant sun protection due to very high and extreme readings, the cooler December weather brings a more forgiving UV environment. For an in-depth look at seasonal UV patterns, visit Charlotte UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Charlotte for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Charlotte 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec46810101110109853
Data source: Charlotte 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 Charlotte

In Charlotte, United States, December offers a warm farewell to the year with an impressive 200 hours of sunshine, making it a bright spot in the typically cooler winter months. This marks a slight drop from November’s 227 hours, yet it still ranks favorably compared to the early winter months of January and February, which see just 162 and 175 hours of sunshine, respectively. As the year progresses from March's robust 245 hours through the peak of July's sun-soaked 345 hours, sunlight begins to taper off in the fall; however, December manages to maintain a significant level of brightness. This trend highlights the transitional seasons in Charlotte, where even as the days grow shorter, there’s still a substantial amount of sunshine to enjoy, making December a delightful time to embrace the outdoors.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Charlotte: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Charlotte 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec162h175h245h277h299h317h345h312h287h264h227h200h
Data source: Charlotte December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Charlotte During December

In December, Charlotte, United States, experiences a 44% chance of sunny weather, marking a slight dip from the previous month's 62%. As the year winds down, the city's likelihood of sunshine shows a moderate trend, fluctuating between 28% in June and 57% in April, with the darker winter months typically offering less brightness than the spring and summer. Notably, while December's chances might not be as high as in earlier months, they still provide a glimmer of hope amid the cooler temperatures, suggesting that sunny days are still possible as the festive season unfolds.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Charlotte

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Charlotte 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 Charlotte experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec47%37%38%57%38%28%43%43%51%47%62%44%
Data source: Charlotte December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Charlotte in December

As December unfolds in Charlotte, the city experiences its shortest daylight duration of the year, with only nine hours of sunlight each day. This gradual decline in daylight begins in late autumn, as November also offers just ten hours of light, but by December, the trend reaches its lowest point. As the year progresses towards spring, daylight begins to increase steadily, starting from ten hours in January and blossoming to a peak of fourteen hours in the height of summer. This cyclical pattern highlights the significant variations in daylight throughout the year, reminding residents of the rhythmic dance between daylight and darkness that defines the seasons in this vibrant southern city.

Average Daylight Hours in Charlotte for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Charlotte throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10h 4m10h 54m11h 59m13h 5m14h 1m14h 28m14h 13m13h 24m12h 20m11h 14m10h 17m9h 48m
Data source: Charlotte daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Charlotte

As the year comes to a close, December in Charlotte ushers in a notable shift in wind patterns. With an average wind speed of 2.9 m/s (6 mph), December sees a return to the breezy conditions reminiscent of the early months, February and March. This slight uptick contrasts with the subdued winds of summer, where speeds dipped to a gentle 1.8 m/s (4 mph) in August. Overall, the trend indicates that as the temperatures drop, wind speeds begin to stabilize, providing a refreshing coolness as the holiday season unfolds.

Average December Wind Speed in Charlotte

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Charlotte, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.52.92.93.12.62.32.11.82.02.42.62.9 m/s
Data source: Charlotte December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Charlotte Compares to Other Months

The weather in Charlotte 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 Charlotte and find detailed weather information for every month.

December and January in Charlotte exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. December has a milder average temperature of 8°C (47°F), while January sees a slight decrease to an average of 6°C (44°F). Both months experience similar maximum temperatures, peaking at around 25°C (77°F) to 25°C (78°F). However, January is typically colder at night, with minimum temperatures dipping to -12°C (10°F) compared to December's -7°C (19°F). In terms of precipitation, December is wetter, receiving 120 mm (4.7 in) over about 10 days, while January has less precipitation, totaling 92 mm (3.6 in) over approximately 9 days. Humidity levels remain fairly consistent, with December at 87% and January at 86%. For more details about January's weather, visit Charlotte weather in January.

In December, temperatures can drop to a minimum of -7°C (19°F), with an average of 8°C (47°F) and highs reaching up to 25°C (78°F). The month typically experiences around 120 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation over 10 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 87%. In contrast, February presents a similar minimum temperature of -7°C (20°F), but sees a slight rise in average temperature to 9°C (49°F) and slightly warmer maximum temperatures of 27°C (80°F). Although precipitation amounts are similar at 116 mm (4.6 in) over 11 days, the humidity is slightly lower at 85%. For more detailed information, check out Charlotte weather in February.

In December, temperatures in Charlotte can range from a chilly minimum of -7°C (19°F) to a pleasant maximum of 25°C (78°F), with an average temperature of 8°C (47°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 120 mm (4.7 in) over approximately 10 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 87%. In contrast, March sees a slight increase in temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (22°F) and a higher average of 12°C (54°F). The maximum can reach up to 30°C (87°F), making it noticeably warmer overall. Additionally, March has less precipitation, totaling 83 mm (3.3 in), also spread over about 10 days, and the humidity dips slightly to 84%. For a detailed look at Charlotte weather in March, you can explore how this transitional month sets the stage for the arrival of spring.

December and April present contrasting weather patterns, with December characterized by cooler temperatures and higher humidity. In December, temperatures can dip as low as -7°C (19°F), with an average of 8°C (47°F) and a maximum reaching 25°C (78°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 120 mm (4.7 in) over approximately 10 days, and a humidity level of 87%.

In contrast, April sees a milder climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (28°F) to an average of 17°C (62°F), peaking at a comfortable 30°C (87°F). Precipitation decreases slightly to 103 mm (4.0 in) across about 9 days, while humidity is also lower at 82%. For more details, you can check Charlotte weather in April.

December and May present contrasting weather patterns in terms of temperature and precipitation. In December, temperatures fluctuate from a low of -7°C (19°F) to a mild high of 25°C (78°F), with an average of 8°C (47°F), and the month experiences significant humidity at 87%. Precipitation is also prominent, totaling 120 mm (4.7 inches) over about 10 days. In contrast, May showcases warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 36°C (96°F) and an average of 22°C (71°F). The month sees slightly less precipitation at 113 mm (4.5 inches) across 11 days, accompanied by lower humidity levels at 83%. For more detailed information on May weather in Charlotte, you can check out Charlotte weather in May.

December and June present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures can dip as low as -7°C (19°F), with an average of 8°C (47°F) and highs reaching 25°C (78°F). The month sees about 120 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation spread over 10 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 87%. Conversely, June is much warmer, with a minimum temperature of 11°C (53°F), an average of 25°C (77°F), and maximums soaring to 38°C (101°F). Precipitation is slightly lower at 82 mm (3.2 in), occurring over 13 days and with humidity averaging 82%. For a detailed look at June weather in Charlotte, you can check Charlotte weather in June.

In December, temperatures in Charlotte range from a chilly minimum of -7°C (19°F) to an average of 8°C (47°F), peaking at a mild 25°C (78°F), with high humidity levels at 87%. The month experiences about 120 mm (4.7 inches) of precipitation spread over 10 days, contributing to a generally wet winter atmosphere. In contrast, July brings significantly warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 17°C (63°F) to an average of 27°C (81°F) and soaring to a maximum of 37°C (99°F). Although July sees slightly less precipitation at 114 mm (4.5 inches) over 15 days, the humidity is lower at 80%. For more details, visit Charlotte weather in July.

December and August present contrasting weather patterns, with December experiencing much cooler temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (19°F) to a maximum of 25°C (78°F). The average temperature sits at 8°C (47°F), accompanied by higher humidity levels at 87% and significant precipitation of 120 mm (4.7 in) over approximately 10 days. In contrast, August brings warmer days with minimum temperatures around 15°C (59°F) and maximums reaching 35°C (96°F), resulting in an average temperature of 26°C (79°F). Although August sees slightly less precipitation at 105 mm (4.1 in) across 15 days, the humidity is lower at 74%, indicating a more comfortable atmosphere. For a more detailed look at August weather, you can visit Charlotte weather in August.

In December, temperatures typically range from a chilly -7°C (19°F) at the minimum to a mild 25°C (78°F) at the maximum, with an average of 8°C (47°F). With around 120 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation over 10 days and a high humidity level at 87%, the month can feel quite damp and cold. In contrast, September experiences much warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 35°C (95°F) and an average of 23°C (75°F). Although September receives slightly more precipitation at 133 mm (5.2 in) over 9 days, the lower humidity at 75% often makes it feel more comfortable. For more detailed information, check out Charlotte weather in September.

December weather is characterized by cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -7°C (19°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F), while October enjoys milder conditions, ranging from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to an average of 18°C (65°F). The maximum temperature in December peaks at 25°C (78°F), compared to October's warmer high of 35°C (95°F). In terms of precipitation, December receives more rainfall with 120 mm (4.7 in) over 10 days, while October sees slightly less at 92 mm (3.6 in) across 9 days. Additionally, December's humidity is higher at 87%, compared to October's 79%. For more details, check Charlotte weather in October.

December's weather in Charlotte is characterized by slightly colder temperatures compared to November, with a minimum of -7°C (19°F) and a slightly lower average of 8°C (47°F) versus November's minimum of -5°C (24°F) and average of 10°C (51°F). Additionally, December sees an increase in precipitation, measuring 120 mm (4.7 in) over 10 days, compared to November's 90 mm (3.5 in) over 8 days. Despite the change in rainfall, both months maintain a consistent humidity level of 87%. For a closer look at November weather in Charlotte, visit Charlotte weather in November.

Compare Charlotte's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Charlotte

As December settles over Charlotte, the weather showcases a significant shift from the balmy warmth of previous months. With temperatures dipping and a chill in the air, it’s the time of year when residents experience a notable transition from mild autumn to brisk winter. Precipitation levels increase, with more rainy days adding to the 87% humidity that blankets the city, creating a cozy yet damp atmosphere. This month, marked by an average temperature of 8°C (47°F), encourages a shift in activities, inviting warm drinks and festive gatherings. For a deeper look into how Charlotte's climate evolves throughout the year, visit Charlotte Climate.