Last updated: February 24, 2025
December in Durham, United States offers a captivating blend of winter charm and brisk weather. With a maximum temperature reaching up to 23°C (73°F) and dipping to a chilly minimum of -7°C (19°F), residents experience a wide temperature range. The average temperature rests at a crisp 8°C (46°F). This month witnesses considerable precipitation, with 107 mm (4.2 in) falling over the course of 9 days, contributing to an overall humidity level of 86%. Embrace the enchanting chill of December, a time for cozy gatherings amidst Durham's seasonal allure.
In December, Durham, United States experiences a noticeable shift as winter firmly sets in. The temperatures dip significantly, with minimums around -7°C (19°F), creating a brisk atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the milder autumn months. The average temperature hovers around 8°C (46°F), offering a chilly yet manageable climate for outdoor activities—ideal for those who enjoy the crisp air. Maximum temperatures reach up to 23°C (73°F), hinting at occasional warmer days that can provide a brief respite from the cold. Overall, December's weather marks the transition into winter, showcasing a blend of frosty nights and cool days, typical of the season as residents prepare for the festive celebrations ahead.
In December, Durham experiences a noteworthy transition in precipitation patterns as the year draws to a close. With an average rainfall of 107 mm (4.2 in) over nine days, this month stands out for its substantial moisture, reflecting a trend of increased precipitation rates leading into winter. Compared to the previous months, December offers more rainfall than November, which saw only 81 mm (3.2 in) despite having fewer precipitation days. This seasonal spike contributes to the overall yearly moisture accumulation, highlighting a shift from the milder, less humid autumn months to the wetter winter where atmospheric conditions become more favorable for rainfall.
In Durham, North Carolina, the humidity exhibits a fascinating pattern throughout the year, with December standing out at 86%, marking a notable increase from the previous months. As the year progresses from the drier summer months, where humidity hovers around 79% to 81%, late fall brings a rise, peaking in December alongside November’s 85%. This trend suggests a clear winter influence, as cooler temperatures mingle with increased atmospheric moisture. With humidity consistently high in winter, particularly in December, residents can expect a moist chill that envelops the city, characteristics that define Durham's unique seasonal climate.
As December rolls into Durham, the UV Index marks a notable dip to 3, categorizing exposure as moderate and allowing for a comfortable burn time of 30 minutes. After a summer dominated by extreme levels of UV radiation peaking at 11, the trend typically shifts towards more manageable levels in the final months of the year. This gradual decline in UV intensity suggests that while sun protection is still valuable, the risks associated with prolonged sun exposure decrease significantly as winter approaches. As you enjoy the seasonal festivities and outdoor activities in Durham, make sure to stay informed about the UV Index to protect your skin. For more details, visit Durham UV Index.
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In Durham, United States, December greets residents with a modest 203 hours of sunshine, marking a noticeable decline as winter takes hold. This month concludes a year where sunlight peaked in the vibrant summer months of July, basking in an impressive 352 hours. As the seasons shift, each month reveals its charm: spring's gradual rise in sunshine culminated in May with 306 hours, while autumn gracefully transitions to shorter days, accentuated by November's 234 hours. The overall trend highlights the cozy embrace of December's winter light, inviting a reflective pause as the year draws to a close.
In Durham, United States, the likelihood of sunny weather in December holds a 45% chance, marking a significant drop from the more promising 63% in November. This decline hints at the transitioning of the seasons, as December ushers in cooler weather and shorter days. Compared to earlier months like April, which boasts a 60% chance of sunshine, December's prospects are relatively modest. Nonetheless, December does display a better chance of sun than several summer months, such as June and July, suggesting that while the sun may not shine as frequently, there are still opportunities to bask in its glow during the holiday season.
As the year draws to a close, Durham, United States, experiences a notable decline in daylight duration, with December offering just 9 hours of sunlight. This marks a consistent downward trend from the previous months, where daylight steadily increased from 10 hours in January and February to a peak of 14 hours from May to July. Following the summer months, daylight begins to wane, descending through 13 hours in August and gradually trailing down to 12 hours in September and 11 hours in October. November holds steady at 10 hours, but once December arrives, the shorter days remind residents of the impending winter season, making each ray of light feel all the more precious.
In December in Durham, the wind begins to pick up slightly, averaging 2.9 m/s (7 mph), which aligns with the trend of increasing wind speeds as the year progresses into winter. Following a pattern established in the colder months, December's winds are reminiscent of November's, highlighting a transition where brisk breezes start to sweep through the city. Although the wind speeds are lower in the preceding summer months, from August to October where they dip to as low as 2.0 m/s (5 mph), the gradual rise towards the year's end indicates a shift, bringing a refreshing chill that signifies the onset of winter. This rise in wind speed not only enhances the seasonal ambiance but also invites residents to bundle up and embrace the invigorating December air.
The weather in Durham 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 Durham and find detailed weather information for every month.
In December, the weather in Durham experiences a mild average temperature of 8°C (46°F), with minimums dipping to -7°C (19°F) and maximums reaching 23°C (73°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 107 mm (4.2 in) over 9 days, and humidity levels hover around 86%.
In contrast, January brings cooler temperatures, with an average of 6°C (43°F), a minimum of -15°C (6°F), and maximums climbing to 25°C (77°F). Precipitation decreases slightly to 89 mm (3.5 in) over the same number of days, and humidity remains relatively stable at 85%. For more details about the weather patterns in January, you can visit Durham weather in January.
In comparing the weather between December and February, we see that both months show a similar temperature range, with December having a minimum of -7°C (19°F) and a maximum of 23°C (73°F), while February experiences temperatures ranging from -6°C (21°F) to a higher maximum of 27°C (81°F). February tends to be slightly warmer overall, with an average temperature of 9°C (48°F) compared to December's 8°C (46°F). Precipitation is relatively similar, with December receiving 107 mm (4.2 in) across 9 days and February slightly higher at 117 mm (4.6 in) over 11 days. Humidity levels are comparable as well, with 86% in December and 82% in February. For more detailed insights, check the Durham weather in February.
December and March in Durham showcase a noticeable shift in weather patterns. In December, temperatures typically range from a chilly minimum of -7°C (19°F) to a mild maximum of 23°C (73°F), with an average temperature of 8°C (46°F). This month experiences higher humidity at 86%, and precipitation is frequent, with about 107 mm (4.2 in) spread over 9 days. In contrast, March sees a slight increase in temperatures, with a minimum of -5°C (24°F) and a maximum reaching 31°C (88°F), resulting in an average temperature of 11°C (53°F). Although March has slightly less precipitation at 84 mm (3.3 in) over 10 days, the humidity decreases to 81%. This transition from December to March brings warmer averages and less overall moisture, marking a shift towards spring conditions. For more detailed information, you can check Durham weather in March.
December and April present contrasting weather patterns. December experiences colder temperatures, with minimums dropping to -7°C (19°F) and a chilly average of 8°C (46°F), while April sees a notable increase, with minimums around -1°C (31°F) and an average of 16°C (62°F). The maximum temperatures also reflect this shift, peaking at 23°C (73°F) in December and rising to 31°C (88°F) in April. Precipitation levels are comparable, with December receiving 107 mm (4.2 in) over 9 days and April slightly higher at 116 mm (4.6 in) over 10 days. Additionally, humidity levels in December are higher at 86%, compared to 80% in April, further emphasizing the transition to milder spring weather. For more specific details about the weather in April, you can visit Durham weather in April.
In December, the weather is considerably colder, with temperatures ranging from a low of -7°C (19°F) to a maximum of 23°C (73°F) and an average of just 8°C (46°F). The month typically sees about 107 mm (4.2 in) of precipitation over 9 days, accompanied by relatively high humidity at 86%. In contrast, May brings much warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a low of 4°C (39°F) to a hot 36°C (97°F), averaging around 21°C (70°F). Although May experiences slightly more precipitation at 118 mm (4.6 in) over 11 days, the humidity is a bit lower at 81%. For more insights into May weather, you can visit Durham weather in May.
December and June present stark contrasts in weather. In December, temperatures can dip to a minimum of -7°C (19°F), with an average of 8°C (46°F) and a maximum of 23°C (73°F). This month experiences significant precipitation, averaging 107 mm (4.2 in) over approximately 9 days, all while maintaining a high humidity level of 86%. In comparison, June boasts a much milder and warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (55°F) to a maximum of 36°C (97°F), and an average temperature of 24°C (76°F). Despite slightly higher precipitation at 121 mm (4.8 in) over 13 days, the humidity is relatively lower at 81%. This contrast underscores the distinct seasonal changes and varying weather conditions throughout the year. For more details on June weather specifics, check out Durham weather in June.
In December, the weather in Durham is significantly cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (19°F) to a maximum of 23°C (73°F) and an average of 8°C (46°F). The month sees about 107 mm (4.2 inches) of precipitation over 9 days, paired with a high humidity level of 86%. In contrast, July boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 16°C (61°F) and a maximum reaching up to 37°C (99°F), averaging around 27°C (80°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 114 mm (4.5 inches) over 14 days, while humidity remains lower at 81%. For a more detailed look at the summer weather, check out Durham weather in July.
December and August offer distinct contrasts in weather. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -7°C (19°F) to a pleasant maximum of 23°C (73°F), with an average of 8°C (46°F). The month experiences around 107 mm (4.2 in) of precipitation over approximately 9 days, coupled with high humidity at 86%. In stark contrast, August boasts milder nights with a minimum of 15°C (59°F) and warm days reaching up to 36°C (97°F), averaging around 26°C (78°F). This month sees slightly higher precipitation totals, at 128 mm (5.1 in) across about 15 days, but with a lower humidity level of 80%. For more detailed information about August weather, visit Durham weather in August.
When comparing the weather in December and September, notable differences in temperature and humidity are apparent. December experiences much lower temperatures, with a minimum of -7°C (19°F) and an average of 8°C (46°F), while September boasts warmer conditions, starting at a minimum of 9°C (48°F) and peaking at an average of 23°C (74°F). Additionally, September tends to be sunnier and dryer, with a maximum temperature reaching up to 35°C (96°F), whereas December experiences a higher humidity level at 86% and notable precipitation of 107 mm (4.2 in) over 9 days. For more specific details on the September climate, you can visit Durham weather in September.
When comparing the weather in December to October, notable contrasts emerge. December experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -7°C (19°F) compared to October's milder minimum of 2°C (36°F). The average temperature in December is cooler at 8°C (46°F), while October boasts a warmer average of 18°C (65°F). Additionally, October can see maximum temperatures soar to 36°C (98°F), significantly higher than December's maximum of 23°C (73°F). Precipitation levels are slightly higher in December, with 107 mm (4.2 in) compared to October's 97 mm (3.8 in), although both months receive rain on 9 days. Humidity is also higher in December at 86%, compared to October's 80%. For more detailed information, you can explore Durham weather in October.
December weather tends to be colder and wetter compared to November. The minimum temperature in December drops to -7°C (19°F), while November's minimum is slightly milder at -4°C (25°F). Additionally, December has a higher average precipitation of 107 mm (4.2 in) over 9 days, compared to November's 81 mm (3.2 in) over 7 days. The overall humidity remains similar, but December experiences a more significant range in temperatures, peaking at a maximum of 23°C (73°F) compared to November's 29°C (84°F). For a detailed look at November's climate, check out Durham weather in November.
As December unfolds in Durham, it brings a distinct chill that sets it apart from other months. Temperatures drop significantly, swinging from the milder averages experienced earlier in the year to a noteworthy maximum of 23°C (73°F) and a biting minimum of -7°C (19°F). This transition is accompanied by increased precipitation, with about 107 mm (4.2 in) falling over 9 days, creating a damp atmosphere and contributing to the month’s high humidity of 86%. While the holiday season brings a festive spirit, the weather reminds residents and visitors alike that winter has truly arrived. For more insights into Durham's climatic patterns, visit Durham Climate.