Last updated: February 24, 2025
In December, Hatteras, United States experiences a varied climate characterized by mild temperatures and notable humidity. The maximum temperature can reach a pleasant 21°C (70°F), while the average settles around 12°C (55°F), dipping to a cool 1°C (35°F) at night. This month sees 143 mm (5.6 in) of precipitation spread over approximately 10 days, contributing to an average humidity of 84%. Visitors can expect a brisk coastal atmosphere, making it a unique time to enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of the region.
In December, Hatteras experiences a gentle transition from the mild conditions of autumn to the cooler embrace of winter. With minimum temperatures averaging around 1°C (35°F), the month begins to chill, yet it maintains a relatively comfortable average of 12°C (55°F). Days are still pleasant, peaking at a maximum of 21°C (70°F), allowing for enjoyable outdoor activities. This pattern of moderate temperatures highlights a unique aspect of Hatteras’ climate, where winter is more temperate compared to harsher regions, making December an appealing time for visitors to appreciate the scenic beauty without the summer crowds.
In December, Hatteras experiences a notable uptick in precipitation, with an average of 143 mm (5.6 in) over 10 days of rainfall. This month’s precipitation figures depict a shift towards wetter conditions as the year winds down, following November's 134 mm but slightly below the summer’s peak in August at 205 mm. The distribution of rainy days remains fairly consistent with other months, suggesting that while December brings more rain than the autumn months, it holds its own in comparison to the summer deluge. This trend indicates a transition from the drier fall months towards the wetter patterns typical of winter, hinting at the diverse climate Hatteras endures throughout the year.
In December, Hatteras experiences a humidity level of 84%, aligning closely with the year’s highest figures seen in January and November. This slight uptick reflects a seasonal trend where humidity levels peak during the colder months, contrasting with the relatively lower figures recorded in the fall, such as October’s 79%. Generally, the humidity remains consistently high throughout the year, fluctuating within a narrow band of 79% to 84%. The modest variations from month to month suggest that while December may be chilly, it retains a muggy quality typical of coastal climates, setting the stage for a unique, yet humid winter experience.
As December rolls in, Hatteras experiences a noticeable dip in the UV Index, reflecting the transition to winter. With a UV Index of 4, the exposure category remains firmly in the moderate zone, allowing for a safe burn time of 30 minutes. This decline follows a trend observed since the peak summer months, where the index soared to a striking 11 in both June and July, emphasizing the region's extreme sun exposure during those hotter days. As the year winds down, it’s a reminder for residents and visitors to enjoy outdoor activities while still staying mindful of sun safety. For more details on the UV Index throughout the year, visit Hatteras UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In Hatteras, United States, December marks a transition into the winter months, capturing a delightful 203 hours of sunshine. As the year wraps up, this sunshine count reflects a notable decline from the peak summer months, like July, which boasts an impressive 337 hours. However, December still shines brighter than the winter months that precede it, offering a cozy glow compared to January's chilly 162 hours. Essentially, while the sun's presence wanes as we move into the colder months, December provides a gentle reminder of the warm days ahead, bridging the gap between fall's lush vibrancy and the stark winter landscape.
In December, Hatteras sees a 45% chance of sunny weather, placing it just below some of the year's brighter months like April and November. While the likelihood of sun dips compared to the preceding fall, it remains fairly stable when compared to the winter months, such as January and March, which both hover around the mid-30s. Interestingly, the early part of winter shows a slight resilience against the gloom, as December often enjoys clearer skies than the summer months, July and June, which are characterized by their higher humidity. Overall, while December may not boast the sunniest disposition, it offers a charming balance of mild brightness before the deep winter sets in.
As December envelops Hatteras, the daylight hours reach their annual low, offering just 9 hours of sunlight. This decline marks the end of a gradual decrease that began in the vibrant long days of summer, where June, July, and August bask in 14 hours of daylight. As the seasons shift, so too does the rhythm of light; from the blossoming 14 hours in May to a steady decline through the crisp fall months, December's limited sunlight might spark a longing for the warmth and brightness of summer. With only 10 hours in both January and February, the first glimpse of spring will once again begin to bring longer days, allowing Hatteras to shake off the winter doldrums and embrace the return of the sun.
In Hatteras, December brings a gentle shift in the winds, with an average speed of 6.8 m/s (15 mph), mirroring the calm breezes of January. This month typically serves as a bridge between the brisk fall winds of November, which peak at 7.4 m/s (17 mph), and the slightly calmer months of late summer, such as August, where winds dip to 5.2 m/s (12 mph). The consistent wind patterns throughout the year reveal a trend of mild fluctuations, with the late spring and summer months demonstrating a softer touch, while late fall tends to invigorate the coastline with stronger gusts. As the year wraps up, December's breezy charm complements Hatteras’s coastal beauty, making it a perfect time for reflective ocean walks and spirited kite flying.
The weather in Hatteras 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 Hatteras and find detailed weather information for every month.
In December, Hatteras experiences milder temperatures with a minimum of 1°C (35°F) and an average of 12°C (55°F), while January sees a drop in the minimum temperature to -4°C (25°F), despite maintaining a maximum of 21°C (70°F) in both months. Precipitation is higher in December at 143 mm (5.6 in) over 10 days, compared to January's 94 mm (3.7 in) over 9 days. Both months have a consistent humidity level of 84%, creating a damp atmosphere. For a more detailed understanding of January's weather, you can visit Hatteras weather in January.
In December, the weather is characterized by a mild range of temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (35°F) and a maximum of 21°C (70°F), averaging around 12°C (55°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 143 mm (5.6 in) over about 10 days, with humidity levels at a relatively high 84%. Conversely, February sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (33°F) and a maximum of 19°C (67°F), while still maintaining an average temperature of 12°C (53°F). Precipitation decreases moderately to 135 mm (5.3 in) over 11 days, with humidity also slightly lower at 81%. For more specific details on February weather, you can visit Hatteras weather in February.
December and March share similar temperature ranges, with both months showcasing a minimum of around 1°C (35°F) and a maximum of 21°C (70°F). However, December tends to be slightly cooler on average, with an average temperature of 12°C (55°F) compared to March’s 13°C (55°F). Precipitation levels are notably different; December sees 143 mm (5.6 in) spread over 10 days, while March has only 81 mm (3.2 in) over 9 days, indicating a drier climate in early spring. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in December at 84%, compared to March’s 80%. For more details on the weather during March, you can visit Hatteras weather in March.
December and April present contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F), with an average of 12°C (55°F). This month experiences considerable precipitation of 143 mm (5.6 in) over about 10 days, accompanied by high humidity at 84%. In contrast, April sees a milder temperature spectrum, with minimum temperatures at 5°C (41°F), an average of 17°C (63°F), and a maximum of 23°C (74°F). Precipitation in April is lower, totaling 96 mm (3.8 in) and occurring over 8 days, with humidity slightly reduced at 80%. For more details on April's climate, you can explore Hatteras weather in April.
In December, the weather is significantly cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F) and an average of 12°C (55°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 143 mm (5.6 in) over about 10 days, along with high humidity at 84%. In contrast, May offers a much warmer climate, featuring minimum temperatures of 9°C (49°F) and maximums reaching up to 28°C (83°F), with an average temperature of 21°C (70°F). Precipitation in May is slightly less at 109 mm (4.3 in) across the same number of rainy days, while humidity is a bit lower at 81%. For a detailed look at what to expect during this lovely month, check out Hatteras weather in May.
In December, temperatures range from a chilly 1°C (35°F) to a mild 21°C (70°F), with an average of 12°C (55°F). The month experiences substantial precipitation, totaling 143 mm (5.6 in) over approximately 10 days, and with high humidity at 84%, the weather can feel damp and cool. In contrast, June brings a much warmer climate with temperatures starting at a comfortable minimum of 17°C (62°F) and peaking at 29°C (84°F), averaging around 25°C (77°F). While the total precipitation slightly increases to 145 mm (5.7 in) spread over 14 days, the humidity remains relatively lower at 82%, resulting in a much different feel to the weather. For more details, you can explore Hatteras weather in June.
December and July showcase stark contrasts in weather. December features cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (35°F) and an average of 12°C (55°F), while July boasts much warmer conditions with a minimum of 23°C (74°F) and an average of 27°C (80°F). Precipitation is notable in both months, with December receiving 143 mm (5.6 in) over 10 days, and July slightly higher at 173 mm (6.8 in) over 14 days. Humidity levels remain relatively similar, at 84% in December and 83% in July, making both months feel quite humid despite their differing temperatures. For more insights into July weather, you can check Hatteras weather in July.
When comparing the weather in December and August, notable contrasts emerge. December experiences cooler temperatures with a minimum of 1°C (35°F) and an average of 12°C (55°F), reaching a maximum of 21°C (70°F). In contrast, August enjoys much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 21°C (71°F), an average of 27°C (80°F), and a maximum of 29°C (85°F). Additionally, December tends to be wetter, receiving 143 mm (5.6 in) of precipitation over 10 days, while August sees even more rainfall at 205 mm (8.1 in) over 19 days, highlighting the more humid and rainy conditions typical of summer. For more specifics about August weather in Hatteras, you can explore Hatteras weather in August.
In comparing the weather of December and September, significant differences emerge. December features cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (35°F) and an average of 12°C (55°F), while September enjoys much warmer conditions, boasting a minimum of 19°C (66°F) and an average of 25°C (77°F). Precipitation levels are relatively similar, with December receiving 143 mm (5.6 in) over 10 days, compared to September's 126 mm (5.0 in) over 12 days. Humidity is slightly higher in December at 84%, versus September's 80%, contributing to an overall chilliness that characterizes the end of the year. For those interested in more details, check out Hatteras weather in September.
When comparing the weather in December to October, it's clear that October tends to be milder and drier. In October, the average temperature ranges from a minimum of 12°C (53°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), with an average of 22°C (71°F). This month also sees significantly less precipitation at 79 mm (3.1 in) over 9 days and lower humidity at 79%. In contrast, December experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (35°F) and a maximum of 21°C (70°F), averaging 12°C (55°F). Additionally, December is wetter, accumulating 143 mm (5.6 in) of rainfall over 10 days and higher humidity at 84%. For more detailed insights, you can check out Hatteras weather in October.
In comparing the weather of December to November, December tends to be cooler, with minimum temperatures averaging around 1°C (35°F) compared to November's minimum of 4°C (39°F). While December has a lower average temperature of 12°C (55°F) than November's 16°C (61°F), the maximum temperatures in December reach up to 21°C (70°F), slightly cooler than November's high of 25°C (77°F). Both months exhibit similar levels of precipitation, with December receiving 143 mm (5.6 in) over 10 days and November having 134 mm (5.3 in) across 9 days. Humidity levels are quite alike as well, with December registering at 84% and November at 83%. For a detailed look at November's weather, you can visit Hatteras weather in November.
As December settles over Hatteras, it brings a notable shift in weather compared to the warmer months. The average temperature drops significantly, creating a cooler atmosphere where chilly days are complemented by higher humidity levels. Rainfall also becomes more frequent, with an average of ten days marked by precipitation, contributing to a lush coastal landscape. This contrasts sharply with the balmy summer days, making December a time for cozy evenings indoors and brisk walks on the beach. For a deeper insight into how December fits into the overall climate of Hatteras, visit Hatteras Climate.