December Weather in Morehead City, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

December in Morehead City, United States, ushers in a chilly yet refreshing climate, where temperatures range from a maximum of 22°C (72°F) to a minimum of -1°C (31°F), averaging around 12°C (54°F). With an average humidity level of 84%, the air feels crisp, making it a perfect month for coastal strolls. Rainfall is not uncommon, with 148 mm (5.8 in) of precipitation expected over approximately 10 days, adding to the season's charm. Embrace the lively coastal atmosphere and prepare for both mild days and cooler evenings as you explore what Morehead City has to offer this December.

December Temperature in Morehead City

In Morehead City, United States, December heralds the onset of winter with temperatures that reflect a significant chill. The month starts with a minimum of -1°C (31°F), while the average temperature settles around 12°C (54°F), and highs can reach a comfortable 22°C (72°F). This cooler climate marks a transition from the mild autumn temperatures of November, making December a time where cozy layers become essential. Interestingly, despite the drop in temperatures, the maximums remain relatively mild, hinting at the region's coastal influence. As the year closes, the brisk air and occasional sunshine provide a refreshing contrast, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the seasonal changes.

December Weather in Morehead City: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Morehead City, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec495355637177818077705953
Data source: Temperature data for Morehead City 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 Morehead City

In December, Morehead City experiences a notable uptick in precipitation, with 148 mm (5.8 in) of rainfall over approximately 10 days. This marks a shift from the drier conditions often felt in the earlier months, creating a contrast to November's 4.3 in of rain. The transition into winter typically brings more frequent, though lighter, rain showers, contributing to a consistent pattern of precipitation peaking during the summer months. As the year closes, December's rainfall serves as a reminder of the changing seasons, embracing a balance between the heavier downpours of late summer and the drier spells of early winter.

December Precipitation Trends in Morehead City

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Morehead City, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec821368310711415715419121482108148
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Morehead City

In Morehead City, December brings a notable humidity level of 84%, tying it with January as the most humid month of the year. This late fall humidity trend reflects a subtle increase towards the year's end, as levels rise from a low of 79% in October. Throughout the year, humidity remains relatively stable, hovering between 79% and 84%. Notably, the months of November and December see a peak in moisture levels, suggesting that the approach of winter doesn't bring a reprieve from the heaviness of the air. This consistent humidity, paired with the coastal climate, creates a unique atmosphere that characterizes Morehead City's winter months.

December Average Humidity in Morehead City

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Morehead City, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec84%81%80%80%81%82%83%83%80%80%83%84%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Morehead City

In Morehead City, December sees a return to moderate UV Index levels, with a rating of 4, similar to January, indicating safer sun exposure conditions. With a burn time of 30 minutes, this month offers a respite from the extreme UV levels often associated with the summer months. The trend throughout the year reveals a consistent peak in UV intensity from May to July, reaching extreme levels of 11, while the colder months typically hover around moderate exposure. This cyclical pattern suggests that while it’s essential to remain cautious about sun exposure during the warmer months, December's lower UV Index allows for a more leisurely approach to outdoor activities. For more detailed insights, visit Morehead City UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Morehead City for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Morehead City 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec46810111111109854
Data source: Morehead City 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 Morehead City

As the year winds down, December in Morehead City offers a blend of cozy warmth and crisp air, with 212 hours of sunshine gracing the month. While December sees a slight dip in daylight compared to the bustling summer months, it still shines brighter than the winter gloom found in many northern locales. The sunshine begins its journey from a modest 179 hours in January, steadily climbing to a summer peak in July, where residents bask in a radiant 338 hours. This gradual increase throughout spring and summer reflects a vibrant cycle of light, peaking in warmer months and gently receding as fall transitions to winter. Despite the shorter days, December's sunshine brings a gentle glow, reminding us that even in the cooler months, there’s beauty to be found in the sunlight of Morehead City.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Morehead City: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Morehead City 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec179h208h279h312h333h324h338h323h299h291h235h212h
Data source: Morehead City December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Morehead City During December

In Morehead City, December offers a 47% chance of sunny weather, situating it in the middle range of the year's weather patterns. A notable trend emerges as the months transition; November enjoys a higher likelihood of sunshine at 59%, suggesting that the sunny days start to decline as winter approaches. The warmer months prior, particularly April and September, consistently present better odds for clear skies, with chances soaring above 50%. As December settles in, residents and visitors can expect a weather pattern that hovers just below the yearly average, hinting at a blend of holiday cheer and occasional cloud cover.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Morehead City

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Morehead City 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 Morehead City experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec48%34%36%57%49%31%45%43%57%47%59%47%
Data source: Morehead City December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Morehead City in December

As December rolls into Morehead City, daylight begins to wane, with the sun offering just 9 hours of light each day. This trend marks the culmination of a gradual decline that began in late autumn, reflecting shorter days as we approach the winter solstice. The previous months showcase a seasonal ebb and flow, where March begins to extend our daylight to 11 hours and June peaks at a generous 14 hours. Following this high point, the daylight hours taper off again, with November settling back to 10 hours before December's reduction. This cyclical pattern of daylight not only influences the local atmosphere but also sets the stage for the cozy, reflective mood characteristic of winter in Morehead City.

Average Daylight Hours in Morehead City for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Morehead City throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10h 6m10h 56m11h 59m13h 4m13h 59m14h 25m14h 11m13h 23m12h 20m11h 15m10h 19m9h 51m
Data source: Morehead City daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Morehead City

As December settles over Morehead City, the average wind speed gently hovers around 5.0 m/s (11 mph), showcasing a slight decrease from the busier winds of November. This month marks a transition, as the coastal breezes become milder, reflecting a pattern that is consistent throughout the year. January to March typically enjoys brisker winds, with February and March each reaching 5.5 m/s (12 mph). In contrast, the summer months of July and August experience a lull, where wind speeds drop to their yearly low of 3.7 m/s (8 mph). As the year draws to a close, the winds of December remain moderate, fostering a serene atmosphere as both residents and visitors embrace the coastal charm of the season.

Average December Wind Speed in Morehead City

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Morehead City, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.65.55.54.85.24.84.63.74.34.65.15.0 m/s
Data source: Morehead City December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Morehead City Compares to Other Months

The weather in Morehead City 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 Morehead City and find detailed weather information for every month.

In December, the weather in Morehead City features a milder range, with temperatures fluctuating between a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and a maximum of 22°C (72°F), averaging around 12°C (54°F). The month is relatively wet, receiving about 148 mm (5.8 in) of precipitation over 10 days, while humidity remains high at 84%. In contrast, January experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum dipping to -8°C (18°F) but maintaining a similar maximum of 22°C (71°F) and an average of 10°C (50°F). This month sees less precipitation, totaling 82 mm (3.2 in) over 9 days, with humidity levels remaining constant at 84%. For a detailed look at the weather in January, you can check Morehead City weather in January.

In comparing the weather between December and February, both months exhibit similar temperature ranges, with minimums around -1°C (31°F), average highs of approximately 12°C (54°F), and maximum temperatures reaching 22°C (72°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in December at 148 mm (5.8 in) over 10 days, compared to February's 136 mm (5.4 in) over 11 days. Humidity levels also show a slight decrease in February, averaging 81% compared to December's 84%. For more detailed weather insights during this period, visit Morehead City weather in February.

When comparing the weather in December and March, both months experience similar minimum temperatures, with lows around -1°C (31°F). However, March tends to be slightly warmer overall, boasting an average temperature of 13°C (56°F) compared to December's 12°C (54°F). The maximum temperature in March reaches 23°C (73°F), just one degree higher than December's high of 22°C (72°F). Precipitation is more abundant in December, with a total of 148 mm (5.8 in) over 10 days, compared to March's 83 mm (3.3 in) during the same number of days. Additionally, humidity is marginally lower in March at 80% versus December's 84%. For a deeper look into the climate specifics, check out Morehead City weather in March.

When comparing the weather in December and April, notable differences can be observed. December experiences cooler temperatures, with an average of 12°C (54°F) and a minimum dropping to around -1°C (31°F). In contrast, April brings milder conditions, featuring an average temperature of 17°C (63°F) and minimums around 4°C (40°F). Additionally, December has higher precipitation levels at 148 mm (5.8 in) over approximately 10 days, while April sees a decrease to 107 mm (4.2 in) across 9 days. Humidity also plays a role, with December's humidity at 84% compared to April's 80%, indicating a slightly drier feel in spring. For more details, check out Morehead City weather in April.

In Morehead City, December experiences cooler temperatures, with daily averages ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F). The month tends to be more humid, with an average humidity of 84% and a total precipitation of 148 mm (5.8 inches) over about 10 days. In contrast, May brings a noticeable warmth, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (51°F) to a maximum of 32°C (90°F) and an average of 22°C (71°F). The humidity decreases slightly to 81%, and while it also sees precipitation on about 10 days, the total rainfall is lower at 114 mm (4.5 inches). For more detailed information, check out Morehead City weather in May.

In comparing the weather of December to June, we observe significant contrasts. December features cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F), while June boasts much warmer conditions, starting at a minimum of 15°C (60°F) and averaging 25°C (77°F). Precipitation is somewhat consistent between the two months, with December receiving 148 mm (5.8 in) over roughly 10 days, compared to June's 157 mm (6.2 in) spread across 17 days. Humidity levels are also similar, with December at 84% and June at 82%. For a more detailed look at what to expect in June, visit Morehead City weather in June.

The weather in December and July presents a striking contrast. December temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a comfortable maximum of 22°C (72°F), with an average of 12°C (54°F). In this month, there is a notable 148 mm (5.8 in) of precipitation spread over about 10 days, accompanied by high humidity at 84%. On the other hand, July brings much warmer conditions with minimum temperatures of 20°C (69°F) and maximums reaching 32°C (89°F), averaging 27°C (81°F). Although July experiences slightly more precipitation at 154 mm (6.0 in), it occurs over more days—16 in total—while maintaining similar humidity levels at 83%. For more information, you can check Morehead City weather in July.

December and August present contrasting weather conditions in Morehead City. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a mild average of 12°C (54°F), peaking at a comfortable 22°C (72°F). This month also sees significant precipitation, totaling 148 mm (5.8 in) over about 10 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 84%. In stark contrast, August enjoys much warmer temperatures, with minimums at a pleasant 20°C (69°F), averages around 27°C (80°F), and max temperatures reaching up to 32°C (90°F). The summer month experiences even more rainfall, accumulating 191 mm (7.5 in) over 19 days, while maintaining a slightly lower humidity of 82%. For a closer look at August's weather, you can visit Morehead City weather in August.

When comparing December and September weather, there are striking differences in temperature and precipitation. December experiences cooler temperatures, with an average low of 12°C (54°F) and a maximum of 22°C (72°F), while September is significantly warmer, averaging a low of 15°C (59°F) and reaching up to 32°C (90°F). In terms of precipitation, September is wetter, receiving 214 mm (8.4 in) over 13 days compared to December's 148 mm (5.8 in) over 10 days. Additionally, December's humidity is slightly higher at 84%, while September maintains a comfortable level of 80%. For a closer look at September’s weather patterns, you can visit Morehead City weather in September.

Comparing the weather in December and October reveals distinct differences in temperature and precipitation. In December, the temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a pleasant maximum of 22°C (72°F), with an average of 12°C (54°F). The month sees a higher precipitation level of 148 mm (5.8 in) over 10 days, accompanied by increased humidity at 84%. In contrast, October boasts milder conditions with minimum temperatures around 8°C (47°F) and maximums reaching up to 30°C (86°F), averaging 21°C (70°F). Precipitation is lower in October, totaling only 82 mm (3.2 in) over the same number of days, and a slightly lower humidity level of 79%. These variations highlight October's generally warmer and drier weather compared to the cooler and wetter conditions of December. For more details, visit Morehead City weather in October.

In comparing the weather between November and December, we see notable variations in temperature and precipitation. December tends to be cooler, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F), whereas November is slightly warmer, with temperatures ranging from 1°C (35°F) to 26°C (79°F). Precipitation also increases in December, totaling 148 mm (5.8 in) over 10 days, compared to November's 108 mm (4.3 in) over 9 days. However, humidity remains relatively similar, with December at 84% and November at 83%. For a more detailed look at November weather, you can visit Morehead City weather in November.

Compare Morehead City's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Morehead City

As December descends on Morehead City, the weather transforms into a blend of crisp coolness and occasional moisture. Unlike the warmer months, where temperatures soar and humidity lingers, December brings milder averages, making it a refreshing contrast. With a notable increase in rainfall and cooler breezy afternoons, this month marks a shift towards more wintery conditions, inviting cozy indoor activities and vibrant holiday celebrations. So, if you're planning to visit, be prepared for the unique charm of December in this coastal town. For more insights on the climate throughout the year, check out Morehead City Climate.