Last updated: February 24, 2025
December in Ocracoke, United States, presents a mild coastal climate perfect for off-season visitors. With daily maximum temperatures reaching up to 22°C (72°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F), the weather is generally pleasant, though it can dip to a cool 2°C (36°F) at night. This month often brings 144 mm (5.7 in) of precipitation over roughly 11 days, contributing to a humid atmosphere with humidity levels at 84%. Embrace the charm of Ocracoke in December, where peaceful landscapes and refreshing breezes create a unique winter getaway.
In December, Ocracoke experiences a notable transition as temperatures begin to dip, setting the stage for winter. The month typically sees a minimum low of 2°C (36°F) while the average hovers around 14°C (57°F). As the days progress, highs can reach a pleasant 22°C (72°F), which still offers mild moments reminiscent of autumn. Compared to the preceding months, December marks a shift, with temperatures gradually decreasing from the warmer fall climate, though it remains relatively temperate compared to harsher winter climates elsewhere. This moderate December weather invites both locals and visitors to enjoy the island’s serene beauty, making it an ideal time for cozy strolls along Ocracoke’s picturesque shores.
December in Ocracoke marks a notable transition as the year wraps up, showcasing an average precipitation of 144 mm (5.7 in) over 11 days. This increase from November's 129 mm (5.1 in) suggests a trend towards wetter conditions in late fall, making December one of the more significant months for rainfall. Following the heavy downpours of the summer months, precipitation begins to taper off; however, December still maintains a substantial level of moisture. This trend positions it as a month where the balance of tranquil winter landscapes meets the rhythmic patter of rain, setting a cozy backdrop for the holidays. Overall, these patterns highlight Ocracoke's distinctive climatic shifts and engagement with seasonal weather, making each month unique in its own right.
In December, Ocracoke sees humidity levels rise to 84%, mirroring the figures found at the start of the year. This month marks a notable trend; humidity in Ocracoke tends to be higher during the winter months, with December’s level being equal to January's. Over the year, humidity fluctuates, peaking in November at 83%, and holding steady through the final month of the year before a gradual decline in the following months. Overall, residents and visitors can expect a relatively damp December, as the island wraps up the year with moisture-laden air, characteristic of its coastal climate.
In Ocracoke, United States, the UV Index experiences a notable decline in December, reverting to a moderate level of 4 with a burn time of 30 minutes. This reduction follows a summer peak where the UV Index reached an extreme rating of 11 in both June and July, indicating a significant risk for sunburn within just 10 minutes of exposure. As the months transition from high values in early spring to extreme categories in the heart of summer, the trend showcases a seasonal pattern that highlights a heightened need for sun protection during those sunnier months. By November, the UV Index drops to 5, still moderate, allowing for more leisurely outdoor activities without intense sun exposure. December’s return to a lower UV level marks a welcome relief for residents and visitors alike, who can enjoy the beautiful surroundings with reduced risk. For more detailed insights on UV trends, visit Ocracoke UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In December, Ocracoke experiences a cozy retreat from the bustling summer months, boasting a delightful 206 hours of sunshine. As the year draws to a close, the days gradually become shorter, yet this coastal paradise maintains a robust luminosity, particularly when compared to the chill of January, which sees only 168 hours of sunlight. The gradual increase in sunlight from the colder months, with February reaching 203 hours, hints at the subtle transition toward winter’s close. Despite December's lower total, the warm glow of the waning year brings a serene charm, setting the stage for a tranquil holiday season amidst the island's breathtaking landscapes. Notably, this month paves the way for the impressive sunshine of the spring and summer ahead, as Ocracoke gears up to return to its sun-soaked glory.
In December, Ocracoke, United States, offers a moderate chance of sunny weather with a 46% likelihood of sunshine. This marks a slight decline from the previous month’s 56% but remains consistent with the generally cool and less sunny months of January and February, which both hover in the mid-40s for sunny days. Notably, as the year draws to a close, the patterns indicate that fall's transition into winter brings a gradual shift toward cloudier conditions, while still holding onto some of the sunshine characteristic of the earlier months, such as November and September. Overall, while December may not guarantee clear skies, it provides a reasonable chance for sun amidst the chill of winter.
As December settles in Ocracoke, the days grow noticeably shorter, with only 9 hours of daylight—a gradual decline from the 10 hours seen in November. This trend of diminishing daylight marks a notable shift from the longer days of summer, which peak at 14 hours in June, July, and August. Following the warmth of spring's 13 hours in April, daylight begins its steady retreat, dropping to 11 hours by October. While the festive spirit of winter prevails, the shorter days invite cozy nights, reminding residents and visitors alike to embrace the charm of the season as the sun sets a little earlier each evening.
As winter settles over Ocracoke in December, the average wind speed hovers around 7.3 m/s (16 mph), adding a brisk edge to the coastal charm. This month marks a slight decrease from the preceding November, which experienced a gustier 7.7 m/s (17 mph), yet it maintains a steady breeze characteristic of the late fall months. Notably, December's winds are generally milder compared to the earlier winter months, where January and February recorded the highest averages. The overall trend shows that while summer months like August experience the calmest conditions with only 5.3 m/s (12 mph), the approach of winter still brings a refreshing air as tradition meets tranquility in this picturesque coastal haven.
The weather in Ocracoke 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 Ocracoke and find detailed weather information for every month.
In December, Ocracoke experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F), peaking at 22°C (72°F). The month is characterized by higher precipitation, totaling 144 mm (5.7 in) over 11 days, along with a humidity level of 84%. In contrast, January sees a drop in the minimum temperature to -3°C (26°F) while retaining the same maximum of 22°C (72°F), bringing the average down to 11°C (53°F). Precipitation decreases to 88 mm (3.5 in) over just 9 days, but the humidity remains consistent at 84%. For more detailed information, check out Ocracoke weather in January.
December and February share similar weather patterns, with both months experiencing mild temperatures and relatively high humidity. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F), averaging 14°C (57°F), while February sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (34°F) and a maximum of 20°C (68°F), averaging 13°C (55°F). Precipitation remains consistent, with December receiving 144 mm (5.7 in) and February a touch less at 138 mm (5.4 in), both months experiencing rain on approximately 11 days. Overall, December is just a tad warmer and wetter than February. For more details on February weather, check out Ocracoke weather in February.
In December, the weather tends to be slightly warmer, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F). The month also experiences higher humidity at 84% and significant precipitation, totaling 144 mm (5.7 in) over about 11 days. In contrast, March sees a comparable average temperature, around 14°C (57°F), but with a slightly cooler minimum of 1°C (35°F) and a maximum of 21°C (71°F). Precipitation decreases to 88 mm (3.5 in) spread over 10 days, and humidity drops to 80%. For more details about weather specifics in March, you can check Ocracoke weather in March.
December weather tends to be cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F), and an average of 14°C (57°F). The month experiences considerable rainfall, totaling 144 mm (5.7 in) over 11 days, accompanied by high humidity at 84%. In contrast, April sees slightly warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures starting at 5°C (42°F) and maximums reaching 24°C (75°F), while the average hovers around 17°C (64°F). Precipitation is less frequent in April, accumulating to 95 mm (3.7 in) over 8 days, and humidity is slightly lower at 80%. For a deeper look into April's weather, you can check Ocracoke weather in April.
When comparing the weather in December and May, there are notable differences in temperature and precipitation. December typically sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F), while May enjoys a comfortable minimum of 10°C (50°F) and an average of 21°C (71°F). The maximum temperatures in December reach up to 22°C (72°F), compared to May's higher peak of 28°C (82°F). In terms of precipitation, December experiences more rain with 144 mm (5.7 in) over 11 days, whereas May records 102 mm (4.0 in) across 9 days. Humidity levels are slightly higher in December at 84%, compared to 81% in May, making the latter month feel more pleasant overall. For more details, you can check Ocracoke weather in May.
December and June present strikingly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a more comfortable average of 14°C (57°F), with highs reaching up to 22°C (72°F). This month also sees significant precipitation, with around 144 mm (5.7 in) falling over approximately 11 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 84%.
In contrast, June boasts warmer temperatures, starting at a minimum of 17°C (62°F) and peaking at an average of 25°C (77°F), with maximum temperatures soaring to 29°C (84°F). Although precipitation remains similar at 140 mm (5.5 in), it occurs over slightly more days—around 13—while humidity is slightly lower at 82%. For more detailed insights, check Ocracoke weather in June.
December and July present strikingly different weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a cool 2°C (36°F) to a comfortable 22°C (72°F), with an average of 14°C (57°F). The month sees substantial precipitation, totaling 144 mm (5.7 in) over about 11 days, combined with high humidity at 84%. Conversely, July boasts much warmer temperatures, with minimums of 23°C (74°F) and a maximum of 30°C (85°F), averaging around 27°C (80°F). While July experiences slightly higher rainfall at 159 mm (6.3 in) across 15 days, humidity remains similar at 83%. For more detailed information about July weather specifically, you can visit Ocracoke weather in July.
December and August present distinct weather patterns, with December featuring cooler temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F). In contrast, August enjoys much warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures of 22°C (71°F) and averages of 27°C (80°F), peaking at 29°C (84°F). While December experiences 144 mm (5.7 in) of precipitation over 11 days, August sees even higher rainfall at 189 mm (7.4 in) across 18 days. Humidity levels are relatively similar, with December at 84% and August slightly lower at 82%. For more detailed insights into the weather during this summer month, refer to Ocracoke weather in August.
December and September present quite distinct weather characteristics. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a comfortable average of 14°C (57°F), peaking at a maximum of 22°C (72°F). The month sees significant precipitation of 144 mm (5.7 in) over 11 days, coupled with a high humidity level of 84%. In contrast, September enjoys warmer conditions, with a minimum temperature of 19°C (66°F) and an average of 25°C (78°F), reaching a maximum of 29°C (84°F). Although September experiences slightly higher precipitation at 148 mm (5.8 in) spread over 13 days, its humidity is slightly lower at 80%. For more information on what to expect, visit Ocracoke weather in September.
When comparing the weather between December and October, it's clear that December tends to be cooler and wetter. In October, temperatures range from a minimum of 12°C (53°F) to an average of 22°C (72°F), peaking at 27°C (82°F), while December sees a significant drop, with minimum temperatures around 2°C (36°F) and a maximum of 22°C (72°F). Additionally, October experiences less precipitation, with 89 mm (3.5 in) over 8 days, compared to December's 144 mm (5.7 in) across 11 days. Humidity levels are slightly higher in December at 84%, compared to October's 79%. For a more detailed look at the October weather, you can visit Ocracoke weather in October.
In comparing the weather between November and December, it's clear that December experiences cooler temperatures overall, with average daily highs of 22°C (72°F) compared to November's warmer average of 25°C (78°F). Additionally, the minimum temperatures in December drop to around 2°C (36°F), while November starts higher at 5°C (42°F). Precipitation levels are slightly higher in December at 144 mm (5.7 in) over 11 days, compared to November's 129 mm (5.1 in) over 9 days. Humidity remains similar, with December at 84% and November at 83%. For more detailed insights, you can explore Ocracoke weather in November.
As December graces Ocracoke, the island experiences a notable shift in weather that sets it apart from other months. With a refreshing average temperature of 14°C (57°F), cool breezes replace the warm summer air, making outdoor exploration invigorating yet comfortable. Rain showers, occurring on about 11 days this month, contribute to a total precipitation of 144 mm (5.7 in), further enhancing the lush landscapes. The high humidity of 84% can feel chilly at times, especially during the cooler nights when temperatures drop to a brisk minimum of 2°C (36°F). Overall, December invites a unique blend of mildness and moisture, making it an ideal time for those seeking a quieter, more reflective experience on the island. For more detailed information about how Ocracoke's weather patterns shift throughout the year, visit Ocracoke Climate.