Last updated: February 24, 2025
December in Wilmington, United States, showcases a diverse climate characterized by mild temperatures and significant humidity. The maximum temperature reaches a pleasant 24°C (75°F), while the average temperature hovers around 11°C (52°F), dipping to a chilly minimum of -4°C (25°F). This month also brings 127 mm (5.0 in) of precipitation spread over 10 rainy days, contributing to the region's rich 86% humidity. Residents and visitors alike can expect a dynamic blend of conditions, making December a unique time to experience Wilmington's winter charm.
In December, Wilmington experiences a notable transition as winter settles in, with temperatures gradually dipping compared to the milder autumn months. The minimum temperature hovers around -4°C (25°F), while the average reaches 11°C (52°F), offering a hint of chill without the harsh extremes seen in January. Maximum temperatures can still reach up to 24°C (75°F), providing occasional warmth that makes December a memorable month. This gentle cooling trend, juxtaposed with fleeting warmer days, creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying seasonal festivities, making Wilmington an inviting destination during this time of year.
In Wilmington, United States, December marks a significant transition in precipitation patterns, showcasing a notable increase in rainfall as the year concludes. With an average of 127 mm (5.0 in) of precipitation over 10 rainy days, December is one of the wetter months, trailing closely behind the summer peak months like August and September. This statistic suggests that the city experiences a shift towards more consistent moisture levels as temperatures drop, compared to the drier months like October (67 mm). The gradual rise in precipitation from November's 118 mm further highlights this trend, making December an important month for replenishing water resources before heading into the winter months. Overall, Wilmington's weather reflects a distinct pattern of increasing precipitation as the year comes to a close, paving the way for the transition into colder, wetter conditions.
In Wilmington, December ushers in a noticeable increase in humidity, reaching a peak of 86%. This rise signifies a trend where the final month of the year embraces more moisture, contrasting with the drier months like September and October, which hover around 79-80% humidity. Interestingly, the winter months generally maintain higher humidity levels, with January and November closely following December at 85%. Overall, the humidity pattern reflects Wilmington's coastal climate, where moisture levels oscillate but remain elevated during the colder months, creating a uniquely humid atmosphere as the year comes to a close.
As December arrives in Wilmington, the UV Index drops to a moderate level of 4, signaling a noticeable shift as winter approaches. This decline marks the end of a peak UV season, which reaches extreme levels in the summer months of May, June, and July, when values consistently sit at 11. The gradual decrease from 11 in the summer to 4 in December suggests a cyclical trend where the lower sun angles and shorter days significantly reduce UV exposure. With a burn time of 30 minutes, taking precautions against UV radiation is still advisable, especially during midday hours. For more detailed insights on UV exposure throughout the year, explore the Wilmington UV Index.
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December in Wilmington, United States, offers a delightful balance of sunshine and mild winter days, with an average of 210 hours of sunlight. This month captures the tail end of a gradual decline from the summer peak of 337 hours in July, showcasing a clear seasonal transition. As the year winds down, sunlight softens from the vibrant brightness of May and June, which boast the year's highest totals, to the cozier, yet still enjoyable December glow. While December's hours are fewer than those of the preceding summer months, they surpass the chilly winter start in January, indicating that even in the heart of winter, Wilmington enjoys a fair share of sun-kissed days, inviting residents and visitors alike to relish outdoor activities amidst the festive season.
In December, Wilmington, United States, enjoys a 48% chance of sunny weather, making it relatively bright for the season. This month follows a trend of fluctuating sunshine probabilities throughout the year, with the peak occurring in April at 60%, while the summer months, particularly June with only 29%, experience a notable dip in sunshine. Interestingly, December shares a similar likelihood of sunny days as the earlier months of the year, including January at 49% and notably exceeds July and August. As winter approaches, December's moderate sunshine pattern suggests a pleasantly surprising balance between the chilly weather and occasional sun, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the festive spirit under the sky.
In Wilmington, United States, the daylight duration ebbs and flows with the seasons, revealing a captivating rhythm throughout the year. As winter approaches, December marks the shortest days, offering just 9 hours of daylight. This decline follows a gradual decrease from November's 10 hours, setting the stage for the coldest months. The year begins with consistently 10 hours of daylight in January and February, before light begins to extend noticeably in March with 11 hours. Spring ushers in longer days, peaking at 14 hours during the summer months of June and July, before a gentle tapering occurs as autumn arrives, bringing back shorter days. By December, the cycle completes as daylight recedes, reminding us of the sun’s seasonal journey.
As December settles in Wilmington, the average wind speed remains a steady 3.5 m/s (8 mph), echoing the mild breezes of the preceding months. This consistent airflow marks a subtle shift from the summer's gentle whispers in August and September, where speeds dipped to their lowest at 2.5 m/s (6 mph). As winter approaches, the winds regain a bit of strength, aligning closely with the average speeds seen in November. This stability in wind patterns throughout the fall hints at a lingering warmth in the air, creating a gentle, inviting atmosphere perfect for holiday strolls along the waterfront. While the winds may not howl, their presence adds a delightful crispness to Wilmington's December charm.
The weather in Wilmington 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 Wilmington and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. December experiences a milder average temperature of 11°C (52°F) with a maximum of 24°C (75°F) and a minimum of -4°C (25°F), coupled with relatively high precipitation of 127 mm (5.0 in) over 10 days and humidity at 86%. In contrast, January brings colder temperatures, with an average of 9°C (48°F), a maximum reaching 25°C (76°F), and a lower minimum of -9°C (16°F). Precipitation decreases significantly, totaling 69 mm (2.7 in) over just 9 days, and humidity remains slightly lower at 85%. For a more detailed outlook on January’s climate, visit Wilmington weather in January.
December and February both experience similar minimum temperatures, hovering around -4°C (25°F). However, February shows a slight increase in average temperature, reaching 12°C (53°F), compared to December's 11°C (52°F). Additionally, February's maximum temperatures are slightly higher, peaking at 25°C (77°F) versus December's 24°C (75°F). Precipitation levels are comparable, with December receiving 127 mm (5.0 in) and February experiencing slightly less at 103 mm (4.1 in) over the same number of days. Humidity is also somewhat lower in February at 82%, compared to December’s 86%. For more details on specific weather conditions, check out Wilmington weather in February.
December and March exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In December, temperatures fluctuate from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F), with an average of 11°C (52°F). The month experiences higher precipitation at 127 mm (5.0 in) over approximately 10 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 86%. In contrast, March brings slightly milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F). Precipitation decreases to 73 mm (2.9 in) over 9 days, and humidity drops to 81%. For more detailed insights into March's climate, visit Wilmington weather in March.
In comparing December and April weather, December tends to be cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F), while April enjoys milder conditions with temperatures from 0°C (32°F) to 29°C (84°F). December sees substantial precipitation, with an average of 127 mm (5.0 in) over about 10 days, compared to April's 97 mm (3.8 in) spread across 9 days. Additionally, humidity is generally higher in December at 86%, versus 80% in April, contributing to a colder and wetter feel during the last month of the year. For more specific details on April’s climate, check out Wilmington weather in April.
In comparing December and May weather, December presents a cooler climate with temperatures ranging from a low of -4°C (25°F) to a pleasant average of 11°C (52°F), but can peak at a maximum of 24°C (75°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 127 mm (5.0 in) over approximately 10 days, along with high humidity levels at 86%. In contrast, May brings a much warmer atmosphere, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 7°C (44°F) and averaging 22°C (72°F), reaching maximums of up to 36°C (96°F). Precipitation slightly decreases to 112 mm (4.4 in) across the same number of rainy days, while humidity remains relatively lower at 81%. For further details on the weather conditions in May, you can explore Wilmington weather in May.
December offers a much cooler climate compared to June, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -4°C (25°F) at the minimum to a pleasant 24°C (75°F) at the maximum. In contrast, June boasts significantly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (55°F) and a peak of 34°C (93°F), creating a much hotter and more humid environment. While December experiences an average precipitation of 127 mm (5.0 in) over roughly 10 days, June sees a slightly higher total precipitation of 156 mm (6.1 in) across 18 days, indicating a wetter month overall. Furthermore, December's humidity levels are slightly higher at 86%, compared to June's 81%. For a closer look at the weather specifics during June, visit Wilmington weather in June.
In December, temperatures in the region can drop significantly, with minimums reaching as low as -4°C (25°F) and an average of around 11°C (52°F). In contrast, July offers much warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures beginning at 17°C (63°F) and averaging 27°C (80°F), peaking at a maximum of 33°C (92°F). Additionally, December experiences more humidity, at 86%, compared to July's 81%. While both months see substantial precipitation, December has rain on about 10 days totaling 127 mm (5.0 in), whereas July has slightly higher rainfall over 18 days, accumulating to 169 mm (6.6 in). For a closer look at July weather specifics, visit Wilmington weather in July.
December and August present distinctly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a low of -4°C (25°F) to a comfortable maximum of 24°C (75°F), with an average of 11°C (52°F). The month experiences precipitation over 10 days, totaling 127 mm (5.0 in) and a high humidity level of 86%. In contrast, August boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 17°C (63°F) and highs soaring to 34°C (94°F), averaging around 26°C (80°F). It is also wetter, with precipitation occurring over 22 days and reaching 209 mm (8.2 in), although slightly lower humidity at 80%. For those interested in more detailed information, you can explore Wilmington weather in August.
In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F), with an average temperature of 11°C (52°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 127 mm (5.0 in) over about 10 days, alongside a high humidity level of 86%. In contrast, September boasts milder conditions, with temperatures fluctuating between 11°C (52°F) and 34°C (93°F), an average of 25°C (76°F), and higher rainfall at 215 mm (8.5 in) over 13 days, though with slightly lower humidity at 79%. For a detailed look at September's weather, check out Wilmington weather in September.
December weather presents a stark contrast to that of October, with significantly cooler temperatures. While October enjoys a minimum temperature of 5°C (41°F) and an average of 21°C (69°F), December chills with a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F). The maximum temperatures also reflect this drop, with October reaching up to 33°C (92°F), compared to December's peak of 24°C (75°F). Additionally, December sees more precipitation, accumulating 127 mm (5.0 in) over approximately 10 days, compared to October's 67 mm (2.6 in) across 9 days. Humidity levels are slightly higher in December at 86%, versus 80% in October. For a detailed look at October's weather, you can check out Wilmington weather in October.
In comparison, December generally experiences slightly colder temperatures with a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F), while November sees a milder minimum of -2°C (28°F) and an average of 13°C (57°F). The maximum temperatures in December can reach 24°C (75°F), a bit lower than November's maximum of 27°C (81°F). Precipitation levels are quite similar, as both months receive around 127 mm (5.0 in) and 118 mm (4.6 in) of rainfall, respectively, over a similar number of days. Humidity is also comparable, with December registering at 86% and November at 85%. For more detailed insights into the weather during November, you can check Wilmington weather in November.
As December settles in Wilmington, the weather takes a noticeable turn. With average temperatures dropping and the chill of winter making its presence felt, it's a stark contrast to the milder months earlier in the year. The increase in precipitation—reaching about 127 mm over 10 days—adds to the cozy, festive atmosphere, while the humidity lingers at a high 86%, wrapping the city in a damp embrace. This month often features cooler days, where the maximum temperature rarely rises above 24°C, inviting residents to layer up and enjoy seasonal activities. For a deeper understanding of how Wilmington's December compares to other months, explore more at Wilmington Climate.