December Weather in Bend, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

In December, Bend, Oregon experiences a wintry tapestry characterized by a wide range of temperatures, with maximums reaching 18°C (65°F) and plunging to a brisk -17°C (2°F). The average temperature hovers around 0°C (33°F), creating a chilly atmosphere that pairs with the city's 88% humidity. With approximately 67 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation spread across 12 days, December often showcases a blend of rain, snow, and frosty conditions, making it a month where nature's artistry can truly shine in the high desert landscape.

December Temperature in Bend

In December, Bend, United States embraces the chill of winter, with temperatures that reflect the depth of the season. The minimum temperature dips to -17°C (2°F), indicating a brisk start to the month, while the average temperature hovers around 0°C (33°F), providing just enough warmth for outdoor winter activities. As the days progress, residents can experience a moderate maximum temperature of 18°C (65°F), reminiscent of late fall rather than the dead of winter, offering a unique contrast to the frigid nights. This transitional month showcases a steady decline in temperature from the milder days of November, setting the stage for the cold months ahead, yet still allowing for moments of respite under the winter sun. Overall, December in Bend reveals a fascinating balance between cold extremes and occasional warmth, making it a distinctive time of year for locals and visitors alike.

December Weather in Bend: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Bend, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec333338445361706959473933
Data source: Temperature data for Bend 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 Bend

In December, Bend, United States experiences moderate precipitation, with a total of 67 mm (2.6 in) spread over 12 days. This month sees a slight increase compared to the 59 mm recorded in November, signaling a trend toward wetter conditions as winter settles in. Notably, December's precipitation is higher than several earlier fall months, although it doesn’t quite reach the levels of February, which typically is the wettest month. As the year concludes, residents can expect a shift in weather patterns, promoting a cozy, snow-friendly atmosphere while also foreshadowing the drier summer months ahead.

December Precipitation Trends in Bend

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Bend, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec69825654362771329375967
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

December Humidity in Bend

December in Bend, United States, marks a notable peak in humidity, reaching 88%—the highest since January and February, both which also boast an 87% humidity level. This month transitions from the drier conditions of late summer and early autumn, where humidity dipped to as low as 57% in September and 60% in August. As winter sets in, the air becomes heavier and moister, evident in December’s figures, which contrast sharply with the summer months when humidity was at its lowest. The consistent trend of elevated humidity during the colder months emphasizes a seasonal pattern that envelops Bend in a damp chill, inviting cozy indoor gatherings as the year concludes.

December Average Humidity in Bend

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Bend, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec87%87%87%86%79%80%77%60%57%76%87%88%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Bend

In December, the UV Index in Bend, Oregon, drops significantly to a low level of 2, which translates to a more relaxed exposure experience with a burn time of 45 minutes. This downward trend from the peak summer months highlights how the region's sunlight intensity wanes as winter approaches, making outdoor activities safer without the urgency for high-SPF sunscreen. The preceding months showcase a gradual rise from moderate to extreme levels, peaking in June at 11, a stark contrast to the much milder December sun. With such variations, it's essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed about local UV conditions throughout the year. For more details, you can check out the Bend UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Bend for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Bend 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3568101110108642
Data source: Bend 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 Bend

In Bend, Oregon, December greets residents with a gentle 159 hours of sunshine, marking a subtle transition from the sun-soaked summer months to the chill of winter. As the year winds down, daylight hours gradually wane from the peak of 409 hours in July, illustrating a clear seasonal rhythm. Interestingly, December experiences a noticeable dip compared to the vibrant 346 hours of light in May, yet it still offers more sunshine than the darker months of January and November. This seasonal shift highlights Bend's unique climate, where even in winter, the sun manages to peek through, inviting outdoor activities and cozy gatherings amidst the holiday cheer.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Bend: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Bend 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec117h167h252h276h346h372h409h365h301h251h180h159h
Data source: Bend December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Bend During December

In Bend, December marks a notable dip in the likelihood of sunny weather, with only 19% chance of sun gracing the skies. This decline comes after a robust summer, where July and August bask in plenty of sunshine, boasting chances as high as 81% and 77%, respectively. As the year transitions into fall, the prospect of sunny days diminishes, with November sitting at a mere 28%. This trend reveals a gradual decrease in clear skies that peaks in the vibrant summer months, highlighting December as a time when cloudy and overcast weather become far more likely, inviting cozy indoor activities amid the winter chill.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Bend

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Bend 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 Bend experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec22%29%49%60%50%67%81%77%72%40%28%19%
Data source: Bend December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Bend in December

As the year draws to a close, December in Bend, United States, brings a notable shift in daylight, with only 8 hours of sunlight available each day. This decline marks the lowest point in the annual cycle, following a gradual fading of daylight that starts from the peak of 15 hours in the summer months of June and July. After basking in the long days of May and June, residents and visitors alike experience the increasingly shorter evenings leading into the winter solstice. The transition from November’s 9 hours to December’s scant 8 hours encapsulates the seasonal rhythm, reminding us of nature's ebb and flow as we cozy up during the colder, darker days of winter.

Average Daylight Hours in Bend for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Bend throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 18m10h 29m11h 58m13h 29m14h 46m15h 24m15h 3m13h 54m12h 26m10h 56m9h 36m8h 55m
Data source: Bend daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Bend

As December settles over Bend, the average wind speed makes a noticeable leap, rising to 3.8 m/s (9 mph). This slight uptick reflects a trend seen throughout the colder months, where winds tend to pick up as the year draws to a close. In fact, December matches the windiness of January, breaking away from the gentler breezes of summer and early fall, which hovered between 2.3 m/s (5 mph) and 3.2 m/s (7 mph). This seasonal shift not only brings a crisper feel to the air but also sets the stage for winter's vigor, making it a perfect time for invigorating outdoor adventures or cozy indoor gatherings as the wind whispers through the pine trees.

Average December Wind Speed in Bend

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Bend, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.83.73.23.02.92.62.32.52.43.33.63.8 m/s
Data source: Bend December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Bend Compares to Other Months

The weather in Bend 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 Bend and find detailed weather information for every month.

In December, temperatures experience a broader range, with a minimum of -17°C (2°F) and a maximum of 18°C (65°F), resulting in an average temperature around 0°C (33°F). The month sees an average precipitation of 67 mm (2.6 in) over 12 days, accompanied by relatively high humidity at 88%. In contrast, January brings more severe cold, with a minimum plunging to -24°C (-11°F) and a slightly lower maximum of 13°C (56°F), resulting in a marginally warmer average of 1°C (33°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 69 mm (2.7 in) over the same number of days, while humidity remains comparable at 87%. For more specifics on the conditions, check out Bend weather in January.

The weather in December and February exhibits some notable similarities and differences. In December, the temperatures range from a minimum of -17°C (2°F) to a maximum of 18°C (65°F), with an average temperature hovering around 0°C (33°F). This month experiences around 67 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation spread over 12 days, with relatively high humidity at 88%. In contrast, February shows slightly colder conditions, with a minimum temperature of -18°C (0°F) and a maximum of 17°C (62°F), while the average temperature is just above freezing at 1°C (33°F). Precipitation increases to 82 mm (3.2 in) over 15 days, keeping humidity levels comparable at 87%. For more specific details about February weather, see Bend weather in February.

December and March exhibit notable differences in weather patterns, despite their proximity in the winter-to-spring transition. December typically sees lower temperatures, with a minimum dipping to -17°C (2°F) and an average of around 0°C (33°F), while March experiences slightly milder conditions, with a minimum of -14°C (7°F) and an average of 3°C (38°F). Precipitation levels are relatively close, with December receiving 67 mm (2.6 in) over 12 days, compared to March's 56 mm (2.2 in) over 13 days. Humidity remains high in both months, but December is slightly higher at 88%, compared to March’s 87%. For a more detailed look at March weather specifically, you can refer to Bend weather in March.

December and April exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. December features colder temperatures, with a minimum of -17°C (2°F) and an average of 0°C (33°F), while April sees a milder minimum of -8°C (18°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in December, with 67 mm (2.6 in) over 12 days compared to 54 mm (2.1 in) across 11 days in April. Humidity levels are similar, with December at 88% and April at 86%, creating a damp cold in winter versus a fresher, albeit still cool, spring atmosphere. For more insights on the spring weather, check out Bend weather in April.

In December, temperatures in Bend can drop significantly, with a minimum of -17°C (2°F) and an average around 0°C (33°F), making it a chilly month overall. The precipitation is relatively high at 67 mm (2.6 in) over about 12 days, accompanied by humidity levels reaching 88%. In contrast, May offers a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures rising to -4°C (25°F) and averages settling around 12°C (53°F). The maximum temperatures can even reach 31°C (88°F). May also experiences less precipitation at 36 mm (1.4 in) across just 9 days and lower humidity at 79%. For more details on the wonderful weather in May, check out Bend weather in May.

December and June present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -17°C (2°F), with an average around freezing at 0°C (33°F) and a maximum reaching 18°C (65°F). This month also experiences high humidity at 88% and significant precipitation, totaling 67 mm (2.6 in) over about 12 days. In contrast, June offers a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (33°F) to a scorching maximum of 41°C (107°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F). Rainfall is markedly lower at 27 mm (1.1 in) across just 7 days, and the humidity is slightly reduced at 80%. For a closer look at Bend's June conditions, check out Bend weather in June.

December and July present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plummet as low as -17°C (2°F), with an average of 0°C (33°F) and a maximum of 18°C (65°F). This month experiences considerable precipitation, averaging 67 mm (2.6 in) over 12 days, combined with high humidity levels at 88%. Conversely, July showcases a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures around 2°C (37°F), a pleasant average of 21°C (70°F), and highs reaching up to 36°C (98°F). Precipitation is significantly lower in July, totaling just 7 mm (0.3 in) across only 2 days, and humidity drops to a more comfortable 77%. For more details on July weather, you can check Bend weather in July.

In December, temperatures can plunge as low as -17°C (2°F) with an average of 0°C (33°F), while the month can see a maximum of 18°C (65°F). The weather is often damp, with an average precipitation of 67 mm (2.6 in) spread over about 12 days and a high humidity level of 88%. In contrast, August boasts much warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures around 3°C (37°F) and averages reaching 20°C (69°F), with extremes hitting 38°C (100°F). Precipitation is minimal at just 13 mm (0.5 in) over roughly 3 days, and humidity levels are significantly lower at 60%. For a closer look at the delightful weather in this summer month, check out Bend weather in August.

In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -17°C (2°F), with an average hovering around 0°C (33°F) and possible highs reaching 18°C (65°F). The month is characterized by higher precipitation levels, averaging 67 mm (2.6 in) across 12 days, accompanied by a high humidity of 88%. In contrast, September showcases a more moderate climate, with minimum temperatures around -1°C (30°F) and average highs of 15°C (60°F), peaking at a scorching 37°C (98°F). Precipitation is significantly lower in September, totaling only 29 mm (1.1 in) over just 5 days, and the humidity is notably less at 57%. For more details on September's weather patterns, check out Bend weather in September.

December and October showcase striking differences in weather patterns. In October, temperatures range from a minimum of -9°C (15°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F), with an average of 8°C (47°F). The month experiences relatively low precipitation, totaling 37 mm (1.5 in) over just 5 days, and humidity levels are around 76%. In contrast, December sees a much colder climate, with temperatures dipping as low as -17°C (2°F) and a mild average of 0°C (33°F). The maximum temperature can reach 18°C (65°F), but the month is significantly wetter, with 67 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation over 12 days and higher humidity at 88%. For more details, you can check Bend weather in October.

In December, temperatures display a notable drop compared to November, with average temperatures hovering around 0°C (33°F) versus November's warmer average of 4°C (39°F). Both months experience similar minimum temperatures, but December's maximum temperature peaks at 18°C (65°F), slightly lower than November's 22°C (71°F). Precipitation increases in December, totaling 67 mm (2.6 in) over 12 days, while November sees a bit less, with 59 mm (2.3 in) over 10 days. Humidity levels remain quite high, with December at 88% and November at 87%. For more detailed insights on November weather, you can check Bend weather in November.

Compare Bend's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Bend

As December descends upon Bend, the weather takes a striking turn into the chilly embrace of winter, offering a sharp contrast to the milder months earlier in the year. With temperatures dipping to their lowest, average conditions hover around freezing, and frosty nights can plunge far below, creating a magical winter landscape. December also brings more frequent precipitation, contributing to the overall humidity level that often feels quite heavy in the air. Despite the 12 days of rain or snow, the beauty of the season beckons outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a cozy retreat alike. For a deeper look into Bend’s climate nuances throughout the year, visit Bend Climate.