Last updated: February 24, 2025
In December, Bethlehem, United States, experiences a distinct winter chill with average temperatures hovering around 2°C (36°F). The month sees a maximum temperature of 17°C (63°F), juxtaposed against a minimum of -14°C (8°F), highlighting the stark contrasts typical of the season. Precipitation is also notable, with 108 mm (4.2 in) accumulated across approximately 11 days, contributing to the region's winter ambiance. Coupled with high humidity levels at 85%, December in Bethlehem offers a quintessential wintry experience, perfect for enjoying the festive spirit.
In December, temperatures in Bethlehem, United States, begin to shift from the more biting cold of late autumn, with minimums dipping to -14°C (8°F). As the month progresses, the average temperature hovers around 2°C (36°F), signaling the heart of winter. Despite the chill, the highest daytime temperatures can reach a comfortable 17°C (63°F), offering brief reprieves that invite outdoor activities. This gradual warming trend contrasts the stark lows of earlier months, reflecting the unique climate patterns of the region. As Bethlehem embraces the festive spirit of December, the cooler temperatures create a picturesque winter scene, perfect for cozy gatherings and holiday celebrations.
In December, Bethlehem experiences a precipitation amount of 108 mm (or 4.2 inches), consistently aligning with the trends set throughout the year. This marks a notable conclusion to the wetter months, with rainfall spread across 11 days. As the year draws to a close, December's precipitation mirrors the averages seen in both April and February, suggesting a stable winter climate. Overall, this month's weather adds to the annual rhythm of increasing moisture, peaking in the lushness of late spring and early summer before tapering off, while still ensuring that the festive spirit of December remains enlivened by the occasional invigorating shower.
In Bethlehem, United States, December ushers in a humidity level of 85%, maintaining a trend of relatively high moisture that characterizes the winter months. After a brief dip in July and August, where humidity plummets to 65% and 62% respectively, the air becomes more saturated again, peaking at 87% in November. This sets the stage for a chilly December, closely mirroring February and March, both registering at 85%. Overall, the humid climate shifts from summer dryness to a more damp winter, contributing to the cozy feel of the holiday season.
In December, Bethlehem experiences a notable decrease in the UV Index, dropping to 2, which falls into the low exposure category. This shift signifies a longer burn time of 45 minutes, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy outdoor activities with a reduced risk of sunburn. As the year progresses from the higher UV levels of summer, where readings peak at 10, December's milder conditions provide a refreshing contrast. With this seasonal trend, it's a great time to explore the winter landscape while staying mindful of sun protection when needed. For more detailed information, visit Bethlehem UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In Bethlehem, United States, December brings a noticeable dip in sunshine compared to the vibrant summer months, with just 169 hours of sunlight lighting up the winter days. This follows the peak of 334 hours in July, showcasing a clear seasonal trend where sunlight gradually decreases as the year winds down. From the bright blooms of May at 266 hours to the cozy, shorter days of November with 203 hours, the transition into December reflects the region's shift towards winter. While the sunlight wanes, the festive spirit shines brightly, making these shorter days filled with warmth and joy amidst the holiday season.
In Bethlehem, the chance of sunny weather in December dips to 30%, marking one of the lowest probabilities of sunshine throughout the year. This decrease follows November's more promising 54% likelihood, suggesting that as the year closes, the region transitions into a gloomier winter pattern. Interestingly, while early spring months like March see a notable rise in sunny days with a 55% chance, December’s clouds are typically heavy, making sunny breaks a delightful but rare treat. Overall, December brings a cozy chill and a festive spirit, but sunny weather will likely remain elusive.
In Bethlehem, United States, December ushers in a month of shorter days, with daylight lasting just 9 hours, a continuation of the trend experienced in November. As the year transitions from the longer summer days of June, where sunlight stretches for 15 hours, the gradual decline in daylight becomes evident, with hours shrinking steadily from 14 hours in July down to the current month's brief exposure to the sun. This seasonal shift reflects a rhythm of nature, as light and darkness dance in harmony throughout the year, inviting residents to embrace the cozy comforts of winter amidst the diminishing daylight.
As December settles over Bethlehem, the wind takes on a familiar, gentle character, with an average speed of 2.7 m/s (6 mph). This trend marks a noticeable decline from the more brisk winds experienced earlier in the year, particularly in March when the breezes reached 3.4 m/s (8 mph). Throughout the warmer months, wind speeds taper off, with the calmest summer days recording just 2.1 m/s (5 mph) in August. By the time December arrives, the serenity of the low winds may evoke a peaceful winter atmosphere, inviting residents and visitors alike to appreciate the stillness that permeates the air before the flurry of holiday activities begins. As the year draws to a close, Bethlehem's December winds serve as a gentle reminder of nature's ebb and flow.
The weather in Bethlehem 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 Bethlehem and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January both bring cold winter weather, but there are notable differences between the two months. December tends to be slightly milder, with average temperatures around 2°C (36°F) and a maximum of 17°C (63°F), while January often sees even lower temperatures, with averages dipping to 0°C (32°F) and a minimum of -20°C (-4°F). Precipitation in December is higher, totaling 108 mm (4.2 in) over 11 days, compared to January's 72 mm (2.8 in) over just 8 days. Interestingly, January’s humidity is slightly higher at 87%, compared to December’s 85%. For more detailed insights on January weather, check out Bethlehem weather in January.
When comparing the weather in December and February, both months exhibit a similar pattern in terms of precipitation, with February experiencing slightly more days of rain. December typically has a milder temperature range, with averages peaking at 17°C (63°F), whereas February can see higher maximum temperatures of 25°C (77°F) but begins with colder minimum temperatures dropping to -19°C (-1°F). Additionally, both months maintain high humidity levels around 85%. For a more detailed look at February weather specifics, you can visit Bethlehem weather in February.
December and March present distinct weather patterns, though both months experience a similar level of precipitation and humidity. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -14°C (8°F) to a maximum of 17°C (63°F), with an average of 2°C (36°F) and 108 mm (4.2 inches) of precipitation over 11 days. In contrast, March sees a broader temperature range with a minimum of -20°C (-4°F) and a maximum of 26°C (78°F), averaging at 5°C (40°F) and slightly less precipitation at 98 mm (3.9 inches) over the same number of days. The consistent humidity of 85% in both months adds to the chill in December while contributing to a sense of early spring warmth in March. To learn more about March weather specifically, you can check Bethlehem weather in March.
December and April present distinct weather patterns that reflect the transition from winter to spring. In December, temperatures range from a frigid minimum of -14°C (8°F) to an average of 2°C (36°F), with a maximum of 17°C (63°F), accompanied by high humidity at 85%. The month also experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 108 mm (4.2 in) over approximately 11 days. In contrast, April brings a more moderate climate, with minimum temperatures of -4°C (25°F), an average of 10°C (51°F), and a maximum of 29°C (85°F). While precipitation remains similar at 108 mm (4.2 in), it occurs slightly more frequently on 12 days, and humidity levels dip slightly to 83%. For more insights on weather variations in April, you can check Bethlehem weather in April.
In December, Bethlehem experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -14°C (8°F) and an average of 2°C (36°F), while May brings much milder weather, featuring a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and an average temperature of 16°C (62°F). December is marked by higher humidity at 85% and a total precipitation of 108 mm (4.2 in) over 11 days, whereas May, with its lower humidity of 75%, sees slightly more precipitation at 139 mm (5.5 in) over 13 days. Overall, May offers a more pleasant and warmer climate compared to the chilly and damp conditions of December. For a detailed look at Bethlehem's weather in May, visit Bethlehem weather in May.
December and June present contrasting weather conditions, each with its unique characteristics. In December, temperatures can dip as low as -14°C (8°F), with an average temperature of around 2°C (36°F) and a maximum reaching 17°C (63°F). The month is marked by relatively high humidity at 85% and about 108 mm (4.2 in) of precipitation spread over 11 days.
In contrast, June showcases warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (43°F), an average of 21°C (70°F), and peaks at 35°C (94°F). The precipitation is slightly lower at 102 mm (4.0 in), occurring over 12 days, and the humidity drops to 73%. For more detailed information about June weather, you can check Bethlehem weather in June.
When comparing the weather in December and July, the differences are striking. December experiences much colder temperatures, with averages around 2°C (36°F) and a minimum that can drop to -14°C (8°F), while July boasts much warmer temperatures, averaging 25°C (76°F) and peaking at a sweltering 36°C (96°F). Precipitation levels are relatively close, with December receiving 108 mm (4.2 in) over 11 days and July slightly higher at 127 mm (5.0 in) over 12 days. Additionally, December's higher humidity at 85% contrasts sharply with July's more comfortable 65%. For a closer look at July weather specifics, check out Bethlehem weather in July.
The weather in December presents a stark contrast to that of August. In December, temperatures can plummet as low as -14°C (8°F), with an average temperature of about 2°C (36°F) and a maximum of 17°C (63°F). This month is characterized by high humidity at 85%, accompanied by 108 mm (4.2 in) of precipitation over approximately 11 days. In comparison, August enjoys a much warmer climate with minimum temperatures of 11°C (52°F), averaging 23°C (74°F), and reaching highs of 34°C (94°F). Despite being higher in average precipitation at 140 mm (5.5 in) over 13 days, August maintains a significantly lower humidity level of 62%. For more details on the summer conditions, check out Bethlehem weather in August.
December and September exhibit stark differences in weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a chilling minimum of -14°C (8°F) to a milder maximum of 17°C (63°F), with an average temperature of around 2°C (36°F). It is a notably damp month as well, receiving 108 mm (4.2 in) of precipitation over 11 days, accompanied by high humidity at 85%. In contrast, September presents a much warmer climate, with temperatures fluctuating between a minimum of 3°C (37°F) and a maximum of 33°C (92°F), average 20°C (68°F). It sees slightly less rainfall at 109 mm (4.3 in) spread across 9 days and has a more comfortable humidity level of 66%. For a closer look at September weather, check out Bethlehem weather in September.
In comparing the weather of December and October, we see distinct differences in temperature and overall conditions. December experiences much colder temperatures, with an average of just 2°C (36°F) and a minimum that can drop to -14°C (8°F), while October enjoys milder conditions with averages around 14°C (58°F) and highs reaching up to 33°C (91°F). Additionally, December has higher humidity levels at 85%, compared to October's 79%, contributing to a chillier atmosphere. Precipitation is slightly more prevalent in October, totaling 123 mm (4.8 in) over 10 days, while December sees 108 mm (4.2 in) across 11 days. For a more detailed look at October weather, you can visit Bethlehem weather in October.
When comparing December and November weather, December generally presents colder temperatures with an average of 2°C (36°F), whereas November enjoys a milder average of 6°C (43°F). Additionally, the maximum temperature in December reaches 17°C (63°F), which is significantly lower than November's peak of 24°C (75°F). Precipitation is more frequent in December, with 108 mm (4.2 in) over 11 days compared to November's 91 mm (3.6 in) across 9 days, reflecting the wetter conditions of the later month. Humidity levels remain fairly close, with December at 85% and November at 87%. For more detailed insights, you can refer to Bethlehem weather in November.
As December settles over Bethlehem, the weather showcases a stark contrast to the milder months of the year. With temperatures dipping significantly, this month experiences an average chill that invites a cozy atmosphere, especially with the occasional maximum warmth that feels like a fleeting gift. The increase in precipitation days adds a layer of atmosphere, wrapping the city in a humid embrace that often transcends the previous months' conditions. This blend of cold temperatures and frequent dampness sets December apart, making it a month where the essence of winter fully takes hold. For more insights on the climate specifics, check out Bethlehem Climate.