Last updated: February 24, 2025
In December, the North United States experiences a notable range of temperatures, with maximums reaching 27°C (81°F) and minimums plunging to -6°C (22°F), averaging around 11°C (52°F). This month is marked by a total precipitation of 128 mm (5.1 in), spread over approximately 10 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 87%. These climatic conditions create a unique atmosphere, blending winter's chill with occasional warmth, making December a month of contrasts in this northern region.
As December arrives in the northern United States, temperatures begin to dip into the brisk winter chill, with minimums averaging around -6°C (22°F). This month marks a notable transition, where daytime highs reach a comfortable 27°C (81°F), showcasing the striking contrast between day and night. The average temperature settles at 11°C (52°F), suggesting that while winter's grip tightens, there’s still a significant and inviting warmth during the sunlit hours. Interestingly, temperatures throughout the preceding months display a gradual decline, transitioning from the warmth of early fall in October to the settling frost of December, illustrating the shift in the seasonal landscape as winter establishes its presence.
In December, the North United States experiences its fair share of precipitation, with an average of 128 mm (5.1 in) over 10 days of rain. This marks a notable increase from November's total of 62 mm, suggesting a shift to more robust winter weather patterns. The precipitation tends to spike during the final month of the year, positioning December as one of the wettest months. The cumulative rainfall throughout the year shows a distinct trend of escalating precipitation leading into winter, peaking in the summer months before tapering off as the colder season settles in. This pattern highlights the region's dynamic climate, where the transition into winter is characterized by heightened moisture levels, setting the stage for the icy conditions that usually follow.
In December, humidity in the northern United States reaches its peak at an impressive 87%, continuing the trend of elevated moisture that characterizes the winter months. As the year progresses, humidity levels gradually decline from a high of 86% in January to a low of 75% in May and June, reflecting the drier conditions of spring and early summer. However, as fall settles in, humidity starts to rise again, peaking in December as colder temperatures prompt a resurgence of atmospheric moisture. This seasonal fluctuation illustrates a clear pattern: while winter and late fall welcome higher humidity, the summer months bring a relatively drier climate, making December a notable bridge between the brisk winter air and the impending cold.
As the year winds down, the December UV Index in the North United States reflects a notable shift towards lower sun exposure. With a UV Index of 4, categorized as moderate, residents can enjoy outdoor activities with a burn time of around 30 minutes before needing sunscreen. This is a stark contrast to the extreme levels experienced during the peak summer months, where values soared to 11 and burn times were drastically reduced to just 10 minutes. The trend throughout the year highlights a cyclical pattern, beginning with moderate exposure in January, peaking in the summer, and tapering off again in December, underscoring the importance of adapting sun safety practices with the changing seasons. For more detailed insights, check out the full report on North UV Index.
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In December, the northern United States experiences a notable decline in sunshine hours, with an average of 206 hours. This marks a decrease from the peak summer months, particularly July's impressive 344 hours, reflecting the seasonal shift as the days grow shorter. As the year draws to a close, sunlight gradually wanes from November's 242 hours, yet December still offers a respectable amount of brightness amid the chilly winter air. This trend illustrates the region's transition from the vibrant sunshine of early summer to the more subdued light of late fall and winter, serving as a reminder of nature's ever-changing rhythms.
In December, the likelihood of sunny weather in the Northern United States is moderate at 40%, reflecting a noticeable decline from the preceding month, which boasts a 65% chance of sunshine in November. This downward trend continues from the autumn season, where the chances of clear skies stay relatively high, peaking in April at 56%. As winter approaches, sunshine becomes less predictable, highlighted by some of the lowest percentages seen in the summer months, like June at 30% and July at 34%. Overall, while December doesn't promise an abundance of sunny days, it still offers a modest possibility for sunbreaks amidst the winter chill.
As winter encompasses the northern United States in December, daylight takes a noticeable dip, offering only 9 hours of sunlight—a significant reduction from 10 hours in the preceding November. This downward trend is part of a distinct seasonal pattern, where the longer days of summer in June and July, with 14 hours of daylight, gradually recede as the year wanes. The months preceding winter showcase a gradual elongation of daylight from the early new year through March, peaking in the vibrant spring and summer months before transitioning back to shorter days. As December sets in, the crisp air and early dusks not only signal the heart of winter but also remind us of the natural ebb and flow of sunlight throughout the year, setting the stage for a gradual return to longer days as we move toward spring.
As December sets in, the winds in the northern United States present a subtle, yet notable trend compared to earlier months. With an average wind speed of 3.2 m/s (7 mph), December maintains a steady breeze, not far from the higher gusts seen in late fall. In fact, this month’s wind patterns resonate closely with November’s average, where the winds picked up slightly to 3.3 m/s (7 mph). This reflects a gradual decline from the summer months, where wind speeds dropped to a low of 2.2 m/s (5 mph) in August. As the year wraps up, it’s evident that while wind speeds fluctuate throughout the seasons, December holds its own with a crisp, refreshing flow that heralds the chill of winter ahead.
The weather in North 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 North and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January present a notable shift in weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), with an average of 11°C (52°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 128 mm (5.1 inches) over approximately 10 days, and humidity levels are relatively high at 87%. Conversely, January sees slightly lower temperatures with a minimum of -9°C (17°F), an average of 10°C (49°F), and a similar maximum of 27°C (80°F). Precipitation decreases to 80 mm (3.1 inches) over 8 days, while humidity remains close at 86%. Overall, January tends to be cooler and drier than December. For more insights, you can check North weather in January.
December and February both experience cool temperatures, but February offers a slightly milder climate. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F) with an average of 11°C (52°F), while February sees a minimum of -5°C (23°F) and an average high of 29°C (85°F) with an average temperature of 13°C (55°F). Precipitation in December is higher at 128 mm (5.1 in) over 10 days compared to February's 99 mm (3.9 in), and humidity levels are also slightly lower in February at 81%, down from December's 87%. Overall, February feels a bit warmer and drier compared to the cooler, wetter conditions of December. For more details on the weather patterns in February, visit North weather in February.
In December, temperatures can drop as low as -6°C (22°F) and can reach a comfortable average of 11°C (52°F), peaking at a maximum of 27°C (81°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, with 128 mm (5.1 in) spread over about 10 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 87%. In contrast, March brings slightly milder conditions, with minimum temperatures around -4°C (24°F) and an average of 15°C (59°F), peaking at a warm 32°C (90°F). Precipitation in March is less, totaling 80 mm (3.1 in) over the same number of days, and humidity decreases to 81%. The transition from December to March clearly illustrates the shift towards warmer, drier weather. For more detailed information, you can visit North weather in March.
When comparing the weather in December and April, notable differences arise in temperature and humidity levels. December experiences a broader temperature range, with minimums dipping to -6°C (22°F) and maximums reaching 27°C (81°F), averaging around 11°C (52°F). In contrast, April brings milder conditions with temperatures ranging from 0°C (32°F) to 33°C (92°F), averaging 19°C (66°F). Additionally, December tends to be more humid at 87%, while April's humidity is lower at 79%. Precipitation levels are relatively similar, with December receiving 128 mm (5.1 in) over 10 days and April slightly less at 116 mm (4.6 in) across 8 days. For more details on North weather in April, visit North weather in April.
December and May present distinctly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures can drop as low as -6°C (22°F), with an average of 11°C (52°F) and highs reaching 27°C (81°F). The month also experiences high humidity at 87% and receives about 128 mm (5.1 in) of precipitation over 10 days. In contrast, May boasts milder temperatures, with minimums of 6°C (43°F), averages around 23°C (74°F), and maximums soaring to 38°C (101°F). Precipitation is slightly lower at 104 mm (4.1 in) over about 9 days, combined with a drop in humidity to 75%. For more information about the weather conditions during this time, you can check North weather in May.
December and June present strikingly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a pleasant average of 11°C (52°F), peaking at a maximum of 27°C (81°F). The month also experiences considerable precipitation, with around 128 mm (5.1 in) falling over approximately 10 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 87%. In contrast, June boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 13°C (56°F), an average of 26°C (79°F), and maximums soaring up to 39°C (102°F). The precipitation is slightly lower at 122 mm (4.8 in), occurring over about 14 days, and the humidity drops to 75%. The differences in temperature and humidity highlight the contrasting climates of December and June, making each month unique in its own right. For more detailed information, you can explore North weather in June.
December weather contrasts sharply with July's climate. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a moderate maximum of 27°C (81°F), averaging around 11°C (52°F). The month experiences heavy precipitation with around 128 mm (5.1 in) spread over 10 days and high humidity at 87%. In contrast, July brings warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 16°C (61°F) to a scorching maximum of 38°C (101°F), averaging 28°C (82°F). The month is also wetter, with 157 mm (6.2 in) of rainfall over 17 days, but the humidity is slightly lower at 80%. For a closer look at July weather specifics, you can refer to North weather in July.
December and August present contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a pleasant average of 11°C (52°F), peaking at 27°C (81°F). The month sees significant rainfall, with 128 mm (5.1 in) spread over about 10 days, accompanied by high humidity at 87%. In stark contrast, August boasts much warmer conditions, featuring a minimum temperature of 16°C (62°F) and an average high of 27°C (81°F), reaching as high as 36°C (98°F). Although it experiences a higher total precipitation of 148 mm (5.8 in), it rains on 18 days, but the overall humidity is slightly lower at 81%. For more information on the weather specific to this month, visit North weather in August.
When comparing the weather in December and September, notable differences emerge in temperature and precipitation. December typically experiences a wider temperature range, with minimums dropping to -6°C (22°F) and maximums reaching up to 27°C (81°F), while September enjoys milder minimums of 11°C (52°F) and maximums soaring to 37°C (99°F). Humidity levels are slightly higher in December at 87% compared to September's 83%. Furthermore, December sees more precipitation, averaging 128 mm (5.1 in) over about 10 days, whereas September has a total of 95 mm (3.7 in) across 9 days. For a more detailed look at September weather, visit North weather in September.
In comparing the weather between December and October, we can see notable differences in temperature, precipitation, and humidity. December experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (22°F) and an average around 11°C (52°F), while October boasts milder conditions, with lows of 1°C (35°F) and an average temperature of 21°C (70°F). Additionally, December receives more precipitation at 128 mm (5.1 in) over 10 days, compared to October's 69 mm (2.7 in) across just 7 days. The humidity is also higher in December at 87%, in contrast to October's 78%. For more insights on October weather, you can check this link: North weather in October.
In comparing the weather between November and December, December generally experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (22°F) compared to November's minimum of -3°C (27°F). The average temperature in December drops to 11°C (52°F), while November sees a slightly milder average of 13°C (56°F). Despite being cooler overall, December exhibits a wider range in maximum temperatures, peaking at 27°C (81°F), although this is lower than November's maximum of 30°C (87°F). Precipitation also increases significantly in December, accumulating 128 mm (5.1 in) over 10 days, compared to November's 62 mm (2.4 in) over just 7 days. Humidity levels are slightly higher in December, averaging 87% against November's 85%. For further insights, you can check North weather in November.
As December rolls in, North experiences a notable shift in weather patterns compared to other months. Temperatures chill significantly, dipping to a brisk average of 11°C (52°F), while the warm max reaches 27°C (81°F) on rare occasions, presenting a stark contrast to the milder months preceding it. The increased humidity at 87% adds to the overall crispness in the air, making it feel even cooler. With precipitation occurring on about 10 days, totaling 128 mm (5.1 in), this month stands out for its dampness, which invigorates the winter landscape. For a deeper dive into what to expect throughout the year, visit North Climate.