Last updated: February 24, 2025
December in Galveston, United States, brings a mild maritime climate, with average temperatures ranging from a maximum of 23°C (74°F) to a minimum of 4°C (40°F). While the month showcases a comfortable average temperature of 16°C (61°F), it is also characterized by high humidity levels at 83%, contributing to a brisk feel in the air. Rainfall is common, with 104 mm (4.1 in) of precipitation distributed over 10 days, making umbrellas a staple for outdoor activities. Despite the occasional rain, December presents a unique blend of cool, refreshing breezes and mild weather, inviting both residents and visitors to enjoy the charm of Galveston during this festive season.
In December, Galveston experiences a pleasant transition into winter, with temperatures reflecting a mild yet inviting climate. The month shows a minimum temperature of 4°C (40°F), offering a cool reprieve from the warmth of earlier months. The average temperature hovers around 16°C (61°F), while the maximum reaches a comfortable 23°C (74°F). This trend highlights a steady decline in temperature as the year draws to a close, contrasting sharply with the summer months that soar into the low 30s (°C). As the festive season approaches, the cooler weather is perfect for outdoor activities, making December an appealing time to visit this coastal gem.
In December, Galveston experiences a noticeable uptick in precipitation, with 104 mm (4.1 in) falling over 10 days. This marks a shift from the drier months of November, which saw only 77 mm (3.0 in), and suggests a transition into a wetter winter season. Notably, December's rainfall continues the trend of increased precipitation through the fall, where the previous months—especially August and September—observed significantly higher totals of 210 mm (8.3 in) and 243 mm (9.6 in), respectively. As temperatures cool and storms develop, residents can expect a mixture of chilly rains, providing a refreshing contrast to the area's warmer, more humid summer months. Overall, December's precipitation encapsulates the climatic shift towards winter, reinforcing Galveston's reputation for diverse weather patterns throughout the year.
In December, Galveston experiences a notable rise in humidity, reaching 83%, the highest of the year. This increase marks a shift from the drier summer months, where humidity levels dipped to as low as 73% in August and remained relatively moderate through October and November. As the year concludes, the trend reveals an overall increase in humidity during the winter months, peaking in December and highlighting the region's characteristic dampness. This gradual ascent throughout the colder months signifies Galveston’s unique coastal climate, making it an intriguing destination for those who appreciate the salinity of sea air.
In Galveston, December ushers in a noticeable dip in UV exposure, with the UV Index falling to 5, classified as moderate. This decrease in intensity from the prior months, which showcased extreme levels peaking at 12 in the summer, allows for a burn time of approximately 30 minutes for fair-skinned individuals. As the year transitions into winter, sun-seekers can enjoy the outdoors with a bit more leeway, yet it remains essential to stay conscious of sun safety practices. This trend highlights the seasonal fluctuation in UV exposure, making each month in Galveston unique in its sun-related precautions. For more detailed insights, visit Galveston UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
December in Galveston offers a warm embrace of 232 hours of sunshine, providing a delightful transition into the winter months. As the year draws to a close, sunlight gradually declines from the summer highs of 327 hours in July and 323 hours in August. The trend shows that while sunlight diminishes, it remains significantly brighter than the chilly January average of 175 hours. This enchanting winter seaside town still enjoys a respectable amount of daylight, making December an inviting time for beach strolls and holiday festivities under the golden sun. With the warmth lingering from the vibrant spring and summer, Galveston’s December sunshine beautifully captures the essence of a mild Texas winter, inviting visitors to bask in the glow one last time before the year ends.
As December rolls in, Galveston transitions into a cooler season with a moderate 35% chance of sunny weather. This figure is notably lower than the peak of 58% in November, signaling a shift as winter approaches. Compared to earlier months, particularly October, which boasts a 51% likelihood of sunny days, December's forecast reflects a gradual decline in sun-filled opportunities. The overall trend throughout the year shows that while Galveston enjoys significant sunshine during the fall, the winter months tend to present more cloud cover and cooler temperatures. So, while December may still offer some pleasant days, residents and visitors should prepare for the possible overcast skies that come with the season.
In Galveston, December ushers in the winter season with 10 hours of daylight, mirroring the daylight duration observed in November. As the year progresses, daylight hours steadily increase from a modest 10 hours in January to a peak of 13 hours during the summer months from May to August. This vibrant transition reflects the shifting patterns of sunlight, as the city enjoys progressively longer days in spring and summer. However, as autumn settles in, daylight begins to wane again, returning to 10 hours by the end of the year. This cycle of increasing and decreasing daylight not only shapes the local climate but also adds a rhythmic quality to life in this coastal city.
In December, Galveston experiences a refreshing average wind speed of 5.7 m/s (13 mph), slightly lower than the preceding months but still brisk enough to hint at the oncoming winter chill. The trend over the year showcases a gradual decrease in wind intensity from May's peak, where it reaches 6.5 m/s (15 mph), down to the calmer summer months of July and August. As the seasons shift, winds begin to pick up again in the fall, bringing a lively atmosphere to the coastal city, which is well-loved for its vibrant sea breezes year-round. With December's winds echoing a gentle reminder of the changing seasons, locals and visitors alike can enjoy the beautiful interplay of warmth and coolness that defines this unique coastal charm.
The weather in Galveston 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 Galveston and find detailed weather information for every month.
December in Galveston experiences milder temperatures, with an average range from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F) and higher humidity at 83%. The month sees about 104 mm (4.1 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days. In contrast, January brings a more noticeable chill, with minimum temperatures dropping to -2°C (29°F) but still reaching a maximum of 24°C (75°F). The month is slightly drier, with 90 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 9 days and lower humidity at 79%. For more detailed information on January weather in Galveston, visit Galveston weather in January.
December and February offer distinct weather experiences, with December characterized by milder temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F). In contrast, February sees colder conditions, with temperatures dropping to a minimum of -6°C (22°F) and an average of 15°C (59°F). While December experiences heavier precipitation at 104 mm (4.1 in) over 10 days, February has slightly less at 88 mm (3.4 in) across 13 days, indicating a wetter winter month. Humidity levels remain relatively high in both months, with December at 83% and February at 80%. For a more in-depth look at the weather in February, you can visit Galveston weather in February.
In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a pleasant maximum of 23°C (74°F), with an average around 16°C (61°F). This month experiences higher precipitation, totaling 104 mm (4.1 in) over approximately 10 days, contributing to a humidity level of 83%. In contrast, March shows slightly cooler minimum temperatures at 3°C (38°F) but reaches an average of 18°C (65°F), peaking at 24°C (76°F). Precipitation decreases to 58 mm (2.3 in) over 8 days, and humidity levels are lower at 78%. For more detailed insights, you can check Galveston weather in March.
When comparing the weather in December and April, significant differences emerge. December experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (40°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F), peaking at a comfortable max of 23°C (74°F). In contrast, April sees a warmer climate, marked by a minimum temperature of 10°C (51°F) and an average of 21°C (70°F), reaching highs of 27°C (82°F). Despite both months receiving precipitation over approximately 10 days, December has slightly higher precipitation at 104 mm (4.1 in) compared to April's 86 mm (3.4 in). Additionally, humidity levels are slightly lower in April, at 81%, compared to December's 83%. For more detailed insights, check out Galveston weather in April.
In December, temperatures in Galveston range from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F), with an average of 16°C (61°F). This month experiences 104 mm (4.1 in) of precipitation across approximately 10 days and maintains a high humidity level of 83%. In contrast, May brings significantly warmer weather, with temperatures reaching a minimum of 17°C (62°F) and climbing to an average of 25°C (77°F), peaking at 29°C (85°F). Precipitation increases to 164 mm (6.5 in) over about 12 days, though humidity slightly decreases to 79%. For a more detailed look at the weather patterns in May, check out Galveston weather in May.
December and June exhibit stark contrasts in weather. In December, temperatures range from a chilly 4°C (40°F) at night to a warm 23°C (74°F) during the day, with an average of 16°C (61°F). The month experiences significant rainfall, totaling 104 mm (4.1 in) over about 10 days, coupled with high humidity at 83%. In contrast, June sees much warmer temperatures, with nighttime lows of 23°C (74°F) and daytime highs reaching up to 32°C (89°F), averaging 27°C (82°F). This summer month also brings increased rainfall, with 170 mm (6.7 in) falling over approximately 13 days, but with a comparatively lower humidity of 75%. For a more detailed look at the weather in June, visit Galveston weather in June.
December and July present contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F), with an average of 16°C (61°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 104 mm (4.1 in) over about 10 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 83%. Conversely, July boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 24°C (76°F) and a maximum reaching 33°C (91°F), averaging at 28°C (83°F). July experiences even higher precipitation at 151 mm (5.9 in), spread over 14 days, though the humidity is somewhat lower at 74%. For more specifics on July weather, check out Galveston weather in July.
In contrasting December and August weather, December brings much cooler temperatures, with highs averaging 23°C (74°F) and lows around 4°C (40°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 104 mm (4.1 in) over approximately 10 days, accompanied by higher humidity levels at 83%. In stark contrast, August offers a much warmer climate, characterized by an average high of 29°C (84°F) and lows around 24°C (75°F). This month sees even more rainfall, with 210 mm (8.3 in) spread across 18 days, though the humidity is lower at 73%. For a more detailed look at August weather, you can visit Galveston weather in August.
In comparing the weather in December and September, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation. December experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (40°F) and a maximum reaching 23°C (74°F), while September is significantly warmer, with temperatures ranging from a low of 20°C (68°F) to a high of 32°C (89°F). Precipitation also varies, with December receiving 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain over about 10 days, compared to September's heavier rainfall of 243 mm (9.6 in) across 16 days. Humidity levels are higher in December at 83%, while September sees a relatively lower humidity of 75%. For a more detailed look at the weather patterns in September, you can check out Galveston weather in September.
In comparing the weather between December and October, it’s evident that October is generally warmer, with average temperatures reaching 24°C (76°F) compared to December's average of 16°C (61°F). October also experiences higher maximum temperatures, peaking at 29°C (85°F), while December’s maximum is significantly cooler at 23°C (74°F). However, December has a higher humidity level at 83% compared to October’s 75%, which can make the chill feel more penetrating. Additionally, October receives more precipitation overall, with 150 mm (5.9 in) over about 12 days, compared to December's 104 mm (4.1 in) over 10 days. For a detailed look at October's climate specifics, you can visit Galveston weather in October.
In comparing the weather of December and November, December tends to be slightly cooler, with minimum temperatures averaging around 4°C (40°F) compared to November's 5°C (41°F). The average temperature in December is about 16°C (61°F), which is lower than November's average of 19°C (66°F). Additionally, December experiences more precipitation, totaling 104 mm (4.1 in) over 10 days, while November has 77 mm (3.0 in) over 9 days. Humidity levels are also slightly higher in December at 83%, compared to November's 79%. For a detailed look at the weather conditions in November, you can check Galveston weather in November.
In December, Galveston's weather contrasts starkly with the warmer months, bringing cooler temperatures that range from mild days to brisk nights. The average temperature settles around a comfortable 16°C (61°F), making it ideal for those looking to escape the summer heat. However, December also ushers in increased precipitation, with rain occurring on about 10 days of the month, which adds a refreshing twist to the coastal atmosphere. This time of year typically experiences higher humidity levels at 83%, giving the air a distinct, crisp quality. Whether you’re drawn by the cooler climate or the seasonal charm, December in Galveston offers a unique experience for visitors and residents alike. For more detailed insights, explore the Galveston Climate.