December Weather in Houston, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

In December, Houston experiences a dynamic range of temperatures, with a peak at 28°C (83°F) and a chilly low of -2°C (29°F), averaging around 14°C (58°F). This month witnesses a total precipitation of 111 mm (4.4 in) over approximately 9 days, contributing to the city's characteristic 84% humidity. Visitors and residents alike should prepare for a mix of pleasant and brisk days, alongside occasional rain, making December a unique time to experience Houston's winter charm.

December Temperature in Houston

In December, Houston experiences a notable transition in temperatures as the city shifts into winter. With a minimum temperature around -2°C (29°F), the nights can feel quite chilly, but the average daytime warmth of 14°C (58°F) provides a refreshing contrast. Daytime highs can reach a comfortable 28°C (83°F), allowing for pleasant outdoor activities. Compared to the cooler temperatures of November, which dip to about -1°C (30°F), December maintains a more moderate profile, showcasing Houston's typical variability. As the year draws to a close, residents can expect a mix of crisp mornings and mild afternoons, making December a delightful month for enjoying the city's festive atmosphere.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Houston, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec555866707782838380726258
Data source: Temperature data for Houston 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 Houston

In December, Houston experiences a notable shift in precipitation patterns, with an average rainfall of 111 mm (4.4 in) spread over 9 days. This marks a slight increase from the previous month, November, which saw just 82 mm (3.2 in) over 10 days. The city's precipitation typically peaks in the warmer months, particularly August and September, but December offers a refreshing contrast as cooler temperatures usher in rain that contributes to the winter landscape. As it transitions to the new year, the moderate December rainfall not only supports the lush greenery typical of Houston's subtropical climate but also signals a gradual move towards drier conditions in early spring. Overall, December’s weather highlights the city’s varied precipitation trends and its ability to maintain vibrancy, even in winter.

December Precipitation Trends in Houston

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Houston, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9295879417617114620120210482111
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

December Humidity in Houston

In Houston, December marks the peak of humidity, reaching an average of 84%, the highest during the year. This rise contrasts with the drier months of July and August, where humidity dips to 68% and 71%, respectively. As the year progresses, a noticeable trend emerges: the humidity levels gradually increase from late summer through winter. Following a slight dip in June to 74%, the city transitions back to more humid conditions with November peaking at 78%. The consistent climb into December not only underscores the essence of Houston's subtropical climate but also sets the stage for the wet winters that characterize the region.

December Average Humidity in Houston

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Houston, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec78%81%76%79%79%74%72%68%73%75%78%84%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Houston

In Houston, December marks a notable shift in UV Index trends as it lands firmly in the moderate exposure category, with a UV Index of 5 and a burn time of 30 minutes. This contrasts sharply with the preceding months where extreme levels prevailed, particularly in the summer flush of June and July, when UV Indexes soared to 12. As temperatures dip and the sun's intensity diminishes, residents can enjoy a respite from high UV exposure, allowing for longer periods outside with reduced risk of sunburn. However, it’s still wise to stay informed and protect your skin during those sunny winter days. For more detailed insights, check out the Houston UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Houston for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Houston 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec589111112121110975
Data source: Houston 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 Houston

In December, Houston enjoys a solid 223 hours of sunshine, contributing to the year’s overall sunny disposition. This month typically marks a slight decline from the peak summer months, where July shines the brightest with a remarkable 328 hours of sunlight. As the year progresses, you can see a trending pattern where spring months, particularly May and June, also bask in abundant sunlight, boasting 310 and 317 hours respectively. However, as the colder months approach, the sunshine begins to taper off, with December sitting comfortably in the midst of the year's fluctuating light conditions. This seasonal shift offers Houstonians a chance to soak in the crisp, cool air paired with the warm sunlight, making December a delightful time to embrace outdoor activities amidst the festive cheer.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Houston: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Houston 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec173h169h255h273h310h317h328h322h278h280h253h223h
Data source: Houston December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Houston During December

December in Houston sees one of the lowest probabilities of sunny weather, with only a 28% chance of sun. This sharp decline follows a trend of increasing sunny days from January (47%) to November (57%), before dropping off significantly in December. The cooler months of late fall and early winter tend to bring more cloud cover, contributing to this diminished likelihood of clear skies. As the year closes out, Houstonians can expect fewer sunny days compared to the preceding months, signaling a shift toward a more overcast and chilly atmosphere.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Houston

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Houston 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 Houston experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec47%34%45%40%29%34%26%28%47%51%57%28%
Data source: Houston December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Houston in December

In Houston, the ebb and flow of daylight throughout the year reveal a captivating rhythm. December, like its counterpart in November, offers a modest 10 hours of daylight, showcasing the gentle winding down of the year. As autumn transitions to winter, daylight peaks in June with a bright 14 hours, gradually tapering off until the shorter days return in the final months. This cyclical pattern highlights a shift from summer's abundance to winter's embrace, creating a seasonal tapestry where each month unfolds a unique balance of light and shadow, inviting residents to savor the softer days of late fall and early winter.

Average Daylight Hours in Houston for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Houston throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10h 27m11h 8m12h12h 54m13h 39m14h13h 48m13h 9m12h 17m11h 24m10h 38m10h 15m
Data source: Houston daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Houston

As December sweeps into Houston, residents experience a gentle shift in the winds, with an average speed of 3.7 m/s (or 8 mph). Unlike the summer months when winds tend to lull to their lowest, December marks a refreshing increase compared to the stillness of late summer and early fall. The cooler temperatures of winter months help elevate wind speeds slightly, echoing trends seen in the earlier winter months such as January and February, which also enjoy breezy conditions around 3.6 to 4.0 m/s. This year-end breeze offers a subtle reminder of nature’s rhythms, invigorating the city with a fresh air that contrasts sharply against the stifling summer heat, making it a delightful time for outdoor gatherings and activities. With the winds picking up just before the year closes, Houston embraces a transitional phase, moving from the soft summer whispers to the lively, fresh currents of winter.

Average December Wind Speed in Houston

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Houston, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.64.03.94.03.82.72.12.22.52.93.03.7 m/s
Data source: Houston December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Houston Compares to Other Months

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

In December, Houston experiences a wider range of temperatures with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and an average of 14°C (58°F), while January sees slightly lower temperatures, with a minimum of -7°C (19°F) and an average of 13°C (55°F). Both months have similar maximum temperatures, reaching up to 28°C (83°F). Precipitation levels decrease in January, with 91 mm (3.6 in) compared to December's 111 mm (4.4 in), yet both months see rain on about 9 days. Humidity is also slightly lower in January at 78%, compared to December's 84%. For more details on January's weather patterns, you can visit Houston weather in January.

In comparing December and February weather, both months exhibit an average temperature of 14°C (58°F), but the extremes tell a different story. December experiences milder conditions with a minimum temperature of -2°C (29°F) and a maximum of 28°C (83°F), while February can be chillier, featuring a minimum of -12°C (11°F) and a slightly higher maximum of 30°C (86°F). Precipitation levels are fairly similar, with December receiving 111 mm (4.4 in) over 9 days and February seeing 95 mm (3.8 in) across 14 days, indicating that February may have more frequent, albeit lighter, rain. Humidity remains relatively high in both months, with December at 84% and February slightly lower at 81%. For a detailed look at February's weather, check out Houston weather in February.

December and March present contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a warm maximum of 28°C (83°F), with an average of 14°C (58°F). The month experiences substantial precipitation, totaling 111 mm (4.4 in) across about 9 days, along with high humidity levels at 84%. In contrast, March sees slightly milder temperatures, with a range from -1°C (31°F) to a maximum of 30°C (87°F) and an average of 19°C (66°F). Despite having more rainfall days (13 days), the total precipitation is lower at 86 mm (3.4 in) and humidity is reduced to 76%. For more insights into March's weather, check Houston weather in March.

When comparing the weather in December and April, it's evident that April tends to be warmer and more humid. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -2°C to a pleasant 28°C, with an average of 14°C, whereas April sees temperatures starting at a milder 4°C, peaking at a maximum of 32°C and averaging around 21°C. Additionally, while December experiences slightly more precipitation (111 mm over 9 days) compared to April's 94 mm spread over 11 days, the humidity levels are higher in December at 84%, compared to April’s 79%. For more detailed information, you can check Houston weather in April.

In December, the weather in Houston tends to be cooler, with temperatures ranging from a chilly minimum of -2°C (29°F) to an average of 14°C (58°F) and a maximum of 28°C (83°F). The month sees about 111 mm (4.4 in) of precipitation over 9 days and enjoys a relatively high humidity level of 84%. In contrast, May brings noticeably warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (51°F), an average of 25°C (77°F), and a maximum reaching up to 34°C (93°F). This month also experiences higher rainfall, totaling 176 mm (6.9 in) across 16 days, but with slightly lower humidity at 79%. For more detailed insights on the weather patterns, you can visit Houston weather in May.

December and June present two markedly different weather profiles. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a comfortable maximum of 28°C (83°F), with an average of 14°C (58°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 111 mm (4.4 in) over about 9 days, and tends to have high humidity at 84%. In contrast, June sees warmer temperatures, starting at a minimum of 18°C (65°F), peaking at a maximum of 35°C (95°F), and averaging 28°C (82°F). This month is wetter overall, receiving 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain across approximately 17 days, with lower humidity at 74%. For more details on the conditions in June, visit Houston weather in June.

December weather features a wide range of temperatures, with lows dipping to -2°C (29°F) and daily averages around 14°C (58°F), while highs can reach up to 28°C (83°F). In contrast, July boasts significantly warmer temperatures, with minimums at 20°C (68°F), averages of 28°C (83°F), and maximums soaring to 37°C (99°F). Additionally, December sees about 111 mm (4.4 in) of precipitation over 9 days, while July experiences slightly higher rainfall of 146 mm (5.8 in) across 16 days. The humidity is also notably different, with December at 84% compared to July's 71%. For more detailed information, check out Houston weather in July.

December and August present stark contrasts in weather. In December, temperatures can drop as low as -2°C (29°F) but typically hover around a mild average of 14°C (58°F), while August boasts a much warmer range, with minimum temperatures starting at 21°C (70°F) and averaging 29°C (84°F). Precipitation also varies, as December sees about 111 mm (4.4 in) over 9 days, compared to August's heavier rainfall of 201 mm (7.9 in) spread across 19 days. Humidity levels are higher in December at 84%, while August has a more comfortable 68%. For more details, check out Houston weather in August.

In December, temperatures in Houston range from a chilly minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a pleasant average of 14°C (58°F), reaching a maximum of 28°C (83°F). This month typically experiences 111 mm (4.4 in) of precipitation over about 9 days, contributing to a higher humidity level of 84%. In contrast, September showcases warmer conditions with minimums around 13°C (55°F) and average highs reaching 27°C (80°F) to a scorching maximum of 37°C (99°F). The rainfall is also significantly higher in September, totaling 202 mm (8.0 in) over 15 days, but with a lower humidity level of 73%. For more details on September weather, you can check Houston weather in September.

In December, the weather experiences a notable chill, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F) and an average of 14°C (58°F). This month also sees higher humidity levels at 84% and approximately 111 mm (4.4 in) of precipitation spread over about 9 days. In contrast, October is milder, with minimum temperatures at 2°C (37°F), an average temperature of 22°C (73°F), and maximums soaring up to 34°C (93°F). The humidity is relatively lower at 75%, and although October has slightly less precipitation at 104 mm (4.1 in), it occurs over more days—12 in total. For more details, you can check out the Houston weather in October.

In comparing the weather of December and November, December generally exhibits lower temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and an average of 14°C (58°F), compared to November's minimum of -1°C (30°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F). Additionally, December sees a notable increase in precipitation, recording 111 mm (4.4 in) over 9 days, while November has 82 mm (3.2 in) across 10 days of rainfall. Humidity levels also rise in December, averaging at 84%, compared to November's 78%. For a more detailed look at the November climate, you can check Houston weather in November.

Compare Houston's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Houston

As December settles over Houston, the city experiences a noticeable shift in weather patterns compared to the milder months of fall. With average temperatures hovering around a refreshing 14°C (58°F) and the occasional dip near freezing, residents may find themselves exchanging their light jackets for more layered attire. This month also marks a peak in humidity, which hangs around 84%, contributing to the overall chill in the air. While rainfall is relatively moderate with about 111 mm spread across 9 days, it adds a touch of winter charm to the usually warm Texan climate. For a deeper dive into how Houston's weather evolves throughout the year, check out Houston Climate.