Last updated: February 24, 2025
December in Shenandoah, United States, brings a chill in the air, with temperatures ranging from a brisk -13°C (8°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F), though the average rests at a cool 4°C (39°F). During this month, residents can expect 85 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation over approximately 8 days, contributing to the region's 85% humidity, which adds a layer of dampness to the winter atmosphere. As the landscape transforms under the weight of winter weather, Shenandoah becomes a picturesque setting, perfect for enjoying the seasonal beauty.
December in Shenandoah ushers in the heart of winter, with temperatures reflecting the season's chill. As the month progresses, the average temperature hovers around 4°C (39°F), offering a slight reprieve from November's frigid lows. The mercury plunges to a minimum of -13°C (8°F), while daytime highs can reach a cozy 21°C (70°F), presenting a stark contrast between the brisk mornings and warmer afternoons. This time of year marks a notable transition, seamlessly bridging the deep winter chills of early December and the milder conditions of the upcoming months. As the snow blankets the landscape, the combination of cold nights and temperate days brings a unique charm to Shenandoah, inviting both residents and visitors to appreciate the serene beauty of the season.
In December, Shenandoah experiences a notable shift in precipitation patterns as the year comes to a close. The month sees an average rainfall of 85 mm (3.3 in), which is slightly lower than the wetter summer months but consistent with the overall trend of increasing precipitation from January to May. With about 8 rainy days, December maintains a relatively moderate climate compared to its neighboring months; however, it does signal a pattern of decreasing rainfall that culminates in the winter months. This decrease further supports the transition into the drier stretch of January, building anticipation for the spring thaw when rainfall begins to rise again.
December in Shenandoah, United States, wraps up the year with a humidity level of 85%, slightly lower than the 86% peaks seen in the preceding months of November and the winter months of January through March. This drop begins to signal the gradual transition into the dryer conditions typical of late spring and summer, where humidity levels decrease significantly, hitting a low of 59% in August. Despite the seasonal fluctuations, it’s clear that the Shenandoah climate retains a level of moisture throughout the year, especially evident in the consistent 80% and above readings from October through February. As December holds onto a significant humidity level, the weather prepares to shift, reflecting a broader trend of humidity easing into the more moderate numbers of the upcoming months.
In December, the UV Index in Shenandoah, United States, drops to 3, placing it in the moderate exposure category with a burn time of 30 minutes. This decline marks a noticeable shift from the peak UV levels experienced in the previous months, particularly the extreme indices of late spring and early summer, which invited heightened caution. Throughout the year, the UV Index fluctuates significantly, with values reaching 11 in May—indicating the potential for severe skin damage with minimal exposure. As winter settles in, December's milder UV ratings remind us that while sun safety remains important, the risk of sunburn is considerably reduced. To stay informed on local conditions, check out Shenandoah UV Index.
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As the year winds down, December in Shenandoah offers a welcome respite with an impressive 197 hours of sunshine. Though this is a dip from the peak brightness of July with its dazzling 356 hours, December still shines brighter than the earlier winter months, demonstrating a gradual decline in daylight as we transition into a new year. With each month leading up to December showcasing a steady increase in sunshine—peaking in the vibrant summer months—this final chapter of the year serves as a gentle reminder of the sun's dwindling presence, yet still manages to illuminate the tranquility of winter. Embrace the crisp air and softer light; December’s sunshine might be less than summer's bounty, but it still casts a warm glow on the stunning landscapes of Shenandoah.
In December, Shenandoah experiences a 42% chance of sunny weather, which aligns closely with its cooler months and reflects a slight dip in sunny days compared to the peak of November's 58%. As winter descends, the likelihood of sunshine tends to fluctuate, dipping below both March’s 51% and April's 50%. However, it is notable that December's chance is somewhat higher than mid-summer months like June and August, which hover around the 38-39% mark. This pattern suggests that while the days grow shorter and colder, there remains a healthy opportunity for sunbreaks amidst the wintry landscape, making December a month of varied weather possibilities.
As the year comes to a close, December in Shenandoah sees daylight duration returning to its shortest stretch at just 9 hours. This decrease marks a slow but steady decline from the 14 hours enjoyed in the summer months of June, July, and August. The transition from autumn to winter is evident, with daylight gradually shrinking from 11 hours in October to the year's nadir in December. This cyclical ebb and flow not only highlights the rhythm of the seasons but also sets the stage for the gradual increase in daylight that will begin anew in January, as the days slowly lengthen once more.
As December settles over Shenandoah, the gentle whispers of the wind reach an average speed of 2.3 m/s (5 mph), marking a season of mild breezes that echo the tranquil beauty of winter. This month's wind patterns remain steady, aligning closely with the average speeds observed in both November and May, suggesting a consistency in the cooler months. Throughout the year, a clear trend emerges: the winds tend to calm as summer approaches, with July and August showing the most notable decrease. However, as we transition back into late fall and winter, wind speeds start to stabilize again, creating a serene atmosphere that enhances Shenandoah's picturesque scenery during the holiday season. The December winds, while soft, carry the promise of changing seasons, inviting all to experience the breathtaking landscapes of this charming region.
The weather in Shenandoah 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 Shenandoah and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January present notable contrasts in weather patterns. December experiences a milder average temperature of 4°C (39°F), with daily highs reaching up to 21°C (70°F) and lows around -13°C (8°F). The month sees an average of 85 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation over eight days, coupled with a humidity level of 85%. In contrast, January is significantly colder, with an average temperature of 1°C (34°F), dipping to a low of -23°C (-9°F) and a high of 20°C (69°F). Precipitation decreases to 61 mm (2.4 in) over the same eight days, while humidity slightly increases to 86%. These differences highlight January’s chillier and slightly drier conditions compared to December. For more details, you can check Shenandoah weather in January.
December in Shenandoah features a chilly atmosphere, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -13°C (8°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F), and an average temperature of about 4°C (39°F). The month experiences around 85 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation over approximately 8 days, combined with high humidity levels averaging at 85%. In contrast, February brings slightly colder conditions, with minimum temperatures dipping further to -17°C (2°F) while the maximum can reach 25°C (78°F). Despite the colder nights, February maintains a similar average temperature of around 4°C (40°F) and experiences a marginally higher precipitation total of 91 mm (3.6 in) over 12 days, with humidity levels only slightly elevated at 86%. For more detailed weather insights, check out Shenandoah weather in February.
In December, temperatures tend to be quite chilly, ranging from a minimum of -13°C (8°F) to a comfortable maximum of 21°C (70°F), with an average of 4°C (39°F). The month sees about 85 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation over 8 days, along with a notable humidity level of 85%. In contrast, March offers a slight warming trend, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -11°C (12°F) and peaking at 26°C (79°F), while the average rises to 7°C (45°F). Precipitation decreases to 72 mm (2.8 in) spread over 10 days, and humidity slightly increases to 86%. For more details on March weather in the region, check out Shenandoah weather in March.
December and April present contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures can drop as low as -13°C (8°F), with an average of 4°C (39°F) and a maximum of 21°C (70°F). The month is relatively humid, with 85% humidity and 85 mm of precipitation spread over 8 days. In contrast, April sees milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to an average of 13°C (55°F), peaking at 33°C (92°F). The precipitation rises slightly to 111 mm (4.4 in) over 11 days, maintaining a similar humidity level of 84%. For more detailed information, you can check Shenandoah weather in April.
December and May exhibit stark contrasts in weather patterns. In December, temperatures drop to a minimum of -13°C (8°F) and average around a chilly 4°C (39°F), with a maximum reaching only 21°C (70°F). The month sees considerable precipitation, totaling 85 mm (3.3 inches) over approximately 8 days, and the humidity levels are quite high at 85%. In contrast, May brings milder conditions with minimum temperatures around -1°C (31°F) and average highs soaring to 18°C (64°F). Maximum temperatures can climb to a warm 32°C (91°F) as the month progresses, while precipitation increases to 120 mm (4.7 inches) across about 14 days, paired with slightly lower humidity at 78%. For more detailed insights into the weather patterns, check out Shenandoah weather in May.
December and June present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -13°C (8°F), with an average of 4°C (39°F) and a maximum that reaches only up to 21°C (70°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 85% and experiences around 85 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation over 8 days. Conversely, June offers a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures starting at 8°C (46°F), an average of 22°C (72°F), and peak temperatures soaring to 33°C (92°F). Although June has slightly higher precipitation at 114 mm (4.5 in) over 13 days, the humidity remains lower at 79%. For more detailed information about June weather, you can visit Shenandoah weather in June.
December and July exhibit stark contrasts in weather patterns. December experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -13°C (8°F) and an average of only 4°C (39°F), while July boasts a much warmer climate, featuring a minimum of 13°C (55°F) and an average of 25°C (77°F). Additionally, July can reach maximum temperatures of up to 36°C (98°F), whereas December's maximum is a milder 21°C (70°F). Precipitation levels are similar, with December recording 85 mm (3.3 in) over 8 days and July slightly higher at 87 mm (3.4 in) over 10 days. Humidity also differs, as December's humidity is higher at 85% compared to July's 70%. For more insights into July weather, check out Shenandoah weather in July.
When comparing the weather in December and August, it's clear that these months present quite different climates. December temperatures can drop as low as -13°C (8°F), with an average of 4°C (39°F) and a maximum of 21°C (70°F), creating a chilly atmosphere. Additionally, December experiences about 85 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation over approximately 8 days, accompanied by high humidity levels around 85%, making the air feel quite damp.
In contrast, August boasts much warmer temperatures, with minimums of 12°C (54°F), averages of 23°C (74°F), and highs reaching a scorching 36°C (97°F). This month also sees more precipitation, totaling 131 mm (5.2 in) over around 13 days, but with significantly lower humidity at 59%, which makes the heat more bearable. For more detailed insights, you can check Shenandoah weather in August.
When comparing the weather in December and September, we see distinct differences. December exhibits a chilling minimum temperature of -13°C (8°F) and a significant average of 4°C (39°F), while September is much warmer, with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and an average of 20°C (69°F). The maximum temperatures also fluctuate dramatically, with December reaching up to 21°C (70°F) compared to September's peak of 34°C (94°F).
Precipitation levels are relatively close, with September seeing 107 mm (4.2 in) over 10 days, slightly more than December's 85 mm (3.3 in) across 8 days, although December boasts a higher humidity level at 85%, compared to September's 68%. For additional details on weather patterns, you can check out Shenandoah weather in September.
In comparing December and October weather, December experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -13°C (8°F) and an average of 4°C (39°F), while October boasts a milder minimum of -2°C (28°F) and a warmer average of 15°C (59°F). October also reaches a higher maximum temperature of 34°C (93°F) compared to December's maximum of 21°C (70°F). Additionally, October has slightly more precipitation, with 107 mm (4.2 in) over 9 days, versus December's 85 mm (3.3 in) over 8 days. Humidity levels remain relatively high in both months, but October is marginally lower at 80% compared to December's 85%. For a detailed look at the weather patterns, check Shenandoah weather in October.
In comparing the weather between November and December, December experiences cooler temperatures overall, with an average of 4°C (39°F) compared to November's warmer average of 7°C (44°F). December records a lower minimum temperature of -13°C (8°F), while November’s minimum is milder at -7°C (20°F). Both months have similar precipitation amounts, with December receiving 85 mm (3.3 in) spread over 8 days and November slightly less at 82 mm (3.2 in) over 7 days. Humidity levels remain high in both months, with December at 85% and November at 86%. For a more detailed look at the weather in November, check out Shenandoah weather in November.
As December settles into Shenandoah, the landscape transforms, bringing a noticeable chill compared to other months. With temperatures that plunge significantly and an increase in humidity, this month ushers in a cozy atmosphere perfect for winter activities. The average weather is marked by a blend of brisk days and occasional precipitation, with a handful of rainy days accentuating the serene beauty of the region. While the vibrant foliage of fall fades, a tranquil beauty emerges, inviting visitors to explore the park's winter wonderland. For a deeper understanding of the region's seasonal changes, check out Shenandoah Climate.