Last updated: February 24, 2025
December in Washington, United States, offers a captivating wintry experience characterized by temperatures ranging from a maximum of 20°C (69°F) to a chilly minimum of -10°C (13°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F). The month sees about 93 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation across 9 days, contributing to the city's 84% humidity, which blankets the landscape in a serene mist. As the holiday spirit resonates, December's weather invites residents and visitors alike to embrace the season's charm, making it a month of cozy gatherings and festive cheer.
In December, Washington, United States, experiences a notable transition as winter settles in. Temperatures dip significantly, with a minimum of -10°C (13°F), contributing to the season's chill. The average temperature hovers around 5°C (41°F), providing a stark contrast to the milder months that preceded it. Daytime highs reach up to 20°C (69°F), hinting at a fleeting warmth amidst the cold. This month reflects the broader trend of falling temperatures as winter progresses, yet it still showcases a degree of variation, offering glimpses of warmth as residents gear up for the colder days ahead.
In December, Washington experiences a balanced mix of wet and dry days, with 93 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation spread over 9 days. This marks a slight reduction in rainfall compared to the wetter months preceding it, such as May and July, which peak at 127 mm (5.0 in) and 157 mm (6.2 in), respectively. Interestingly, while December’s precipitation amounts align closely with November's 81 mm (3.2 in), it features a higher number of wet days, indicating that the rain tends to be more consistent towards the end of the year. As winter sets in, this pattern contributes to the region's lush, evergreen landscape, showcasing the delicate balance of moisture that characterizes Washington's climate throughout the year.
In December, humidity levels in Washington, United States typically hover around 84%, closely mirroring the high humidity seen in January and November. This suggests that as the year draws to a close, the air retains significant moisture, likely due to cooler temperatures that trap humidity. Notably, the slight decrease from November’s 85% indicates a gradual shift toward drier winter months, contrasting with the summer lows where humidity dips to around 72% in August. As winter progresses, Washingtonians can expect the humid conditions to persist, making December a month where the air feels noticeably moist and crisp.
In December, Washington, United States, experiences a UV Index of 3, placing it in the moderate exposure category. This means that while the sun’s rays can cause skin damage in around 30 minutes of unprotected exposure, it's generally safe to enjoy outdoor activities without much worry. As the year progresses from winter to summer, the UV Index notably rises, peaking at 10 during the summer months of May through July, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Following the summer, the index gradually decreases, reflecting a seasonal pattern where exposure is more moderate in the fall and winter. Understanding these trends is crucial for effective sun protection throughout the year. For more details, visit Washington UV Index.
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In December, Washington experiences a modest 191 hours of sunshine, marking a gradual decline as the year comes to a close. This trend is consistent with the colder months, where daylight diminishes compared to the sunniest summer peak in July, which boasts an impressive 356 hours. After a vibrant autumn, the sunshine hours see a steady drop from October’s 246 hours to December, hinting at the seasonal transition into winter. Despite this decrease, December still contributes to the city's overall annual sunshine tally, reflecting a year marked by ebb and flow in light and warmth, with each month playing its unique part in Washington's distinctive climate tapestry.
In December, the likelihood of sunny weather in Washington, United States, stands at 37%. This marks a notable dip as the year draws to a close, especially following November's more optimistic 56% chance of sunshine. The trend reveals that while early autumn months, such as September, enjoy a relatively bright 53% likelihood, the onset of winter ushers in a decline in sunny days. Notably, December's sun probability is among the lowest when compared to earlier months, highlighting a shift towards the cooler, cloudier climate typical of late fall. As travelers and residents prepare for the holiday season, it seems prudent to brace for more overcast days and a pinching of the winter sun.
In Washington, United States, the rhythm of daylight through the year reveals a fascinating ebb and flow. As December arrives, the days are at their shortest, offering just 9 hours of sunlight—a stark contrast to the vibrant 14 hours enjoyed during the peak of summer in June and July. The gradual increase in daylight begins with January's 9 hours, extending to March, where spring's promise brings an additional hour of light. This trend toward longer days continues into late spring and early summer, peaking in the warm months before gradually tapering off again. As autumn sets in, daylight diminishes with December mirroring the sunlight received in the depths of winter, echoing the cycle that nature consistently follows, while inviting anticipation for the inevitable return of longer days.
In December, Washington, D.C. experiences a subtle shift in winds, with an average speed of 2.8 m/s (6 mph), reflecting a slight dip as the year winds down. This month mirrors the averages seen in late autumn but is significantly lower than the brisker breezes of early spring, where wind speeds peak around 3.3 m/s (7 mph). Interestingly, December maintains a consistent trend observed through the latter part of the year, where wind speeds have generally eased from the gustier beginnings of winter. As the city gears up for the festive season, the gentle December winds contribute to the chill in the air, adding a serene yet crisp backdrop to the holiday spirit.
The weather in Washington 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 Washington and find detailed weather information for every month.
In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -10°C (13°F) to a pleasant maximum of 20°C (69°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F). The month experiences significant precipitation totaling 93 mm (3.7 in) spread over 9 days, while humidity levels remain high at 84%. In contrast, January brings colder temperatures, with a minimum of -15°C (5°F) and an average of 3°C (37°F) but a slightly warmer maximum of 22°C (71°F). Precipitation decreases to 61 mm (2.4 in) over 8 days, with humidity levels staying consistent at 84%. For more detailed information, you can check out Washington weather in January.
December and February exhibit notable differences in their weather patterns, despite having the same average temperature of 5°C (41°F). In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -10°C (13°F) to a maximum of 20°C (69°F), with relatively high humidity at 84% and a total precipitation of 93 mm over roughly 9 days. In contrast, February experiences slightly colder nights with a minimum of -16°C (4°F) and can reach a warmer maximum of 28°C (82°F). This month sees a marginally higher precipitation of 98 mm over 11 days, while humidity remains similar at 83%. For more detailed insights, you can check out Washington weather in February.
In December, temperatures can drop to a chilly minimum of -10°C (13°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F) and reaching a maximum of 20°C (69°F). The month experiences about 93 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation over approximately 9 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 84%. In contrast, March sees slightly milder temperatures, with minimums around -7°C (20°F) and an average temperature of 8°C (46°F), peaking at 28°C (83°F). Precipitation in March totals 87 mm (3.4 in) over about 10 days, with humidity remaining comparable at 83%. Overall, March presents a transition towards warmer weather compared to the colder, wetter conditions of December. For more details, check out Washington weather in March.
When comparing the weather in December and April, noteworthy contrasts emerge. December experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -10°C (13°F) and an average around 5°C (41°F), while April sees milder conditions, starting at a minimum of -2°C (28°F) and rising to an average of 14°C (57°F). The maximum temperatures in December reach 20°C (69°F), but in April, they can soar to as high as 32°C (91°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in April, with a total of 100 mm (4.0 in) over 11 days, compared to December's 93 mm (3.7 in) over 9 days. Both months maintain relatively high humidity, but December's average humidity is slightly higher at 84% compared to April's 81%. For more detailed information, check out Washington weather in April.
In December, temperatures can drop as low as -10°C (13°F) with an average of 5°C (41°F), while the maximum temperature reaches 20°C (69°F). The month experiences about 93 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation over 9 days, accompanied by relatively high humidity at 84%. In contrast, May brings a milder climate with a minimum temperature of 2°C (36°F) and an average of 19°C (66°F). The maximum temperature can soar to 34°C (94°F) and the month sees increased rainfall at 127 mm (5.0 in) over 13 days, with humidity slightly lower at 78%. For a more detailed overview of the weather in May, you can visit Washington weather in May.
December and June present strikingly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -10°C (13°F) to a mild maximum of 20°C (69°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F). The month sees 93 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation spread over 9 days, accompanied by relatively high humidity at 84%. In stark contrast, June boasts a much warmer climate, with temperatures fluctuating from a low of 9°C (48°F) to a scorching high of 36°C (98°F), averaging around 24°C (75°F). Although June has slightly more rainfall at 118 mm (4.7 in) over 12 days, the humidity is lower at 79%. For a more detailed look at June weather, visit Washington weather in June.
December and July offer starkly contrasting weather experiences. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -10°C (13°F) while averaging around 5°C (41°F) and peaking at a mild 20°C (69°F). The month sees significant precipitation, averaging 93 mm (3.7 in) over about 9 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 84%. In contrast, July presents a much warmer climate with a minimum temperature of 15°C (59°F) and an average of 27°C (81°F), soaring to a maximum of 38°C (101°F). This month also experiences more rainfall, totaling 157 mm (6.2 in) across approximately 12 days, though with lower humidity at 74%. For more detailed information, check out Washington weather in July.
December and August exhibit stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures typically range from a chilly -10°C (13°F) to a milder 20°C (69°F), with an average of around 5°C (41°F). The month sees a significant amount of precipitation, totaling 93 mm (3.7 in) over about 9 days, along with a high humidity level of 84%. On the other hand, August boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 14°C (58°F), an average of 25°C (77°F), and a maximum reaching up to 37°C (99°F). Precipitation in August is higher at 140 mm (5.5 in) but occurs over 15 days, accompanied by a relatively lower humidity of 72%. For more insight into the summer climate, you can check out Washington weather in August.
The weather in December is markedly colder than in September, with average temperatures dipping from a pleasant 22°C (72°F) in September to a chillier average of 5°C (41°F) in December. While September can experience maximum temperatures soaring up to 36°C (97°F), December see temperatures cap at a much cooler 20°C (69°F). Precipitation levels are somewhat similar, with December recording 93 mm (3.7 in) over 9 days and September slightly higher at 95 mm (3.8 in) over 11 days. Additionally, December's humidity is higher at 84%, compared to September's 75%, contributing to a more damp and frigid atmosphere during the winter month. For a detailed look at September's weather, you can visit Washington weather in September.
In December, temperatures drop significantly, with a minimum of -10°C (13°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F), whereas October enjoys a milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to an average of 17°C (62°F). The maximum temperature in October can reach as high as 36°C (97°F), providing a stark contrast to the cooler December highs of 20°C (69°F). Both months experience similar amounts of precipitation, with December recording 93 mm (3.7 in) and October slightly higher at 104 mm (4.1 in), each having rain over 9 days. Humidity is relatively comparable as well, with December at 84% and October at 81%. For more detailed information, check out Washington weather in October.
In comparing the weather patterns of November and December, December experiences slightly colder temperatures overall, with average highs of 5°C (41°F) and lows plunging to -10°C (13°F), in contrast to November's milder averages of 8°C (47°F) and a maximum of 25°C (78°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in December, totaling 93 mm (3.7 in) over 9 days, compared to November's 81 mm (3.2 in) over 7 days. The humidity also remains quite consistent, with December at 84% and November at 85%. Overall, while both months exhibit significant rainfall, December ushers in colder conditions and a longer rainy period. For more detailed insights, check out Washington weather in November.
As December unfolds in Washington, the city experiences a notable shift in weather compared to other months. With average temperatures dipping to a cool 5°C (41°F), winter firmly takes hold, often leading to chilly days and frosty nights. The increase in humidity to 84% adds a distinct crispness to the air, making it feel colder than it is. Alongside this, December sees more frequent precipitation, with nearly a third of the month experiencing rain or snow, resulting in a total of 93 mm (3.7 in) of moisture. This combination of lower temperatures and higher humidity transforms the landscape into a wintry scene, contrasting sharply with the milder temperatures and drier conditions of the preceding months. For a detailed look at what to expect throughout the year, check out Washington Climate.