Last updated: February 24, 2025
December in Olympia, United States, brings a blend of brisk temperatures and notable precipitation, crafting a unique winter ambiance. The maximum temperature hovers around 13°C (56°F), while the average settles at a cool 5°C (42°F), plunging to a chilly minimum of -5°C (23°F) on the coldest nights. With 203 mm (8.0 in) of rain over approximately 18 days, December is characterized by a significant amount of moisture, contributing to a high humidity level of 87%. This month encapsulates the essence of winter in Olympia, with its damp conditions and crisp air inviting both locals and visitors to embrace the season's charm.
In December, Olympia, United States, experiences a distinct chill as the temperatures drop, with minimums hovering around -5°C (23°F). The average temperature settles at 5°C (42°F), providing a brisk atmosphere as winter fully settles in. While daytime highs can reach a mild 13°C (56°F), the overall trend indicates a marked shift from the more temperate months of fall, with November already showing signs of cooling. This gradual descent into winter is punctuated by frosty mornings and cool afternoons, creating a picturesque backdrop for the holiday season, as the city transforms under a chilly yet inviting sky.
In December, Olympia experiences one of its wettest months of the year, with an impressive 203 mm (8.0 in) of precipitation spread over 18 days. This trend follows a gradual increase in rainfall that begins in the fall; November also delivers substantial precipitation at 192 mm. Encapsulating the essence of a Pacific Northwest winter, December's precipitation marks a peak, overshadowing the drier months of summer, where rainfall plummets to just 9 mm in July and 12 mm in August. As the year closes, residents are reminded of the region’s lush landscapes sustained by this ample moisture, highlighting a distinct seasonal shift that contributes to both the beauty and the challenge of life in Olympia.
As December settles in Olympia, the city's humidity levels rise to 87%, marking the month as one of the wettest in the year. This increase aligns with a notable trend: humidity in Olympia tends to be highest in the winter months, peaking in January and November at 86%, while the summer months, particularly August, see a significant drop to 73%. The gradual decline from the high 80s in late fall to more moderate figures in summer suggests a clear seasonal rhythm, with December ushering in the final chapter of the rainy season, as the air becomes heavier and richer in moisture, preparing the landscape for the winter ahead.
In December, the UV Index in Olympia, United States, dips to 2, categorized as low, which offers a comfortable reprieve from the intense sunlight of previous months. With a burn time of 45 minutes, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy longer exposure without the same risk of sunburn that peaks during the summer months, where values soared to 9 in July and June. This trend of decreasing UV levels from the high summer readings reflects the region's transition into winter, making December an ideal time to engage in outdoor activities with minimal sun protection concerns. For more detailed information on monthly variations, visit Olympia UV Index.
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As December rolls into Olympia, the city experiences a noticeable dip in sunshine hours, with only 97 hours to bask in. This marks a significant decline from the brighter spring and summer months, where sunlight peaked at a dazzling 362 hours in July. Contrary to the long, sun-drenched days of June and August, December brings a serene end to the year, echoing the trend of dwindling light seen since the vibrant 300 hours of May. While the festive season may dim the skies, the crisp winter air invites citizens to appreciate the soft, gentle glow of the sunshine that makes each fleeting hour all the more precious. As they transition into a new year, residents of Olympia reflect on the balance of light and darkness that defines their seasonal rhythms.
In December, the likelihood of experiencing sunny weather in Olympia, United States, plummets to a mere 12%, making it one of the cloudiest months of the year. This trend reflects a gradual decrease in sunshine from November's 14%, as winter sets in and the days grow shorter. The months leading up to December show a general increase in sunny days, peaking in the summer with July's 60% chance of sun, but as autumn transitions into winter, this sunny disposition quickly wanes. With only a handful of clear days to look forward to, it’s clear that December in Olympia is more about cozy indoor activities than basking in the sunlight.
In Olympia, Washington, the daylight duration exhibits a rhythmic cycle throughout the year, peaking in the summer months and dipping in winter. Following a gradual increase from 8 hours in January to a beautiful 15 hours during the sun-soaked days of May through July, daylight starts to wane as the seasons shift. August sees a slight decline to 14 hours, which transitions into shorter days, with 12 hours in September and a further reduction to 9 hours by November. In December, daylight diminishes to 8 hours, mirroring the unwinding of the year and inviting a cozy embrace of winter's longer nights. This pattern highlights the seasonal variations characteristic of Olympia, encouraging both residents and visitors to savor the changing light as it dances throughout the seasons.
In December, Olympia experiences a noticeable shift in wind conditions as the average wind speed reaches 3.2 m/s (7 mph), marking a subtle increase compared to the preceding months. This uptick follows a trajectory set by November, which recorded a wind speed of 3.1 m/s (7 mph), indicating a trend toward slightly breezier winter days. Throughout the year, wind speeds fluctuate, typically remaining around 2.5-3.0 m/s during the warmer months, with peaks in late fall as the seasons transition. As the year wraps up, December's breezy conditions contribute to a crisp, refreshing atmosphere, perfect for embracing the festive spirit of the season.
The weather in Olympia 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 Olympia and find detailed weather information for every month.
In December, temperatures typically range from a minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F), with an average of 5°C (42°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation, with 203 mm (8.0 in) over 18 rainy days and a humidity level of 87%. In contrast, January sees slightly colder conditions, with minimum temperatures averaging -6°C (21°F) and a maximum of 14°C (57°F), while the average remains the same at 5°C (42°F). Precipitation is slightly less in January at 197 mm (7.8 in) across 16 days, and humidity drops slightly to 86%. For more detailed information about January weather, you can visit Olympia weather in January.
December and February share similar temperature ranges, with both months experiencing minimums around -5°C (23°F) and average temperatures close to 5°C (41-42°F). However, February tends to be slightly warmer on average with a maximum temperature of 14°C (58°F) compared to December's 13°C (56°F). Precipitation levels also differ, as December sees more rain at 203 mm (8.0 in) over 18 days, whereas February has a reduced precipitation total of 155 mm (6.1 in) over 17 days. The humidity is similar in both months, but February is slightly drier at 84% compared to December's 87%. For more detailed insights into February's weather, you can check out Olympia weather in February.
December weather is characterized by colder temperatures, with a minimum of -5°C (23°F) and an average of 5°C (42°F), while March sees a more moderate climate with a minimum of -1°C (30°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F). Additionally, December is significantly wetter, receiving about 203 mm (8.0 in) of precipitation over 18 days, compared to March's 134 mm (5.3 in) spread over 16 days. Humidity levels remain relatively high in both months, with December at 87% and March at 85%. For a more detailed look at the weather conditions, check out Olympia weather in March.
December and April present contrasting weather experiences. In December, temperatures typically range from a chilly -5°C (23°F) at night to a milder 13°C (56°F) during the day, contributing to an average of 5°C (42°F). The month is marked by significant precipitation, with 203 mm (8.0 in) falling over 18 days, alongside high humidity levels of 87%. In contrast, April offers more pleasant conditions, with temperatures ranging from -1°C (31°F) at night to a warm 25°C (78°F) during the day, leading to an average of 10°C (50°F). Precipitation decreases to 117 mm (4.6 in) spread across 14 days, and humidity is slightly lower at 83%. For more details on April weather, check out Olympia weather in April.
December and May exhibit stark contrasts in weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -5°C (23°F) to a modest high of 13°C (56°F), with an average of 5°C (42°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, amounting to 203 mm (8.0 in) over 18 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 87%. In contrast, May offers a more temperate climate, with temperatures starting from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) and reaching up to 29°C (85°F), averaging at 13°C (56°F). Precipitation decreases dramatically to 65 mm (2.6 in) over just 9 days, while humidity remains slightly lower at 84%. For more details, you can refer to Olympia weather in May.
December and June present quite contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures can drop as low as -5°C (23°F) and hover around an average of 5°C (42°F), with a maximum temperature reaching 13°C (56°F). The month also experiences significant rainfall, totaling 203 mm (8.0 in) over 18 days, and high humidity levels at 87%. In contrast, June offers a much milder climate, with average temperatures around 16°C (61°F) and maximums soaring up to 40°C (104°F). Precipitation is minimal during this month, accumulating only 51 mm (2.0 in) across just 7 days, and humidity is slightly lower at 84%. For a deeper look into June weather specifics, you can check Olympia weather in June.
December and July present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures soar between a chilly -5°C (23°F) at night and a mild 13°C (56°F) during the day, accompanied by high humidity at 87%. This winter month sees substantial rainfall, averaging 203 mm (8.0 in) over 18 days, leading to a damp and cool atmosphere. On the other hand, July boasts much warmer temperatures with a minimum of 10°C (49°F) and a maximum reaching 33°C (92°F) under an average of 18°C (65°F). The summer month enjoys significantly less rainfall, totaling just 9 mm (0.4 in) over only 2 days, complemented by a slightly lower humidity of 82%. For a detailed overview of July's climate, you can check Olympia weather in July.
December and August present stark contrasts in weather. In December, temperatures range from a chill of -5°C (23°F) to a milder 13°C (56°F), with an average of 5°C (42°F). The month is also characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 203 mm (8.0 in) over 18 days, and high humidity at 87%. In contrast, August boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (49°F) and a maximum reaching 34°C (93°F), averaging 19°C (66°F). The summer month is notably drier, with only 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain falling over just 2 days and a lower humidity level of 73%. For more details about August weather, check Olympia weather in August.
When comparing the weather in December and September, it's clear that they exhibit quite different characteristics. December tends to be colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F) and an average temperature of about 5°C (42°F). In contrast, September is much warmer, featuring a minimum temperature of 6°C (43°F) and maximum temperatures soaring up to 31°C (88°F), resulting in a comfortable average of 16°C (61°F). Additionally, December is notably wetter, receiving 203 mm (8.0 in) of precipitation over 18 days, while September sees only 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain over 10 days. Humidity levels also differ, with December having a higher average at 87% compared to September's 74%. For more details on September weather, you can visit Olympia weather in September.
In comparing the weather of December and October, December tends to be much colder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F), while October enjoys a milder average, with temperatures fluctuating between 1°C (34°F) and 24°C (75°F). Additionally, December experiences a higher level of precipitation, totaling 203 mm (8.0 in) over 18 days, compared to October's 133 mm (5.3 in) spread across 12 days. Humidity levels are slightly higher in December at 87%, compared to 83% in October. For more detailed insights, you can check out Olympia weather in October.
When comparing the weather in December to November, we see a notable drop in temperatures. December's minimum temperature reaches -5°C (23°F), while November's lowest temperature is milder at -1°C (30°F). The average temperature in December is also lower at 5°C (42°F) compared to November's 8°C (46°F). Additionally, December experiences more precipitation, totaling 203 mm (8.0 in) over 18 days, compared to November’s 192 mm (7.5 in) over 17 days. Despite similar humidity levels, with December at 87% and November at 86%, the overall chillier and wetter conditions in December suggest a significant shift in weather patterns as the year draws to a close. For more details on November's weather, check out Olympia weather in November.
As December descends on Olympia, the city experiences a notable shift in weather patterns that sets it apart from other months. With a cooler average temperature and increased precipitation, the month can feel quite damp and chilly. The high humidity levels contribute to a pervasive sense of wetness, making it essential for residents and visitors to prepare for the frequent rainy days. This contrasts sharply with the drier, sunnier conditions of summer, offering a unique glimpse into the Pacific Northwest's winter charm. For more details on Olympia's changing seasons, explore the comprehensive insights available at Olympia Climate.