December Weather in Palouse, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

December in Palouse, United States, presents a chilly yet picturesque winter landscape. With average temperatures hovering around 0°C (32°F), daily highs reach a moderate 16°C (61°F) while lows can plunge to a frosty -17°C (1°F). This month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 95 mm (3.8 in) over roughly 15 days, often enveloping the area in a blanket of 90% humidity. It's a time when the beauty of winter can be appreciated, making Palouse a unique destination in the heart of the season.

December Temperature in Palouse

In December, the Palouse region experiences a chilly transition into winter, with temperatures ranging from a brisk minimum of -17°C (1°F) to a mild maximum of 16°C (61°F). The average temperature hovers around 0°C (32°F), indicative of a steady, if not cold, climate as the year winds down. This month’s temperatures are a continuation of the falling trends observed since autumn, where November wrapped up with a bit more warmth. With each day, frosty mornings give way to chilly afternoons, creating a picturesque winter landscape perfect for seasonal activities. As the year draws to a close, the Palouse prepares for a cold respite before the spring thaw begins to reshape the terrain.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Palouse, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec323139465664737261473932
Data source: Temperature data for Palouse 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 Palouse

In December, the Palouse region experiences a noteworthy uptick in precipitation, with 95 mm (3.8 in) falling across 15 days. This trend indicates a typical winter pattern as the area transitions from the drier months of summer, where rainfall amounts plummet to just 5 mm (0.2 in) in July. Compared to the preceding month of November, which sees 98 mm (3.9 in) over 14 days, December maintains a similarly wet profile, suggesting consistent moisture as the year draws to a close. The increased number of precipitation days in December hints at a shift toward more frequent, albeit lighter, rain events, reinforcing the notion that the Palouse is preparing for the heart of winter. Overall, these winter months exhibit a rhythm of precipitation that lays the groundwork for the region's seasonal agricultural cycles.

December Precipitation Trends in Palouse

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Palouse, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec811057972683451232769895
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

December Humidity in Palouse

In December, the Palouse region experiences a notable increase in humidity, peaking at 90%. This marks the highest level of moisture in the air for the year, following a trend that begins to rise sharply from the lower levels experienced in the summer months. While January and February maintain a stable humidity of 89%, it’s clear that the cold winter months bring a characteristic dampness to the area, contrasting sharply with the drier summer conditions of August and September, which see humidity levels dip to 64% and 62%, respectively. Overall, the transition from the dry, warm months to the cold, humid winter paints a vivid picture of the Palouse climate's seasonal shifts, with December embodying the peak of this winter wetness.

December Average Humidity in Palouse

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Palouse, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec89%89%87%84%78%78%77%64%62%79%87%90%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Palouse

As December rolls into the Palouse region of the United States, residents can expect a low UV Index of 2, signaling a welcome break from the intense sun of previous months. This drop in value reflects a notable trend as the year progresses; starting from the peak UV Index of 10 in July, the levels gradually declined to an easier-to-manage 2 in December. With a burn time of 45 minutes, outdoor enthusiasts can safely enjoy their winter activities without significant risk, unlike the 15-minute burn time seen during the height of summer. This seasonal variation underscores the importance of remaining vigilant about sun exposure year-round. For more information on local UV conditions, visit Palouse UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Palouse for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Palouse 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2457891097532
Data source: Palouse 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 Palouse

As December wraps up the year in the Palouse, sunshine hours dip to 115 hours, marking a decline from the vibrant days of summer. This month’s daylight dances shyly in comparison to the peak of 412 hours in July, reflecting a broader trend of diminishing sunlight as the seasons change. January begins the cycle anew with a mere 100 hours, pulling the curtain on the winter months, while February shows a slight rebirth with 144 hours. The steady rise from early spring, starting with 225 hours in March, reaches a crescendo in May at 340 hours, as nature awakens and flourishes under longer days. As we transition through the year, the Palouse reveals the beautiful rhythm of seasonal change, where even the limited sun of December contributes to a tapestry of ever-shifting light that shapes the landscape.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Palouse: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Palouse 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec100h144h225h277h340h360h412h357h289h236h160h115h
Data source: Palouse December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Palouse During December

In the Palouse region of the United States, December brings a significant dip in the likelihood of sunny weather, with only 15% chance of sun. This contrasts sharply with the peak sunny months of July and August, where the chances soar to 83% and 63% respectively. As the year progresses from the vibrant early spring days in April—with a 55% chance of sunshine—towards the winter months, a clear downward trend emerges, culminating in the low light of December. The transition from autumn, where November still offers a 28% chance of sun, highlights how quickly the region shifts into its less bright and more overcast season. This trend underscores the Palouse's seasonal variability, marking December as a time when the chances of basking in the sun are at their lowest.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Palouse

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Palouse 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 Palouse experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec22%21%45%55%49%62%83%63%58%51%28%15%
Data source: Palouse December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Palouse in December

As December settles in the Palouse, daylight dwindles to 8 hours, echoing a familiar trend from the preceding months. The transition from the long, sunlit days of summer—where daylight stretches to an impressive 15 hours—to the winter months reveals a rhythmic cycle of light that defines the region's seasons. Following the gradual decline from 11 hours in March to this year-end minimum, December carries with it the crisp air of winter and the promise of the year’s return of longer days ahead. Observing this ebb and flow, it’s clear that the Palouse experiences a rhythmic shift, with shorter days in the cold months slowly giving way to the warmth and brightness of spring and summer.

Average Daylight Hours in Palouse for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Palouse throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 59m10h 18m11h 57m13h 38m15h 4m15h 48m15h 23m14h 6m12h 29m10h 48m9h 20m8h 34m
Data source: Palouse daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Palouse

As December settles over the Palouse region of the United States, the winds begin to pick up slightly, with an average speed of 3.4 m/s (8 mph). This marks a noticeable trend in the wind patterns as the year draws to a close; the last month of the year echoes November's brisk winds while remaining consistent with the generally mild breezes seen in the earlier months. Notably, the December winds are a bit stronger than the summer lull, which saw the lightest winds in July at 2.6 m/s (6 mph). Overall, the transition from autumn to winter brings a gentle but steady increase in wind speeds, contributing to the region's enchanting winter landscape that rustles with the chill of the season.

Average December Wind Speed in Palouse

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Palouse, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.33.73.33.53.43.02.62.92.93.13.83.4 m/s
Data source: Palouse December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Palouse Compares to Other Months

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

In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -17°C (1°F) to a maximum of 16°C (61°F), with an average temperature of 0°C (32°F). The month experiences significant precipitation of 95 mm (3.8 in) over 15 days and humidity levels remain high at 90%. In contrast, January is slightly colder, with minimum temperatures dropping to -19°C (-2°F) and a maximum of 11°C (52°F), while still maintaining an average temperature of 0°C (32°F). Precipitation decreases to 81 mm (3.2 in) over 14 days, and humidity levels are slightly lower at 89%. For more detailed insights into the January weather patterns, you can visit Palouse weather in January.

December and February share similar average temperatures, hovering around freezing at 0°C (32°F). However, December typically experiences slightly milder conditions with a maximum of 16°C (61°F) compared to February’s peak of 15°C (58°F). Both months see considerable precipitation, with February receiving a bit more at 105 mm (4.1 in) over 17 days, compared to December's 95 mm (3.8 in) over 15 days. Interestingly, while December has a slightly higher humidity level at 90%, February remains relatively humid at 89%. For a closer look at February weather specifics, you can visit Palouse weather in February.

In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -17°C (1°F) to a mild maximum of 16°C (61°F), with an average of around 0°C (32°F). The month receives significant precipitation of 95 mm (3.8 in) over approximately 15 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 90%. In contrast, March sees a slight warming trend, with minimums around -15°C (6°F) and maximums reaching 19°C (66°F), leading to an average temperature of 4°C (40°F). Precipitation decreases to 79 mm (3.1 in), typically occurring over 14 days, and humidity just slightly lowers to 87%. For more details on March weather, check out Palouse weather in March.

December and April exhibit striking contrasts in weather patterns. December often features colder temperatures, with a minimum of -17°C (1°F) and an average around 0°C (32°F), while April brings milder conditions, including a minimum of -6°C (22°F) and an average temperature of 8°C (47°F). Precipitation is somewhat similar, with December receiving 95 mm (3.8 in) over approximately 15 days compared to April's 72 mm (2.8 in) across 13 days. Additionally, December experiences higher humidity at 90%, whereas April's humidity is slightly lower at 84%. For more detailed insights into April's weather, you can explore Palouse weather in April.

December and May present strikingly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures can drop as low as -17°C (1°F), with an average around 0°C (32°F) and a maximum of 16°C (61°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 95 mm (3.8 in) over approximately 15 days, combined with high humidity at 90%. In contrast, May offers a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a chilly minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a warm maximum of 31°C (89°F) and an average of 13°C (56°F). Precipitation in May is lower at 68 mm (2.7 in), occurring over about 10 days, and humidity levels are more comfortable at 77%. For a closer look at the weather in May, you can visit Palouse weather in May.

December and June present a stark contrast in weather conditions. December features frigid temperatures, with lows reaching -17°C (1°F) and an average of 0°C (32°F), while June enjoys significantly milder conditions, with minimum temperatures of 4°C (40°F) and an average of 18°C (64°F). Precipitation also differs notably; December typically sees 95 mm (3.8 in) over about 15 days, whereas June only receives 33 mm (1.3 in) across just 5 days. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in December at 90%, compared to June's 78%. For more detailed insights, check out Palouse weather in June.

The weather in December contrasts sharply with that of July. In December, temperatures range from a frigid minimum of -17°C (1°F) to a maximum of 16°C (61°F), with an average hovering around 0°C (32°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 90% and considerable precipitation, receiving about 95 mm (3.8 in) spread over 15 days. In stark contrast, July boasts much milder temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (47°F) and a maximum soaring up to 40°C (104°F), averaging 23°C (73°F). Precipitation is scarce during this summer month, totaling only 5 mm (0.2 in) with rainfall occurring on just 1 day. For more details on July weather, check out Palouse weather in July.

December and August present strikingly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -17°C (1°F), with an average around 0°C (32°F) and a maximum of 16°C (61°F). The month is also characterized by significant precipitation, averaging 95 mm (3.8 in) over about 15 days, coupled with high humidity at 90%. In contrast, August enjoys milder temperatures with a minimum of 6°C (43°F) and an average of 22°C (72°F), peaking at a scorching 39°C (103°F). Precipitation is minimal in August, totaling only 12 mm (0.5 in) over just 2 days, and humidity drops to a comfortable 64%. For more detailed insights on the weather during this month, check out Palouse weather in August.

When comparing December and September weather, it's evident that the two months present starkly different climates. December experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -17°C (1°F) and an average hovering around 0°C (32°F), while September enjoys milder conditions, where temperatures typically range from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 35°C (94°F). Precipitation also varies significantly; December sees 95 mm (3.8 in) of rain over 15 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 90%. In contrast, September has a much lighter rainfall of 32 mm (1.2 in) over just 5 days and a lower humidity of 62%. This dramatic shift between the two months highlights the transition from the harsh winter chill of December to the more temperate and warm days of September. For more details on September weather specifically, you can visit Palouse weather in September.

When comparing the weather in December and October, we observe notable differences in temperature and conditions. December experiences a colder climate with minimum temperatures dropping to -17°C (1°F) and an average temperature of 0°C (32°F), while October is milder, with minimums at -15°C (5°F) and an average of 8°C (48°F). The maximum temperature in December peaks at 16°C (61°F), significantly lower than October's max of 27°C (81°F). Precipitation levels also vary, with December recording 95 mm (3.8 in) over 15 days, compared to October's 76 mm (3.0 in) over 11 days. Additionally, December has a higher humidity level at 90%, compared to October's 79%. For more detailed insights, you can check out this link: Palouse weather in October.

In comparing the weather between November and December, December tends to be colder overall, with average temperatures hovering around 0°C (32°F), contrasted with November's milder average of 4°C (39°F). The minimum temperature in December plunges to -17°C (1°F), significantly lower than November's minimum of -9°C (16°F). Precipitation remains similar in both months, with December receiving 95 mm (3.8 in) over 15 days, compared to 98 mm (3.9 in) over 14 days in November. Additionally, December features higher humidity levels at 90%, while November has a slightly lower humidity of 87%. For more detailed insights on November weather, you can check Palouse weather in November.

Compare Palouse's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Palouse

December in Palouse certainly brings a shift in weather, with its chilly temperatures and notable precipitation, setting it apart from the milder and drier months of the year. As winter settles in, residents experience an average temperature of 0°C that often dips significantly at night, creating a landscape blanketed in frost. The increased humidity, coupled with around 15 days of precipitation, adds to the season's distinct ambiance, transforming the region into a serene winter wonderland. Those interested in exploring more about year-round conditions can find valuable insights at Palouse Climate.