Last updated: February 24, 2025
December in Port Townsend, United States, presents a chilly yet inviting atmosphere, with an average temperature hovering around 6°C (43°F). Daily highs reach a comfortable 13°C (55°F), while nights can dip to a brisk -5°C (23°F). The month is characterized by significant moisture, accumulating 187 mm (7.4 in) of precipitation over approximately 21 days, contributing to an 87% humidity level that envelopes the town. This blend of cool temperatures and ample rain creates a unique winter landscape, perfect for cozy indoor activities and stunning coastal scenery.
In December, Port Townsend experiences a notable drop in temperatures, with minimums averaging around -5°C (23°F), signaling the onset of winter. The average temperature stays at a cool 6°C (43°F), while highs comfortably reach 13°C (55°F). This seasonal shift reflects a broader trend in the region, as temperatures typically decrease from the autumn months, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying the festive season. While December's chill may evoke the warmth of hot beverages and snug blankets, the mild highs remind us that Port Townsend remains a charming coastal retreat, even in the depths of winter.
December in Port Townsend brings a compelling finale to the year with high precipitation levels, matching November at 187 mm (7.4 in), which marks a peak in the annual cycle. Coinciding with this significant rainfall, 21 days of rain characterize the month, contributing to the region's reputation for a wet winter. As temperatures drop and days grow shorter, these consistent moisture levels not only enrich the local landscapes but also reflect a broader trend of increased precipitation throughout the fall and winter months. This alignment with November's rainfall helps establish December as a month of persistence in stormy weather, setting the stage for the lush greenery that defines Port Townsend's charm in the coming months.
In December, Port Townsend experiences a notable increase in humidity, reaching a peak of 87%. This rise continues the trend established throughout the autumn months, where humidity levels were already high at 86% in November. The year-round pattern reveals a consistent dampness in the winter months, with January to April hovering around 83% to 86%. As the seasons shift, summer months such as July and August offer a brief respite with lower humidity, dropping to 82% and 73%, respectively. However, as the year draws to a close, the wet conditions return, creating a lush and vibrant atmosphere characteristic of this coastal region.
In December, Port Townsend experiences a UV Index of 2, placing it in the low exposure category, which means you can enjoy the outdoors with minimal risk. This level of UV radiation allows for a comfortable burn time of 45 minutes without the need for intense sun protection measures. As the year progresses, the UV Index typically peaks during the summer months, reaching a high of 9 in June and July, emphasizing the importance of sun safety in those warmer seasons. Conversely, the winter months, including December, offer a reprieve from intense UV exposure, ensuring that residents and visitors can revel in Port Townsend's natural beauty with less concern. For more detailed information, check out the Port Townsend UV Index.
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As we transition into December in Port Townsend, the sun shines a modest 97 hours, marking a dip from the vibrant glow of previous months. This decline in sunlight is part of a clear trend observed throughout the year; starting from a bright 84 hours in January, the sunlight gradually peaks in July with an impressive 382 hours. Following this summer apex, the daylight hours begin to dwindle, falling sharply to 126 hours in November and continuing their descent into December. It’s a time when the long, dark nights draw in, contrasting sharply with the rich tapestry of warmth and energy the region experiences in the height of summer. This cyclical rhythm not only shapes the scenery but also invites residents to embrace the cozy charm of the winter season.
In Port Townsend, the likelihood of sunny weather in December is quite low, with only a 14% chance of sunshine gracing the skies. As the year progresses toward winter, there's a noticeable decline in sunny days, especially when compared to the vibrant months of spring and summer, where chances peak at 49% in April and 59% in July. As temperatures drop, the sun becomes increasingly elusive, falling from 16% in November to its December low. This trend reflects the region's typical damp and cloudy conditions during the winter months, so those hoping for a bright December should be prepared for some gray skies.
In Port Townsend, United States, December marks the return of shorter days, with just 8 hours of daylight—a reflective close to the year. This decline in sunlight is a notable shift from the lengthy summer days of up to 15 hours in June, July, and August. As we transition through the months, daylight gradually increases from the depths of winter in December, peaking in May before gradually tapering off in the fall. The cycle reveals a distinct rhythm, where the warm embrace of summer gradually gives way to autumn's early sunsets, leading into winter's quiet stillness. As December ushers in shorter days, it sets the stage for a return to those longer, sun-filled afternoons that many eagerly anticipate.
As December arrives in Port Townsend, the coastal winds begin to pick up slightly, averaging 4.0 m/s (9 mph). This marks a return to windiness after the calmer summer months, where speeds dipped to as low as 2.2 m/s (5 mph) in July. The month retains a wind speed similar to what was experienced in January, suggesting a mild yet notable breeze during winter. Notably, November saw a peak in wind activity, averaging 4.3 m/s (10 mph), making December's winds feel fresh and invigorating but not quite as blustery. Overall, this pattern reflects the transition from the gentle summer breezes to the more robust gusts of winter, perfect for those who appreciate the charm of the maritime climate.
The weather in Port Townsend 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 Port Townsend and find detailed weather information for every month.
In December, the weather features a wider range of temperatures with a minimum of -5°C (23°F) and a maximum of 13°C (55°F), resulting in an average temperature of 6°C (43°F). This month also experiences significant precipitation, totaling 187 mm (7.4 in) over 21 days, and a humidity level of 87%. Conversely, January's temperatures remain similar, with a minimum of -4°C (26°F) and the same maximum of 13°C (55°F), leading to an unchanged average of 6°C (43°F). However, January sees slightly reduced precipitation at 160 mm (6.3 in) over 17 days, and the humidity decreases slightly to 86%. For more details, check out the Port Townsend weather in January.
In December, the weather is marked by slightly higher temperatures compared to February, with average highs reaching 13°C (55°F) and lows around -5°C (23°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 187 mm (7.4 in) over 21 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 87%. In contrast, February sees similar maximum temperatures but has an average temperature drop to 5°C (41°F) with a minimum of -6°C (22°F). Precipitation is lower, totaling 157 mm (6.2 in) also over 21 days, and humidity is slightly decreased at 84%. For those interested in more specific February conditions, you can find additional details here: Port Townsend weather in February.
In December, temperatures tend to be colder, ranging from a minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a maximum of 13°C (55°F), with an average of 6°C (43°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 187 mm (7.4 in) over 21 days, and a high humidity level of 87%. In contrast, March sees a gradual warming, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and peaking at 19°C (67°F), averaging around 7°C (45°F). The precipitation in March is somewhat less, at 131 mm (5.1 in) over 18 days, with a slightly lower humidity of 85%. This shift indicates a transition from the colder, wetter conditions of December to the milder, drier weather typical of early spring. For more detailed information, check out Port Townsend weather in March.
December and April showcase contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -5°C (23°F), with an average of 6°C (43°F) and highs reaching 13°C (55°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 187 mm (7.4 in) over 21 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 87%. In contrast, April sees milder temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (37°F) and an average of 9°C (49°F), peaking at a pleasant 20°C (68°F). Precipitation decreases to 124 mm (4.9 in) over 16 days, and humidity slightly drops to 83%. For more details, check out Port Townsend weather in April.
December and May present quite different weather patterns. December experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -5°C (23°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), while May enjoys milder conditions, starting at a minimum of 5°C (42°F) and averaging 12°C (54°F). Precipitation is more prevalent in December, totaling 187 mm (7.4 in) over 21 days, compared to May’s 91 mm (3.6 in) over just 13 days. Additionally, December’s higher humidity at 87% contrasts with May’s slightly lower level of 84%, making May feel more pleasant overall. For more detailed insights on May’s weather, you can check out Port Townsend weather in May.
December and June present contrasting weather conditions in Port Townsend. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -5°C (23°F) at night to a mild 13°C (55°F) during the day, with an average of 6°C (43°F). The month is characterized by 187 mm (7.4 in) of precipitation across 21 days, resulting in a high humidity level of 87%. In stark contrast, June sees more comfortable temperatures, with nighttime lows of 8°C (47°F) and highs reaching up to 31°C (88°F), averaging around 15°C (58°F). Though June experiences less rainfall—125 mm (4.9 in) over 15 days—humidity remains relatively high at 84%. For more details on the weather in Port Townsend during June, check out Port Townsend weather in June.
December and July present strikingly contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a mild average of 6°C (43°F) and a maximum of 13°C (55°F). This month is characterized by high humidity at 87% and significant precipitation of 187 mm (7.4 in), spread over 21 days. In contrast, July offers a much warmer climate, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 11°C (52°F) and peaking at an average of 17°C (62°F) to a maximum of 25°C (77°F). The summer month sees substantially less rainfall, with only 58 mm (2.3 in) recorded over 10 days and a slightly lower humidity level at 82%. For more details on the enjoyable summer conditions, check out Port Townsend weather in July.
December and August present distinctly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures can dip as low as -5°C (23°F), with an average of 6°C (43°F) and highs reaching 13°C (55°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 187 mm (7.4 in) over 21 days, and a high humidity of 87%. In contrast, August offers a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (52°F) to an average of 17°C (63°F), peaking at 27°C (81°F). Rainfall is minimal at 51 mm (2.0 in) occurring over just 8 days, combined with lower humidity levels at 73%. For more details about the climate in August, check out Port Townsend weather in August.
In December, temperatures drop significantly, with lows reaching -5°C (23°F) and average highs around 6°C (43°F), compared to the milder September weather where the minimum temperature is 9°C (48°F) and average highs soar to 24°C (76°F). Additionally, December experiences a higher precipitation rate of 187 mm (7.4 in) across 21 days, while September sees less rain at 129 mm (5.1 in) over just 15 days. The humidity is also notably higher in December at 87%, compared to September's 74%. For more detailed insights, check out Port Townsend weather in September.
December weather is notably colder than October, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a maximum of 13°C (55°F), compared to October, which enjoys milder temperatures of 3°C (38°F) to 21°C (69°F). While December experiences higher precipitation at 187 mm (7.4 in) over 21 days, October has slightly less rainfall at 155 mm (6.1 in) over 18 days. Additionally, December's humidity is slightly higher at 87%, compared to October's 83%. This contrast creates a more wintry atmosphere in December, as opposed to the crisp autumn feel of October. For a closer look at October's climate, visit Port Townsend weather in October.
In comparing the weather of December to that of November, we can see a notable drop in temperatures, with December experiencing a minimum of -5°C (23°F) compared to November's mild 1°C (35°F). The average temperatures also decline slightly, from 8°C (47°F) in November to 6°C (43°F) in December, with maximum temperatures capping at 13°C (55°F) versus November’s maximum of 16°C (61°F). Interestingly, while both months share the same total precipitation of 187 mm (7.4 in), December has a slightly higher frequency of rainy days with precipitation recorded on 21 days compared to November's 20 days. Humidity remains comparable, with December at 87% and November at 86%. For a closer look at the November weather specifics, check out Port Townsend weather in November.
December in Port Townsend ushers in a significant shift in weather, contrasting sharply with the milder months that precede it. As temperatures dip, the city experiences a chilly embrace, marked by an increase in precipitation and a notable rise in humidity. With over two-thirds of the month often draped in rain, it's a time when the landscape transforms into a lush, vibrant canvas, inviting both residents and visitors to reflect on the beauty of winter. This blend of cooler temperatures and frequent showers sets December apart from the more temperate conditions of earlier months. To explore the nuances of weather throughout the year, visit Port Townsend Climate.