Last updated: February 24, 2025
December in Rainier, United States, is characteristically chilly, with average temperatures hovering around 5°C (42°F), reaching a maximum of 13°C (56°F) during the day and plummeting to a minimum of -6°C (22°F) at night. The month sees a significant amount of precipitation, totaling 199 mm (7.8 in) over approximately 18 days, creating a notably humid atmosphere with an average humidity level of 87%. This combination of cool temperatures and frequent rain contributes to the region's winter aesthetics, offering a picturesque yet damp setting for residents and visitors alike.
In December, Rainier, United States experiences a noticeable chill as temperatures dip to a minimum of -6°C (22°F), mirroring the frigid start of winter. The average temperature hovers around 5°C (42°F), providing a stark contrast to the milder or warmer months earlier in the year. On the brighter side, daily highs can reach up to 13°C (56°F), offering fleeting moments of warmth amidst the cold. This month marks a gradual transition, as temperatures shift from the cool autumn backdrop of November, characterized by an average of 8°C (46°F), to the deeper winter freeze that will define January and February. Overall, December serves as a bridge between seasons, with its brisk air and occasional sunny spells, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the peaceful beauty of winter in Rainier.
December in Rainier, United States, marks the peak of precipitation for the year, delivering 199 mm (7.8 in) over 18 days. This significant rainfall not only outpaces November's totals but also sets the stage for a wet winter, reflecting a consistent trend seen throughout the fall months. As temperatures dip and days grow shorter, the frequency and volume of precipitation tend to rise, with December showing a compelling increase compared to the noticeably drier summer months, where rainfall drops to a mere 10 mm (0.4 in) in July. While the wet pattern persists, December stands out as the final flourish of moisture before the drier months of late winter, promising a refreshingly vibrant landscape amidst the chill.
In December, Rainier, United States, experiences a notable increase in humidity, with levels rising to 87%. This uptick is part of a broader trend observed throughout the year, where the winter months consistently showcase higher humidity. Starting from January’s 86%, levels fluctuate but remain relatively high until a dip in August, when the humidity reaches its lowest point at 73%. As the seasons transition back to winter, humidity levels rise again, with November peaking before December’s increase. This cyclical pattern highlights Rainier's characteristic dampness during the colder months, making it a uniquely humid locale as the year draws to a close.
In December, Rainier, United States, experiences a notable decline in UV exposure, with the UV Index dropping to a low level of 1. This indicates a significant shift from the preceding months, where higher UV indexes in summer months like June and July (both peaking at 9) demanded quick sun protection. With a burn time of 45 minutes, December stands out as a month where outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy extended time in the sun without immediate risk of sunburn. As the cold weather settles in, it's essential to recognize this seasonal trend. For more details on how the UV Index changes throughout the year, visit Rainier UV Index.
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December in Rainier, United States may bring cooler temperatures, but it also offers a pleasant 93 hours of sunshine. While this marks a dip from the 116 hours enjoyed in November, the sunlight during this month hints at a brighter future as the days gradually lengthen. Looking back at the year, sunshine peaks in the height of summer, with July basking in an impressive 364 hours. As the seasons shift from the bountiful rays of late spring and summer to the shorter days of winter, one can appreciate the ebb and flow of sunlight, highlighting the transition from vibrant growth to tranquil rest. Despite December's lesser hours, it serves as a reminder of nature's cyclical rhythm, setting the stage for the promising light that returns with the new year.
In Rainier, United States, the likelihood of sunny weather in December is relatively low, with only an 11% chance of sunshine. This marks a significant downturn as the year progresses to its close; after peaking in July at 62%, the trend shows a steady decline through the autumn months. Specifically, the chances drop from 36% in September to a mere 14% in November, culminating in the gloom of December. As such, residents and visitors can typically expect a rather gray start to the winter season, contrasting sharply with the more sun-kissed days that dominate the summer months.
In Rainier, United States, the daylight duration follows a predictable yet captivating cycle throughout the year. Starting with just 8 hours of daylight in both December and January, residents experience the shortest days of the year. As winter fades, daylight gradually increases, reaching a peak of 15 hours in both May and June, welcoming the vibrant energy of summer. Following this seasonal zenith, the sun begins its retreat, with daylight diminishing to 12 hours in September and continuing to shorten until it drops back to 8 hours by December. This rhythmic ebb and flow of sunlight not only marks the changing seasons but also highlights the natural beauty and diversity of life in Rainier, where each month unfolds with its unique light and atmosphere.
As December arrives in Rainier, United States, the average wind speed picks up slightly to 3.3 m/s (7 mph), reflecting a trend of increasing gusts as winter approaches. Throughout the year, winds tend to be at their gentlest in the summer months, with July recording the lowest average speed of 2.3 m/s (5 mph). As the seasons transition, however, we observe a gradual uptick in wind intensity, with December positioning itself just behind November, which holds a speed of 3.2 m/s (7 mph). This pattern suggests that as temperatures drop, the winds are more likely to invigorate the crisp winter air, creating a dynamic backdrop for the season.
The weather in Rainier 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 Rainier and find detailed weather information for every month.
In December, the weather features a chilly range with minimum temperatures dropping to -6°C (22°F) and typical highs around 13°C (56°F), accompanied by significant precipitation totaling 199 mm (7.8 in) over 18 days, and a humidity level of 87%. Conversely, January mirrors December's temperatures, with the same minimum of -6°C (22°F) and a slightly higher maximum of 14°C (57°F). Precipitation in January decreases to 185 mm (7.3 in), occurring over 17 days, and the humidity remains comparable at 86%. Overall, while both months share similar temperature ranges, January tends to be a bit drier and marginally warmer. For more details, check out Rainier weather in January.
In comparing the weather between December and February, we observe that both months have similar average temperatures, hovering around 5°C (41°F). However, December tends to be slightly colder with a minimum temperature of -6°C (22°F) compared to February's minimum of -5°C (24°F). Precipitation is more abundant in December, with 199 mm (7.8 in) over 18 days, whereas February sees a reduction to 163 mm (6.4 in) across 17 days. Additionally, December's humidity is slightly higher at 87%, compared to February's 84%. For more detailed information on February weather, you can check Rainier weather in February.
December and March showcase contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -6°C (22°F) to a mild 13°C (56°F), with an average of 5°C (42°F). The month is quite wet, receiving 199 mm (7.8 in) of precipitation over 18 days, accompanied by high humidity at 87%. In comparison, March brings milder conditions, with lows around -1°C (31°F) and highs reaching 23°C (73°F), averaging 7°C (45°F). Although it is relatively drier with 131 mm (5.2 in) of rainfall over 17 days, humidity is slightly lower at 85%. To find out more about the weather during this month, visit Rainier weather in March.
December and April present contrasting weather patterns that highlight the transition from winter to spring. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -6°C (22°F) to a mild 13°C (56°F), with an average of 5°C (42°F), accompanied by significant precipitation of 199 mm (7.8 in) over 18 days and high humidity at 87%. In contrast, April brings warmer temperatures, reaching a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and peaking at 24°C (75°F), with a more moderate average of 10°C (50°F). Precipitation in April is reduced to 116 mm (4.6 in) across 15 days, and humidity decreases slightly to 83%. For more details about the weather specifics in April, you can explore Rainier weather in April.
December and May exhibit stark contrasts in weather patterns. In December, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -6°C (22°F) with an average of 5°C (42°F), while May enjoys much milder conditions, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and maximums reaching up to 30°C (86°F). December is also much wetter, receiving 199 mm (7.8 in) of precipitation over 18 days, compared to May's more moderate 62 mm (2.5 in) over just 11 days. Additionally, humidity levels are relatively high in both months, with December at 87% and May slightly lower at 84%. For a more in-depth look at what to expect, check out Rainier weather in May.
December and June present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures typically range from a chilly -6°C (22°F) to a mild 13°C (56°F), with an average of 5°C (42°F). The month also sees significant precipitation, with about 199 mm (7.8 in) falling over 18 days, coupled with high humidity at 87%. In contrast, June experiences much warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from 7°C (45°F) to a scorching 38°C (101°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F). Rainfall is notably lower in June, totaling only 52 mm (2.1 in) across just 8 days, while the humidity is slightly reduced at 84%. This dramatic shift in weather highlights the seasonal differences, making each month unique in its climate. For more specific details, check out Rainier weather in June.
December and July present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a brisk -6°C (22°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F), with an average of 5°C (42°F). The month is notably wet, receiving 199 mm (7.8 in) of precipitation over 18 days and showcasing high humidity at 87%. In contrast, July experiences much milder weather, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a warm maximum of 33°C (91°F) and an average of 19°C (66°F). It is considerably drier during this month, with only 10 mm (0.4 in) of precipitation across 2 days and a slightly lower humidity level of 82%. For more details about weather patterns in July, check out Rainier weather in July.
December and August present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures can dip as low as -6°C (22°F), but typically average around 5°C (42°F), with a maximum of 13°C (56°F). Precipitation is significant during this month, with around 199 mm (7.8 in) falling over 18 days, and humidity remains high at 87%. In contrast, August enjoys milder temperatures, with a minimum of 10°C (50°F) and an average of 19°C (66°F), peaking at 34°C (94°F). Precipitation is scarce, averaging just 13 mm (0.5 in) over 3 days, and humidity levels are more moderate at 73%. For more specific insights on weather patterns in August, visit Rainier weather in August.
December and September present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a max of 13°C (56°F), with an average of around 5°C (42°F). This month is characterized by frequent precipitation, totaling 199 mm (7.8 in) over 18 days, and quite high humidity at 87%. Conversely, September enjoys milder temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (43°F) and a maximum of 30°C (87°F), averaging 16°C (62°F). Precipitation during this month is significantly lower at 85 mm (3.4 in) over just 10 days, coupled with lower humidity levels of 74%. For more insights into September's weather, you can check out Rainier weather in September.
When comparing the weather in October and December, it's evident that December is significantly cooler, with average temperatures ranging from -6°C (22°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F), compared to October's milder average of 1°C (34°F) to 24°C (75°F). Additionally, December experiences more precipitation, with 199 mm (7.8 in) over 18 days, whereas October sees less rain at 134 mm (5.3 in) across 13 days. Interestingly, despite the colder temperatures in December, the humidity is slightly higher at 87% compared to October's 83%. For more details on October weather, you can refer to Rainier weather in October.
When comparing December to November, it’s clear that December is colder, with average temperatures dropping from 8°C (46°F) in November to 5°C (42°F) in December. November experiences milder conditions overall, with maximum temperatures reaching 17°C (62°F), while December sees maximums only up to 13°C (56°F). Precipitation levels are slightly higher in December at 199 mm (7.8 in) over 18 days, compared to November's 182 mm (7.2 in) over 17 days, leading to a marginally wetter month. Humidity remains high in both months, with December slightly more humid at 87% compared to November's 86%. For more detailed insights into the weather patterns of November, you can check Rainier weather in November.
December at Rainier ushers in a notable shift in weather, marked by cooler temperatures and heightened humidity, creating a unique atmosphere compared to other months. With an average temperature resting around 5°C, the chill can feel quite brisk, especially as the month grapples with frequent precipitation, totaling 199 mm across 18 days. This consistent moisture contributes to the region's lush landscapes, transformed by a blanket of winter's embrace. As you prepare for your visit, understanding December's damp and chilly character will help you appreciate the beauty of Rainier during this captivating time. For more insights, explore the Rainier Climate.