December Weather in Fayetteville, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

December in Fayetteville, United States, showcases a striking contrast in temperatures, with highs reaching 20°C (67°F) and lows plunging to a chilling -15°C (4°F). The average temperature settles at a cool 3°C (38°F), setting the scene for a brisk winter month. Rainfall is notable, with a total precipitation of 123 mm (4.8 in) spread across 14 days, contributing to a damp humidity level of 86%. Visitors and locals alike experience a typical winter atmosphere, marked by frequent wet days and fluctuating temperatures, making this month ideal for cozy indoor activities and holiday festivities.

December Temperature in Fayetteville

In Fayetteville, United States, December brings a noticeable chill as temperatures dip in comparison to the quickly warming autumn months. The minimum temperature hovers around -15°C (4°F), while the average settles at a brisk 3°C (38°F), offering a sharp contrast to the preceding months. Despite the cold, the maximum temperature can still reach a comfortable 20°C (67°F), allowing for a few pleasantly mild days amidst the winter. This month marks the transition into deeper winter, with daily highs showing a gradual decline as the year winds down. Overall, December's temperatures reflect a poignant blend of winter's onset, where chilly nights and crisp days set the stage for the holiday season.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Fayetteville, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec333944526268727066574338
Data source: Temperature data for Fayetteville 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 Fayetteville

In Fayetteville, December wraps up the year with notable precipitation, averaging 123 mm (4.8 in) across approximately 14 days. This month experiences a modest drop from the wetter months of spring and summer, yet it maintains a consistent rainfall pattern, slightly exceeding November's totals despite a similar number of rain days. As winter sets in, this precipitation forms a crucial part of the seasonal transition, contributing to the area’s lush landscapes as it prepares for the drier months ahead. The steady rhythm of December rains highlights Fayetteville's typical climate variability while exemplifying a balanced distribution of moisture throughout the year.

December Precipitation Trends in Fayetteville

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Fayetteville, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10216412715017213712210810813383123
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Fayetteville

In Fayetteville, United States, December ushers in a modest humidity level of 86%, closely aligning with the averages experienced throughout the winter months. January and February maintain consistently high humidity at 87%, while the fall transitional period shows a slight dip in moisture levels, particularly in August and September, where humidity drops to 66% and 68%, respectively. As the year winds down, November exhibits a spike to 89%, likely influenced by colder temperatures and increased precipitation. December’s return to 86% reflects a balance between the drier summer months and the moist conditions of late autumn, making for a generally humid winter landscape that characterizes the region.

December Average Humidity in Fayetteville

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Fayetteville, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec87%87%86%84%83%83%79%66%68%78%89%86%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Fayetteville

As the year draws to a close, December in Fayetteville sees a notable dip in the UV Index, registering a moderate level of 3, which translates to a reasonable burn time of 30 minutes. This contrasts sharply with the extremes experienced during the peak summer months, where the UV Index soared to 11 in June and July, demanding immediate caution. Such fluctuations highlight a clear trend across the seasons: the UV levels are at their highest in the summer, moving through very high categories in spring and early fall, and then descending into moderate levels during the winter months. As you plan your outdoor activities, it’s essential to stay informed about UV exposure. For more details, check out the complete guide at Fayetteville UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Fayetteville for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Fayetteville 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec36810101111109753
Data source: Fayetteville 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 Fayetteville

In December, Fayetteville basks in about 158 hours of sunshine, a noticeable dip compared to the sun-drenched summer months that peak in July with a remarkable 346 hours. As the year winds down, the city transitions from its sunny highs, seen in May and June with 290 and 306 hours respectively, to the cooler, shorter days of winter. This trend reflects a gradual decrease from the vibrant sunlight of spring and summer, making December a month of cozy, cloudier days. Despite the lower total, December still offers a crisp brightness, encouraging residents to make the most of the daylight hours amidst the seasonal chill.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Fayetteville: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Fayetteville 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec120h148h231h240h290h306h346h314h284h245h208h158h
Data source: Fayetteville December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Fayetteville During December

In December, Fayetteville experiences a 38% chance of sunshine, reflecting a notable trend in seasonal weather patterns. While this percentage is higher than February and March, it lags behind the sunnier months of September and April. Interestingly, after the more favorable conditions of November, December ushers in a slight dip in sunny days, making it part of a transitional phase toward the colder winter months. With the end-of-year festivities around the corner, residents can expect an occasional sunbeam peeking through the clouds, but overall, it's a time when over half the days might be cloudier than desired.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Fayetteville

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Fayetteville 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 Fayetteville experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec31%22%46%49%34%38%50%42%53%37%48%38%
Data source: Fayetteville December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Fayetteville in December

In Fayetteville, December marks the beginning of a seasonal shift as daylight hours dip to 9 hours, mirroring the minimal daylight seen in January. This downward trend, prevalent from late autumn through winter, contrasts sharply with the longer days experienced in the spring and summer months, where sunlight reaches a peak of 14 hours in June. As the year progresses, each month gradually gains and loses light, creating a rhythmic cycle that showcases nature's ebbs and flows. By the time February rolls around, daylight extends to 10 hours, hinting at the upcoming transition into longer, brighter days that characterize the spring season. The consistent rise and fall of daylight hours not only influences daily routines but also reflects the changing seasons in this vibrant Southern city.

Average Daylight Hours in Fayetteville for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Fayetteville throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 50m10h 47m11h 58m13h 12m14h 14m14h 45m14h 28m13h 33m12h 22m11h 9m10h 5m9h 33m
Data source: Fayetteville daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Fayetteville

As December unfolds in Fayetteville, the wind picks up slightly, averaging at 3.3 m/s (7 mph), reflecting a trend of gradually increasing breeziness as the year comes to a close. This gentle gustiness marks a shift from the summer's calm, with July and August recording the lowest speeds at 2.1 m/s (5 mph) and 1.9 m/s (4 mph), respectively. As the seasons transition, wind speeds tend to stabilize around the 3 m/s mark in the fall, before rising a notch in December. This slight uptick not only brings a refreshing chill to the air but also sets the stage for the colder months ahead, inviting people to embrace the seasonal change.

Average December Wind Speed in Fayetteville

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Fayetteville, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.23.43.53.32.72.32.11.92.53.03.03.3 m/s
Data source: Fayetteville December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Fayetteville Compares to Other Months

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

In December, temperatures in Fayetteville typically range from a minimum of -15°C (4°F) to a maximum of 20°C (67°F), with an average of 3°C (38°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 123 mm (4.8 in) over 14 rainy days, and humidity levels are quite high at 86%. In contrast, January is slightly colder, with minimum temperatures dipping to -20°C (-4°F) and an average of 1°C (33°F), while still reaching a high of 20°C (68°F). Precipitation decreases slightly to 101 mm (4.0 in) over the same number of days, and humidity increases marginally to 87%. For more details, you can check out Fayetteville weather in January.

December and February both showcase a range of temperatures, but February tends to be slightly colder at its minimum, reaching -18°C (0°F) compared to December's low of -15°C (4°F). While December averages around 3°C (38°F), February sees a marginally higher average temperature of 4°C (39°F). Interestingly, February can experience higher maximum temperatures, peaking at 25°C (77°F) versus December's maximum of 20°C (67°F). Precipitation levels also differ, with February receiving more rainfall at 164 mm (6.4 in) across 17 days, compared to December's 123 mm (4.8 in) over 14 days. Additionally, humidity remains relatively high in both months, with February slightly higher at 87%. Overall, February presents a mix of winter chill and the first hints of early spring. For more details, check out Fayetteville weather in February.

In December, temperatures in Fayetteville typically range from a minimum of -15°C (4°F) to a maximum of 20°C (67°F), with an average temperature of 3°C (38°F). The month sees around 123 mm (4.8 in) of precipitation over 14 days, coupled with a high humidity level of 86%. In contrast, March brings slightly warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures still at -15°C (4°F) but average temperatures rising to 7°C (44°F) and maximums reaching 28°C (82°F). Precipitation increases marginally to 127 mm (5.0 in) over 15 days, while humidity remains consistent at 86%. For a closer look at Fayetteville's weather specifics, visit Fayetteville weather in March.

In December, the weather in Fayetteville experiences a significant chill, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -15°C (4°F) to a maximum of 20°C (67°F), accompanied by high humidity at 86%. The month sees about 123 mm (4.8 in) of precipitation over 14 days, creating a frosty atmosphere. In contrast, April brings a more temperate climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F). While April has slightly more precipitation at 150 mm (5.9 in) over 15 days, the humidity is marginally lower at 84%. This transition from the cold of December to the more vibrant spring weather of April is quite evident, as highlighted in this resource: Fayetteville weather in April.

When comparing the weather in December and May, notable differences arise in temperature and precipitation patterns. December experiences a chilling range with minimum temperatures dropping to -15°C (4°F) and averages hovering around 3°C (38°F), while May sees a much milder climate, with minimums around -1°C (30°F) and average highs reaching 17°C (62°F). Furthermore, December is marked by significant precipitation of 123 mm (4.8 in) across 14 days, as opposed to May, which receives even more rain at 172 mm (6.8 in) over 18 days. Despite the increased rainfall in May, the humidity levels remain relatively consistent, with December at 86% and May slightly lower at 83%. For a more detailed look at the pleasant weather conditions in May, you can check out Fayetteville weather in May.

The comparison between December and June weather reveals notable contrasts. In December, temperatures can plunge as low as -15°C (4°F) with an average of 3°C (38°F), while max temperatures can reach up to 20°C (67°F). In contrast, June enjoys much milder conditions, with minimum temperatures of 7°C (45°F) and an average temperature of 20°C (68°F), peaking at 32°C (89°F). Precipitation also plays a significant role; December sees 123 mm (4.8 in) over 14 days, whereas June experiences slightly higher precipitation at 137 mm (5.4 in) across 16 days. Humidity levels are fairly high in both months, at 86% in December and 83% in June. For a more detailed look, check out Fayetteville weather in June.

December and July present distinct contrasts in weather, exemplified by their temperature ranges and humidity levels. In December, temperatures can plummet as low as -15°C (4°F) with an average of 3°C (38°F), occasionally peaking at 20°C (67°F). Contrarily, July enjoys milder conditions, starting at a minimum of 11°C (52°F) and reaching an average of 22°C (72°F), with highs soaring up to 31°C (88°F). While both months receive similar precipitation, with around 123 mm (4.8 in) over 14 days, December's higher humidity at 86% creates a colder and more damp atmosphere compared to July's average humidity of 79%. For those interested in the specifics of July weather patterns, additional information can be found at Fayetteville weather in July.

When comparing December and August weather, it's clear that these months offer starkly different climatic experiences. December sees much colder temperatures, with a minimum reaching -15°C (4°F) and an average of only 3°C (38°F), while August enjoys milder conditions, with a minimum of 11°C (51°F) and an average of 21°C (71°F). Precipitation levels are somewhat similar, with December receiving 123 mm (4.8 in) over 14 days, compared to August's 108 mm (4.3 in) across 16 days. Additionally, December's humidity is notably higher at 86%, making it feel even colder, whereas August maintains a more comfortable 66% humidity. For a closer look at weather specifics during this summer month, visit Fayetteville weather in August.

When comparing the weather in December to September, it's clear that December experiences much colder temperatures, with minimums dropping to -15°C (4°F) and averaging around 3°C (38°F), while September boasts a much warmer range, with minimum temperatures of 4°C (40°F) and average highs reaching 19°C (67°F). Precipitation levels are somewhat similar, with December recording 123 mm (4.8 in) over 14 days and September slightly lower at 108 mm (4.2 in) over 10 days. Additionally, December's humidity is notably higher at 86%, compared to September’s more comfortable 68%. For more detailed information, you can check Fayetteville weather in September.

When comparing the weather in December and October, there is a notable difference in temperature and overall conditions. December sees a wider temperature range with minimums dropping to -15°C (4°F) and maximums reaching up to 20°C (67°F), resulting in an average of around 3°C (38°F). In contrast, October is significantly milder, featuring minimum temperatures of -3°C (27°F) and maximums soaring to 31°C (89°F), giving it an average of 14°C (57°F). Precipitation levels in December are slightly lower, with 123 mm (4.8 in) over 14 days compared to October's 132 mm (5.2 in) over 11 days. Additionally, December's humidity is higher at 86%, while October maintains a relatively lower humidity of 78%. For further insights on October's weather, you can refer to Fayetteville weather in October.

In comparing the weather between November and December, we observe a slight drop in average temperatures as December shows a minimum of -15°C (4°F) and an average of 3°C (38°F), compared to November's minimum of -13°C (8°F) and average of 6°C (43°F). December also experiences cooler maximum temperatures, peaking at 20°C (67°F), while November can reach up to 24°C (76°F). Additionally, December has more precipitation, accumulating 123 mm (4.8 in) over 14 days, compared to November's 83 mm (3.3 in) over 10 days. The humidity is relatively similar, with December at 86% and November at 89%. For a more detailed look at November conditions, you can check Fayetteville weather in November.

Compare Fayetteville's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Fayetteville

As December unfolds in Fayetteville, the weather takes a notable turn toward the chillier side, marking a stark contrast to the milder months that precede it. With temperatures dipping significantly and an increase in humidity hovering around 86%, residents experience not only colder conditions but also heightened precipitation, with wet days becoming more frequent. This blend of elements creates a picturesque winter scene, albeit one that requires a little extra layering. For those curious to explore how Fayetteville's climate evolves throughout the year, additional insights can be found at Fayetteville Climate.