Phoenix, AZ in December: A Winter Wonderland or a Chilly Escape?

December is one of the coolest months in Phoenix, Arizona, bringing a refreshing change from the scorching summer temperatures. While the winter season may not seem as appealing to some, it offer a unique experience for visitors and locals alike. In this article, we'll delve into the December weather in Phoenix, highlighting the average temperature, precipitation, and other relevant factors that will help you plan your trip or daily life.

The average high temperature in December in Phoenix is around 61°F (16°C), while the average low temperature is around 43°F (6°C). This mild winter weather makes it an ideal time to visit the city, with plenty of sunshine and warmth to enjoy the outdoors. However, it's essential to note that the temperature can drop significantly at night, so it's not uncommon for the mercury to dip into the mid-30s (1-2°C) on occasion. To better understand the December weather in Phoenix, let's break it down further.

Temperature and Sunshine

The average temperature in December is relatively mild, with an average high of 61°F (16°C). This is 10°F (5.6°C) lower than the average high temperature in October, making December one of the coolest months in Phoenix.

December is also one of the sunniest months in Phoenix, with an average of 308 sunny hours throughout the month. This translates to an average of 9.5 hours of direct sunshine per day.

High Temperature Breakdown:

According to data from the National Weather Service, the average high temperature in December in Phoenix is:

• 61°F (16°C) on December 1st
• 59°F (15°C) on December 15th
• 57°F (13.9°C) on December 25th

Precipitation and Snowfall

December is one of the wettest months in Phoenix, with the majority of the precipitation falling in the form of rain. According to data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the average precipitation in December is around 1.37 inches (34.8 mm).

While snow is not common in Phoenix, it can occur on rare occasions. Since 1949, there have been only a handful of instances where snow has fallen in Phoenix in December. In 2010, a light dusting of snow fell in the Phoenix area, with some areas receiving up to 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) of snow.

Monthly Precipitation Breakdown:

According to data from the National Weather Service, the monthly precipitation in Phoenix for December is typically:

• 1.37 inches (34.8 mm) in 1989
• 1.24 inches (31.5 mm) in 1997
• 0.97 inches (24.6 mm) in 2013

Other Weather Factors

December is also the month with the lowest relative humidity in Phoenix, averaging around 31%. This, combined with the mild temperatures, makes it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and golfing.

However, it's essential to note that the winter months in Phoenix can be quite breezy, with average wind speeds ranging from 8-12 mph (12.9-19.3 kph). This can make the temperature feel cooler, especially in the mornings and evenings.

Average Wind Speeds:

According to data from the National Weather Service, the average wind speed in Phoenix for December is typically:

• 8.4 mph (13.5 kph) on December 1st
• 9.2 mph (14.8 kph) on December 15th
• 10.5 mph (16.9 kph) on December 25th

Wildlife and Outdoor Activities

December is an excellent time to spot wildlife in Phoenix, as the cooler temperatures and absence of heat waves make it easier for animals to be active during the day. Some popular spots for wild animal spotting include the Desert Botanical Garden, Papago Park, and the Preserve at South Mountain.

With the mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine, December is also an excellent time for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and golfing. The McDowell Sonoran Preserve, for example, offers over 120 miles (193.1 km) of trails for hikers and bikers to explore.

Popular Outdoor Events:December in Phoenix: A Guide to the City's Winter Weather

Phoenix, Arizona, experiences a desert climate, with mild winters and hot summers. December is one of the coolest months in Phoenix, making it an ideal time to visit the city.

December in Phoenix typically sees average high temperatures ranging from 59°F to 61°F (15°C to 16°C), while average low temperatures vary between 43°F and 45°F (6°C and 7°C). However, it's essential to note that temperatures can drop significantly at night, sometimes even reaching the mid-30s (1-2°C).

The amount of precipitation in December is also substantial, with the average monthly total being around 1.37 inches (34.8 mm). Most of the precipitation falls in the form of rain, but it's worth noting that snow is extremely rare in Phoenix. Since 1949, there have been only a handful of instances where snow has fallen in the city in December. In 2010, a light dusting of snow occurred, with some areas receiving up to 0.5 inches (1.3 cm).

While December is one of the wettest months in Phoenix, it also offers plenty of sunshine. On average, the city receives around 308 sunny hours throughout the month, translating to 9.5 hours of direct sunshine per day.

Here's a breakdown of the average temperature and precipitation for December in Phoenix:

**Temperature Breakdown:**

* Average high temperature: 61°F (16°C)

* Average low temperature: 43°F (6°C)

* Temperature on specific dates:

+ December 1st: 61°F (16°C)

+ December 15th: 59°F (15°C)

+ December 25th: 57°F (13.9°C)

**Precipitation Breakdown:**

* Average monthly total: 1.37 inches (34.8 mm)

* Monthly precipitation on specific dates:

+ 1989: 1.37 inches (34.8 mm)

+ 1997: 1.24 inches (31.5 mm)

+ 2013: 0.97 inches (24.6 mm)

December in Phoenix is also characterized by low relative humidity, averaging around 31%. This, combined with the mild temperatures, makes it an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and golfing.

Additionally, the winter months in Phoenix can be quite breezy, with average wind speeds ranging from 8-12 mph (12.9-19.3 kph). This can make the temperature feel cooler, especially in the mornings and evenings.

**Average Wind Speeds:**

* December 1st: 8.4 mph (13.5 kph)

* December 15th: 9.2 mph (14.8 kph)

* December 25th: 10.5 mph (16.9 kph)

With its mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine, December is an excellent time to spot wildlife in Phoenix. Some popular spots for wild animal spotting include the Desert Botanical Garden, Papago Park, and the Preserve at South Mountain.

**Popular Outdoor Events:**

* McDowell Sonoran Preserve Run

* Phoenix Festival of the Arts

* Scottsdale Festival of the Arts

**Wildlife Spots:**

* Desert Botanical Garden

* Papago Park

* Preserve at South Mountain