December weather forecastDeath Valley National Park, CA

Weather in December

Closing off the year, December in Death Valley National Park introduces a winter chill, with temperatures plummeting to their lowest levels. The tail end of the year sees temperatures drop to an annual low of 38.3°F (3.5°C). Conversely, the UV index also hits a low point, rounding off at just 2 units. The year wraps up with a slight uptick in rainfall, though it remains largely negligible. Though it's the darkest month of the year with just under 10 hours of daylight, December offers a unique, cooler perspective of the park's typically intense climate.

Temperature

December, with its average high-temperature of 65.1°F (18.4°C) and an average low-temperature of 38.3°F (3.5°C), holds the record as the coldest month.

Rainfall

In Death Valley National Park, in December, during 3 rainfall days, 0.31" (8mm) of precipitation is typically accumulated. In Death Valley National Park, during the entire year, the rain falls for 20 days and collects up to 2.36" (60mm) of precipitation.

Daylight

December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 9h and 42min of daylight.
On the first day of December, sunrise is at 6:42 am and sunset at 4:32 pm. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 7:00 am and sunset at 4:43 pm PST.

Sunshine

The month with the least sunshine is December, with an average of 6h of sunshine.

UV index

December is the month with the lowest UV index, with an average maximum UV index of 2. A UV Index estimate of 2, and below, represents a low threat to health from exposure to the Sun's UV radiation for average individuals.
Note: The daily maximum UV index of 2 in December interprets into the following advice:
Most people can stay in the Sun for up to 1 hour without burning, apart from children that always must be protected from sun exposure. During midday, the Sun's radiation is strongest, and it's advisable to reduce direct exposure. Sunglasses providing both UVA and UVB protection are non-negotiable on sunlit days.