Thinking about visiting Fairbanks in December? You might wonder, how cold does it get there? The answer might surprise you. Fairbanks, in the heart of Alaska, offers a winter wonderland with cold temperatures and lots of snow. It’s important to know what the weather is like.
Average highs in December are about 6°F. Lows drop to -5°F. This cold weather shapes daily life and fun activities. You’ll need to get ready for the extreme cold.
Understanding Fairbanks’ December Climate
The Fairbanks December climate is known for its cold temperatures and beautiful winter scenes. It’s part of the subarctic region, making it one of the coldest months. The average temperature is close to freezing, ideal for winter sports.
December brings about 64% cloud cover, leading to mostly overcast skies. This weather is perfect for snowmobiling, skiing, and seeing the Northern Lights. It’s key to know this to plan your activities well.
Daylight is limited in December, which changes the temperature and mood. This can make your winter visit magical, with stunning evenings under the stars. Knowing about the Fairbanks December climate helps you enjoy everything this place has to offer.
Average Fairbanks December Weather Conditions
The Average Fairbanks December weather brings a true winter feel. Daily highs start at 6°F and drop to about 3°F by the end. This shows the season’s change and the cold that Fairbanks sees.
Nightly lows also get colder. The Fairbanks December temperature begins around -5°F and goes down to -12°F. Expect the cold to be a big part of your visit, making it a good idea to dress warmly.
Snowfall is a big part of December in Fairbanks. The city gets about 5.2 inches of snow. The cold and snow make a magical winter scene that many travelers love.
| Week | Average High (°F) | Average Low (°F) | Total Snowfall (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 6 | –5 | 1.5 |
| 2 | 5 | –8 | 1.0 |
| 3 | 4 | -10 | 1.5 |
| 4 | 3 | -12 | 1.2 |
| 5 | 3 | -12 | 0.5 |
Knowing these conditions is key for anyone visiting Fairbanks in December. Whether you want to try winter sports or just enjoy the snow, understanding the Average Fairbanks December weather will help you plan your trip.
How Cold Does It Get in Fairbanks in December?
In December, the cold really hits in Fairbanks. It’s important to know about the day and night temperatures. This helps if you’re visiting during this cold month. The temperature changes a lot, making the weather interesting.
Daytime Highs and Lows
Daytime temperatures usually go from 3°F to 6°F. This makes it quite cold. At night, it can get even colder, dropping to -12°F to -5°F. This big change makes it key to be ready for outdoor fun in winter.
Temperature Extremes
December in Fairbanks brings big temperature swings. Sometimes it gets as low as -22°F or as high as 26°F. This shows that December can be quite cold. January can even get worse, testing the endurance of locals and visitors alike.
| Parameter | Daytime Temperatures (°F) | Nighttime Temperatures (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Range | 3°F to 6°F | -12°F to -5°F |
| Extremes | 26°F max | -22°F min |
Typical December Cold in Fairbanks
December in Fairbanks is known for its cold weather, but it’s not always the same every day. Some days can be quite mild, while others get very cold, especially after sunset. This means you might see a big change in temperature from day to night.
Variability in Daily Temperatures
The temperature in December can go up and down a lot. You might feel warm during the day and freezing at night. This makes it important to be ready for any weather. Sometimes, the temperature can change by as much as 20°F in just one day, showing how unpredictable the weather can be.
Comparing to Other Months
December is usually not as cold as January in Fairbanks. While January can get down to -8°F, December is a bit milder. This makes December a special time, with the holiday season and unique weather that’s different from the colder months.
| Month | Average High (°F) | Average Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| December | 6 | -10 |
| January | -5 | -15 |
| February | 1 | -12 |
This table shows the average temperatures in Fairbanks for December, January, and February. It highlights how December’s cold weather fits into the winter season.
Snowfall and Precipitation in Fairbanks
In Fairbanks, December marks the start of snowy winter. It brings an average of about 5.2 inches of snow. This snow makes the area look beautiful with its white landscape.
Average Monthly Snowfall
The average snowfall in December sets the stage for winter fun. Snowflakes fall gently, making everything look magical. Here are the stats for December snowfall:
| Year | Snowfall (inches) |
|---|---|
| 2020 | 5.0 |
| 2021 | 5.5 |
| 2022 | 5.2 |
| 2023 | 7.0 |
Rain and Snow Probability
Knowing the chance of snow is key for outdoor plans. Fairbanks has an 11% chance of getting precipitation each day in December. Most of this falls as snow, showing the area’s snowy nature. The chance of mixed weather is low, highlighting the snowy month ahead.
Fairbanks Winter Temperature Range
In winter, the temperature in Fairbanks can really drop. Nighttime temperatures often go way down, especially after dark. Knowing this can help you enjoy your time in Fairbanks, even when it’s cold.
Nighttime Temperatures
Nights can get as cold as -12°F to -5°F. This big drop means you need to plan if you’re going out at night. The cold air can feel refreshing, but you’ll need the right clothes to stay warm.
Weather Patterns
December in Fairbanks is usually very cold and steady. You can expect a consistent winter with little wind and lots of clouds. These conditions make it important to dress warmly and plan your activities with the temperature in mind.
| Temperature Range (°F) | Typical Daytime High | Typical Nighttime Low |
|---|---|---|
| -5 to -12 | 0 to -10 | -12 |
| –8 to -15 | 10 to -5 | -15 |
| –6 to -10 | 5 to –8 | -10 |
Daylight Hours in December
In Fairbanks, December brings a big drop in daylight. This creates both challenges and chances for outdoor fun. By the winter solstice on December 21, daylight is only 3 hours and 41 minutes long. This means planning is key for activities like sightseeing and outdoor adventures.
As December goes on, daylight changes in these ways:
| Date | Sunrise | Sunset | Total Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|
| December 1 | 9:50 AM | 3:57 PM | 6 hours, 7 minutes |
| December 11 | 9:52 AM | 3:55 PM | 6 hours, 3 minutes |
| December 21 | 10:00 AM | 3:41 PM | 3 hours, 41 minutes |
| December 31 | 10:06 AM | 3:56 PM | 5 hours, 50 minutes |
Plan your day around the daylight in Fairbanks to enjoy winter to the fullest. Since the sun sets early, do your outdoor activities during the daylight. This way, you can take in the beauty of Fairbanks’ snowy landscapes.
Fairbanks Frosty December Days
In December, Fairbanks gets very cold. These days show the beauty and toughness of winter. Knowing when it gets the coldest helps plan outdoor fun.
Coldest Days of the Month
Temperatures drop a lot in mid-December. On these days, it can get really, really cold. Here’s a table with the average low temperatures for the coldest days:
| Date | Average Low Temperature (°F) | Weather Condition |
|---|---|---|
| December 10 | -15°F | Clear |
| December 15 | -18°F | Partly Cloudy |
| December 20 | -14°F | Snow Showers |
| December 25 | -12°F | Cloudy |
Knowing about these cold days helps you get ready for winter. The cold makes Fairbanks a unique winter spot.
Weather Preparedness for Fairbanks’ Winter
Getting ready for Fairbanks winter means dressing right. The right clothes make outdoor fun more enjoyable. Layering is key for staying comfortable as the temperature changes.
Recommended Clothing for Cold Weather
Here are some tips for staying warm in Fairbanks:
- Thermal Underwear: This base layer keeps you warm by retaining body heat.
- Insulated Jackets: A good insulated jacket is essential for staying warm. Choose ones that are both light and warm.
- Gloves and Mittens: Get waterproof and insulated gloves to protect your hands from the cold.
- Winter Boots: The right boots are crucial. Pick ones that offer good traction and keep your feet warm and dry.
- Hats: A warm hat is key because a lot of heat can escape through your head.
With the right clothes, you’ll be set to enjoy Fairbanks winter safely and comfortably. You’ll love the beautiful winter scenes.
| Clothing Item | Importance |
|---|---|
| Thermal Underwear | Core warmth |
| Insulated Jackets | Protection from freezing temperatures |
| Gloves and Mittens | Hand warmth and dexterity |
| Winter Boots | Traction and foot protection |
| Hats | Heat retention |
Impact of Cloud Cover on Fairbanks December Weather
The weather in Fairbanks during December is shaped by the amount of cloud cover. Changes in clouds affect temperatures, visibility, and the winter experience. This section looks at how cloud cover impacts the weather in Fairbanks.
Overcast and Partly Cloudy Days
In December, Fairbanks sees overcast skies for about 65% of the month. Clouds affect sunlight and how cold it feels. Overcast days mean less sunlight, making it feel colder than partly cloudy days.
- Overcast conditions keep temperatures steady, avoiding big drops at night.
- Partly cloudy days offer short periods of sunlight, which can warm things up a bit.
- The cloud cover in Fairbanks changes the atmosphere, affecting daily life and outdoor activities.
Knowing about cloud cover in Fairbanks helps us understand what to expect in December.
Conclusion
Fairbanks gets very cold in December, with highs around 10 degrees Fahrenheit and lows often below zero. If you’re curious about the cold in Fairbanks in December, the answer is very cold. This month is known for its short days and lots of snow, making it feel like a true Alaskan winter.
Knowing about the weather in December in Fairbanks is crucial. It’s important for both locals and visitors to be prepared for the winter. With the right clothes and knowledge of the cold, you can stay safe and warm during this chilly time.
So, how cold does it get in Fairbanks in December? Remember, the cold is what makes Fairbanks special, drawing people who love a real winter. Get ready, dress warmly, and enjoy everything this beautiful Alaskan city has to offer.
