December weather forecast
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN

December brings winter back in full swing to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The snow, now robust compared to the previous month, blankets the park in a fresh white layer. It adds up to 14.3" (363mm), the second-highest contribution to the yearly snowfall, painting the Park in winter wonderland hues. The daylight hours abbreviate to their shortest, and the UV index retreads to 2 units, emphasizing the need for winter gear. Despite the chilly conditions, the unique winter beauty of the Park gathers appreciation from visitors braving the cold.

Temperature

As November makes way for December, Great Smoky Mountains National Park's average high-temperature eases from a chilly 48°F (8.9°C) to a wintry 41°F (5°C). Great Smoky Mountains National Park, in the month of December, anticipates a consistent average low-temperature of 25°F (-3.9°C).

Rainfall

In December, the rain falls for 10 days. Throughout December, 7.48" (190mm) of precipitation is accumulated. Throughout the year, there are 123 rainfall days, and 72.13" (1832mm) of precipitation is accumulated.

Snowfall

January through May, October through December are months with snowfall in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. In Great Smoky Mountains National Park, during December, snow falls for 5 days and regularly aggregates up to 14.29" (363mm) of snow. Throughout the year, there are 27 snowfall days, and 81.5" (2070mm) of snow is accumulated.

Daylight

December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 9h and 48min of daylight.
On the first day of December, sunrise is at 7:25 am and sunset at 5:20 pm. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 7:43 am and sunset at 5:31 pm EST.

Sunshine

The month with the least sunshine is December, with an average of 4h of sunshine.

UV index

The month with the lowest UV index is December, with an average maximum UV index of 2. A UV Index value of 2, and less, symbolizes a low health risk from unsafe exposure to UV radiation for average individuals.
Note: In December, a daily UV index of 2 turns into the following recommendations:
While extended sun exposure does not significantly affect most people, those with sensitive skin, children, and infants should always be protected. Midday Sun has the strongest UV rays, making it crucial to limit exposure and find shade. Protect your eyes, ears, face, and neck from the Sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat. Mind this! Nearly twice the UV radiation from the Sun can be reflected by the snow.