December in
Wisconsin is unequivocally a winter month, introducing frigid temperatures and snow-covered landscapes. In the northern counties, expect temperatures to hover between 10°F (-12.2°C) and 25°F (-3.9°C). The southern parts are slightly milder, with temperatures ranging from 20°F (-6.7°C) to 35°F (1.7°C). This month is colder than
November, and it heralds the harshest season in Wisconsin.
Snow becomes a more consistent feature, particularly in the northern and western uplands where accumulation can reach significant levels. The snow cover remains longer, often laying the groundwork for winter recreational activities. Lake-effect snow is common near Lake Superior and, to a lesser extent, Lake Michigan, affecting cities like Superior and Milwaukee respectively. In December, blizzards are not uncommon, adding an extra layer of challenge to travel and daily life.
In terms of daylight, the month is one of the darkest of the year. The winter solstice occurs in December, making for the shortest day and longest night. Cloud cover is frequent, further limiting the already scarce sunlight. This contributes to a quieter, more introspective atmosphere.
Although outdoor activities like hiking and biking are largely off the table, December is the kickoff for winter sports. Skiing, snowboarding, and ice fishing gain prominence as residents and tourists adapt to the winter conditions. Snowmobile trails begin to open, weather permitting, offering another avenue for winter enjoyment.
Agricultural activities are at a minimum during this month. Farmers focus on maintenance and planning for the next growing season, while also tending to livestock in indoor settings. December in Wisconsin is a time of holiday celebrations, winter sports, and preparation for the even colder months that
January and
February will bring.
- Madison - December »
January, March, November and December are months with the least rain in Madison when the rain falls for 2 days and typically aggregates up to 0.24" (6mm) of rain. In Madison, during December, snow falls for 4.9 days and regularly aggregates up to 0.16" (4mm) of snow. - Milwaukee - December »
The months with the least rainfall in Milwaukee are February and December Rain falls for 3.5 days and accumulates 0.28" (7mm) of rain. The months with the least rainfall in Milwaukee are February and December Rain falls for 3.5 days and accumulates 0.28" (7mm) of rain. - Green Bay - December »
In Green Bay, during December, the rain falls for 6.5 days and regularly aggregates up to 1.73" (44mm) of precipitation. In Green Bay, during December, snow falls for 13.6 days and regularly aggregates up to 4.76" (121mm) of snow. - Kenosha - December »
The months with the least rainfall in Kenosha are February and December Rain falls for 7.4 days and accumulates 1.22" (31mm) of rain. February and December are months with the least rain in Kenosha when the rain falls for 7.4 days and typically aggregates up to 1.22" (31mm) of rain. - Racine - December »
The month with the least rainfall in Racine is December, when the rain falls for 7.4 days and typically collects 0.43" (11mm) of precipitation. The month with the shortest days in Racine is December, with an average of 9h and 6min of daylight. - Appleton - December »
In Appleton in December, during 11.4 snowfall days, 4.33" (110mm) of snow is typically accumulated. In Appleton, during December, snow falls for 11.4 days and regularly aggregates up to 4.33" (110mm) of snow. - Waukesha - December »
February and December are months with the least rain in Waukesha when the rain falls for 6.6 days and typically aggregates up to 0.51" (13mm) of rain. In Waukesha, during December, snow falls for 8.9 days and regularly aggregates up to 0.79" (20mm) of snow. - Eau Claire - December »
In Eau Claire, Wisconsin, in December, snow falls for 11.3 days, with typically accumulated 4.69" (119mm) of snow. In Eau Claire during December, snow falls for 11.3 days and regularly aggregates up to 4.69" (119mm) of snow. - Oshkosh - December »
In Oshkosh in December, snow falls for 10.9 days, with typically accumulated 3.11" (79mm) of snow. In Oshkosh during December, snow falls for 10.9 days and regularly aggregates up to 3.11" (79mm) of snow. - Janesville - December »
In Janesville in December, snow falls for 9.1 days, with typically accumulated 1.61" (41mm) of snow. In Janesville, in December, during 9.1 snowfall days, 1.61" (41mm) of snow is typically accumulated. - West Allis - December »
The months with the least rainfall in West Allis are February and December Rain falls for 5.9 days and accumulates 0.83" (21mm) of rain. February and December are months with the least rain in West Allis when the rain falls for 5.9 days and typically aggregates up to 0.83" (21mm) of rain. - La Crosse - December »
In La Crosse during December, snow falls for 9.5 days and regularly aggregates up to 3.66" (93mm) of snow. In La Crosse, in December, snow falls for 9.5 days, with typically accumulated 3.66" (93mm) of snow.