Avg High
Charleston in December
Verdict
In Charleston, December has a distinct winter feel. As the season moves along, temperatures are dropping quickly. You can usually expect a cool month that feels variable day to day. The atmosphere is generally mild but frequently damp, typical of changeable seasons.
It suits travellers who want straightforward weather for sightseeing and day trips. Lookouts and coastal walks can feel sharper when the wind is up.
Avg Low
Rain
Daylight
10h
What to expect
- Temperature feel - Cooler air with a gentle drop-off once the sun goes down. It often feels a touch cooler in the shade.
- Showers & dry spells - Rainy conditions. Expect damp surfaces and slick paths. Wet breaks can interrupt outdoor plans.
- Sun & UV - A bright month overall. If you're out for hours, sunscreen is worth it. Shade breaks feel genuinely worthwhile.
- Exposure - A steady breeze, and umbrellas and loose items can struggle on gustier days. Sheltered streets can feel fine, but open areas feel very different.
December in context
How it compares to the rest of the year in Charleston.
Hottest (avg)
#10 / 12
Wettest (avg)
#6 / 12
Daylight Hours
#12 / 12
Windiest (avg)
#6 / 12
Highest UV
#12 / 12
Most Humid
#5 / 12
Temperature
- Daytime high
-
- Nighttime low
-
- Feels like (avg)
-
Sunshine
- Daylight
- 10.0 hours
- UV index (max)
- 4
- Typical sun hours
- 07:13 – 17:15
Rain & Snow
- Total
-
- Rainy days
- 10
- Cloud cover
- 54%
- Snowfall
-
Humidity & Wind
- Humidity (avg)
- 76%
- Wind (avg)
-
- Wind (max gusts)
-
Frequently asked questions
Is December a good time to visit Charleston?
Typical December days in Charleston reach highs of 16°C (61°F) with nights around 9°C (48°F). It usually feels cool by day and cool after dark. Overall, December sits in the middle of the Charleston climate range.
What are temperatures like in December?
Daytime temperatures in December typically peak near 16°C (61°F), while nights drop to around 9°C (48°F). Expect cool afternoons and cool evenings.
How much does it rain in December?
Rainfall in December averages 92 mm (3.6 in) across roughly 10 days. Overall it is a quite rainy time of year, so a light rain jacket and waterproof shoes are very handy.
How many hours of daylight are there in December?
You can expect about 10 hours of daylight in December. Sunrise is typically around 07:13 and sunset near 17:15. Days are on the shorter side, so plan activities around limited daylight.
How strong is the sun in December?
UV levels are moderate (around 4); sunscreen and sunglasses are still a good idea.
Is it windy in December?
In December, average wind speeds are around 14 km/h (9 mph), with gusts on the windiest days reaching about 54 km/h (34 mph). On the ground, it is it can feel quite windy at times, particularly when weather systems move through.