Avg High
New Orleans in December
Verdict
In New Orleans, December has a distinct winter feel. As the season moves along, temperatures are dropping quickly. You can usually expect a mild 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 - Easygoing temperatures 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 New Orleans.
Hottest (avg)
#11 / 12
Wettest (avg)
#7 / 12
Daylight Hours
#12 / 12
Windiest (avg)
#5 / 12
Highest UV
#12 / 12
Most Humid
#5 / 12
Temperature
- Daytime high
-
- Nighttime low
-
- Feels like (avg)
-
Sunshine
- Daylight
- 10.3 hours
- UV index (max)
- 5
- Typical sun hours
- 06:48 – 17:03
Rain & Snow
- Total
-
- Rainy days
- 12
- Cloud cover
- 56%
- Snowfall
-
Humidity & Wind
- Humidity (avg)
- 77%
- Wind (avg)
-
- Wind (max gusts)
-
Frequently asked questions
Is December a good time to visit New Orleans?
Typical December days in New Orleans reach highs of 17°C (63°F) with nights around 11°C (52°F). It usually feels mild by day and cool after dark. Overall, December sits in the middle of the New Orleans climate range.
What are temperatures like in December?
In December, you can usually expect highs of 17°C (63°F) and lows near 11°C (52°F). That means mild days and cool nights, so pack layers you can add or remove.
How much does it rain in December?
Rainfall in December averages 109 mm (4.3 in) across roughly 12 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 06:48 and sunset near 17:03. Days are on the shorter side, so plan activities around limited daylight.
How strong is the sun in December?
UV levels are moderate (around 5); sunscreen and sunglasses are still a good idea.
Is it windy in December?
In December, average wind speeds are around 15 km/h (9 mph), with gusts on the windiest days reaching about 55 km/h (34 mph). On the ground, it is it can feel quite windy at times, particularly when weather systems move through.