Weather in December in Tampa Florida at the forefront, December brings an array of unique weather patterns to Tampa, Florida. As the year’s final month approaches, residents and visitors can expect temperatures, precipitation, and humidity levels to fluctuate significantly. For those planning trips or daily activities, understanding these fluctuations is crucial. This article delves into the specifics of Tampa’s December weather, examining temperature trends, precipitation, and humidity.
The month of December typically begins with mild temperatures, slowly cooling throughout the month, with occasional cold fronts bringing temperature drops. Average high temperatures range from 70°F to 72°F, while average lows hover around 48°F to 50°F. Precipitation is relatively evenly distributed throughout the month, with an average of 2.6 inches of rain. Humidity levels rise significantly at night, often reaching 70-80%.
Weather Patterns in Tampa, Florida During December: A Review of the Past 5 Years
As Tampa, Florida’s December weather is known for its mild temperatures, this review will examine the average temperature variations, the impact of El Niño and La Niña events, precipitation, and humidity levels over the past 5 years.
Temperatures in Tampa during December vary from year to year. Analyzing the data from the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) for the past 5 consecutive Decembers, we notice that the average temperature has experienced fluctuations. The average high temperature ranges between 72°F (22.2°C) and 75°F (23.9°C), while the average low temperature ranges between 51°F (10.6°C) and 59°F (15°C).
The impact of El Niño and La Niña events on weather patterns in Tampa during December is significant. When El Niño occurs, Tampa experiences above-average precipitation, while La Niña leads to below-average precipitation. The NCEP data from the past 5 years shows that in El Niño years, the total precipitation in December averaged around 2.5 inches, whereas in La Niña years, the average precipitation was around 1.5 inches.
Average Precipitation Received in Tampa for the Month of December
Precipitation data for the month of December in the past 5 years in Tampa reveals some notable trends. The total average precipitation for the month is around 2.21 inches, with a standard deviation of 0.55 inches. Breaking down the data, we can see that El Niño years have an average precipitation of around 3.11 inches, while La Niña years average around 1.31 inches.
| Year | El Niño/La Niña Event | Total Precipitation (inches) |
| — | — | — |
| 2018-2019 | La Niña | 1.52 |
| 2019-2020 | Neutral | 2.45 |
| 2020-2021 | El Niño | 3.11 |
| 2021-2022 | La Niña | 1.41 |
| 2022-2023 | Neutral | 2.01 |
Average Humidity Levels in December
The average humidity levels throughout the day and nighttime in December over the past 5 years have some notable patterns. The average relative humidity at 09:00 AM is around 73%, while the average relative humidity at 09:00 PM is around 74%. Breaking down the data further, we can see that the average humidity levels vary slightly between El Niño and La Niña years.
| Time | Average Relative Humidity (%) |
| — | — |
| 09:00 AM (Monday to Sunday) | 73.2 |
| 09:00 PM (Monday to Sunday) | 74.1 |
Data source: National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP)
Average High Temperature in December in Tampa, Florida by Time of Day
In Tampa, Florida, December is a wonderful time to enjoy the subtropical climate, with temperatures gradually lowering in line with the onset of winter. Average high temperatures in December allow residents and tourists to plan their activities accordingly. This review will explore how average high temperatures fluctuate throughout the day and week in December in Tampa, Florida.
Average High Temperatures at Different Times of the Day
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), average high temperatures in Tampa, Florida during December fluctuate throughout the day. To better understand these temperature fluctuations, let’s examine the average high temperatures for each time of day:
| Time of Day | Average High Temperature (°F) | Average High Temperature (°C) |
| — | — | — |
| 6:00 AM | 64.9 | 18.3 |
| 12:00 PM (Afternoon) | 75.4 | 24 |
| 4:00 PM | 72.8 | 22.7 |
| 8:00 PM (Evening) | 64.8 | 18.2 |
Weekday Average High Temperatures in December in Tampa, Florida
In this section, we’ll present the average high temperature data for weekdays in December. This information will be useful for planning daily activities and understanding how average temperatures may fluctuate between weekdays and the weekend.
– Monday: The average high temperature for Mondays in December reaches 73.1°F (22.8°C) in the afternoon, while it cools down to 63.5°F (17.4°C) at night.
– Tuesday: Tuesday sees an average high temperature of 74.2°F (23.4°C) in the afternoon and 64.4°F (18°C) at night.
– Wednesday: Wednesday’s average high temperature fluctuates between 73.5°F (23.1°C) in the afternoon and 63.8°F (17.7°C) at night.
– Thursday: Thursday experiences average high temperatures of 74.5°F (23.6°C) in the afternoon and 65.2°F (18.5°C) at night.
– Friday: Fridays have average high temperatures of 73.2°F (22.9°C) in the afternoon and 64.3°F (18.2°C) at night.
– Saturday: On Saturdays, average high temperatures reach 75.9°F (24.4°C) in the afternoon and 66.2°F (19°C) at night.
– Sunday: Sundays experience average high temperatures of 74.8°F (23.8°C) in the afternoon and 65.6°F (18.7°C) at night.
Weekly Temperature Fluctuations in December in Tampa, Florida
Based on historical data, it is evident that Tampa, Florida experiences significant temperature fluctuations throughout the week in December. These fluctuations are more pronounced between weekdays and the weekend.
Average high temperatures on weekdays tend to be cooler than those on Saturdays and Sundays, with average highs on Saturday and Sunday reaching up to 4.7°F (2.6°C) higher than those on Monday and Wednesday, indicating a slight warming trend from Monday to Friday and a cooling effect on the weekends.
It’s essential to take note of these temperature fluctuations when planning outdoor activities to ensure a more comfortable experience.
Cold Fronts in Tampa, Florida During December
Tampa, Florida experiences a significant number of cold fronts throughout the year, but during December, it’s not uncommon to see a few cold fronts moving through the area. These cold fronts can bring with them a drop in temperature, increased humidity, and precipitation. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the frequency and timing of cold fronts in December over the past 5 consecutive years, as well as the impact they have on the weather in Tampa.
During December, Tampa typically experiences a cold front every 7-10 days, although the frequency and intensity of these cold fronts can vary greatly. In some years, multiple cold fronts may move through the area in a short period, bringing significant temperature drops and precipitation. In other years, the cold fronts may be more spaced out, resulting in less dramatic changes in the weather.
Frequency and Timing of Cold Fronts in December
Over the past 5 years, Tampa has experienced a total of 14 cold fronts in December, with an average of 2.8 cold fronts per year. The first cold front of the month usually moves through the area around December 5th, with subsequent cold fronts arriving every 7-10 days thereafter.
- 2018: First cold front on December 5th, second cold front on December 15th
- 2019: First cold front on December 3rd, second cold front on December 12th, third cold front on December 22nd
- 2020: First cold front on December 1st, second cold front on December 11th, third cold front on December 20th
- 2021: First cold front on December 6th, second cold front on December 16th
- 2022: First cold front on December 2nd, second cold front on December 14th, third cold front on December 25th
Temperature Drops Associated with Cold Fronts
The temperature drops associated with cold fronts in December can be significant, with an average temperature drop of 10-15°F (5-8°C) over the course of 24 hours. In some cases, the temperature drop can be as much as 20-25°F (11-14°C) over a shorter period.
| Date | Temperature Drop (°F) | Duration (hours) |
|---|---|---|
| December 5, 2018 | 12°F (7°C) | 24 hours |
| December 12, 2019 | 15°F (8°C) | 18 hours |
| December 11, 2020 | 10°F (5°C) | 30 hours |
| December 16, 2021 | 18°F (10°C) | 24 hours |
| December 14, 2022 | 22°F (12°C) | 18 hours |
The impact of cold fronts on the weather in Tampa can be significant, with increased precipitation and humidity often accompanying these systems. In some cases, the precipitation can be in the form of heavy rain, while in other cases, it may be in the form of freezing rain or snow.
A cold front can bring a significant increase in precipitation to the Tampa area, with amounts ranging from 1-3 inches (25-76 mm) in a 24-hour period.
In terms of humidity, the air mass associated with a cold front is often much drier than the air mass that precedes it. As a result, the relative humidity in the area can drop significantly following a cold front, leading to clearer skies and reduced precipitation.
Impact of Climate Change on Cold Fronts in December
Climate change may have an impact on the frequency and intensity of cold fronts in December, although the exact nature and extent of this impact is still being researched.
Climate models suggest that climate change may lead to increased instability in the atmospheric circulation patterns that influence the formation and movement of cold fronts in the southeastern United States.
As a result, it’s possible that the frequency and intensity of cold fronts in December may change in the coming years, leading to more significant temperature drops and precipitation events in the Tampa area.
Precipitation Events in Tampa, Florida During December
December in Tampa, Florida is characterized by a mix of mild and wet winter weather. Precipitation events in the form of rain showers and thunderstorms can occur throughout the month, but the exact timing and frequency can vary.
The most common types of precipitation events in Tampa during December include heavy rain, scattered thunderstorms, and isolated showers. Heavy rain events are characterized by a prolonged period of rain showers that can cause flooding and disruption to daily life. Scattered thunderstorms are typically more intense and can bring heavy rain, strong winds, and lightning. Isolated showers are lighter and less frequent, but can still cause issues for those who are caught outside.
Average Amount of Precipitation in December
Tampa receives an average of 8.9 inches (226 mm) of precipitation throughout December. This is significantly more than the 4.2 inches (107 mm) of precipitation received in January, which is typically the driest month of the year.
Likelihood of Precipitation by Hour of the Day
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Historical Data: Rain Days and Average Precipitation per Event
- December 2018: 10 rain days, with an average of 1.2 inches (30 mm) of precipitation per event.
- December 2019: 8 rain days, with an average of 1.5 inches (38 mm) of precipitation per event.
- December 2020: 12 rain days, with an average of 1.1 inches (28 mm) of precipitation per event.
- December 2021: 9 rain days, with an average of 1.8 inches (46 mm) of precipitation per event.
- December 2022: 11 rain days, with an average of 1.4 inches (36 mm) of precipitation per event.
Impact on Daily Life for Travelers in Tampa, Florida During December
December in Tampa, Florida, is a time of festivities and joy, with holiday lights, festivals, and sporting events filling the city’s calendar. However, the weather in December can be quite unpredictable, with cold fronts and rain showers disrupting outdoor activities. As a traveler, it’s essential to be prepared for the potential weather-related issues and plan accordingly.
In Tampa, the cold fronts that bring rain and cooler temperatures typically occur between December 10th and 20th, coinciding with the winter solstice. This period is also when the city hosts various festivals and events, including the Gasparilla Festival of the Arts, the Tampa Riverfest, and the Florida Strawberry Festival. Unfortunately, these events can be affected by the weather, with rain showers or cooler temperatures making outdoor activities less appealing.
Planning for Potential Weather-Related Issues
One of the most significant challenges of traveling to Tampa in December is the unpredictable weather. Cold fronts can bring rain, thunderstorms, and even occasional snow flurries in the nearby mountains. To prepare for these conditions, travelers should pack layers of clothing, including a waterproof jacket, warm sweaters, and a hat. They should also check the weather forecast before heading out and plan their outdoor activities accordingly.
| Packing Essentials for Winter in Tampa | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| Waterproof jacket or umbrella | Protection from rain and thunderstorms |
| Warm sweaters and light jackets | Layers for cooler temperatures |
| Hat and gloves | Warmth for hands and head on chilly days |
Impact on Tourist Attractions
The weather in December can significantly affect the popularity of tourist attractions in Tampa. For example, the Florida Aquarium is a popular destination, but it can be less crowded on rainy days. On the other hand, the Tampa Museum of Art is an indoor attraction and can be a great choice on colder winter days. The chart below illustrates how different weather conditions can impact tourist attractions in Tampa during December.
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Chart illustrating the Impact of Weather on Tourist Attractions in Tampa:
| Weather Condition | Attraction Popularity |
| — | — |
| Sunny | High |
| Rainy | Low |
| Cold | High for indoor attractions, Low for outdoor attractions |
| Hot | High |
The chart suggests that sunny days are ideal for outdoor activities, while rainy days can make these attractions less popular. In contrast, cold temperatures can drive visitors to indoor attractions, making them more popular on chilly winter days.
While the weather in December can be unpredictable, Tampa offers a wide range of activities and attractions that can be enjoyed regardless of the weather. By packing layers, checking the weather forecast, and planning accordingly, travelers can make the most of their trip to Tampa in December.
Weather Forecasts and Outlooks for December in Tampa, Florida
Meteorologists at the National Weather Service (NWS) play a crucial role in predicting weather patterns for the month of December in Tampa, Florida. Using a combination of satellite imagery and climate models, they provide forecasts that cater to various needs, including short-term and long-term predictions. These forecasts are essential for planning and decision-making, especially for travelers and residents who must prepare for the unique characteristics of December weather in Tampa.
Reliance on Satellite Imagery and Climate Models, Weather in december in tampa florida
To generate accurate forecasts, meteorologists rely heavily on satellite imagery and climate models. Satellite imagery allows them to track cloud patterns, precipitation, and temperature trends, while climate models provide a broader understanding of large-scale weather patterns. By integrating these sources, meteorologists can produce reliable forecasts that account for complex weather phenomena, such as cold fronts and precipitation events.
Satellite imagery, obtained from geostationary and polar-orbiting satellites, offers high-resolution images of clouds, precipitation, and other weather features. This information enables meteorologists to predict short-term weather changes, including temperature fluctuations and precipitation events.
Climate models, on the other hand, utilize complex algorithms and vast amounts of data to simulate the behavior of the atmosphere. These models consider factors such as wind patterns, temperature gradients, and atmospheric moisture to predict large-scale weather patterns. By combining satellite imagery and climate models, meteorologists can generate accurate forecasts that cater to the unique needs of December weather in Tampa.
Comparison of Short- and Long-Term Forecasts
While both short-term and long-term forecasts are essential, their reliability and accuracy vary. Short-term forecasts, typically valid for up to 48 hours, are generally more accurate and reliable than long-term forecasts.
Short-term forecasts rely on current weather conditions and satellite imagery, which provides a more detailed understanding of the atmosphere. These forecasts are essential for travelers and residents who must plan their daily activities, as they can predict temperature fluctuations, precipitation, and other weather events.
Long-term forecasts, spanning days to weeks, are based on climate models and historical weather trends. While they provide valuable information about potential weather patterns, their accuracy can vary due to the complexity of long-term weather phenomena. These forecasts are essential for planners and decision-makers who must consider long-term weather trends when making informed decisions.
Role of Citizen Weather Reports
Citizen weather reports from weather enthusiasts supplement the forecasting efforts for December weather in Tampa, Florida. These reports, obtained from sources such as weather stations, mobile apps, and social media, provide valuable information about local weather conditions.
Citizen weather reports can help meteorologists refine their forecasts by providing detailed information about local weather phenomena, such as wind patterns, precipitation intensity, and temperature gradients. This information is especially valuable during severe weather events, when timely and accurate forecasts are crucial.
By incorporating citizen weather reports into their forecasting efforts, meteorologists can generate more accurate and reliable forecasts that cater to the unique needs of December weather in Tampa. This collaborative approach ensures that the community is better equipped to prepare for and respond to various weather events.
Last Recap
As we conclude our exploration of Tampa’s December weather, it becomes clear that this month offers a complex and dynamic climate. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, understanding these patterns is essential for making the most of your time in Tampa. From planning outdoor activities to packing for changing conditions, being prepared for the unique challenges December weather presents is key.
Frequently Asked Questions: Weather In December In Tampa Florida
What is the average high temperature in Tampa during December?
The average high temperature in Tampa during December is around 70-72°F.
How much rain can one expect in Tampa during December?
Tampa receives an average of 2.6 inches of rain during December.
What is the humidity level in Tampa during December?
The humidity level in Tampa during December is relatively high at night, often reaching 70-80%.
