Weather in los angeles in december sets the stage for a unique experience in the city, with temperatures cooling down gradually from the peak summer months, but still retaining a distinct warm and sunny weather pattern that characterizes Los Angeles throughout the year.
The City of Angels in winter is undoubtedly a haven for those seeking sunshine, while the festive atmosphere adds a magical touch to the usually pleasant weather. Yet, it’s worth noting that the December weather in Los Angeles remains relatively mild by global standards, providing a favorable backdrop for a blend of indoor and outdoor activities.
Overview of Los Angeles’ December Weather Patterns and Trends
Located in southern California, Los Angeles is nestled in a region characterized by moderate Mediterranean climate due to its geographical location, which has a significant bearing on the city’s December weather patterns and trends. The city’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean and its elevation above sea level contribute to its distinct climate features.
As a coastal city, Los Angeles experiences a mild oceanic climate throughout the year, with moderate temperatures, mild winters, and dry summers. December is part of the city’s winter season, which is relatively mild compared to northern regions. However, the temperature trends in December can vary, influenced by the city’s geographical layout and atmospheric conditions.
Geographical Location and Its Influence on December Weather
Los Angeles is situated in a coastal basin surrounded by mountain ranges, which plays a crucial role in shaping its weather patterns. The San Gabriel Mountains to the east and the Santa Monica Mountains to the west create a microclimate effect, often resulting in contrasting temperature variations between the mountains and the basin. December being part of the winter season, the cooler air from the Pacific Ocean brings about mild temperatures, while the mountains trap cold air, resulting in a temperature difference of up to 10°C (18°F) between the mountains and the city.
The geographical location of Los Angeles also leads to the formation of marine stratus clouds, which typically cover the city during winter months. These clouds contribute to the cooler temperatures, especially in the mornings and evenings. Additionally, the mountain ranges force the moist air from the Pacific Ocean to rise, cooling, and eventually producing precipitation, usually in the form of light rain showers or drizzle.
Typical December Temperature Ranges and Variations
The temperature in Los Angeles during December averages around 12°C (54°F) throughout the month. However, the temperature can vary, depending on the specific location within the city. For instance, areas located closer to the coast tend to be cooler, while inland areas tend to be warmer. The temperature ranges from a low of 9°C (48°F) to a high of 18°C (64°F) in December, with an average low temperature of 8°C (46°F) and an average high temperature of 17°C (63°F).
The temperature also varies across different neighborhoods within the city. For example, areas like Beverly Hills and Santa Monica tend to be cooler, while areas like Downtown Los Angeles and Koreatown tend to be warmer. This temperature difference can be attributed to the urban heat island effect, where the built environment absorbs and retains heat, resulting in warmer temperatures in urban areas compared to rural areas.
- The coastal neighborhoods, such as Santa Monica and Venice, tend to be the coolest, with an average low temperature of around 8°C (46°F) and an average high temperature of 17°C (63°F).
- The inland neighborhoods, such as Koreatown and Downtown Los Angeles, tend to be the warmest, with an average low temperature of around 9°C (48°F) and an average high temperature of 19°C (66°F).
- The city’s mountainous neighborhoods, such as Pasadena and Beverly Hills, experience the coolest temperatures, with an average low temperature of around 7°C (45°F) and an average high temperature of 16°C (61°F).
Effects of Elevation and Proximity to the Ocean on December Weather
Los Angeles, known for its diverse topography, experiences temperature fluctuations that are influenced by elevation and proximity to the ocean. In December, the city’s geographical variations play a significant role in shaping its weather patterns.
As elevation increases, temperatures tend to decrease. The surrounding mountains and hills of Los Angeles, such as the Santa Monica Mountains and the San Gabriel Mountains, demonstrate this phenomenon. For instance, the mountainous regions receive more precipitation than lower-lying areas due to the orographic effect.
Temperature Fluctuations in Surrounding Mountains and Hills
The elevation differences in these mountain ranges can cause significant temperature variations. For example:
- Mount Wilson, located in the San Gabriel Mountains, has an average temperature of around 45°F (7°C) in December, compared to the warmer Santa Monica Mountains, which average around 60°F (15°C) during the same period.
- The cooler temperatures in Mount Wilson are due to its higher elevation of approximately 5,710 feet (1,743 meters) above sea level.
- The San Gabriel Mountains, which have an average elevation of around 3,000 feet (914 meters), receive more precipitation than the Santa Monica Mountains, further accentuating the temperature differences.
The proximity to the ocean also plays a crucial role in shaping Los Angeles’ weather patterns. Coastal areas, such as Santa Monica and Malibu, experience milder temperatures and more stable weather compared to inland regions. In contrast, inland areas, like downtown Los Angeles, experience greater temperature fluctuations due to their distance from the moderating influence of the Pacific Ocean.
December Weather Patterns of Coastal, Inland, and Mountain Areas
A comparison of the December weather patterns in coastal, inland, and mountain areas of Los Angeles illustrates the significance of these factors:
| Region | Average High Temperature (°F) | Average Low Temperature (°F) | Precipitation (in) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coastal (Santa Monica) | 60 | 48 | 3.5 |
| Inland (Downtown LA) | 58 | 46 | 2.2 |
| Mountain (Mount Wilson) | 45 | 35 | 6.5 |
These differences in temperature and precipitation highlight the significance of elevation and proximity to the ocean in shaping Los Angeles’ December weather patterns.
Sunshine and Humidity Levels in December
December in Los Angeles is characterized by a mix of sunny and cloudy days, with the amount of sunshine varying throughout the month. As the winter solstice approaches, the days are slowly getting shorter, with the sun rising later and setting earlier each day. This results in a relatively moderate amount of direct sunlight during the winter months.
December is typically a cool and wet month in Los Angeles, with a significant decrease in the amount of sunshine compared to the summer months. On average, Los Angeles receives about 281 sunshine hours in December, which represents around 74% of the possible sunshine hours. This means that there are still plenty of sunny days to enjoy, but the clouds start to roll in more frequently.
The amount of sunshine in December can vary significantly from one week to another, with some weeks experiencing more overcast skies than others. The cloud cover is typically highest in the mornings and late afternights, with the sunniest periods usually occurring in the late mornings and early afternoons.
### Cloud Cover Trends in December
Los Angeles experiences a relatively high level of cloud cover in December, with an average of around 55% cloud cover. This is significantly higher than the summer months, when cloud cover averages around 20%. The type of clouds seen in December are typically stratocumulus and altostratus clouds, which can bring a significant amount of precipitation to the area.
### Humidity Levels in December
The relative humidity in Los Angeles is typically at its highest in December, with an average relative humidity of around 73%. This can lead to a feeling of dampness and chill, especially in the mornings and late afternoons. The proximity to the ocean plays a significant role in the high humidity levels in December, as the cool ocean air collides with the warmer air over the land, resulting in a significant amount of moisture being released into the air.
### Factors Affecting Humidity Levels
Several factors contribute to the high humidity levels in December. The proximity to the ocean is a major factor, as the cool ocean air brings a significant amount of moisture into the area. Additionally, the temperature difference between the land and the ocean, known as the temperature gradient, plays a significant role in releasing moisture into the air. The resulting humid air can lead to a range of weather phenomena, including fog, mist, and heavy precipitation.
Weather-Related Activities and Events in December
Los Angeles transforms into a winter wonderland during December, offering a perfect blend of festive atmosphere and pleasant weather conditions. The mild temperatures and reduced humidity make it an ideal time to engage in various outdoor activities, from hiking and surfing to ice skating, while also enjoying the city’s vibrant festivals and events.
Top 10 Winter Festivals and Weather-Related Activities in Los Angeles during December
December in Los Angeles is a treasure trove of exciting activities and festivals. Here’s a list of the top 10 winter festivals and weather-related activities not to be missed:
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| Winter Wonderland | 12-23 Dec | Universal Studios Hollywood | An immersive holiday experience featuring snowfall, ice skating, and festive decorations. |
| The Original Farmers Market Christmas Decorations | Throughout Dec | Fairfax Village | A picturesque display of holiday lights, decorations, and festive activities. |
| Los Angeles Zoo Lights | 25 Nov – 30 Dec | Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens | A mesmerizing display of animal-themed lights and decorations. |
| Santa Monica Pier Reindeer Romp | 1 Dec | Santa Monica Pier | A holiday-themed event featuring reindeer, snowfall, and festive activities for the whole family. |
| Downtown LA Ice Rink | 1 Dec – 18 Feb | Pershing Square | An outdoor ice skating rink located in the heart of Downtown LA. |
| Los Angeles Botanical Garden’s Holiday Lights | Throughout Dec | Descanso Gardens | A magical display of festive lights and decorations amidst the stunning botanical garden. |
| The Grove Ice Skating Rink | Throughout Dec | The Grove | A festive ice skating rink surrounded by holiday decorations and shopping. |
| Ice Skating at Pershing Square | Throughout Dec | Pershing Square | An outdoor ice skating rink located in the heart of Downtown LA. |
| Hollywood Christmas Parade | 2 Dec | Hollywood Boulevard | A classic holiday parade featuring festive floats, marching bands, and celebrity guests. |
| LA County Museum of Art (LACMA) Lightscape | 10 Nov – 26 Dec | LA County Museum of Art | A mesmerizing display of light and sound installations amidst the stunning museum architecture. |
Comparing the Appeal of Outdoor Activities
While Los Angeles’ December weather offers perfect conditions for outdoor activities like hiking, surfing, and ice skating, each activity has its unique appeal. Hiking allows visitors to explore the city’s scenic trails, taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Surfing provides a thrilling experience, catching waves at famous spots like Malibu Beach or Santa Monica Pier. On the other hand, ice skating at Downtown LA’s or The Grove’s rink offers a fun and festive experience, surrounded by holiday decorations and twinkling lights.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find that hiking and surfing allow for a more immersive connection with nature, while ice skating provides a more structured and controlled environment. Surfers will appreciate the chance to catch waves during the winter months when the ocean conditions are typically calmer. Ice skaters, on the other hand, will enjoy the festive atmosphere and the thrill of gliding across the ice.
For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, hiking and surfing offer a chance to connect with nature and challenge oneself physically, while ice skating provides a fun and social atmosphere. Regardless of the choice, December in Los Angeles offers an array of unique experiences that cater to diverse preferences and interests.
Los Angeles in December is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and holiday-goers alike, providing a perfect blend of festive atmosphere, pleasant weather conditions, and exciting activities and events. Whether it’s hiking, surfing, ice skating, or attending the top 10 winter festivals and events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the City of Angels during the winter months.
Preparing for December Weather in Los Angeles
As the winter months approach, it’s essential to be prepared for the typical December weather conditions in Los Angeles. With average high temperatures ranging from 64°F to 68°F (18°C to 20°C) and occasional rain showers, it’s crucial to pack accordingly and stay informed about the weather forecast.
Essential Items to Prepare, Weather in los angeles in december
To ensure a comfortable and safe stay in Los Angeles during December, prepare the following essential items:
- Layers of clothing: Pack lightweight and breathable clothing for warmer days, as well as insulated layers for chilly evenings.
- Rain gear: Bring a waterproof jacket or umbrella to protect yourself from rain showers.
- Warm accessories: Include a scarf, hat, and gloves to keep your head, neck, and hands warm.
- Comfortable shoes: Wear comfortable shoes with good grip to handle potential rain and slippery walkways.
- Ackers and chargers: Pack extra batteries for your devices, as well as power banks and chargers to keep your devices charged.
- First-aid kit: Bring a first-aid kit with essentials like pain relievers, band-aids, and antacids.
- Sun protection: Even on cloudy days, the sun’s UV rays can be strong, so don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Medications: If you take any prescription medications, be sure to bring them along, as well as a copy of your prescription.
Importance of Staying Informed
Staying informed about weather forecasts and potential storms or extreme weather events is crucial to ensuring your safety and comfort during your stay in Los Angeles. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) provides reliable and accurate weather forecasts, which can be found on their website or through their mobile app.
According to the National Weather Service, the average rainfall in Los Angeles during December is 2.6 inches (6.6 cm), with most rain showers occurring in the evening or overnight hours.
To stay informed, regularly:
- Check the weather forecast online or through mobile apps.
- Sign up for emergency alerts from your local authorities or weather service.
- Stay tuned to local news channels for updates on weather conditions and any potential storm warnings.
- Keep a weather radio or NOAA Weather Radio handy in case of power outages.
By being prepared and staying informed, you can minimize disruptions and ensure a safe and enjoyable stay in Los Angeles during the month of December.
Concluding Remarks: Weather In Los Angeles In December
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In conclusion, the experience of being in Los Angeles during December presents a delicate mix of warm weather, mild temperatures, and a blend of festive activities, creating an enchanting narrative that unfolds for those braving this season in the City of Angels.
Whether you prefer to unwind in the cozy confines of an air-conditioned room or step out to soak up the sunshine, the weather in Los Angeles in December promises an engaging experience, perfect for those seeking a pleasant respite during the winter months.
Commonly Asked Questions
What is the average temperature in Los Angeles in December?
The average temperature in Los Angeles during December is around 17°C (63°F), with mild temperatures ranging from lows of 10°C (50°F) to highs of 25°C (77°F).
Are there any festivals or events that celebrate the weather in Los Angeles During December?
Yes, several festivals and events are held in Los Angeles throughout December to celebrate the weather, including winter festivals, outdoor concerts, and holiday markets.
Can I still engage in outdoor activities like surfing in Los Angeles During December?
Yes, the mild temperatures in Los Angeles in December make it an ideal time for various outdoor activities, including surfing, with suitable wave conditions throughout the month.
What should I prepare for in terms of clothing during December in Los Angeles?
For visitors to Los Angeles in December, it’s essential to pack layers of breathable clothing to stay comfortable, as the temperatures can fluctuate between mild and cooler mornings and evenings.
