December concludes the year with the maximum rainfall - 100mm (3.94") spread across 11.5 days. A steady decline in temperature coincides with the slightly elevated humidity of 78.9%. The gradual withdrawal of daylight down to 11.4 hours signals the advent of shorter days. This reduction is compensated by consistent sunshine hours, preserving luminous days. Therefore, December closes the year on a wet note, paving the way for the drier months ahead.
Temperature
The transition into December marks the average high-temperature at a still tropical 30.1°C (86.2°F), differing minimally from
November's 31.1°C (88°F).
Curaçao's average low-temperature for the month of December records at a warm 24.8°C (76.6°F).
Heat index
The heat index for December is evaluated at a torrid 38°C (100.4°F). Incorporate additional safety actions, heat cramps and heat exhaustion are possible. Long-term activity may induce heatstroke.
The metrics for the heat index are tailored for both shady environments and light winds. Direct sunlight can cause a surge in the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'feels like' or 'apparent temperature', is a fusion of air temperature and moisture levels to demonstrate the sensation of heat. The impact of weather on an individual can be subjective, affected by the person's activity and heat perception, which can vary due to elements including wind, clothing, and metabolic differences. Direct sunlight can potentially raise the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees, so it's crucial to consider. Heat index values are essentially critical for children. In general, children are more at risk than adults because they sweat less. Furthermore, the large skin surface compared to their small bodies and the high heat production due to their actions contribute to this vulnerability.
Perspiration and the resultant sweat evaporation are the body's natural thermostat, helping regulate temperature. Under high air temperature and high humidity (high heat index) conditions, the body's ability to perspire is compromised, increasing the sensation of heat. If heat absorption exceeds the body's cooling ability, body temperature can elevate, resulting in potential thermal illnesses.
Humidity
In December, the average relative humidity is 78.9%.
Rainfall
December is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 11.5 days and accumulates 100mm (3.94") of precipitation.
Daylight
December has the shortest days of the year in Curaçao, with an average of 11h and 24min of daylight.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 06:41 and sunset at 18:09. On the last day of December, sunrise is at 06:56 and sunset at 18:22 AST.
Sunshine
December has the least sunshine of the year, with an average of 7.8h of sunshine.