December in
Muscat marks the heart of winter with the lowest temperatures of the year. The city experiences a further drop in temperatures to a significantly cooler 27.1°C (80.8°F), making it the chilliest month. Alongside the cool conditions, December also witnesses a marginal increase in rainfall, leading to the wettest season of the year. The dwindling daylight hours combined with the palpable winter chill offers respite from the intense heat of the preceding months. As the year concludes, the weather promises a fresh start with comparable temperature trends resuming in
January.
Temperature
As December arrives, Muscat's weather displays a minor decrease in high-temperatures, transitioning from
November's tropical 30.5°C (86.9°F) to a moderately hot 27.1°C (80.8°F). Muscat witnesses a consistent average low-temperature of 18.9°C (66°F) throughout December.
Heat index
December's mean heat index is appraised at 29°C (84.2°F). With ongoing exposure and activity, one might experience weariness, and heat cramps could ensue.
Given the heat index, its values are aligned with shaded sites and gentle winds. Direct exposure to sunshine could lead to a heat index increase by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'real feel' or 'felt air temperature', is an index that combines air temperature and relative humidity to determine the human-perceived temperature equivalent. One's perception of temperature is subjective, varying based on their activity and individual heat perception, influenced by factors like wind, clothing, and metabolic variations. By being directly under the sun, it's possible for the felt temperature to increase by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are primarily vital for children. Young ones often ignore the need to take a break and drink fluids. Thirst is a late-stage symptom of dehydration - hence, maintaining hydration, particularly during extended physical activities, is crucial.
Humidity
The average relative humidity in December is 65%.
Rainfall
In December, in Muscat, the rain falls for 2 days. Throughout December, 13mm (0.51") of precipitation is accumulated. In Muscat, during the entire year, the rain falls for 10 days and collects up to 100mm (3.94") of precipitation.
Sea temperature
In Muscat, in December, the average water temperature is 25.7°C (78.3°F).
Note: Surface water temperatures between 25°C (77°F) and 29°C (84.2°F) offer outstanding conditions for any water activity, providing extreme pleasure for extended periods.
Daylight
December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 10h and 42min of daylight.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 06:31 and sunset at 17:19. On the last day of December, in Muscat, sunrise is at 06:48 and sunset at 17:30 +04.
Sunshine
December has the least sunshine of the year in Muscat, with an average of 8.6h of sunshine.
UV index
The months with the lowest UV index are January and December, with an average maximum UV index of 6. A UV Index of 6 to 7 symbolizes a high health risk from unprotected exposure to Sun's UV rays for the ordinary person.
Note: In December, an average UV index of 6 transforms into the following instructions:
Skirt overexposure. People with light complexions might get scorched in under 20 minutes. It's important to stay in the shade and limit exposure to the sun from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., when UV radiation is most intense, although remember that shade structures may not provide full sun protection. Employ a hat with a wide brim for robust protection, cutting UV exposure by half. Be on guard! The reflective nature of sand and water boosts UV exposure.