Capping off the year in
Salto,
December defines the height of summer with its warm and humid conditions. Weather extremes mark the season, with temperatures soaring to a high of 30.2°C (86.4°F) and registering a peak UV index of 12, signaling the zenith of climatic conditions. Notably, the increased daylight, staying for as long as 14.2 hours a day, demonstrates the summer solstice's impact. Vivacity fills the December air, accompanied by longer sunny days. While the month represents the year-end festivities, it also reminds residents to ready themselves for the cooler months ahead.
Temperature
Observing a minor shift, the average high-temperature during December adjusts from
November's warm 26.9°C (80.4°F) to a hot 30.2°C (86.4°F). With a notable difference from peak temperatures, an average of 17.1°C (62.8°F) marks the nights in Salto in December.
Heat index
In December, the average heat index is computed to be a tropical 34°C (93.2°F). Ensure heightened precautions, risk of heat cramps and heat exhaustion is significant. Sustained activity could provoke heatstroke.
Records show heat index calculations are tailored for shaded regions and mild winds. Direct sunlight might cause an increase of up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees in the heat index.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'feels like' or 'felt air temperature', represents the fusion of temperature and moisture in the air to suggest how warm it feels. An individual's perception of weather can be swayed by a variety of elements including metabolic differences, pregnancy status, and their level of physical exertion. Given direct exposure to sunlight, one might experience a rise in the heat index by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are highly important for children. Children regularly disregard the necessity to rest and replenish fluids. Thirst is a late symptom of dehydration - thus, maintaining hydration, particularly during long-lasting physical activities, is essential.
Humidity
The average relative humidity in December is 64%.
Rainfall
In Salto, in December, during 5 rainfall days, 120mm (4.72") of precipitation is typically accumulated. In Salto, during the entire year, the rain falls for 60 days and collects up to 1324mm (52.13") of precipitation.
Daylight
The month with the longest days is December, with an average of 14h and 12min of daylight.
On the first day of December in Salto,
Uruguay, sunrise is at 05:39 and sunset at 19:42. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 05:50 and sunset at 19:59 -03.
Sunshine
With an average of 9.3h of sunshine, December has the most sunshine of the year.
UV index
The months with the highest UV index are
January,
February and December, with an average maximum UV index of 12. A UV Index estimate of 11, and higher, represents an ultimate health vulnerability from exposure to the Sun's UV radiation for the average person.
Note: The daily high UV index of 12 in December translates into this advice:
Implement all key precautions. Warding off sun damage is critical. During the period from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., UV radiation is highest. Try to avoid direct sunlight during these hours. Stay sun-safe with clothing that is both closely woven and worn loosely. A sunscreen boasting a minimum SPF of 30 should be generously applied and reapplied even on cloudy days, post swim or outdoor exercise.