December weather forecast
Iceland

December in Iceland is characterized by the depths of winter. The average temperatures can drop to a range of -3°C (26.6°F) to 2°C (35.6°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. As always, the southern and western coastal areas, including Reykjavik, maintain slightly milder conditions owing to the moderating influence of the ocean.

December experiences the shortest daylight hours of the year due to the winter solstice, which typically occurs around the 21st of the month. Around this time, sunrise happens near 11:30 am, and sunset can be as early as 3:30 pm. These extended periods of darkness offer excellent opportunities for Northern Lights viewing, given favorable weather conditions.

The month sees high levels of precipitation, averaging between 80mm (3.15") to 130mm (5.12"). Snow is a common occurrence across the country, including in the lowlands and coastal areas. Persistent snowfall transforms the landscape into a winter wonderland, covering mountains, fields, and towns with a blanket of white.

Wind conditions during December can be quite severe, with average speeds around 18km/h (11.2mph), further exacerbating the chill of the cold temperatures. These can lead to severe wind chill effects, making it feel much colder than the actual temperature, particularly in exposed areas.

Despite the challenging weather, December is a special time to visit Iceland. The country becomes a captivating winter wonderland, and the opportunity to see the Northern Lights is excellent. Winter activities such as snowmobiling, ice fishing, and visiting natural hot springs are popular during this period. Moreover, December offers a chance to experience traditional Icelandic Christmas celebrations, adding a festive spirit to the icy landscape. A trip to Iceland in December, armed with appropriate winter clothing, can provide unforgettable winter experiences and spectacular photographic opportunities.

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• Reykjavík - December »
  In Reykjavík during December, the rain falls for 9.7 days and regularly aggregates up to 35mm (1.38") of precipitation. In Reykjavík in December, during 6.3 snowfall days, 61mm (2.4") of snow is typically accumulated.
• Kópavogur - December »
  With an average of 4h and 24min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year in Kópavogur. December in Kópavogur marks the onset of deep winter, with a sea temperature of 6.7°C (44.1°F).
• Akureyri - December »
  The month with the most rainfall in Akureyri is December, when the rain falls for 10 days and typically aggregates up to 115mm (4.53") of precipitation. In Akureyri during December, snow falls for 19.2 days and regularly aggregates up to 499mm (19.65") of snow.
• Akranes - December »
  In Akranes, in December, snow falls for 6.3 days, with typically accumulated 61mm (2.4") of snow. With an average of 4h and 18min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year in Akranes, Iceland.
• Selfoss - December »
  In Selfoss during December, the rain falls for 14.3 days and regularly aggregates up to 115mm (4.53") of precipitation. In Selfoss, during December, snow falls for 12.3 days and regularly aggregates up to 164mm (6.46") of snow.
• Ísafjörður - December »
  December has the shortest days of the year in Ísafjörður with an average of 3h and 6min of daylight. December has the shortest days of the year in Ísafjörður, Iceland, with an average of 3h and 6min of daylight.
• Vestmannaeyjar - December »
  In Vestmannaeyjar, during December, the rain falls for 17.7 days and regularly aggregates up to 144mm (5.67") of precipitation. December in Vestmannaeyjar swings back to the cold side, reverting to conditions similar to those at the start of the year.
• Grindavik - December »
  In Grindavik during December, snow falls for 5.5 days and regularly aggregates up to 52mm (2.05") of snow. The month with the shortest days in Grindavik is December, with an average of 4h and 30min of daylight.
• Seltjarnarnes - December »
  Concluding the year, December in Seltjarnarnes unveils winter in all its might, making the shift from November's weather more pronounced. On the first day of December in Seltjarnarnes, sunrise is at 10:47 and sunset at 15:46.
• Borgarnes - December »
  In Borgarnes, Iceland, during December, snow falls for 6.3 days and regularly aggregates up to 61mm (2.4") of snow. In Borgarnes, during December, snow falls for 6.3 days and regularly aggregates up to 61mm (2.4") of snow.