December weather forecast
Svalbard and Jan Mayen

December in Svalbard and Jan Mayen brings the harshest conditions of the Arctic winter, featuring the coldest temperatures of the year and the complete darkness of the Polar Night.

In Svalbard, December's average temperatures range from -12°C (10.4°F) to -8°C (17.6°F). The capital, Longyearbyen, is immersed in these freezing conditions. Wildlife activity is minimal due to the harsh climate and constant darkness. The sea is heavily covered in ice, and the snow-covered landscapes provide a stark contrast to the dark skies.

In Jan Mayen, December brings average temperatures from -2°C (28.4°F) to 0°C (32°F). The Polar Night continues, with the sun not rising above the horizon, enveloping the island, including the Norwegian military base, in continuous darkness. The limited daylight and harsh conditions make this period challenging for outdoor activities and research.

Precipitation in both Svalbard and Jan Mayen during December is considerable, falling mainly as snow due to the cold temperatures. The snow continues to blanket the landscapes, contributing to a stark and dramatic Arctic vista.

Compared to November, December brings even colder temperatures and the total darkness of the Polar Night. As these territories move into January, they remain in the depth of winter, with similar temperatures and darkness. This time of the year offers a unique experience of the Arctic's severe yet captivating beauty, with the dark skies often lit up by the magical display of the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights. However, visitors must be fully prepared for the extreme cold, heavy snowfall, strong winds, and the psychological challenge of the Polar Night.

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• Longyearbyen - December »
  The months with the shortest days are January, May through July, November and December, with an average of 0h and 0min of daylight. The months with the least sunshine are January, February, November and December, with an average of 0h of sunshine.
• Barentsburg - December »
  January, May through July, November and December, with an average of 0h and 0min of daylight, are months with the shortest days in Barentsburg. The months with the shortest days in Barentsburg are January, May through July, November and December, with an average of 0h and 0min of daylight.
• Olonkin City - December »
  June and December, with an average of 0h and 0min of daylight, are months with the shortest days in Olonkin City, Svalbard and Jan Mayen. The months with the shortest days in Olonkin City are June and December, with an average of 0h and 0min of daylight.