Detroit Weather in December
During December, Detroit experiences low daytime temperatures of 4°C (39°F) and cooler nights around -3°C (27°F). As part of the winter season, expect quite a bit of snow/rainfall. Around 74 mm (2.9 in) is typical.
Rainfall in Detroit in December
Typically around 14 days of snow/rainfall are expected, averaging 74 mm (2.9 in) for the month. The rainfall pattern this month is fairly balanced. Showers tend to be moderate rather than extreme.
Temperature in Detroit in December
December in Detroit sees highs of 4°C (39°F) and lows of -3°C (27°F) overnight. December is part of the winter season. Expect a distinctly cold feel throughout the day, not just overnight. At -3°C (27°F) overnight, frost and ice are likely outside. Indoors, consider packing an extra blanket if you're unsure about the heating. With the arrival of this cold month, make sure you're dressed in warm clothing. It's important to be ready for the chill.
Sunshine in Detroit in December
The month has fewer sunny days, with around 85 hours of sunshine.December in Detroit has its charm. However, if you're seeking pleasant, dry and sunny weather, our weather planner can help you explore other destinations in the world.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United States of America, check out our Detroit's climate page.
Detroit Temperature in December
Min Temperature
-3°C (27°F)
Max Temperature
4°C (39°F)
Chance of Rain
46%
Precipitation
74 mm (2.9 in)
Rainy days
14 days
Humidity
74%
Sunshine
85 hours
Percentage Sunshine
31%
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Detroit typically stay consistent throughout December, with daily highs averaging around 4°C (39°F). Nights are very cold, with lows typically ranging from -5°C (23°F) to -1°C (30°F).
Average temperatures in December
Daily Historical Precipitation
50-year average (1976-2025)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in December
Historical weather for Detroit in December
Browse day-by-day weather records for Detroit spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Detroit historical weather extremes in December
Our historical data for Detroit spans 1976 to 2025, revealing these weather extremes.
- The warmest day in December was on December 6, 1998, with a maximum of 20°C (68°F).
Best Places in the United States of America in December
Find out more about the weather in the United States of America and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of the United States of America in December →
perfect weather
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What to Wear in Detroit in December
Dress warmly and in layers for your trip to Detroit in December. A good base layer system works wonders. Start with good thermal underwear, add something warm like a fleece sweater, then finish with a waterproof jacket on top. Wet weather is likely, so pack waterproof gear for multiple rainy days. With limited sunshine expected, sunglasses aren't a priority for packing.What To Do in Detroit in December
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United States of America, check out our Detroit's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Detroit climate overview or explore weather in the United States of America.
