Detroit
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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.

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%

Detroit Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Detroit - and find the best time to visit.

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 records 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
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor

Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).

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.

  • Swimming
    4/10
  • Cycling
    3/10
  • Walking
    3/10
  • Camping
    1/10
  • Outdoor sports
    3/10

Detroit 3-Day Forecast

Popular in December

Where to go in December - average daytime high across popular destinations.

Bucket list

Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.