As of November 30, 2025, the December weather forecast for the United States shows a colder-than-average start to winter in many regions, with several areas expecting below-normal temperatures and increased precipitation. The latest data from the National Weather Service (NWS) and NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center highlights a classic early winter setup — driven by a persistent El Niño pattern influencing the Pacific Ocean and shifting the nation’s storm track.
Here’s a complete look at what Americans can expect region by region as December begins and winter officially arrives.
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National Overview
Meteorologists report that December 2025 will open with colder air masses spreading across the northern and central United States, while the southern tier remains mild to near seasonal norms. The presence of El Niño — a warming phase in the Pacific Ocean — continues to shape storm systems, enhancing rainfall in parts of the West and South.
Overall, the month is forecast to bring:
- Below-average temperatures: Midwest, Northern Plains, and Northeast.
- Above-average precipitation: Pacific Coast, Gulf states, and parts of the Mid-Atlantic.
- Mild, drier stretches: Southwest and portions of the Southern Plains.
For much of the U.S., winter will arrive with a mix of cold snaps, snow showers, and wet conditions rather than extreme or prolonged Arctic cold.
Northeast and Mid-Atlantic
The Northeast is expected to experience its coldest start to December in several years. Cities like Boston, New York, and Philadelphia will see average highs in the upper 30s to mid-40s°F, with frequent dips below freezing overnight. The first full week of December could bring light to moderate snowfall across interior areas from western Pennsylvania to upstate New York.
The coastal Mid-Atlantic — including Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and southern New Jersey — should see a mix of chilly rain and occasional snow flurries. Precipitation totals for the month are projected to run slightly above average.
Northeast Snapshot:
| Week | Temperature Trend | Precipitation Outlook |
|---|---|---|
| Dec 1–7 | 5–10°F below normal | Rain/snow mix likely |
| Dec 8–15 | Near normal | Cold, dry pattern |
| Dec 16–31 | Slightly above normal | Coastal storms possible late month |
Meteorologists note the potential for one or two coastal storms developing near Christmas week, which could bring a classic Nor’easter pattern if conditions align.
Southeast and Gulf Coast
The Southeast will stay mostly mild through the first half of December. Cities like Atlanta, Orlando, and Houston can expect highs in the 60s and low 70s°F, with comfortable humidity and periodic showers.
As El Niño continues to influence atmospheric circulation, rainfall totals could rise later in the month across Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama, where above-average precipitation is forecast. Occasional thunderstorm activity is possible in the Gulf region during the third week of December.
Florida will see mostly dry, sunny conditions early in the month before scattered rain chances increase around mid-December. Nighttime temperatures may dip into the upper 40s°F in northern parts of the state but remain mild elsewhere.
Key Takeaways for the Southeast:
- December temperatures near or slightly above average.
- Increased rainfall for the central Gulf states after Dec. 10.
- Minimal frost risk for most of Florida and southern Georgia.
Midwest and Great Lakes
The Midwest faces one of the coldest and snowiest outlooks this December. Arctic fronts descending from Canada will bring subfreezing air into the Dakotas, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan, pushing temperatures 10–15°F below average during the first two weeks.
Chicago, Detroit, and Milwaukee will likely see several snow events between Dec. 1–20, with monthly accumulations of 8–12 inches in many areas. Lake-effect snow will intensify along the eastern Great Lakes, particularly near Buffalo and Cleveland, as colder air interacts with warmer lake waters.
Toward the end of the month, temperatures may moderate slightly, but conditions will remain seasonally cold.
Midwest Outlook:
| Temperature | Precipitation | Snowfall |
|---|---|---|
| Below normal | Above normal | Heavy north, moderate south |
Residents should prepare for icy travel conditions and occasional single-digit wind chills during early morning hours.
Southwest and Southern Plains
In contrast, much of the Southwest will remain mild and relatively dry through December. Phoenix, Tucson, and Las Vegas will experience daytime highs between 63°F and 70°F, while Los Angeles and San Diego should stay in the low 60s°F with more rain than usual later in the month.
Texas will see regional variations:
- North Texas (Dallas/Fort Worth): Cool, with highs in the 50s°F and several rainy days mid-month.
- Central and South Texas (Austin to San Antonio): Seasonal temperatures, minimal frost risk.
- West Texas: Dry and breezy conditions dominate.
El Niño patterns often deliver wetter winters to California, and this December looks consistent with that trend. Northern California, including San Francisco and Sacramento, is forecast to see several rounds of rain and mountain snow in the Sierra Nevada.
Pacific Northwest
The Pacific Northwest will enter December with wet and windy conditions typical of early winter. Persistent systems moving in from the Pacific will bring steady rainfall to Seattle, Portland, and Eugene, while higher elevations in the Cascades will see heavy snow.
Temperatures will remain near or slightly below seasonal averages, with highs in the mid-40s°F for western Washington and Oregon. Coastal areas may face gusty winds exceeding 35 mph during stronger storm cycles.
Snowpack in the Cascade Range is expected to grow rapidly during the first half of the month — a positive sign for regional water reserves heading into 2026.
Forecast Summary for the Pacific Northwest:
- Frequent rain, occasional windstorms.
- Heavy mountain snow early and mid-month.
- Temperatures slightly below average overall.
Rocky Mountains and Intermountain West
December will bring classic winter conditions to the Rockies, with colder temperatures and consistent snow. Denver, Salt Lake City, and Bozeman should experience daytime highs in the 30s°F and regular snowfall totaling 10–15 inches over the month.
In the higher elevations of Colorado and Utah, ski resorts will benefit from several strong snow systems between Dec. 5 and Dec. 20. Early-season snowpack levels are already 10% above average, setting up excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions through the holidays.
Montana and Wyoming will stay much colder, with highs often below freezing and overnight lows dipping near zero in some areas.
Alaska and Hawaii
Alaska will begin December with extreme cold in the interior, where temperatures could fall below -20°F at times. Coastal regions like Anchorage will see highs near 20°F, with snow dominating most days.
Hawaii, in contrast, will remain warm and pleasant. December temperatures will range between 78°F and 84°F, with brief trade-wind showers and moderate humidity — ideal conditions for holiday travelers.
December 2025 Weather Outlook Summary
| Region | Temperature Trend | Precipitation Trend | Notable Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northeast | Below normal | Slightly above | Snow early, coastal rain late |
| Southeast | Near normal | Above normal | Wet Gulf Coast |
| Midwest | Below normal | Above normal | Frequent snow, cold start |
| Southwest | Near normal | Near/below normal | Dry and mild |
| Pacific Northwest | Slightly below | Above normal | Rainy, mountain snow |
| Rockies | Below normal | Above normal | Heavy snow in ski areas |
The December weather forecast points to a colder, wetter start to winter for much of the nation, especially the North and Midwest, while southern regions enjoy milder, rainy conditions.
How’s the December weather shaping up in your area? Share your local observations and forecasts below!