December weather forecast
Rockhampton, Australia

As the year ends, December marks the peak summer in Rockhampton. The increase in temperature levels to a maximum of 31.1°C (88°F), combined with a substantial rise in rainfall up to 64mm (2.52"), announces the arrival of the hot and humid season. Luxury of abundant daylight, however, could be undermined by high relative humidity. Despite the rise in temperatures, the city resonates with the holiday spirit. The winds are also at their strongest, blowing off some of the excess summer heat, as the year draws to a close.

Temperature

December proves to be the warmest month, recording an average peak temperature of 31.1°C (88°F) and a minimum temperature of 21.2°C (70.2°F).

Heat index

Throughout December, the heat index is appraised at a fiery hot 38°C (100.4°F). Implement more safety precautions, heat cramps and heat exhaustion may happen. Persistent activity could induce heatstroke.
Understand that the heat index values take into account shaded locations and mild winds. A direct sunlight exposure may boost the heat index by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'real feel' or 'felt air temperature', evaluates the perceived heat by adding the effect of moisture in the air. The effect is personal, with varied weather perceptions among individuals due to differences in body mass, stature, and physical activity. Direct sun rays have a notable impact on perceived temperature, which can raise the heat index by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are extremely significant for babies and toddlers. Young children are generally more endangered than adults, as they usually less sweat. And also, due to larger skin surface relative to their small bodies and higher heat production as a result of their activity.
When the body gets too warm, it perspires, leading to sweat evaporation which cools it down. An increase in relative humidity retards evaporation, subsequently reducing the body's heat removal rate and leading to a sensation of being overly warm. Elevated heat gain compared to the body's release capability poses risks of dehydration and potential overheating.

Humidity

The average relative humidity in December in Rockhampton is 71%.

Rainfall

In Rockhampton, in December, it is raining for 13.4 days, with typically 64mm (2.52") of accumulated precipitation. In Rockhampton, during the entire year, the rain falls for 132 days and collects up to 394mm (15.51") of precipitation.

Daylight

With an average of 13h and 30min of daylight, December has the longest days of the year.
On the first day of the month, sunrise is at 5:02 am and sunset at 6:31 pm. On the last day of December, sunrise is at 5:14 am and sunset at 6:47 pm AEST.

Sunshine

In Rockhampton, the average sunshine in December is 9.9h.

UV index

The months with the highest UV index in Rockhampton are January through March, September through December, with an average maximum UV index of 6. A UV Index value of 6 to 7 symbolizes a high health risk from exposure to the Sun's UV rays for average individuals.
Note: In December, an average UV index of 6 transforms into the following instructions:
Exercise precautions and adapt sun safety practices. Defence against skin and eye affliction is paramount. Between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., UV radiation is strongest. Make an effort to avoid direct sunlight during this time, remembering that shade structures may not provide full sun protection. During bright days, sunglasses that offer UVA and UVB defense are recommended.