December weather forecast
Iceland

December in Iceland is characterized by the depths of winter. The average temperatures can drop to a range of -3°C (26.6°F) to 2°C (35.6°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. As always, the southern and western coastal areas, including Reykjavik, maintain slightly milder conditions owing to the moderating influence of the ocean.

December experiences the shortest daylight hours of the year due to the winter solstice, which typically occurs around the 21st of the month. Around this time, sunrise happens near 11:30 am, and sunset can be as early as 3:30 pm. These extended periods of darkness offer excellent opportunities for Northern Lights viewing, given favorable weather conditions.

The month sees high levels of precipitation, averaging between 80mm (3.15") to 130mm (5.12"). Snow is a common occurrence across the country, including in the lowlands and coastal areas. Persistent snowfall transforms the landscape into a winter wonderland, covering mountains, fields, and towns with a blanket of white.

Wind conditions during December can be quite severe, with average speeds around 18km/h (11.2mph), further exacerbating the chill of the cold temperatures. These can lead to severe wind chill effects, making it feel much colder than the actual temperature, particularly in exposed areas.

Despite the challenging weather, December is a special time to visit Iceland. The country becomes a captivating winter wonderland, and the opportunity to see the Northern Lights is excellent. Winter activities such as snowmobiling, ice fishing, and visiting natural hot springs are popular during this period. Moreover, December offers a chance to experience traditional Icelandic Christmas celebrations, adding a festive spirit to the icy landscape. A trip to Iceland in December, armed with appropriate winter clothing, can provide unforgettable winter experiences and spectacular photographic opportunities.

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• Reykjavík - December »
  With an average of 4h and 24min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year in Reykjavík, Iceland. In Reykjavík, in December, snow falls for 6.3 days, with typically accumulated 61mm (2.4") of snow.
• Kópavogur - December »
  The month with the shortest days in Kópavogur is December, with an average of 4h and 24min of daylight. On the first day of December in Kópavogur sunrise is at 10:44 and sunset at 15:48.
• Akureyri - December »
  The month with the most snowfall in Akureyri is December, when snow falls for 19.2 days and typically aggregates up to 499mm (19.65") of snow. The months with the lowest UV index in Akureyri are January through March, October through December, with an average maximum UV index of 1.
• Akranes - December »
  In Akranes during December, snow falls for 6.3 days and regularly aggregates up to 61mm (2.4") of snow. In Akranes, in December, snow falls for 6.3 days, with typically accumulated 61mm (2.4") of snow.
• Selfoss - December »
  In Selfoss, during December, snow falls for 12.3 days and regularly aggregates up to 164mm (6.46") of snow. With an average of 4h and 30min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year in Selfoss.
• Ísafjörður - December »
  The advent of December in Ísafjörður brings an average high-temperature of a still cold 1.4°C (34.5°F), exhibiting minor difference from the previous month. On the first day of December in Ísafjörður, Iceland, sunrise is at 11:19 and sunset at 15:23.
• Vestmannaeyjar - December »
  The month with the shortest days in Vestmannaeyjar is December, with an average of 4h and 42min of daylight. December in Vestmannaeyjar swings back to the cold side, reverting to conditions similar to those at the start of the year.
• Grindavik - December »
  In Grindavik, during December, snow falls for 5.5 days and regularly aggregates up to 52mm (2.05") of snow. On the last day of December, in Grindavik sunrise is at 11:17 and sunset at 15:47 GMT.
• Seltjarnarnes - December »
  Concluding the year, December in Seltjarnarnes unveils winter in all its might, making the shift from November's weather more pronounced. With an average of 4h and 24min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year in Seltjarnarnes.
• Borgarnes - December »
  With an average of 4h and 12min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year in Borgarnes, Iceland. In Borgarnes, Iceland, the month of December registers the lowest temperatures, averaging 1.3°C (34.3°F) at the peak and -2.4°C (27.7°F) at the lowest.