December weather forecast
Zapotillo, Panama

December, the first month of the winter in Zapotillo, is a tropical month, with an average temperature ranging between min 21.4°C (70.5°F) and max 30.3°C (86.5°F).

Temperature

The transition into December notes an average high-temperature of a tropical 30.3°C (86.5°F), revealing a mild distinction from the 29.5°C (85.1°F) in November. December brings an average low-temperature of 21.4°C (70.5°F) to Zapotillo.

Heat index

The heat index value for December is estimated at a blisteringly hot 40°C (104°F). Heightened precautions are necessary, heat cramps and heat exhaustion are potential risks. Continuous activity could lead to heatstroke.
Be informed that the heat index values are oriented around shady conditions and gentle breezes. The heat index has the potential to rise by 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees with direct sunshine exposure.
Note: The heat index, also known as 'apparent temperature' or 'feels like', represents the fusion of temperature and moisture in the air to suggest how warm it feels. The influence of weather is personal, with a diverse population experiencing it differently due to differences in body mass, stature, and degree of activity. In the direct sunlight, the weather's impact can be amplified, possibly boosting the heat index by up to 15 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius) degrees. Heat index values are particularly relevant to children. Juveniles often do not understand the need to recuperate and rehydrate. Thirst is a delayed symptom of dehydration - hence, it is vital to maintain hydration, particularly during ongoing physical activities.
The primary way humans combat excessive warmth is by perspiring, letting sweat evaporate and cool the body. With higher relative humidity, the rate of evaporation is reduced, resulting in increased heat retention in the body compared to drier air. Accumulating heat beyond the body's cooling measures leads to rising temperatures and potential ailments.

Humidity

The average relative humidity in December is 83%.

Rainfall

In December, the rain falls for 20.6 days. Throughout December, 121mm (4.76") of precipitation is accumulated. In Zapotillo, during the entire year, the rain falls for 269.3 days and collects up to 2235mm (87.99") of precipitation.

Daylight

December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 11h and 42min of daylight.
On the first day of December, sunrise is at 06:24 and sunset at 18:06. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 06:39 and sunset at 18:19 EST.

Sunshine

In Zapotillo, the average sunshine in December is 8.8h.

UV index

The months with the lowest UV index in Zapotillo are July, August, October through December, with an average maximum UV index of 6. A UV Index reading of 6 to 7 represents a high health risk from exposure to the Sun's UV radiation for ordinary individuals.
Note: The maximum UV index of 6 during December translates into these guidelines:
Eschew overexposure. Those with light skin may suffer burns in fewer than 20 minutes. Avoid direct Sun exposure from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., a period when UV radiation is most intense, and remember that not all shade structures provide full protection. A wide-brimmed hat is a staple for defending the face, eyes, ears, and neck from the Sun.