December weather forecast
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN

December brings winter back in full swing to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The snow, now robust compared to the previous month, blankets the park in a fresh white layer. It adds up to 14.3" (363mm), the second-highest contribution to the yearly snowfall, painting the Park in winter wonderland hues. The daylight hours abbreviate to their shortest, and the UV index retreads to 2 units, emphasizing the need for winter gear. Despite the chilly conditions, the unique winter beauty of the Park gathers appreciation from visitors braving the cold.

Temperature

December is characterized by a mild reduction in the average high-temperature, from a chilly 48°F (8.9°C) in November to a wintry 41°F (5°C). Great Smoky Mountains National Park experiences a mean temperature of 25°F (-3.9°C) during December nights.

Rainfall

In December, the rain falls for 10 days. Throughout December, 7.48" (190mm) of precipitation is accumulated. Throughout the year, there are 123 rainfall days, and 72.13" (1832mm) of precipitation is accumulated.

Snowfall

January through May, October through December are months with snowfall. In Great Smoky Mountains National Park, in December, snow falls for 5 days, with typically accumulated 14.29" (363mm) of snow. Throughout the year, in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, there are 27 snowfall days, and 81.5" (2070mm) of snow is accumulated.

Daylight

With an average of 9h and 48min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year.
On the first day of December in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, sunrise is at 7:25 am and sunset at 5:20 pm. On the last day of the month, sunrise is at 7:43 am and sunset at 5:31 pm EST.

Sunshine

With an average of 4h of sunshine, December has the least sunshine of the year in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

UV index

December is the month with the lowest UV index in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee, with an average maximum UV index of 2. A UV Index estimate of 2, and below, represents a low health risk from unprotected exposure to Sun's UV rays for the average person.
Note: A maximum high daily UV index of 2 during December translates into the following directions:
Extended exposure to the sun should always be avoided by children, infants, and those with sensitive skin. To protect against the Sun's most potent rays, avoid direct exposure around midday. For optimum UV protection, wear sun-resistant attire complemented with a hat and quality shades. Be alert to the fact! The reflection from snow can nearly double the UV radiation of the Sun.