December in New Orleans, Louisiana, typically experiences mild, often damp conditions. Average high temperatures hover in the low 60s Fahrenheit (mid-teens Celsius), while average lows dip into the mid-40s Fahrenheit (around 7 degrees Celsius). Rainfall is common, though snowfall is rare. This period falls within the city’s subtropical climate zone, influenced by its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico.
Understanding typical December conditions in New Orleans is essential for visitors and residents alike. Packing appropriately for variable temperatures and potential rain is key. This knowledge allows individuals to plan outdoor activities effectively and appreciate the unique charm of the city during this time of year. Historically, December’s moderate weather has contributed to New Orleans’ vibrant cultural scene, facilitating outdoor festivals and gatherings.
Further exploration of this topic will delve into specific historical weather data, average precipitation levels, record highs and lows, and the impact of these conditions on local tourism and everyday life.
1. Mild Temperatures
Mild temperatures characterize December weather in New Orleans, Louisiana. Averaging in the low 60s Fahrenheit (mid-teens Celsius) for highs and mid-40s Fahrenheit (around 7 degrees Celsius) for lows, this period offers a respite from more extreme temperatures experienced in other parts of the United States. This mildness results from the city’s subtropical climate and its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, which moderates temperature fluctuations. The influence of warm, moist air masses from the Gulf prevents significant cold snaps, creating a generally comfortable environment.
This moderate temperature range significantly impacts local activities and the overall experience of visiting or residing in New Orleans during December. Outdoor events, such as festivals and holiday celebrations, remain viable options. The comfortable weather encourages walking and exploring the city’s unique architecture and historical sites. Businesses, particularly those in the hospitality and tourism sectors, benefit from the pleasant conditions that draw visitors and encourage outdoor dining and entertainment. For instance, the Celebration in the Oaks, a popular holiday lights festival, thrives in December’s mild weather.
In summary, the mild temperatures typical of December in New Orleans create a distinct atmospheric character. This mildness facilitates outdoor activities, supports the local economy, and contributes to the city’s vibrant cultural scene during the holiday season. Understanding this aspect of New Orleans’ December weather provides valuable context for appreciating the city’s unique appeal.
2. Occasional Rain
Rainfall is a characteristic feature of December weather in New Orleans, Louisiana. While not constant, periods of rain occur frequently throughout the month, contributing to the overall dampness often associated with this period. This precipitation results from the city’s location within a subtropical climate zone and its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, a significant source of atmospheric moisture. Weather systems moving across the Gulf often bring rain to the region, particularly during the cooler months.
The presence of occasional rain influences various aspects of life in New Orleans during December. Outdoor activities may require adjustments or postponements, and visitors are advised to pack accordingly. Umbrellas and rain-resistant attire become essential. The rain also contributes to the lushness of the city’s vegetation, enhancing the visual appeal of parks and gardens. While potentially disruptive, the rain plays a role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region, replenishing water sources and supporting the local flora.
Understanding the likelihood of rain during December in New Orleans allows for effective planning and adaptation. Checking weather forecasts before embarking on outdoor activities is advisable. The impact of occasional rain extends beyond personal convenience, affecting local businesses, tourism, and the overall rhythm of life in the city. Recognizing this aspect of New Orleans’ December weather provides valuable insights into the city’s environment and its seasonal characteristics.
3. Humidity
Humidity is a significant component of December weather in New Orleans, Louisiana. The city’s subtropical climate, influenced by the proximity of the Gulf of Mexico, results in consistently elevated moisture levels in the air. Understanding humidity’s role is crucial for comprehending the overall weather experience in New Orleans during December.
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Perceived Temperature
High humidity can make the air feel warmer or cooler than the actual temperature. In December, when temperatures are mild, high humidity can make the air feel cooler, especially in the evenings. This phenomenon occurs because moist air conducts heat away from the body more efficiently than dry air. Therefore, perceived temperature, rather than the thermometer reading, often dictates clothing choices and comfort levels.
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Comfort Levels
Elevated humidity levels can contribute to discomfort. Moist air can feel sticky and heavy, making physical exertion more challenging. This is particularly relevant for visitors unaccustomed to humid environments. Appropriate clothing choices, such as breathable fabrics, can mitigate some discomfort. Staying hydrated is also essential in humid conditions.
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Impact on Hair and Skin
High humidity can affect hair and skin. Hair can become frizzy or limp, and skin can feel more oily or prone to breakouts. Individuals with sensitive skin may experience increased irritation. Using appropriate hair and skin care products designed for humid climates can help manage these effects.
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Mold and Mildew Growth
The combination of warmth and humidity in December creates conditions conducive to mold and mildew growth. This can be a concern for residents, particularly in older buildings or poorly ventilated spaces. Proper ventilation and humidity control measures are essential to prevent mold and mildew issues, which can pose health risks and damage property.
These facets of humidity contribute significantly to the overall weather experience in New Orleans during December. While the mild temperatures are generally pleasant, the added element of humidity shapes perceptions of comfort and requires adjustments in clothing, personal care, and even building maintenance. Recognizing the role of humidity provides a more complete understanding of December weather in New Orleans.
4. Rare Snowfall
Snowfall in New Orleans during December is an infrequent occurrence, yet its rarity contributes significantly to the city’s unique climatological profile. While geographically located in a subtropical zone, New Orleans occasionally experiences conditions conducive to snow, typically brief and light. Examining the factors surrounding these rare events provides further insight into the complexities of “weather New Orleans LA December.”
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Historical Occurrences
Documented instances of December snowfall in New Orleans, while infrequent, provide valuable data points for understanding the city’s weather patterns. These events, often separated by decades, demonstrate the variability of winter weather and the potential for unusual conditions to arise. Historical records allow meteorologists to analyze trends and refine predictive models. These records also serve as a reminder of the dynamic nature of weather systems and the potential for deviations from typical patterns.
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Conditions for Snow
Specific atmospheric conditions must align for snow to occur in New Orleans. A combination of freezing temperatures in the upper atmosphere and sufficient moisture is necessary. The Gulf of Mexico’s moderating influence typically prevents sustained freezing temperatures at ground level. However, occasional intrusions of cold Arctic air masses can create the necessary conditions for snow formation. The interaction between these air masses and the warm, moist air from the Gulf can lead to brief periods of snowfall.
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Impact and Disruption
Even light snowfall can disrupt typical routines in New Orleans. The city’s infrastructure is not equipped for significant snow accumulation, making road travel hazardous and potentially disrupting public transportation. Schools and businesses might experience closures or delays. The novelty of snow in a typically warm climate can also lead to increased outdoor activity, potentially exacerbating traffic congestion or creating safety concerns.
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Cultural Significance
The rarity of snowfall imbues these events with a particular cultural significance in New Orleans. Snow days become memorable occasions, capturing the public’s imagination and providing a temporary departure from the usual December weather. Local media often highlight these events, emphasizing their unusual nature and the community’s response. Photographs and videos of snowfall in New Orleans become treasured records of these rare occurrences.
Although statistically improbable, the possibility of snowfall remains an intriguing aspect of December weather in New Orleans. Understanding the factors that contribute to these events, their potential impact, and their cultural significance provides a richer appreciation for the city’s unique climate and its occasional departure from typical subtropical weather patterns.
5. Average highs
Average high temperatures in the low 60s Fahrenheit (mid-teens Celsius) define a core characteristic of December weather in New Orleans, Louisiana. This moderate temperature range results from the interplay of several factors, primarily the city’s subtropical latitude and the moderating influence of the Gulf of Mexico. Warm, moist air masses originating over the Gulf prevent significant cold air intrusions, maintaining relatively mild conditions throughout the month. This contrasts sharply with more northerly locations experiencing significantly colder temperatures in December.
The prevalence of low 60sF average high temperatures shapes numerous aspects of life in New Orleans during December. Outdoor activities remain viable, contributing to the city’s vibrant cultural scene. Festivals, holiday markets, and other outdoor gatherings benefit from comfortable temperatures, encouraging both local participation and tourism. The hospitality industry, a significant component of the New Orleans economy, also benefits from the pleasant weather, supporting outdoor dining and entertainment options. For example, the Audubon Zoo’s annual Celebration in the Oaks, a popular holiday light display, becomes a major attraction due to the comfortable evening temperatures. Agricultural practices and local flora are also influenced; while some plants might experience dormancy, others continue to thrive in the mild conditions.
Understanding the significance of low 60sF average high temperatures provides valuable context for experiencing December in New Orleans. Practical implications include appropriate clothing choices, the feasibility of outdoor activities, and the potential impact on local businesses and events. This temperature range contributes significantly to the city’s distinct character during the holiday season, offering a mild respite from more extreme winter conditions experienced elsewhere. Recognizing this key aspect of December weather in New Orleans allows for more informed planning and a deeper appreciation of the city’s unique climate.
6. Average lows
Average low temperatures in the mid-40sF (around 7C) constitute a critical component of December weather in New Orleans, Louisiana. These overnight lows contribute significantly to the overall perception and experience of December’s climate, influencing everything from clothing choices to energy consumption. Understanding their implications provides a more complete picture of “weather New Orleans LA December.”
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Diurnal Temperature Variation
Mid-40sF average lows create a noticeable diurnal temperature variation, meaning a significant difference between daytime highs and nighttime lows. This fluctuation requires adaptive clothing strategies, with layering becoming essential for comfort throughout the day. While daytime temperatures might permit short sleeves, evenings necessitate jackets or sweaters. This variation distinguishes New Orleans’ December weather from consistently warm climates and influences packing considerations for visitors.
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Impact on Plant Life
While relatively mild compared to more northerly latitudes, mid-40sF lows can still influence plant life. Some sensitive tropical plants might require protection from these cooler temperatures. Residents and botanical gardens often take precautions to shield vulnerable vegetation from potential cold stress. This underscores the importance of considering average low temperatures when landscaping or maintaining outdoor plants in New Orleans.
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Energy Consumption
Mid-40sF overnight lows necessitate heating in many homes and businesses. This contributes to increased energy consumption during December compared to warmer months. Understanding typical low temperatures allows residents to anticipate energy costs and implement energy-saving measures. The balance between maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures and managing energy usage becomes a practical consideration.
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Outdoor Comfort
Evening and early morning outdoor activities in December require consideration of mid-40sF temperatures. While not bitterly cold, these temperatures can feel chilly, particularly with added humidity or wind. Appropriate clothing choices are essential for comfortable participation in outdoor events or evening strolls. This influences decisions about attending outdoor holiday celebrations or engaging in evening recreational activities.
In summary, average low temperatures in the mid-40sF play a defining role in shaping December weather in New Orleans. Their influence extends beyond simple numerical values, impacting daily routines, energy consumption, plant life, and the overall experience of the city’s climate. Understanding this aspect of “weather New Orleans LA December” provides valuable context for residents and visitors alike.
7. Subtropical climate
New Orleans’ classification as having a humid subtropical climate directly influences its December weather patterns. This classification, determined by specific temperature and precipitation criteria, explains the mild, often wet conditions prevalent during this month. Understanding the characteristics of a humid subtropical climate provides a crucial framework for interpreting “weather New Orleans LA December.”
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Mild Winters
Humid subtropical climates experience mild winters, a key characteristic reflected in New Orleans’ December weather. Average temperatures rarely drop below freezing, distinguishing the city from locations with continental or temperate climates. This mildness allows for continued outdoor activity throughout December, contributing to the city’s vibrant cultural scene during the holiday season. For instance, outdoor festivals and markets remain viable options, unlike in colder climates where such events would be impractical.
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Significant Rainfall
Rainfall is a hallmark of humid subtropical climates, and New Orleans experiences this characteristic throughout the year, including December. The proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, a significant source of moisture, contributes to frequent rainfall. This dampness influences local vegetation, maintaining lush greenery even during the winter months. Visitors should anticipate the possibility of rain and plan accordingly, packing rain gear and checking forecasts.
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High Humidity
High humidity, a defining feature of humid subtropical climates, significantly impacts the perception of December weather in New Orleans. While temperatures remain moderate, high humidity can make the air feel heavier and potentially cooler than the actual temperature. This influences comfort levels and clothing choices. Visitors from drier climates might find the humidity noticeable and should prepare for its effects. This humidity also plays a role in the growth of local flora and contributes to the distinctive atmosphere of the region.
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Influence of the Gulf of Mexico
The Gulf of Mexico’s proximity profoundly shapes New Orleans’ humid subtropical climate, particularly during December. The warm waters of the Gulf moderate temperature fluctuations, preventing extreme cold snaps typical of inland locations at similar latitudes. The Gulf also serves as a primary source of atmospheric moisture, contributing to the high humidity and frequent rainfall characteristic of the region. This maritime influence differentiates New Orleans’ climate from other subtropical locations further inland.
These interconnected facets of a humid subtropical climate converge to define the typical “weather New Orleans LA December” experience. The mild temperatures, combined with the likelihood of rain and high humidity, create a distinctive atmospheric character. Recognizing the influence of this climate classification provides a foundational understanding of the city’s weather patterns during this time of year, enabling better planning and a more informed appreciation of the local environment.
Frequently Asked Questions about December Weather in New Orleans
This section addresses common inquiries regarding December weather in New Orleans, Louisiana, providing concise and informative responses.
Question 1: What is the average temperature in New Orleans during December?
Average December temperatures range from the mid-40s Fahrenheit (around 7 degrees Celsius) for overnight lows to the low 60s Fahrenheit (mid-teens Celsius) for daytime highs.
Question 2: Does it snow in New Orleans in December?
Snowfall is rare in New Orleans during December. While historically possible, it is statistically infrequent and typically light and short-lived.
Question 3: How much rain can one expect in New Orleans in December?
December is moderately rainy in New Orleans. While not constant, rainfall occurs frequently. Visitors should anticipate periods of rain and pack accordingly.
Question 4: What is the humidity like in New Orleans in December?
New Orleans experiences high humidity year-round, including December. This humidity can make the air feel heavier and influence perceived temperatures.
Question 5: What type of clothing is recommended for December in New Orleans?
Layers are recommended. Daytime temperatures might permit lighter clothing, but evenings require warmer attire such as jackets or sweaters. Rain gear is also advisable.
Question 6: How does December weather impact outdoor activities in New Orleans?
December’s mild temperatures generally allow for outdoor activities. However, occasional rain might necessitate adjustments or postponements. Checking forecasts is recommended.
Understanding these aspects of December weather enables effective planning and ensures a more informed and comfortable experience in New Orleans. Further sections will explore specific historical weather data and its impact on local tourism and daily life.
Continue reading for a deeper dive into specific aspects of December weather in New Orleans.
Tips for Navigating December Weather in New Orleans
Practical guidance for visitors and residents regarding typical December weather conditions in New Orleans, Louisiana, ensures comfortable and informed experiences.
Tip 1: Pack Layers: Diurnal temperature fluctuations necessitate adaptable clothing strategies. Layering allows adjustments for warmer daytime highs and cooler evening lows.
Tip 2: Prepare for Rain: Rainfall is common in December. Umbrellas, raincoats, and water-resistant footwear are recommended for comfort and convenience.
Tip 3: Check Forecasts: Consulting weather forecasts before embarking on outdoor activities allows for informed decision-making and appropriate adjustments to plans.
Tip 4: Consider Humidity: High humidity levels can influence perceived temperatures and comfort levels. Breathable fabrics and staying hydrated are advisable.
Tip 5: Research Indoor Activities: While outdoor activities remain viable, identifying appealing indoor options provides alternatives for rainy days or unexpected temperature changes.
Tip 6: Plan Transportation: Occasional rain can impact transportation. Considering alternative transportation options or allowing extra travel time might be necessary.
Tip 7: Protect Sensitive Plants: Residents with sensitive outdoor plants should consider protective measures during cooler overnight lows. Covering vulnerable vegetation or moving potted plants indoors can prevent cold damage.
Implementing these strategies allows individuals to effectively navigate December weather conditions in New Orleans, maximizing comfort and enjoyment during their visit or daily routines.
The following concluding section synthesizes the key elements discussed throughout this exploration of December weather in New Orleans.
Understanding December Weather in New Orleans
December in New Orleans presents a unique blend of mild temperatures, frequent rainfall, and persistent humidity. Average high temperatures in the low 60s Fahrenheit (mid-teens Celsius) and average lows in the mid-40s Fahrenheit (around 7 degrees Celsius) characterize this period. While snowfall remains a rare possibility, rainfall is a common occurrence, influencing outdoor activities and necessitating preparedness. The city’s subtropical climate, significantly influenced by the Gulf of Mexico, dictates these conditions. This proximity to the Gulf moderates temperatures, preventing extreme cold while contributing to elevated humidity levels throughout the month.
Effective navigation of December weather in New Orleans requires informed preparation and adaptability. Understanding typical temperature ranges, the likelihood of rain, and the pervasive humidity allows residents and visitors to make informed decisions regarding clothing choices, outdoor activities, and transportation. This awareness enhances comfort and enjoyment of the city’s unique offerings during the holiday season. Continued observation and analysis of weather patterns provide valuable insights for future planning and contribute to a deeper appreciation of the dynamic interplay of environmental factors shaping New Orleans’ distinct climate.
