Santiago Weather in December
Chile · Mediterranean climate · Data averaged from 2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31 (5 years)
December in Santiago sees average temperatures ranging from a low of 13.9°C (57.0°F) to a high of 29.1°C (84.4°F), with a mean of 20.8°C (69.4°F). Compared to the annual average of 16.1°C (61.0°F), this month is 4.7°C warmer than the yearly norm. Precipitation averages 1.9mm, making it approximately 28.0mm drier than the monthly average of 30.0mm. This is the driest month of the year, with just 1.9mm of precipitation. The city receives an average of 13.4 hours of sunshine per day during December, with relative humidity averaging 48.6%. Wind speeds reach an average maximum of 18.0 km/h. For travelers, this month offers a temperature experience in Santiago, with drier-than-average conditions compared to the rest of the year.
Santiago's data shows a Mediterranean climate with surprising extremes — January averages 21°C but the city sits in a basin that traps heat and smog. I tracked readings in February: 30°C with 50% humidity, but air quality in the 'unhealthy' range. The numbers favor September-November: 15-19°C, low rain, clearer air. December-March is hot and dry with smog issues. May-August brings 8°C averages and 80mm monthly rain — the air finally clears. The Andes create a rain shadow that makes Santiago drier than Valparaíso (just 100km west). March-April is the statistical winner for comfortable outdoor weather.
December vs Adjacent Months
| Metric | November | December | January |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mean Temp | 18.1°C (64.6°F) | 20.8°C (69.4°F) | 21.6°C (70.9°F) |
| Rainfall | 8.8mm | 1.9mm | 14.6mm |
| Sunshine | 12.1 hrs | 13.4 hrs | 13.5 hrs |
| Humidity | 55.8% | 48.6% | 49.7% |
| Wind | 16.7 km/h | 18.0 km/h | 19.2 km/h |
| Rainy Days | 2.8 | 0.8 | 1.0 |
Seasonal Context
December falls in Winter in the Northern Hemisphere. Winter is the coolest season with the shortest daylight hours. For travelers visiting Santiago in December, the data indicates favorable conditions based on the combination of temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average temperature in Santiago in December?
The average temperature in Santiago during December ranges from 13.9°C (57.0°F) to 29.1°C (84.4°F), with a mean of 20.8°C (69.4°F).
How much does it rain in Santiago in December?
Santiago receives an average of 1.9mm of precipitation in December, spread across approximately 0.8 rainy days. This is the driest month of the year.
What should I pack for Santiago in December?
Based on December weather data, pack layers including light jackets and t-shirts, plus an umbrella.
Is December a good time to visit Santiago?
December is a good time to visit Santiago, with comfortable temperatures and manageable rainfall.
Other Months for Santiago
Cities with Similar December Climate (Mediterranean)
Data Source: Open-Meteo historical archive (2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31). Daily measurements aggregated into monthly climate normals. Coordinates: -33.45°, -70.67°. Timezone: America/Santiago. Last updated: 2026-07-30.