Video:Average December Weather in Florida

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Transcript:Average December Weather in Florida

Florida is indeed the Sunshine State, but the average weather in December can vary greatly between the most southern and most northern parts of the state. If you're planning for Christmas in Florida this year, check out this handy forecast guide before you pack and go.

Information About Average December Weather in Florida

The northern and central areas of Florida have a humid subtropical climate while the southern points have a tropical climate. The result is that winters in the north tend to be mild and cool while the year-round temperatures in the south remain more consistent with precipitation affecting temperature variances.

Facts About Average December Weather in Florida

So, what does that really mean? It means that, in Florida, it's likely you'll be wearing flip flops and shorts to your holiday party. However, the father north you go, the more likely you'll need to add some layers since, in central and northern Florida, it can get a wee bit chilly at night. So, why are Decembers so sunny and warm? Weather fronts. A weather front is a boundary that separates two air masses that differ in temperature and humidity. Weather fronts move through Florida between October and May, keeping things nice and dry through the winter months. But, it's not quite that cut and dry. There are two climate cycles that can shake things up and cause a whole mess of trouble. These climate cycles are known as el niño and la niña.

Additional Information About Average December Weather in Florida

What do they do? In the winter, el niño tends to increase the low pressure systems in the Gulf of Mexico, which actually reduces the incidents of storms and hurricanes. Although, el niño does tend to cause heavier than usual rain in winter. Conversely, la niña tends to raise temperatures and dry things out, resulting in significantly higher chances of hurricane activity. This just may be a case where boys are definitely better than girls--at least if it comes to your strategy for avoiding hurricanes. Who knew girls were such more trouble?

Because of climate conditions throughout the state, hurricanes and tornadoes in Florida are extremely rare in the month of December. Guess Miami or Disney World are looking like pretty good travel plans for the holidays.

So, if you'd rather be hitting the beach for Christmas than building a snowman, Florida just might be the ideal vacation spot this December. I'm Jonathon Stewart with About.com.