December Weather in Sligo, Ireland

Last updated: March 17, 2025

In December, the weather in Sligo, Ireland presents a chilly embrace, with average temperatures around 6°C (44°F), peaking at a maximum of 13°C (55°F) and dipping to a brisk minimum of -2°C (29°F). This month is characterized by high humidity levels at 84%, making the air feel cooler. Rain is a common companion, contributing to a notable total precipitation of 119 mm (4.7 in) over 20 days. Visitors can expect a blend of dreary and captivating landscapes, reflective of the season's charm amidst the frequent showers.

December Temperature in Sligo

In December, Sligo, Ireland experiences the onset of winter, with temperatures reflecting a distinct chill. The minimum temperature hovers around -2°C (29°F), while the average settles at 6°C (44°F), peaking at a comfortable 13°C (55°F). This month marks a transition from the cooler late autumn temperatures of November, where the lows dipped to -3°C (27°F), yet still offering a mild respite compared to the colder depths of January and February that follow. As the year winds down, Sligo wraps itself in a chilly embrace, inviting visitors to enjoy the festive atmosphere amidst its scenic winter landscapes.

December Weather in Sligo: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Sligo, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec424244475256595855504643
Data source: Temperature data for Sligo generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

December Precipitation in Sligo

In December, Sligo experiences a notable shift in its weather patterns, with precipitation amounting to 119 mm (4.7 in) over the course of 20 days. This marks a continuation of relatively high rainfall typical of the late autumn and early winter months, reflecting a trend from previous months like November, which recorded 115 mm. As the year draws to a close, Sligo's weather remains consistently damp, contributing to the region's lush landscapes. This December's precipitation aligns closely with the wet conditions seen in the earlier part of winter, emphasizing a prevalent pattern of frequent rain that sets the tone for the cold, dreary days ahead.

December Precipitation Trends in Sligo

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Sligo, with values for each month alongside December's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how December's conditions compare to those of other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec881311196586117109158106131115119
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Sligo

December in Sligo, Ireland, sees a humidity level of 84%, continuing the trend of moderate moisture that characterizes much of the year. This month reflects a consistent pattern, as humidity percentages remain relatively stable throughout the seasons, with numbers hovering between 83% and 88%. The year wraps up with December's humidity slightly lower than the peak levels observed in the autumn months, where rates reached 88% in November. As winter approaches, the relative consistency in humidity underscores Sligo’s damp climate, making for a uniquely refreshing, if not occasionally chilly, atmosphere.

December Average Humidity in Sligo

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Sligo, with December's data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, allowing you to see how December's humidity levels compare to other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec84%84%83%84%83%84%86%86%87%87%88%84%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Sligo

As the year winds down, December in Sligo, Ireland, brings along a notably low UV Index of 1, categorized as low exposure, meaning you can enjoy the outdoors with minimal sun protection. This marks a significant drop from the midsummer months, where the UV Index peaked at 8, indicating very high exposure and necessitating a quick retreat from the sun after just 15 minutes to avoid burns. Following a gradual increase from the low levels in January and February, which both maintained a UV Index of 1 and 2, it highlighted the seasonal shift in sun intensity. With December's burn time extending to 45 minutes, it’s the perfect opportunity for winter strolls without the worry of sun damage. For more insights on the changing UV Index throughout the year, be sure to check the detailed information at Sligo UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Sligo for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Sligo in December, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec124578875321
Data source: Sligo December UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

December Sunshine in Sligo

In Sligo, Ireland, December brings a quiet conclusion to the year, with a modest 71 hours of sunshine, reflecting the waning light of winter. This marks a sharp contrast to the vibrant 365 hours of daylight that brightens May, the sunniest month of the year. As the seasons progress, sunshine gradually increases from a mere 62 hours in January, peaking in the lush months of late spring and early summer. While the summer months of June and July boast nearly 336 hours each, December's twilight hours signal a time for cozy gatherings and festive cheer despite the skies often being overcast. The overall trend reveals how Sligo's climate evolves, emphasizing the rich seasonal contrasts that characterize this stunning coastal region.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Sligo: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Sligo experiences direct sunlight during the month of December, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of December with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec62h127h163h275h365h335h336h287h257h202h102h71h
Data source: Sligo December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Sligo During December

In Sligo, Ireland, the likelihood of sunny weather in December is relatively low, with only a 13% chance of sunshine. This trend follows a gradual decline in sunny days as the year progresses; after a peak in April with a 36% chance, the percentages dim towards the winter months. Interestingly, while summer months like May and June also exhibit moderate sunny weather at 33% and 15%, respectively, December stands out as one of the least favorable for sun lovers. As the year closes, the persistent cloud cover typically overshadows the sun, making December a time when many might crave a glimpse of brighter skies.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Sligo

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Sligo throughout the year, with December highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Sligo experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec26%19%12%37%33%15%21%16%14%15%18%13%
Data source: Sligo December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Sligo in December

In Sligo, Ireland, December marks the return to shorter days, with daylight lasting around 7 hours—the same duration as in January. This seasonal pattern showcases a notable trend where daylight gradually increases from an average of 7 hours in the early months, peaking at a generous 17 hours in June. As the year progresses, daylight hours slowly wane, with April and May offering a bright respite before embracing the shorter days of autumn and winter. By December, the daylight dwindles, creating a cozy atmosphere that invites reflection and warmth as the year draws to a close.

Average Daylight Hours in Sligo for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Sligo throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7h 58m9h 45m11h 54m14h 6m16h 3m17h 5m16h 31m14h 46m12h 38m10h 27m8h 28m7h 24m
Data source: Sligo daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Sligo

As December arrives in Sligo, Ireland, a noticeable shift in the winds begins to take hold. With an average wind speed of 4.7 m/s (11 mph), December sees a gentle increase compared to the preceding months, marking it as one of the breezier times of the year. This uptick follows a trend observed since the summer months, where July recorded a much calmer 2.4 m/s (5 mph), before gradually strengthening throughout the fall. The winds of December, while brisk, bring a refreshing energy, inviting locals and visitors alike to embrace the cool, invigorating air that defines the Irish winter landscape.

Average December Wind Speed in Sligo

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Sligo, with values for each month shown alongside December's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how December's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.55.44.43.43.73.72.43.13.24.24.44.7 m/s
Data source: Sligo December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Sligo Compares to Other Months

The weather in Sligo changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of December's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Sligo and find detailed weather information for every month.

In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a maximum of 13°C (55°F), with an average temperature of 6°C (44°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, with 119 mm (4.7 in) falling over 20 days, contributing to a consistent humidity level of 84%. In contrast, January sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -3°C (27°F) and a maximum of 14°C (57°F), while the average remains the same at 6°C (42°F). Precipitation decreases to 88 mm (3.4 in) over 15 days, maintaining the same humidity level of 84%. For more detailed information, you can refer to Sligo weather in January.

In December, the weather is chilly with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a maximum of 13°C (55°F), and an average of 6°C (44°F). It experiences considerable rainfall, totaling 119 mm (4.7 in) over about 20 days, and the humidity remains high at 84%. In contrast, February sees slightly colder conditions with a minimum temperature of -4°C (25°F) and a maximum of 15°C (59°F), while maintaining the same average of 6°C (43°F). Precipitation increases to 131 mm (5.2 in) and occurs over 17 days, but humidity levels remain constant at 84%. For more details, you can check Sligo weather in February. Overall, while both months share similar humidity and temperature averages, February tends to be wetter, with a broader range of temperatures.

December and March exhibit some intriguing similarities and differences in weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a maximum of 13°C (55°F), with an average of 6°C (44°F). The month experiences about 119 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation over roughly 20 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 84%. In contrast, March features slightly cooler temperatures, with minimums dipping to -4°C (24°F) and maximums climbing to 17°C (63°F), while maintaining the same average of 6°C (44°F). Precipitation remains consistent at 119 mm (4.7 in), though it occurs over just 18 days, with a slightly lower humidity of 83%. For more detailed insights into March weather, you can explore Sligo weather in March.

In December, the weather tends to be much colder, with average temperatures hovering around 6°C (44°F) and a maximum of only 13°C (55°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 119 mm (4.7 in) over approximately 20 days, contributing to a damp atmosphere with a high humidity of 84%. In contrast, April brings milder conditions, with average temperatures rising to 9°C (48°F) and a maximum of 21°C (70°F). Precipitation decreases to 65 mm (2.6 in) and occurs over about 13 days, while humidity remains consistent at 84%. This seasonal transition highlights the shift from the chill of winter to the freshness of spring, making April a pleasant time to enjoy the outdoors. For a detailed look at the April weather, visit Sligo weather in April.

December and May present quite distinct weather patterns. In December, temperatures can dip as low as -2°C (29°F), with an average of 6°C (44°F) and a maximum of 13°C (55°F). The month is marked by significant precipitation, totaling 119 mm (4.7 in) over approximately 20 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 84%. In contrast, May sees a slight increase in temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and an average of 11°C (53°F), peaking at a comfortable 25°C (77°F). The rainfall also decreases to 86 mm (3.4 in) across about 15 days, while humidity remains relatively stable at 83%. For a more detailed look at May weather, check out Sligo weather in May.

December and June present contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures typically range from a chilly -2°C (29°F) to a mild 13°C (55°F), with an average of 6°C (44°F). This month sees considerable precipitation, amounting to 119 mm (4.7 in) over approximately 20 days, with high humidity at 84%. In contrast, June offers a more pleasant climate, with temperatures fluctuating between 5°C (41°F) and a warm 29°C (84°F), averaging around 13°C (57°F). Rainfall is slightly less intense at 117 mm (4.6 in) across 17 days, and humidity remains comparable at 83%. For a closer look at June weather specifics, check Sligo weather in June.

December weather tends to be much chillier compared to July, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a maximum of 13°C (55°F). In contrast, July boasts a milder climate, with temperatures varying between 8°C (46°F) and 28°C (83°F). Both months experience significant precipitation, but December has a higher total of 119 mm (4.7 in) over 20 days, while July sees slightly less precipitation at 109 mm (4.3 in) over 16 days. Humidity levels are comparable, with December at 84% and July slightly higher at 86%. For a closer look at the weather in July, you can check Sligo weather in July.

In December, temperatures tend to be colder, with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and an average temperature of 6°C (44°F), while August experiences much warmer conditions, featuring a minimum of 6°C (43°F) and an average temperature of 15°C (59°F). December sees higher humidity at 84%, with significant precipitation occurring across 20 days, totaling 119 mm (4.7 in). In contrast, August has slightly more precipitation with 158 mm (6.2 in) over 22 days, and its humidity is just a touch higher at 86%. For more detailed insights into August weather, check out Sligo weather in August.

In December, the weather is significantly colder, with average temperatures ranging from a chilly -2°C (29°F) at night to a mild 13°C (55°F) during the day, compared to September's more moderate temperatures that range from 2°C (36°F) at night to a warm 24°C (76°F) during the day. Precipitation levels are fairly similar, with December receiving 119 mm (4.7 in) over 20 days, while September sees slightly less at 106 mm (4.2 in) across 18 days. Additionally, humidity in December averages around 84%, a bit lower than September's 87%, making September feel more humid despite similar precipitation rates. For a more detailed look at September weather patterns, you can check Sligo weather in September.

In comparing the weather between December and October, October typically experiences milder temperatures, with averages around 10°C (51°F) and a maximum of 20°C (68°F), while December's average dips to 6°C (44°F), peaking at 13°C (55°F). Both months see a similar number of rainy days, around 20, but December has slightly less precipitation, totaling 119 mm (4.7 in) compared to October's 131 mm (5.2 in). Humidity levels are also comparable, with December at 84% and October slightly higher at 87%. For more details on October weather in Sligo, check out Sligo weather in October.

In comparing the weather patterns of November and December, we see that December experiences slightly milder average temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a maximum of 13°C (55°F), whereas November has a minimum of -3°C (27°F) and a maximum of 15°C (59°F). Precipitation levels are quite similar, with December receiving 119 mm (4.7 in) over 20 days and November having 115 mm (4.5 in) over 19 days. However, December tends to be more humid, averaging 84% compared to November's 88%. For a more detailed look at November's weather, check out Sligo weather in November.

Compare Sligo's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Sligo

December in Sligo brings a distinct shift in weather, characterized by its cooler temperatures and increased precipitation. As winter settles in, the town experiences a notable drop in temperature, making it the coldest month of the year. With an average of 84% humidity and over 20 rainy days, it’s clear that December is quite distinct from other months, showcasing the region's wet and chilly climate. Despite the dreary weather, this time of year also offers a unique charm, making it perfect for cozy evenings indoors. For a deeper insight into what to expect year-round, visit Sligo Climate.