December Weather in Kilkenny, Ireland

Last updated: March 17, 2025

Experience the festive charm of Kilkenny, Ireland in December, where winter's embrace can be felt with average temperatures hovering around 6°C (44°F). Locals and visitors alike can expect a maximum of 14°C (57°F) on milder days, while cooler nights may dip to a brisk -6°C (21°F). This month brings 101 mm (4.0 in) of rain over 15 days, contributing to a humidity level of 84%, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying the city's rich history and vibrant seasonal festivities. Whether wrapped in warm clothing or sipping hot beverages, December in Kilkenny offers a unique blend of beauty and resilience that captivates the spirit.

December Temperature in Kilkenny

As winter settles over Kilkenny in December, temperatures reflect the chill of the season, with a minimum dipping to -6°C (21°F) and an average hovering around 6°C (44°F). This month stands out as a transitional period, where the crisp air becomes more pronounced and cozy layers become a must. While daytime highs can reach a mild 14°C (57°F), the overall trend indicates a significant drop from the more temperate conditions experienced in November. As the year draws to a close, the notable range of temperatures invites residents and visitors alike to enjoy both the festive atmosphere and the stunning winter landscapes that Kilkenny has to offer.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Kilkenny, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec424344475257615956504543
Data source: Temperature data for Kilkenny generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

December Precipitation in Kilkenny

December marks a notable peak in precipitation for Kilkenny, Ireland, with an average of 101 mm (approximately 4.0 inches), making it one of the wettest months of the year. This influx of rain falls over 15 days, contributing to the overall trend of increased precipitation as the year draws to a close, following a consistent pattern where late autumn and winter months tend to be wetter. With November also experiencing significant rainfall at 85 mm, it's clear that as temperatures drop, Kilkenny often faces a surge in moisture, setting the stage for a vibrant and lush environment heading into the new year. The combination of heavier rainfall and frequent precipitation days illustrates the characteristic wetness of December, encapsulating the essence of winter in this charming Irish city.

December Precipitation Trends in Kilkenny

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Kilkenny, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5188795765666792618585101
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Kilkenny

As December rolls in, Kilkenny, Ireland experiences a moderate dip in humidity, settling at 84%—a slight decrease from the preceding months, which predominantly hover around 85% to 87%. This fluctuation indicates a subtle transition towards the cooler end of the year, following the humid backdrop of autumn. Despite this decline, December maintains a relatively high humidity level consistent with the rest of the winter season. Overall, Kilkenny's humidity demonstrates a trend of resilience, rarely dropping significantly, which lends the region its lush, vibrant landscape even in the chillier months.

December Average Humidity in Kilkenny

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Kilkenny, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec85%86%86%85%83%85%86%85%86%87%87%84%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Kilkenny

As December arrives in Kilkenny, Ireland, the UV Index dips to 1, marking a return to low exposure levels reminiscent of the previous winter months. This decrease contrasts sharply with the summer highs of 8 seen in June and July, where sunburn times plummeted to just 15 minutes. The gradual decline in UV radiation is evident as the year wraps up, with moderate levels peaking in spring and summer before giving way to safer winter conditions. In December, residents can enjoy the outdoors without the constant worry of sunburn, benefiting from a generous 45-minute burn time. For more detailed insights, visit the Kilkenny UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Kilkenny for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Kilkenny 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec124578875421
Data source: Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny

Kilkenny experiences a captivating ebb and flow of sunshine throughout the year, with December bringing a modest 105 hours of daylight. As the year winds down, the city's sunlight diminishes sharply compared to the vibrant 392 hours seen in May, marking a significant contrast. Following a gradual increase from the early months, where January offers only 86 hours, December’s limited sunshine serves as a gentle reminder of winter's embrace. The trend reveals that while summer months bask in extended daylight, the colder season brings shorter days, imparting a unique charm to Kilkenny's winter landscape, where even the brief hours of sunlight can spark joy and a sense of warmth amidst the chill.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Kilkenny: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Kilkenny 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec86h145h195h301h392h388h397h342h297h239h128h105h
Data source: Kilkenny December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Kilkenny During December

In Kilkenny, Ireland, the likelihood of sunny weather in December hovers at 19%, marking it as one of the less bright months of the year. This trend aligns with the generally gloomy winter season, where sunshine becomes a rare commodity. Comparatively, December follows November's modest 26% chance of sun, yet significantly drops behind the more favorable early spring months, highlighted by April's peak at 42%. The overall pattern indicates that while the darker days of winter offer fleeting glimpses of sunshine, December's weather is predominantly characterized by cloudiness and chill, making those rare sunlit moments all the more treasured.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Kilkenny

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec27%22%20%42%28%22%27%24%18%16%26%19%
Data source: Kilkenny December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Kilkenny in December

In Kilkenny, Ireland, the daylight duration follows a clear seasonal rhythm, peaking in the summer months and dipping toward the winter. As the year unfolds, daylight steadily increases from a mere 7 hours in December to a generous 16 hours by June and July, providing ample opportunity to enjoy the vibrant landscapes and rich history of the region. However, as December approaches, daylight dwindles, returning to 8 hours in November before plummeting to its annual low. This cyclical shift not only marks the transition between the colder months but also heralds the coming of spring, illustrating the beautiful dance of light and dark that characterizes Kilkenny's year.

Average Daylight Hours in Kilkenny for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Kilkenny throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 12m9h 52m11h 54m13h 59m15h 49m16h 47m16h 16m14h 37m12h 36m10h 32m8h 40m7h 40m
Data source: Kilkenny daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Kilkenny

As December settles in Kilkenny, Ireland, so does a noticeable shift in the wind. With an average wind speed of 4.2 m/s (9 mph), December marks a return to brisker breezes after a series of calmer months. This uptick follows a gentle decline from summer's mildest whispers in July and August, where winds dipped to around 2.6 m/s (6 mph), and gradually began to pick up again in the fall. October's winds mirrored the year's average, while November maintained a steady pace. The arrival of December brings a refreshing chill, not just in temperature but also in the invigorating gusts that sweep through the city, reminding us that winter is on the horizon.

Average December Wind Speed in Kilkenny

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Kilkenny, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.75.04.03.03.73.42.63.22.94.03.74.2 m/s
Data source: Kilkenny December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Kilkenny Compares to Other Months

The weather in Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny and find detailed weather information for every month.

In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), with an average of 6°C (44°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 101 mm (4.0 in) over 15 days, and maintains a high humidity of 84%. In contrast, January experiences slightly cooler temperatures with an average of 5°C (42°F) and a maximum of 13°C (56°F), while still reaching the same minimum of -6°C (21°F). Precipitation in January is reduced to 51 mm (2.0 in), occurring over 10 days, with a marginally higher humidity at 85%. For more detailed information, you can check Kilkenny weather in January.

December and February share similar average temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -6°C (21°F) in December to -4°C (25°F) in February, with both months peaking at 14°C (57°F) and 14°C (58°F) respectively. However, December tends to have slightly more precipitation, with 101 mm (4.0 in) over 15 days compared to February’s 88 mm (3.5 in) across 16 days. Humidity levels are also quite close, with December at 84% and February at 86%, indicating a persistently damp atmosphere in both months. For details on February weather specifically, refer to Kilkenny weather in February.

December and March exhibit quite similar average temperatures, sitting around 6°C (44°F), yet the variations in minimum and maximum temperatures create distinct seasonal characteristics. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), while March sees a slightly greater maximum of 17°C (63°F) but a lower minimum of -8°C (17°F). Precipitation levels in December are higher at 101 mm (4.0 in) compared to 79 mm (3.1 in) in March, though both months experience rainfall on about 15 days. Notably, March tends to be a touch more humid at 86%, just above December's 84%. For more detailed insights, visit Kilkenny weather in March.

When comparing the weather in December and April, notable differences emerge. In December, temperatures typically range from a chilly minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), with an average temperature of 6°C (44°F). This month sees considerable precipitation, with 101 mm (4.0 in) falling over 15 days and a humidity level of 84%. In contrast, April offers more moderate temperatures, with a minimum of -3°C (26°F) and a maximum reaching up to 20°C (69°F), along with an average temperature of 8°C (47°F). Precipitation in April is considerably less, totaling 57 mm (2.2 in) over 11 days, and humidity remains slightly higher at 85%. For more detailed insights into Kilkenny's weather, check out Kilkenny weather in April.

When comparing the weather in December and May, a stark contrast emerges. December typically sees temperatures ranging from a chilly -6°C (21°F) to a mild 14°C (57°F), with an average of 6°C (44°F). This month experiences about 101 mm (4.0 in) of precipitation spread over 15 days, coupled with high humidity at 84%. In contrast, May offers a more temperate atmosphere, with temperatures hovering between -2°C (29°F) and 23°C (74°F), averaging around 11°C (52°F). The precipitation is lighter at 65 mm (2.5 in) over 11 days, and humidity is slightly lower at 83%. For a deeper dive into the weather specifics for May, you can check Kilkenny weather in May.

December weather in Kilkenny is characterized by colder temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (21°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F), while June offers a much warmer climate, featuring a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and an average of 14°C (58°F). Additionally, June experiences significantly less precipitation, with 65 mm (2.6 in) over 12 days compared to December's 101 mm (4.0 in) across 15 days. Both months exhibit similar humidity levels, around 84% in December and 85% in June, but the overall feel of June is undoubtedly more pleasant. For a detailed look at June weather patterns, you can check Kilkenny weather in June.

In December, the weather is markedly cooler, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -6°C (21°F) to a mild 14°C (57°F), and an average of 6°C (44°F). This month experiences higher precipitation levels, totaling 101 mm (4.0 in) over 15 days, accompanied by a humidity of 84%. In contrast, July offers a more temperate climate, with temperatures ranging from 5°C (41°F) to a pleasant 28°C (82°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F). The month sees less rain, with 67 mm (2.6 in) spread across 12 days and slightly higher humidity at 86%. For more details on July weather, check out Kilkenny weather in July.

December and August present quite contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures can drop to a minimum of -6°C (21°F), with an average of 6°C (44°F) and a maximum of 14°C (57°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 101 mm (4.0 in) over 15 days, alongside high humidity levels of 84%. In stark contrast, August enjoys milder temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F), an average of 15°C (59°F), and a maximum of 24°C (76°F). While precipitation is only slightly less at 91 mm (3.6 in) over the same number of rainy days, humidity remains high at 85%. For more on the specifics of Kilkenny’s August weather, you can visit Kilkenny weather in August.

In comparing the weather of December and September, December is notably colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), while September shows a milder range from -1°C (31°F) to 25°C (78°F). Additionally, December experiences higher precipitation, totaling 101 mm (4.0 in) over 15 days, compared to September's 61 mm (2.4 in) spread across 11 days. Humidity levels are quite similar, with December at 84% and September at 86%, contributing to the overall dampness felt in both months. For more specific details about September weather, you can visit Kilkenny weather in September.

Comparing the weather in December and October reveals some notable differences. December experiences lower temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (21°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F), while October boasts milder conditions, ranging from a minimum of -2°C (28°F) to an average of 10°C (51°F). Precipitation levels are slightly higher in December, with 101 mm (4.0 in) over 15 days compared to October's 85 mm (3.4 in) over 14 days. Humidity is also slightly elevated in December at 84%, compared to 87% in October. For more details, you can check out Kilkenny weather in October.

In comparing the weather between November and December, December tends to be slightly colder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), compared to November's more moderate range of -3°C (28°F) to 15°C (60°F). Precipitation levels also increase in December, totaling 101 mm (4.0 in) over 15 days, compared to 85 mm (3.3 in) over 13 days in November. Additionally, both months experience high humidity, with December at 84% and November at 86%. For more detailed insights on November weather, check out Kilkenny weather in November.

Compare Kilkenny's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Kilkenny

As December unfolds in Kilkenny, the weather takes on a distinctly cooler character compared to the rest of the year. With average temperatures sinking to around 6°C (44°F) and the possibility of plunging to -6°C (21°F) during colder spells, it's a time for both warmth and preparation. The month also sees an increase in precipitation, with rain gracing about half the days, leading to a rather humid environment at around 84%. This unique combination of chill and dampness accentuates the festive atmosphere, setting the stage for cozy gatherings and winter celebrations. For a deeper understanding of seasonal shifts, explore the detailed insights at Kilkenny Climate.