Last updated: March 17, 2025
In Birmingham, United Kingdom, December is marked by a blend of cool temperatures and frequent rain, making it a month of transition toward winter. The maximum temperature typically reaches around 14°C (57°F), while the average hovers at a brisk 6°C (43°F), and nights can plunge to a chilly -7°C (21°F). Humidity levels are notably high at 90%, contributing to a damp atmosphere. With an average precipitation of 82 mm (3.2 in) spread over approximately 16 days, residents and visitors should prepare for wet weather as they navigate the city's festive charm and seasonal activities.
In December, Birmingham experiences a notable drop in temperatures, with minimums plunging to -7°C (21°F), showcasing the onset of winter’s chill. The average temperature sits around 6°C (43°F), marking it as one of the coldest months of the year. While maximums reach a mild 14°C (57°F), they are significantly lower compared to the more temperate autumn months just preceding it. This marked decrease illustrates the city’s transition from the lingering warmth of late autumn into the crisp grip of winter. As residents prepare for the holiday season, the cool yet manageable temperatures provide a picturesque winter backdrop.
December in Birmingham typically sees a notable increase in precipitation, with an average of 82 mm (3.2 in) falling over approximately 16 days. This makes it one of the wetter months of the year, only slightly behind October's 88 mm (3.5 in). The rise in rainfall during December can be attributed to the shift in weather patterns as winter sets in, often delivering consistent drizzles and occasional downpours. This trend is reflected in the overall increase in precipitation during the latter part of the year, with November also experiencing significant rainfall, averaging 71 mm (2.8 in) over 13 days. As the year closes, Birmingham residents can expect a damp but cozy month, perfect for warm beverages and indoor activities.
In December, Birmingham experiences a humidity level of 90%, maintaining a trend consistent with the colder months. This figure reflects a slight dip from November's peak of 92%, yet it remains on par with January’s humidity, indicating that the city often endures a thick, damp atmosphere during this winter season. Throughout the year, humidity gradually decreases from its highest in November, suggesting a shift to drier conditions as temperatures rise in spring. However, as December settles in, the air becomes heavy with moisture once again, reminding residents that winter's chill is often accompanied by a pervasive dampness.
In December, Birmingham experiences a low UV Index of 1, indicating minimal risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. With a recommended burn time of 45 minutes, residents and visitors can enjoy outdoor activities without significant concern for skin damage. This trend of lower UV levels is consistent as the year moves into winter, following a gradual increase from early spring months that peak during the vibrant summer season. As the sun’s intensity wanes, it’s a great time to appreciate the seasonal changes without the worry of sunburn, a stark contrast to the very high UV Index levels seen in June and July. For more detailed insights and updates on UV levels throughout the year, check the Birmingham UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
As December arrives in Birmingham, the city experiences a notable dip in sunshine hours, with only 101 hours of sunlight illuminating the shorter days. This is a significant contrast to the vibrant 375 hours of light celebrated in May and peaks in July with 388 hours. The transition from the warmth of summer to the chill of winter reveals a clear trend: as the year progresses, the average daylight diminishes, particularly during the final months. November further underscores this downward trajectory with just 118 hours, while December's low reminds residents that brighter days await in the spring. Despite the gloom, Birmingham’s festive spirit shines through, making the city a cozy retreat amid the wintery backdrop.
When it comes to December weather in Birmingham, the chances of basking in sunshine take a noticeable dip, with only a 15% likelihood of seeing clear skies. This marks a stark contrast to the fleeting rays of April, which frequently enjoys a 48% chance of sunny days. As we transition from the briskness of November, where the sun peeks out about 30% of the time, December's gloomy outlook signals the depth of winter. In fact, throughout the year, December consistently offers the lowest probability of sunshine, reflecting a broader trend of diminishing daylight and increased cloud cover as the season progresses. So, while festive cheer may light up the month, don’t count on the sun to join in on the celebration!
In Birmingham, December ushers in the shortest days of the year, with daylight lasting a mere 7 hours. This gradual decline begins in October, where sunlight dips to 10 hours, and continues through November, echoing a pattern of diminishing light as winter approaches. Interestingly, December's limited daylight is part of a broader trend throughout the year; the longest days are experienced in June and July, where daylight stretches to a generous 16 hours. As the seasons shift, the city witnesses a vibrant transformation in light, with daylight duration increasing steadily from March's 11 hours to June's peak, before gracefully cascading back to the enveloping shadows of winter. This rhythmic dance of light not only marks the change of seasons but also signifies the natural ebb and flow of Birmingham's climate.
In Birmingham, December arrives with an invigorating average wind speed of 4.4 m/s (10 mph), making it a notable month for breezy weather. As the year draws to a close, the wind picks up slightly compared to the preceding months, with November and October recording 4.0 m/s and 4.6 m/s, respectively. This mild increase in wind speed from late autumn into winter suggests a transitional period, where the city feels the gentle push of winter winds, reinforcing Birmingham's ever-changing climatic tapestry. Throughout the year, wind patterns tend to peak in early spring, but the consistency in December's conditions hints at a stabilizing breeze, perfect for bundled-up pedestrians enjoying their festive wanderings amidst the historic streets.
The weather in Birmingham 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 Birmingham and find detailed weather information for every month.
In December, temperatures range from a chilly -7°C (21°F) at night to a comfortable 14°C (57°F) during the day, with an average of 6°C (43°F). This month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 82 mm (3.2 in) over 16 days, and maintaining a high humidity level of 90%. In contrast, January experiences slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of -5°C (24°F) and a maximum of 14°C (58°F), resulting in an average of 5°C (41°F). January also sees reduced precipitation of 54 mm (2.1 in) over 10 days, while humidity remains consistent at 90%. For a more detailed look, you can check Birmingham weather in January.
In December, the weather is typically colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (21°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F) and an average of about 6°C (43°F). This month experiences more precipitation, totaling 82 mm (3.2 in) over 16 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 90%. In contrast, February sees slightly milder conditions, with minimum temperatures around -5°C (23°F) and maximum temperatures reaching 18°C (64°F), while maintaining the same average of 6°C (43°F). Precipitation decreases in February to 60 mm (2.4 in) over 12 days, and humidity is slightly lower at 88%. For more details on February weather, you can check Birmingham weather in February.
In December, Birmingham experiences a chillier climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (21°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F). The month is characterized by higher precipitation, totaling 82 mm (3.2 inches) over 16 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of around 90%. In contrast, March sees slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (21°F), an average of 7°C (45°F), and a maximum of 20°C (69°F). The precipitation decreases to 69 mm (2.7 inches) spread over 14 days, and humidity is a bit lower at 86%. For more detailed information, visit Birmingham weather in March.
December and April in Birmingham showcase distinctly different weather patterns. December experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -7°C (21°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), while April sees a slight rise, with a minimum of -3°C (27°F) and an average of 9°C (48°F). Precipitation is more frequent in December, falling on 16 days and totaling 82 mm (3.2 in), compared to only 9 days and 44 mm (1.7 in) in April. Additionally, December's humidity is higher at 90%, compared to April's 84%, making for a damp winter month versus a milder spring experience. For more information, check Birmingham weather in April.
December and May present two contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures can dip as low as -7°C (21°F), with average highs reaching only 14°C (57°F). The month is marked by significant precipitation, totaling 82 mm (3.2 in) over approximately 16 days, coupled with high humidity levels around 90%. In contrast, May offers a more temperate climate, where minimum temperatures are around 0°C (31°F) and maximums can soar to 26°C (79°F), with an average temperature of 12°C (54°F). Precipitation decreases to 65 mm (2.5 in) over 12 days, and humidity drops slightly to 80%. For more information, check out Birmingham weather in May.
The weather in December is quite a contrast to that of June. In December, temperatures can drop as low as -7°C (21°F), with an average of 6°C (43°F) and a maximum reaching 14°C (57°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 90% and significant precipitation, totaling 82 mm (3.2 in) over 16 days. Conversely, June brings much milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to an average of 16°C (60°F) and a maximum of 30°C (86°F). While June also sees a fair amount of rain, with 79 mm (3.1 in) spread over 13 days, the humidity is slightly lower at 81%. For a more detailed look at Birmingham's weather in June, you can visit Birmingham weather in June.
December and July in Birmingham showcase strikingly different weather patterns. December experiences colder temperatures, with averages around 6°C (43°F) and nighttime lows dipping to -7°C (21°F). In contrast, July offers a much warmer climate, boasting average temperatures of 18°C (64°F) and daytime highs reaching up to 32°C (91°F). Precipitation is fairly similar between the two months—December sees around 82 mm (3.2 inches) over 16 days, while July has slightly less, at 75 mm (3.0 inches) over 12 days. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in December at 90%, compared to a more comfortable 76% in July. For a closer look at July weather specifics, check out Birmingham weather in July.
In December, the weather is markedly colder, with average temperatures ranging from a chilly -7°C (21°F) at the minimum to a moderate 14°C (57°F) at the maximum. The month experiences more days of precipitation, totaling 82 mm (3.2 in) over 16 days, accompanied by high humidity at 90%. In contrast, August boasts a much warmer climate, with temperatures fluctuating between a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum of 32°C (90°F). Although it sees a similar amount of precipitation at 80 mm (3.2 in), it does so over fewer days (12), and the humidity is lower at 77%. For a more detailed look at the conditions in August, check out Birmingham weather in August.
December weather is considerably colder than September, with temperatures ranging from a chilly minimum of -7°C (21°F) to a max of 14°C (57°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F). In contrast, September boasts a much warmer range with minimum temperatures around 2°C (36°F) and a maximum of 29°C (84°F), averaging at 14°C (58°F). Precipitation levels are also higher in December, with 82 mm (3.2 in) over 16 days compared to September's 59 mm (2.3 in) over just 11 days. Despite their similarities in humidity, with December at 90% and September at 85%, the overall climate in December is far more frigid and damp than the milder and drier September. For more detailed information on September weather, check out Birmingham weather in September.
In comparing the weather between December and October, December tends to be colder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (21°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), while October enjoys milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a maximum of 23°C (73°F). Precipitation levels are similar, with December experiencing 82 mm (3.2 in) over 16 days, compared to October's 88 mm (3.5 in) over 12 days. Both months exhibit high humidity at 90%, but October's warmer temperatures and lower precipitation days often make it a more pleasant month overall. For more detailed insights, you can check Birmingham weather in October.
December weather tends to be colder and wetter compared to November. In December, the minimum temperature drops to -7°C (21°F), while the average temperature is around 6°C (43°F), with a maximum of 14°C (57°F). The month also sees increased precipitation at 82 mm (3.2 in), occurring over 16 days, alongside a high humidity level of 90%. In contrast, November features milder temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (28°F) and an average of 8°C (46°F), peaking at 17°C (63°F). November also has slightly less precipitation, totaling 71 mm (2.8 in) across 13 days, and a marginally higher humidity of 92%. For more details on November's weather, visit Birmingham weather in November.
As December settles in Birmingham, the chilly grip of winter becomes unmistakable. With average temperatures dipping, this month presents a stark contrast to the milder autumn months, showcasing a broader range from brisk lows to cooler highs. While rainfall is common, yielding a noticeable uptick in precipitation days, the high humidity levels serve to further amplify the winter chill. Embrace the cozy atmosphere of December, but ensure you're prepared for the wet and brisk conditions that characterize this time of year. For a detailed look at how this month fits into the broader yearly pattern, be sure to check Birmingham Climate.