December Weather in Colchester, United Kingdom

Last updated: March 17, 2025

In Colchester, United Kingdom, December typically experiences a maximum temperature of 14°C (57°F), with an average hovering around 6°C (44°F) and dipping to a chilly minimum of -1°C (31°F). This month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 97 mm (3.8 in) across approximately 15 rainy days, contributing to an ambiance of wintery charm. Notably, humidity levels can be quite high, averaging 92%, creating a crisp atmosphere that enhances the season’s distinctive feel. Whether you're enjoying the cozy indoor settings or braving the brisk outdoors, December in Colchester offers a unique experience.

December Temperature in Colchester

In Colchester, United Kingdom, December ushers in the chill of winter, with temperatures typically ranging from a brisk -1°C (31°F) at night to a mild 14°C (57°F) during the day. As the final month of the year, it marks a shift towards colder weather, with an average temperature of 6°C (44°F). This reflects a gradual descent from the relatively warmer November, where temperatures hovered around 8°C (47°F). December's climate is characterized by cool, crisp air, setting a picturesque backdrop for festive celebrations. Despite the cold, the maximum temperature can still reach a comfortable level reminiscent of early autumn, making it a relatively mild month compared to the harsher winter months that follow.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Colchester, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec414345485461646460544743
Data source: Temperature data for Colchester 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 Colchester

In December, Colchester experiences a notable increase in precipitation, with an average of 97 mm (3.8 in) of rainfall over 15 days. This marks the wettest month of the year, significantly higher than the average monthly precipitation in previous months. As autumn transitions into winter, the rain becomes more pronounced, highlighting a trend of escalating precipitation as the year comes to a close. Notably, the frequency of rainy days in December is the highest all year, suggesting a damp and chilly end to the season that sets a picturesque, if soggy, stage for the festive celebrations.

December Precipitation Trends in Colchester

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Colchester, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec576155276168687858905397
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Colchester

In Colchester, December typically sees humidity levels at a notable 92%, echoing the trends observed in the preceding months of October and November. As the year winds down, the air remains rich in moisture, reflecting the dampness of late autumn. This high humidity is in stark contrast to the summer months of July and August, where levels dipped to 76% and 73% respectively, offering a clear seasonal shift. The gradual increase from the lower summer humidity towards the damp chill of winter showcases Colchester’s characteristic climate, now blanketed in moisture as the end of the year approaches.

December Average Humidity in Colchester

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Colchester, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec91%89%86%85%82%81%76%73%80%89%92%92%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Colchester

In Colchester, United Kingdom, December marks the return to a low UV Index of 1, similar to January and November, allowing for a burn time of up to 45 minutes without significant risk. This consistency at the lower end of the scale reflects the region's winter months, where UV exposure is minimal. Throughout the year, Colchester experiences a gradual rise in UV levels, peaking in the summer months of June and July with an index of 8, categorized as very high. As we transition from fall to winter, the drop in UV exposure serves as a reminder of the seasonal changes, reinforcing the importance of protecting your skin even in cooler months. For more detailed information on the UV Index trends, check out Colchester UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Colchester for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Colchester 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: Colchester 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 Colchester

In December, Colchester, United Kingdom, experiences a notable dip in sunshine, with only 108 hours gracing the month. This marks a clear contrast to the sun-soaked summer months, where July and May bask in over 400 hours of sunlight. As the year transitions from vibrant spring days with 336 hours in April to the shorter, gloomier December, the trend of diminishing daylight becomes evident. The year closes with a gentle farewell to the sun, making December a time for cozy evenings as residents look forward to the brighter days of January, which, while modest at 94 hours, herald the slow return of longer, sunlit hours.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Colchester: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Colchester 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec94h149h224h336h410h402h411h388h310h245h153h108h
Data source: Colchester December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Colchester During December

As December rolls in, the likelihood of enjoying sunny weather in Colchester, United Kingdom, takes a notable dip, with a mere 17% chance of sunshine. This marks a decline compared to the slightly higher percentages seen in the preceding months, such as 30% in November and 24% in October. Looking back, the sun shines most in April, reaching 47%, while early winter months like January and February also see low probabilities. Overall, the trend highlights that, as the year winds down, Colchester tends to wrap itself in a shroud of cloudier skies, making those rare sunny days in December feel even more precious.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Colchester

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Colchester 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 Colchester experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec22%24%32%47%34%30%38%32%32%24%30%17%
Data source: Colchester December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Colchester in December

As December unfolds in Colchester, the days grow shorter, with only 7 hours of daylight to embrace. This marks the nadir of sunlight for the year, following a steady decline from the summer's peak of 16 hours in June and July. The transition through the months reveals a clear trend of gradually diminishing daylight, starting from the 15 hours in May and dipping to 8 hours in both November and January. Despite the chilly temperatures, December's fleeting daylight invites a unique introspection, contrasting sharply with the vibrant stretches of sunlight found in earlier months, and setting the stage for the gradual resurgence of longer days in the new year.

Average Daylight Hours in Colchester for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Colchester throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 20m9h 56m11h 55m13h 55m15h 41m16h 36m16h 6m14h 32m12h 35m10h 35m8h 47m7h 50m
Data source: Colchester daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Colchester

As December unfolds in Colchester, the average wind speed settles at 5.3 m/s (approximately 12 mph), reflecting a slight uptick from the preceding months. This trend showcases a shift towards brisker conditions, particularly noticeable as winter approaches. Notably, December's winds are more lively than earlier in the year, especially compared to the calmer breezes of the summer months, where wind speeds dipped as low as 3.8 m/s. With the transition from autumn's gently stirring gusts in November, which averaged 4.9 m/s, December introduces a fresher, more invigorating atmosphere—ideal for those embracing the season's chill while enjoying the scenic beauty of Colchester.

Average December Wind Speed in Colchester

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Colchester, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5.45.75.24.35.03.84.34.84.25.64.95.3 m/s
Data source: Colchester December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Colchester Compares to Other Months

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

In December, the weather tends to be slightly milder with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), accompanied by significant precipitation of 97 mm (3.8 in) over 15 days. The humidity remains high at 92%, contributing to the overall cool and damp feel of the month. In contrast, January experiences a slight dip in temperatures, with minimums around -2°C (28°F) and maximums reaching 13°C (56°F). Precipitation decreases to 57 mm (2.2 in) over 11 days, and humidity drops slightly to 91%, resulting in a somewhat drier atmosphere. For more details on the weather in January, you can visit Colchester weather in January.

December and February both experience similar average high temperatures of around 14°C (57°F), but February tends to be slightly cooler at night with a minimum temperature of -4°C (25°F) compared to December's -1°C (31°F). Precipitation levels also differ, with December receiving 97 mm (3.8 in) over 15 days, making it considerably wetter than February, which has only 61 mm (2.4 in) across 11 days. Additionally, the humidity in December is higher at 92%, compared to February's 89%, contributing to a distinct feel in the air during these months. For detailed weather conditions, you can check Colchester weather in February.

In December, the weather tends to be cooler with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F). It experiences higher precipitation, with about 97 mm (3.8 in) spread over 15 days and a humidity level of 92%. In contrast, March showcases a shift towards milder temperatures, with averages from -4°C (25°F) to 18°C (64°F). Precipitation is lower in March at 55 mm (2.2 in) over 12 days, accompanied by slightly reduced humidity at 86%. For a more detailed look, you can check out Colchester weather in March.

Comparing December and April weather reveals notable contrasts in temperature and precipitation. December tends to be chillier, with average temperatures ranging from -1°C (31°F) at night to a maximum of 14°C (57°F) during the day, while April sees a more moderate range from 0°C (32°F) to 22°C (71°F). Furthermore, December experiences significantly higher precipitation, with 97 mm (3.8 in) over 15 days, compared to April's 27 mm (1.1 in) over just 6 days. The humidity levels are also slightly higher in December at 92%, while April has a slightly drier atmosphere at 85%. For more detailed information, check out Colchester weather in April.

December and May present contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -1°C (31°F) at night, with daytime averages around 6°C (44°F) and maximums reaching 14°C (57°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 92% and substantial precipitation of 97 mm (3.8 in) over approximately 15 days. In contrast, May brings more moderate temperatures, with nighttime lows of 3°C (37°F), daytime averages of 12°C (54°F), and highs of 22°C (73°F). The month sees less rainfall, totaling 61 mm (2.4 in) over about 11 days, and slightly lower humidity at 82%. For a closer look at the weather in May, you can check Colchester weather in May.

In December, temperatures range from a chilly -1°C (31°F) at night to a mild 14°C (57°F) during the day, with an average of 6°C (44°F). This month sees a significant amount of precipitation, totaling 97 mm (3.8 in) over about 15 days, coupled with high humidity at 92%. In contrast, June brings warmer and more pleasant weather, with temperatures starting at a mild 6°C (43°F) and reaching up to 26°C (79°F), averaging 16°C (61°F). The precipitation in June is lower, at 68 mm (2.7 in), over just 10 days, and humidity is more comfortable at 81%. For more details on the June climate, visit Colchester weather in June.

When comparing the weather in December and July, it's clear that the two months present vastly different climates. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -1°C (31°F) at night to a mild 14°C (57°F) during the day, with an average of 6°C (44°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 92% and significant rainfall, totaling 97 mm (3.8 in) across 15 days. Conversely, July boasts much warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a comfortable 11°C (51°F) at night to a sweltering 30°C (86°F) during the day, averaging 18°C (65°F). Precipitation is lighter in July at 68 mm (2.7 in) over 13 days, and humidity is lower at 76%. For a detailed look at Colchester’s July weather, visit Colchester weather in July.

December and August present stark contrasts in weather. December features cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F), while August enjoys much warmer conditions, starting at a minimum of 10°C (49°F) and averaging 18°C (65°F). Precipitation is more frequent in December, occurring on 15 days with a total of 97 mm (3.8 in), compared to August's 12 rainy days and 78 mm (3.1 in). Additionally, the humidity is notably higher in December at 92%, versus August's more comfortable 73%. For a closer look at what to expect during August, check out Colchester weather in August.

December weather is notably colder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), compared to September's milder range of 6°C (42°F) to 24°C (76°F). The average humidity in December is higher at 92%, making it feel quite damp, while September enjoys a lower humidity level of 80%. Additionally, December experiences more precipitation, totaling 97 mm (3.8 in) over about 15 days, in contrast to September's 58 mm (2.3 in) across 11 days. For more detailed insights, you can check Colchester weather in September.

In comparing the weather between December and October, December tends to be colder with a minimum temperature of -1°C (31°F), averaging around 6°C (44°F), while October is milder, with minimum temperatures of 3°C (37°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F). Moreover, December experiences more rainy days, with 97 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over 15 days, compared to October's 90 mm (3.5 in) across 14 days. Humidity levels are slightly higher in December at 92%, compared to October’s 89%. For a more detailed look at October weather, you can visit Colchester weather in October.

In comparing the weather between November and December, December tends to be slightly cooler with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), while November maintains a slightly milder range with temperatures from 0°C (33°F) to 16°C (62°F). December also sees more precipitation, totaling 97 mm (3.8 inches) over 15 days, compared to November's 53 mm (2.1 inches) across 11 days. Despite similar humidity levels at 92%, December's chill and increased rainfall mark a distinct shift from November’s relatively warmer and drier conditions. For more detailed insights, you can visit Colchester weather in November.

Compare Colchester's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Colchester

As December arrives in Colchester, the weather shifts significantly from the milder months that precede it. The chill sets in, with more frequent frosty nights and daytime temperatures hovering around 6°C, making it the start of the winter season. Precipitation is prevalent, with about half of the month experiencing rain, contributing to a high humidity level that can feel quite damp compared to the drier autumn months. Bundle up and enjoy the holiday spirit, but be prepared for the cold and wet conditions that December is known for. For further details on how Colchester’s weather evolves throughout the year, explore the comprehensive guide at Colchester Climate.