December Weather in Derby, United Kingdom

Last updated: March 17, 2025

In December, Derby, United Kingdom experiences a range of temperatures, with a maximum of 14°C (57°F) and an average of 5°C (42°F), dipping to a minimum of -3°C (26°F). This month is characterized by high humidity levels reaching up to 90%, creating a chilly atmosphere. With precipitation totaling 84 mm (3.3 in) over approximately 15 days, residents can expect a mix of rainy and cloudy weather. Overall, December in Derby presents a cool and often damp climate, perfect for cozy indoor activities.

December Temperature in Derby

In December, Derby, United Kingdom experiences a notable chill as the temperature begins to dip in anticipation of winter. With a minimum of around -3°C (26°F) and an average of 5°C (42°F), the city transitions from the milder autumn months into cooler conditions. The daytime highs reach a comfortable 14°C (57°F), providing a brief respite from the cold, yet overall, the temperatures reflect a steady decrease compared to the preceding months. December's climate serves as a precursor to the colder winter months ahead, showcasing the shift from the more temperate days of November, with its maximums of 17°C (62°F). As the year draws to a close, Derby's December welcomes snuggly sweaters and warm beverages, inviting locals and visitors alike to enjoy the beauty of the season.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Derby, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec404144475359636157514542
Data source: Temperature data for Derby 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 Derby

In December, Derby, United Kingdom experiences a notable increase in precipitation, with 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain falling over 15 days. This marks one of the wettest months of the year, following October's high of 85 mm (3.3 in) but with more frequent rain events. The trend indicates that as winter settles in, not only does the amount of precipitation rise, but so does the number of rainy days. This correlation may discourage outdoor activities, as residents and visitors alike navigate the damp and often chilly weather. Such a pattern sets the stage for a typical British winter, where layers and umbrellas become essential companions to combat the elements.

December Precipitation Trends in Derby

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Derby, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec566567396274807662856584
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Derby

In Derby, United Kingdom, December marks a continuation of the high humidity levels characteristic of late autumn and early winter, with an average of 90%. This month, along with January and October, stands out with elevated moisture content in the air, suggesting a trend of persistent dampness as the year draws to a close. Interestingly, after a gradual decline through the summer months, where July and August experience relatively lower humidity around 76% and 77% respectively, levels surge substantially in the fall, peaking once again in November. Such shifts indicate a seasonal pattern where humidity tends to rise again as temperatures drop, creating a cozy, albeit damp, atmosphere in the festive month of December.

December Average Humidity in Derby

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Derby, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec90%88%86%84%80%81%76%77%85%90%92%90%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Derby

As December rolls into Derby, the UV Index dips to a low rating of 1, similar to the preceding months of November and January. This trend reflects the winter months where sun exposure is less intense, providing a burn time of 45 minutes before the skin may be at risk. Compared to the moderate and high levels seen in the spring and summer months—where burn times reduced significantly—December offers a respite, making it a great time for outdoor activities without the heightened concern for sunburn. For those interested in tracking UV levels throughout the year, you can find more details at Derby UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Derby for December

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

As December settles over Derby, the city experiences one of its lowest sunshine outputs of the year, with only 90 hours illuminating the winter days. Compared to the sunnier months that follow spring’s energetic bloom, December's sunlight is a stark contrast to the 377 hours basked in during May and 375 hours enjoyed in July. Interestingly, the trend of decreasing sunlight continues into the new year, as January offers just 74 hours of sunshine, highlighting the seasonal variation that Derby experiences. As the festive season approaches, residents and visitors embrace the subtle charm of these shorter days, often turning to the warm glow of seasonal decorations to brighten the long winter nights.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Derby: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Derby 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec74h137h188h301h377h334h375h344h271h211h106h90h
Data source: Derby December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Derby During December

In Derby, United Kingdom, December tends to bring the least likelihood of sunny weather, with only a 17% chance of sunshine. This is a noticeable drop compared to the milder months of spring, where April enjoys a peak of 46% sunny days. As the year progresses into winter, the chances of sun generally decrease; for instance, November sees a more optimistic 30% likelihood, but still falls short of the warmth found earlier in the year. Overall, December's dreary weather reflects a trend of diminishing sunshine as the seasons shift, inviting cozy indoor activities rather than basking in sunlight.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Derby

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Derby 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 Derby experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec21%24%24%46%29%26%35%21%27%21%30%17%
Data source: Derby December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Derby in December

In Derby, United Kingdom, December marks the transition into the winter months, bringing the shortest daylight duration of the year at just 7 hours. As the calendar progresses from the vibrant 16 hours of daylight in June and July, sunlight gradually dwindles, with autumn months like October and November featuring 10 and 8 hours respectively. This steady decline emphasizes the seasonal shift, leading into the depths of winter when days are noticeably shorter. As winter solstice approaches, the dip in daylight illuminates the cozy atmosphere of the season, making December both a time of reflection and a precursor to the gradual return of longer days ahead in January and February.

Average Daylight Hours in Derby for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Derby throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 9m9h 50m11h 54m14h 1m15h 52m16h 50m16h 19m14h 39m12h 36m10h 31m8h 38m7h 37m
Data source: Derby daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Derby

As December settles in Derby, the wind takes on a character that reflects the transition into winter. With an average wind speed of 4.6 m/s (10 mph), the month enjoys a slight uptick compared to November's speed, indicating a gentle but noticeable breeze that whispers through the city. Interestingly, as the year draws to a close, December's winds remain steadier than the calmer summer months, which saw their lowest readings in July at 2.9 m/s (6 mph). This trend underscores a gradual increase from the milder spring temperatures, peaking in October at 5.1 m/s (12 mph), before settling into the consistently brisk conditions typical of the winter season. Thus, this final month captures the essence of a chilly Derby day, where the wind adds a crispness that invigorates the air.

Average December Wind Speed in Derby

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Derby, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.55.14.83.34.03.42.93.83.55.14.54.6 m/s
Data source: Derby December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Derby Compares to Other Months

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

December and January share similar temperature ranges, with December averaging around 5°C (42°F) and January slightly cooler at an average of 4°C (40°F). Both months experience maximum temperatures around 14°C (57°F to 58°F), but January often sees slightly colder minimum temperatures, dropping to -4°C (25°F). In terms of precipitation, December is rainier, receiving 84 mm (3.3 in) over 15 days compared to January's 56 mm (2.2 in) over 10 days. Humidity remains consistent at 90% for both months, contributing to the chilly winter feel. For more details on the January weather, visit Derby weather in January.

In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -3°C (26°F) to a milder average of 5°C (42°F), peaking at 14°C (57°F). This month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 84 mm (3.3 in) over approximately 15 days, with a high humidity level of 90%. In contrast, February presents slightly colder conditions, with minimum temperatures dropping to -5°C (23°F) but an average still holding at 5°C (42°F), and a maximum reaching 17°C (63°F). Overall, February sees less rainfall, with 65 mm (2.6 in) over about 12 days and a marginally lower humidity of 88%. For more detailed information, you can check Derby weather in February.

December and March present contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -3°C (26°F) at night to a mild 14°C (57°F) during the day, with an average of 5°C (42°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 84 mm (3.3 in) over 15 days, and a high humidity level of 90%. In contrast, March sees slightly lower nighttime temperatures, dipping to -7°C (20°F), but daytime highs can reach up to 20°C (68°F), providing a more significant warming trend with an average temperature of 7°C (44°F). Precipitation decreases to 67 mm (2.6 in) over 13 days, and humidity is slightly lower at 86%. For a detailed overview of March weather, check out Derby weather in March.

December and April present strikingly different weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -3°C (26°F) at their lowest to a comfortable 14°C (57°F) at their highest, with an average of around 5°C (42°F). The month experiences significant precipitation of 84 mm (3.3 in) over 15 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 90%. In contrast, April sees a milder climate with temperatures fluctuating between -2°C (29°F) and a warm 24°C (76°F), averaging around 8°C (48°F). The amount of precipitation drops to 39 mm (1.6 in) over just 8 days, and humidity decreases to 84%. For a more detailed look at what to expect, check out Derby weather in April.

December and May showcase stark contrasts in weather patterns. In December, temperatures are chilly with a minimum of -3°C (26°F) and an average of 5°C (42°F), peaking at 14°C (57°F). This month also experiences significant precipitation, totaling 84 mm (3.3 in) over 15 days, along with high humidity at 90%. In contrast, May offers a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a pleasant average of 12°C (53°F), and a maximum reaching 25°C (78°F). Additionally, May sees less precipitation, measuring 62 mm (2.4 in) over 12 days, and lower humidity at 80%. For more details on the weather in May, visit Derby weather in May.

December and June present strikingly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures linger between a chilly -3°C (26°F) at night and a mild 14°C (57°F) during the day, with an average of 5°C (42°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 84 mm (3.3 in) over approximately 15 days, coupled with high humidity at 90%. In contrast, June enjoys warmer temperatures with minimums around 6°C (44°F) and maximums soaring to 29°C (84°F), averaging 15°C (59°F). Rainfall is slightly less in June, at 74 mm (2.9 in) spread over 13 days, and the humidity is lower at 81%. For more information about the weather in June, you can check Derby weather in June.

In December, temperatures are quite chilly, with a minimum of -3°C (26°F) and an average of 5°C (42°F), reaching a maximum of only 14°C (57°F). The month also sees considerable precipitation, averaging 84 mm (3.3 in) over about 15 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 90%. In contrast, July offers a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (42°F) to an average of 17°C (63°F) and a maximum of 35°C (95°F). Precipitation is slightly lower at 80 mm (3.1 in), occurring over 14 days, while humidity drops to a more comfortable 76%. For a closer look at July's warm weather, check out Derby weather in July.

December and August present contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures dip significantly, with a minimum of -3°C (26°F) and an average of 5°C (42°F), while August boasts milder conditions with a minimum of 8°C (46°F) and an average of 16°C (62°F). Precipitation levels are fairly similar, with December receiving 84 mm (3.3 in) across 15 days and August seeing 76 mm (3.0 in) over 13 days, yet humidity is notably higher in December at 90%, compared to August's 77%. This stark difference in temperature and humidity highlights the chill of winter versus the warmth of summer. For more details on August weather specifically, check out Derby weather in August.

In December, the weather is significantly colder compared to September, with average temperatures ranging from a chilly 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), whereas September enjoys milder temperatures, averaging 14°C (57°F) and peaking at 28°C (83°F). While both months experience considerable humidity, December is slightly more humid at 90% compared to September's 85%. Precipitation is also more frequent in December, with 84 mm (3.3 in) over 15 days, versus 62 mm (2.5 in) over 11 days in September. For a detailed outlook on September weather, check Derby weather in September.

In comparing the weather between October and December, we see a notable shift in temperature and precipitation patterns. October enjoys milder conditions with an average temperature of 11°C (52°F) and maximums reaching 22°C (73°F), compared to December's chillier averages—where temperatures hover between -3°C (26°F) and a maximum of 14°C (57°F). Both months experience similar levels of precipitation, with October receiving 85 mm (3.3 in) over 12 days and December slightly higher at 84 mm (3.3 in) across 15 days. Humidity remains constant at 90% in both months, contributing to a damp atmosphere. For a more detailed look at October’s climate, check out Derby weather in October.

In comparing the weather between November and December, we see a noticeable shift in temperatures and precipitation patterns. December tends to be cooler, with an average temperature of 5°C (42°F), compared to November's slightly warmer average of 7°C (45°F). Interestingly, while both months experience the same minimum temperature of -3°C (26°F), December's maximum temperature reaches only 14°C (57°F), making it cooler overall. Precipitation increases in December with 84 mm (3.3 in) over 15 days, compared to November's 65 mm (2.6 in) across 14 days, and the humidity levels remain high in both months, albeit slightly lower in December at 90% compared to November's 92%. For more detailed insights, you can check Derby weather in November.

Compare Derby's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Derby

As December sets in, Derby transforms into a chilly retreat, with temperatures dipping noticeably from the mildness of earlier months. Characterized by a maximum of 14°C and a minimum plunging to -3°C, the month showcases a significant drop in warmth, making it one of the coldest periods of the year. Rainfall becomes more frequent, with about 15 days of precipitation contributing to an overall total of 84 mm. The air carries an increased humidity level at 90%, enhancing the wintry feel. For a more in-depth look at how December weather shapes the climate throughout the year, visit Derby Climate.