December Weather in Dorchester, United Kingdom

Last updated: March 17, 2025

December in Dorchester, United Kingdom offers a captivating blend of chilly temperatures and frequent precipitation. With a maximum temperature reaching 14°C (58°F) and an average of 7°C (46°F), the month showcases a cool climate, perfect for cozy indoor activities. However, winter's embrace is palpable, as temperatures can plunge to a brisk -3°C (27°F). Expect 98 mm (3.9 in) of rain over 14 days, contributing to the region's high humidity level of 89%. This combination of wet weather and cool temperatures creates a quintessential British winter atmosphere, inviting residents and visitors alike to bundle up and enjoy the seasonal charm.

December Temperature in Dorchester

As December blankets Dorchester in a chilly embrace, temperatures reflect the gradual drop that characterizes winter in the region. The month typically sees minimums around -3°C (27°F), setting the stage for frosty mornings. The average temperature hovers at a modest 7°C (46°F), while the highs reach a mild 14°C (58°F), offering brief respites from the cold. This blend of temperatures indicates a transition from the milder autumn months, with December standing out as a month where you might feel the bite of winter but can still enjoy occasional mild days. As the year winds down, Dorchester’s cool climate invites cozy gatherings and festive cheer, embodying the charm of a traditional English winter.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Dorchester, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec424446495461646359544845
Data source: Temperature data for Dorchester 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 Dorchester

December in Dorchester, United Kingdom, tends to be quite a wet month, with precipitation reaching 98 mm (3.9 in) over the course of 14 rainy days. This is a significant increase compared to November, which had 66 mm (2.6 in) of rainfall. The trend shows that as the year winds down, precipitation levels generally rise, with December consistently recording higher totals than several other months, especially those in the late summer and early autumn. This increase is indicative of the shift to winter weather, where the combination of longer nights and increased humidity contributes to more frequent rainfall. Thus, December stands out not only for its heightened wetness but also for setting the stage for the chilly, damp conditions typical of winter in Dorchester.

December Precipitation Trends in Dorchester

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Dorchester, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5164734873765378481066698
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Dorchester

In December, Dorchester, United Kingdom, experiences a humidity level of 89%, mirroring the wetter conditions typical of the preceding autumn months, particularly October and November, which recorded 89% and 90% respectively. As the year winds down, humidity tends to remain relatively high, reflecting a consistent trend where winter months boast elevated moisture levels. Notably, following the summer's drier periods in July and August, where humidity dipped to 70% and 73%, there is a marked return to heavier, damp air as the colder months advance. This pattern highlights the seasonal fluctuation in humidity, with December maintaining the high averages that are characteristic of the region's winter climate.

December Average Humidity in Dorchester

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Dorchester, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec89%88%86%84%80%80%70%73%79%89%90%89%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Dorchester

As we delve into the December UV Index in Dorchester, the trend of lower UV levels is evident, with a UV Index of 1 classified as low exposure, resulting in a burn time of 45 minutes. This marks a significant dip from the summer months, where indices often soared to 8, indicating a challenging risk for skin protection. September's gradual decline established a pathway to these winter values, aligning perfectly with the seasonal shift. As the year winds down, residents can look forward to more relaxed sun exposure, making it crucial, nonetheless, to stay mindful of skin safety. For more insights on UV Index trends in your area, visit Dorchester UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Dorchester for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Dorchester 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec224678876421
Data source: Dorchester 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 Dorchester

December in Dorchester, United Kingdom, wraps up the year with a modest 115 hours of sunshine, setting a quiet contrast against the vibrant brightness of the preceding months. The sunniest spell occurs in the summer, peaking in July with 422 hours, while the spring months, particularly April and May, bask in increasing daylight, inviting warmth and vitality. As the year transitions towards winter, sunshine hours steadily decline, underscoring a natural ebb and flow. November offers a gentle drop to 153 hours, hinting at the shorter days ahead, and while December’s sunshine is modest, it still serves as a reminder of the lingering light against the chill of winter.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Dorchester: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Dorchester 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec100h147h215h339h402h396h422h382h317h251h153h115h
Data source: Dorchester December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Dorchester During December

In Dorchester, United Kingdom, December typically brings a lower chance of sunny weather, with only a 22% likelihood of sun. This marks a notable decline compared to the pleasantly brighter months of late spring and early summer, such as April's peak at 52%. As the year progresses from October's 26% and November's 33%, December's greyness encapsulates the shift toward winter, echoing the patterns seen throughout the colder months. While sunny days are a rarity, the charm of Dorchester's winter scenery remains, creating a serene atmosphere that contrasts with the bustling sunny days of earlier in the year.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Dorchester

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Dorchester 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 Dorchester experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec22%25%35%52%36%28%36%29%30%26%33%22%
Data source: Dorchester December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Dorchester in December

As the year comes to a close, December in Dorchester, United Kingdom offers 8 hours of daylight, mirroring the shorter days of November. This pattern of diminishing light reaches its peak in winter, with daylight gradually decreasing from a more generous 16 hours in June to just 8 hours in both December and November. Following December, the cycle begins anew, leading to a gradual increase in daylight as early spring approaches, culminating in longer days as the year progresses towards summer. Thus, the trend reflects a natural ebb and flow of daylight, inviting the community to embrace the cozy charm of winter while looking forward to the brighter, longer days ahead.

Average Daylight Hours in Dorchester for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Dorchester throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 31m10h 2m11h 55m13h 50m15h 31m16h 23m15h 55m14h 25m12h 34m10h 39m8h 56m8h 2m
Data source: Dorchester daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Dorchester

As December blankets Dorchester in a chill, the average wind speed rises to 4.9 m/s (11 mph), signaling a notable shift from the milder breezes of earlier months. After a sequence of gentle zephyrs peaking at 5.5 m/s (12 mph) in February, the winds began to mellow through the spring and summer, hitting a low of 3.2 m/s (7 mph) in June. However, as autumn progressed, wind speeds experienced a resurgence, with December's gusts matching the strength of January's. This trend reveals how, as the year winds down, the winds in Dorchester not only become crisper but also carry the promise of winter's arrival, invigorating the landscape with a refreshing reminder of nature’s cyclic rhythm.

Average December Wind Speed in Dorchester

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Dorchester, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.75.54.63.54.73.23.64.03.64.63.94.9 m/s
Data source: Dorchester December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Dorchester Compares to Other Months

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

December and January both feature cool temperatures, but there are some notable differences. In December, the minimum temperature is -3°C (27°F), with an average of 7°C (46°F) and a maximum of 14°C (58°F). The month sees more precipitation, totaling 98 mm (3.9 in) over 14 days and higher humidity at 89%. In contrast, January is slightly colder, with a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), but it experiences less rainfall at 51 mm (2.0 in) over just 9 days and maintains a comparable humidity level of 88%. To explore more about the weather specifics in January, visit Dorchester weather in January.

In December, temperatures typically range from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), with an average temperature of 7°C (46°F) and higher precipitation levels at 98 mm (3.9 in) over 14 days. The month tends to be quite humid, with an average humidity of 89%. In contrast, February experiences slightly colder temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (22°F) and a maximum of 16°C (61°F), but maintains a similar average of 7°C (44°F). Precipitation in February is lower, amounting to 64 mm (2.5 in) over 12 days, and humidity drops slightly to 88%. For a more detailed look at February weather, you can check Dorchester weather in February.

In December, the weather is cooler with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), and an average temperature of 7°C (46°F). The monthly precipitation is relatively high at 98 mm (3.9 in) over 14 days, paired with high humidity at 89%. In contrast, March shows a slight drop in minimum temperature to -5°C (23°F) but averages slightly higher at 8°C (46°F), with maximums reaching up to 19°C (67°F). Precipitation decreases to 73 mm (2.9 in) over 13 days, and humidity is marginally lower at 86%. For more detailed insights, check out Dorchester weather in March.

December weather is characterized by cooler temperatures, with minimums dipping to -3°C (27°F) and a high of around 14°C (58°F), while April sees a shift toward milder conditions, boasting a minimum of -1°C (30°F) and a maximum of 23°C (75°F). Precipitation is more frequent in December, with about 98 mm (3.9 in) spread over 14 days, compared to April’s lighter rainfall of 48 mm (1.9 in) over just 7 days. Furthermore, while December maintains high humidity levels at 89%, April experiences a slight decrease to 84%. For more detailed insights into weather patterns during this month, check out Dorchester weather in April.

In December, temperatures in Dorchester can drop as low as -3°C (27°F), with an average of 7°C (46°F) and a maximum of 14°C (58°F). The month is characterized by high humidity levels at 89% and 98 mm (3.9 in) of precipitation over approximately 14 days. In contrast, May brings milder weather with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to an average of 12°C (55°F), peaking at 24°C (75°F). The humidity decreases to 80%, and the total precipitation drops to 73 mm (2.9 in) over about 12 days. For a more detailed look at the weather during this month, check out Dorchester weather in May.

In December, the weather is notably cooler, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -3°C (27°F) at night to a mild 14°C (58°F) during the day, averaging around 7°C (46°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 98 mm (3.9 in) over about 14 days, alongside high humidity levels of 89%. Conversely, in June, the climate is significantly warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), averaging 16°C (61°F). Precipitation in June is lower at 76 mm (3.0 in) over 11 days, and humidity decreases to 80%. For more specific insights into June's weather patterns, you can explore Dorchester weather in June.

December and July present contrasting weather experiences. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -3°C (27°F) to a milder 14°C (58°F), with an average of 7°C (46°F). This month sees significant precipitation of 98 mm (3.9 in) over 14 days and a high humidity level of 89%, creating a damp and cold atmosphere. In contrast, July offers a much warmer climate, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 8°C (47°F) and peaking at 30°C (86°F), averaging 18°C (64°F). With only 53 mm (2.1 in) of precipitation over 11 days and lower humidity at 70%, July is generally sunnier and more pleasant. For more details on July's weather, you can check Dorchester weather in July.

December and August present vastly different weather experiences. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -3°C (27°F) to a mild 14°C (58°F), with an average of 7°C (46°F). The month is marked by high humidity at 89% and considerable precipitation, with 98 mm (3.9 in) falling over 14 days. In contrast, August offers a more temperate climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F), averaging 17°C (63°F). Precipitation is less frequent, totaling 78 mm (3.1 in) over 12 days, accompanied by lower humidity at 73%. For more detailed insights into August weather, check this link: Dorchester weather in August.

When comparing the weather in December and September, notable differences arise in both temperature and precipitation. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), with an average of 7°C (46°F). This month also sees higher precipitation levels at 98 mm (3.9 in) over approximately 14 days, coupled with high humidity at 89%. In contrast, September enjoys milder weather, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a pleasant maximum of 27°C (81°F), averaging 15°C (59°F). Rainfall during September is significantly lower at just 48 mm (1.9 in) over about 9 days, and the humidity remains relatively comfortable at 79%. For more detailed insights, you can check Dorchester weather in September.

In comparison to October, December experiences colder temperatures, with morning lows dipping as low as -3°C (27°F) and an average temperature of 7°C (46°F). October, on the other hand, has milder conditions, featuring a minimum temperature of 0°C (32°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F). While both months have similar humidity levels at 89% and approximately 14 days of precipitation, October encounters slightly more rainfall, totaling 106 mm (4.2 in), compared to December's 98 mm (3.9 in). For more detailed insights on the weather trends, you can check Dorchester weather in October.

December weather tends to be cooler and wetter than November. While the average temperature in December hovers around 7°C (46°F), November is slightly warmer with an average of 9°C (48°F). Both months experience chilly minimum temperatures, but December dips to a lower minimum of -3°C (27°F) compared to November's -1°C (30°F). Additionally, December sees more precipitation, totaling 98 mm (3.9 in) over 14 days, whereas November records 66 mm (2.6 in) over 10 days. Humidity levels remain high in both months, with December at 89% and November at 90%. For more detailed insights into November's weather, check out Dorchester weather in November.

Compare Dorchester's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Dorchester

As December rolls in, Dorchester experiences a notable shift in weather, with cooler temperatures and increased precipitation that distinguish it from the milder months of autumn. The average daily temperature dips, creating a brisk atmosphere that contrasts with the lingering warmth of earlier seasons. Sweater season kicks into full gear, especially with nighttime lows that can plummet. Additionally, December brings more rain, with a higher number of days seeing precipitation, making it one of the wettest months of the year. With humidity levels soaring, residents often find themselves surrounded by the crisp scent of winter. For a comprehensive look at how Dorchester’s weather patterns evolve throughout the year, visit Dorchester Climate.