Last updated: March 17, 2025
December in Exeter, United Kingdom brings a blend of crisp winter conditions and frequent rainfall. With maximum temperatures reaching 14°C (57°F) and an average chill of 7°C (45°F), the weather can feel quite brisk, especially as lows dip to -2°C (29°F). The month sees approximately 96 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation spread over 16 days, contributing to a humid average of 89%. While the grey skies may dominate, the charm of Exeter during this time remains undeniable, inviting both locals and visitors to enjoy the seasonal atmosphere.
As December settles in Exeter, the temperatures begin to cool, showcasing a typical English winter. With minimums dipping to -2°C (29°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F), residents can expect a brisk chill in the air. The maximum temperatures hover around 14°C (57°F), offering a respite from the frigid nights. This month marks a transition from the milder late autumn weather, as the city prepares for the colder temperatures ahead. The gradual decline in temperature trends from November to December signals winter's arrival, inviting both locals and visitors to enjoy cozy gatherings and festive delights amidst the chilly backdrop.
December in Exeter brings a notable uptick in precipitation, with 96 mm (or 3.8 in) of rain falling over 16 days. This trend highlights a particularly damp end to the year, aligning with the increased rainfall observed in the autumn months. Compared to the cooler and drier spells of earlier in the year, such as April's 52 mm and January's 50 mm, December's precipitation stands out as a significant contributor to Exeter's overall annual totals. As winter settles in, the persistent drizzle and occasional downpours contribute to a lush, green landscape, underscoring the region's reputation for variable weather.
As December rolls into Exeter, the city experiences a notable rise in humidity, with levels reaching 89%. This dampness is reminiscent of the preceding months, particularly October and November, which also showcased high humidity levels of 89% and 90%, respectively. After a gradual decline from the summer months—where July and August saw 70% and 73%—the trend indicates a return to the wetter conditions typical of winter. Such high humidity not only influences the chilly atmosphere but also contributes to the vivid, lush landscapes the region is known for. This wintery pattern sets the stage for a cozy and moisture-rich end to the year in Exeter.
In December, Exeter experiences a low UV Index of 1, indicating minimal risk of harm from the sun's rays. This trend of reduced UV exposure is consistent with the winter months, where locals can comfortably enjoy outdoor activities with a burn time of 45 minutes before needing to seek shade or apply sunscreen. Following a peak in UV levels during the summer months, the UV Index gradually declines from April's high of 6 to November's low of 2, finally reaching December's lowest point. Despite the winter chill, understanding these UV levels is essential for skin protection, especially for those who remain active outdoors. For more information, check the detailed Exeter UV Index.
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As December settles in Exeter, the days grow shorter, yielding just 115 hours of sunshine, a noticeable dip after the vibrant light of summer when July boasts an impressive 418 hours. This seasonal decline reflects a broader trend of diminishing daylight as the year progresses; after peaking in May and June, sunshine hours gradually wane towards winter's grip. With November's 142 hours already hinting at the encroaching gloom, December's brief bursts of sunshine serve as a gentle reminder to cherish those fleeting rays before the cycle begins anew in January, where the sun reemerges with a modest 97 hours to herald the arrival of winter.
In December, Exeter experiences a modest likelihood of sunny weather, with only a 20% chance of sunshine. This figure aligns closely with the trend observed in the winter months, where cloud cover tends to dominate. Following the upswing of sunny days in April, which peaks at 51%, the chances steadily decline as the year winds down, showcasing a notable shift from spring's brightness to winter's overcast skies. As winter settles in, December's weather reflects this pattern, making those rare sunny days even more precious amid the season's chill.
In Exeter, United Kingdom, daylight duration experiences a captivating ebb and flow throughout the year, with December offering only 8 hours of daylight, a reflection of the winter solstice's grip. As the calendar shifts into the early months of the year, daylight gradually extends, reaching 10 hours in February and steadily climbing to a peak of 16 hours by June. This progression creates a lively contrast as the days lengthen, with the sun casting its warmth for 15 hours in July, before gently tapering off again in the late summer and autumn months. By November, the daylight dwindles back down to 8 hours, mirroring the darkness that envelops Exeter during this time of year. This rhythmic cycle highlights the dynamic interplay between light and dark, inviting residents to embrace both the longer, sun-soaked days of summer and the tranquil, reflective darkness of winter.
As December settles over Exeter, the crisp winter air is accompanied by an average wind speed of 4.9 m/s (11 mph), marking a slight uptick from the previous months. This increase is part of a seasonal trend where wind speeds generally fluctuate from January’s calm 4.7 m/s to November's mild 3.8 m/s. Notably, December’s wind is busier than the summer months, suggesting a shift as the city braces for winter storms. With the winds picking up pace, Exeter's landscape transforms, creating an invigorating atmosphere that encapsulates the essence of winter. As you venture outside, the dance of the December wind is sure to remind you of nature's powerful presence amidst the festive season.
The weather in Exeter 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 Exeter and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January weather exhibit some similarities, but notable differences emerge as well. December typically presents a milder average temperature of 7°C (45°F), with minimums around -2°C (29°F) and maximums reaching 14°C (57°F). The month is characterized by higher precipitation, totaling 96 mm (3.8 in) over approximately 16 days, along with a high humidity level of 89%. In contrast, January experiences slightly colder temperatures, with an average of 6°C (42°F) and minimums dropping to -4°C (26°F), while still peaking at 14°C (57°F). The month sees significantly less rainfall, at 50 mm (2.0 in) over just 9 days, and a marginally lower humidity level of 88%. For more detailed insights, you can check Exeter weather in January.
In comparing the weather patterns of December and February, we observe a slight drop in temperatures from December's average of 7°C (45°F) to February's average of 6°C (44°F). December experiences a wider temperature range, with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and a maximum of 14°C (57°F), while February's temperatures can dip to a lower minimum of -6°C (22°F) but reach a comparable maximum of 16°C (60°F). Precipitation is notably higher in December, totaling 96 mm (3.8 in) over 16 days, compared to February's 69 mm (2.7 in) over 12 days, indicating a somewhat drier month. Both months feature high humidity, with December at 89% and February just slightly lower at 88%. For more details on February's weather, visit Exeter weather in February.
In December, the weather tends to be cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F). The month is characterized by a significant amount of precipitation, averaging 96 mm (3.8 in) over 16 days, along with high humidity levels at 89%. In contrast, March experiences slightly colder temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (21°F) and a maximum of 18°C (65°F), although the average remains the same at 7°C (45°F). Precipitation is also lower in March, totaling 81 mm (3.2 in) over 15 days, and the humidity level is marginally lower at 86%. For more detailed insights, you can check Exeter weather in March.
In comparing December and April weather, December tends to be cooler with an average temperature of 7°C (45°F), while April warms up slightly with an average of 9°C (49°F). Both months experience lows of -2°C (29°F), but April boasts a higher maximum temperature of 22°C (71°F) compared to December's 14°C (57°F). Precipitation is more frequent in December, with 96 mm (3.8 in) falling over 16 days, while April sees less rain at 52 mm (2.0 in) over just 9 days. Additionally, humidity is slightly higher in December at 89%, compared to 84% in April. For more details about April weather, check Exeter weather in April.
December and May present a striking contrast in weather conditions. In December, temperatures typically range from a chilly -2°C (29°F) at night to a mild 14°C (57°F) during the day, with an average of about 7°C (45°F). The month experiences considerable rainfall, totaling 96 mm (3.8 in) over 16 days, accompanied by high humidity at 89%. Conversely, May brings a notable warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (33°F) to a pleasant maximum of 24°C (75°F), averaging around 12°C (54°F). Precipitation decreases to 74 mm (2.9 in) over 12 days, and humidity is slightly lower at 80%. For more details about the weather in May, check out Exeter weather in May.
December and June present contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -2°C (29°F) at night to a mild 14°C (57°F) during the day, with an average of 7°C (45°F). The month is marked by higher precipitation, totaling 96 mm (3.8 in) over 16 days, accompanied by high humidity at 89%. In stark contrast, June welcomes warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (43°F) to a pleasant maximum of 28°C (83°F) and an average of 15°C (60°F). Rainfall is slightly lower at 80 mm (3.2 in) over just 12 days, and humidity decreases to 80%. For more insights on June temperatures, check out Exeter weather in June.
December and July present starkly contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures can dip to a chilly -2°C (29°F) at their lowest, with an average of 7°C (45°F) and highs reaching only 14°C (57°F). This month also experiences significant precipitation, totaling 96 mm (3.8 in) over 16 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 89%. In contrast, July boasts a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures of 8°C (47°F) and averages around 17°C (63°F), peaking at 28°C (83°F). Precipitation is less frequent, accumulating to 66 mm (2.6 in) over just 12 days, and the humidity drops to a more comfortable 70%. For more insights on July weather, you can check Exeter weather in July.
December and August present strikingly different weather conditions. In December, temperatures can dip as low as -2°C (29°F), with an average of 7°C (45°F) and peaks reaching 14°C (57°F). This month also experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 96 mm (3.8 in) over about 16 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 89%. In contrast, August sees milder temperatures with a minimum of 8°C (47°F), an average of 16°C (62°F), and a maximum of 28°C (83°F). Precipitation in August is less frequent, amounting to 73 mm (2.9 in) over 11 days, and the humidity is lower at 73%. For more detailed information about August weather, you can check Exeter weather in August.
In comparing the weather of December and September, notable contrasts emerge. December experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F), while September enjoys milder conditions, ranging from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to an average of 14°C (58°F) and a maximum of 26°C (80°F). Additionally, December is considerably wetter, with 96 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over 16 days, compared to September’s 53 mm (2.1 in) over only 9 days. Furthermore, December has a higher humidity level at 89%, while September maintains a more comfortable 79%. For a closer look at September’s climate, you can visit Exeter weather in September.
In comparing the weather conditions of December and October, we can observe notable differences. December typically experiences a cooler range of temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F), while October has a milder average of 12°C (53°F) and a maximum that reaches 20°C (69°F). Both months have similar precipitation levels, with December receiving 96 mm (3.8 in) over 16 days and October slightly higher at 99 mm (3.9 in) over 14 days. Interestingly, both months also share high humidity levels, sitting at 89%. For a more detailed look at the weather during October, you can visit Exeter weather in October.
In comparing the weather between December and November, December tends to be cooler with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), while November offers slightly warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from -1°C (31°F) to a peak of 16°C (60°F). Additionally, December sees increased precipitation, totaling 96 mm (3.8 in) over 16 days, compared to November’s 67 mm (2.6 in) across 12 days. Humidity remains relatively high in both months, with December at 89% and November at 90%. For those interested in more detailed insights, check out Exeter weather in November.
As December settles in Exeter, the cooler temperatures and higher humidity create a distinct ambiance compared to the rest of the year. While the average temperature hovers around a crisp 7°C, the month often brings a mix of rain, with nearly half the days experiencing precipitation. This results in a wet and chilly atmosphere, well-suited for the festive season. December's combination of damp conditions and short daylight hours underscores the transition into winter, making it a stark contrast to the milder and drier months that precede it. For a deeper understanding of how December fits into the overall climate, visit Exeter Climate.