December Weather in Peterborough, United Kingdom

Last updated: March 17, 2025

December in Peterborough, United Kingdom is characterized by brisk, chilly temperatures, with a maximum of 15°C (59°F) and an average hovering around 6°C (43°F). The month can bring a frosty edge, with minimum temperatures dipping down to -3°C (28°F), making warm layers essential for outdoor activities. Expect 77 mm (3.0 in) of precipitation spread across approximately 14 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 90%, which can make the air feel colder. As residents and visitors navigate this wintry month, they are often greeted by overcast skies and the persistent, gentle embrace of dampness that defines the season in this charming English city.

December Temperature in Peterborough

In December, Peterborough experiences the transitional chill of winter, with temperatures dipping as low as -3°C (28°F) at night. The average daytime temperature hovers around 6°C (43°F), bringing a briskness to the air that hints at the festive season ahead. Although highs can reach up to 15°C (59°F), the month is characterized by a clear drop from the milder autumn temperatures, with each passing day nudging closer towards the peak winter cold. This shift lays the groundwork for cozy evenings and festive gatherings, as the landscape becomes increasingly frosted and the nights longer. Overall, December’s temperatures reflect a gradual adjustment into the heart of winter, offering a refreshing chill that invigorates the season.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Peterborough, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec414345495561656459534643
Data source: Temperature data for Peterborough 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 Peterborough

December in Peterborough often marks a peak in precipitation, with the month receiving 77 mm (3.0 in) of rain over the course of 14 days. This trend positions December among the wetter months of the year, alongside October, which also saw significant rainfall. As the fall transitions to winter, the increase in both the amount and frequency of rainy days highlights the region's shift into a more turbulent weather phase. The festive season is thus accompanied by a persistent grayness, as December's rainfall is comparable to the wettest months, creating a striking contrast with drier spells earlier in the year. While the increase in precipitation may sometimes dampen seasonal cheer, it also nourishes the lush landscapes that define Peterborough's charm.

December Precipitation Trends in Peterborough

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Peterborough, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec474856376473707456775177
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Peterborough

As December sets in, Peterborough, United Kingdom, experiences a notable trend in humidity levels that reflects the winter season's chill. With a humidity of 90%, December's moisture levels align closely with those seen in January and October, suggesting a sustained period of dampness as the year winds down. This month marks the culmination of a gradual decline from the lush humidity observed in the spring and summer months, where levels peaked in May at 80% and dipped to 76% in July. Following this pattern, September and November saw increases, bringing the annual cycle full circle as the atmosphere retains that familiar, crisp chill of winter. Overall, December's humidity reinforces the tendency for higher moisture content during the colder months, creating a setting that is both invigorating and reminiscent of the festive atmosphere.

December Average Humidity in Peterborough

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Peterborough, 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 Peterborough

In December, Peterborough experiences a low UV Index of 1, with a burn time of 45 minutes. This trend mirrors the earlier winter months, notably November, which also recorded a low index. As the year progresses, there is a clear rise in UV levels during the spring and summer months, peaking at 8 in both June and July, when sun exposure becomes more critical. The transition from the darker winter months into the brighter seasons highlights an increased need for sun protection as the UV levels escalate. For more details on UV levels throughout the year, visit Peterborough UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Peterborough for December

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

In Peterborough, December brings a modest 103 hours of sunshine, marking a notable dip as the year reaches its end. This reduction from the sunnier autumn months reflects a seasonal trend, where November's gray skies yield only 138 hours, and the vibrant sunshine of summer is a distant memory. As the year progresses from January's mere 90 hours to the full bloom of spring, peaking at 378 hours in May, the bright months gradually give way to those shorter and darker. Despite December's limited sunlight, the yearly cycle illustrates a fascinating ebb and flow, with each month contributing to the rhythm of light that characterizes life in this charming city.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Peterborough: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Peterborough 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec90h147h204h307h378h361h382h352h286h229h138h103h
Data source: Peterborough December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Peterborough During December

In Peterborough, December marks a noticeable dip in the likelihood of sunny weather, with only a 17% chance of sunshine compared to the brighter months of spring and early autumn. This trend illustrates a significant decrease as the year draws to a close, down from 31% in November and starkly lower than the 46% seen in April. While early winter sun is a rare treat, residents can anticipate the typical grey skies that characterize the month. The gradual decline in sunshine from the summer highs of 38% in July to the end-of-year lows suggests that December is firmly nestled in the heart of the UK's dreary winter season, where sunlight becomes a precious commodity.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Peterborough

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Peterborough 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 Peterborough experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec23%25%26%46%31%27%38%25%30%21%31%17%
Data source: Peterborough December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Peterborough in December

As December sweeps into Peterborough, daylight begins to wane dramatically, with the sun gracing the skies for a mere 7 hours each day. This trend marks a stark contrast to the longer days of summer, where daylight extends to 16 hours in June and July. The gradual decline in daylight begins in late autumn, with November offering only 8 hours before dropping further in December. Throughout the year, Peterborough experiences a rhythmic shift in daylight, with the cold winter months giving way to the gradual return of light starting in January, where daylight increases to 8 hours again, signaling the promise of spring just around the corner.

Average Daylight Hours in Peterborough for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Peterborough throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 15m9h 53m11h 54m13h 58m15h 46m16h 43m16h 13m14h 35m12h 36m10h 33m8h 42m7h 43m
Data source: Peterborough daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Peterborough

As December unfolds in Peterborough, the wind begins to dance with a brisk average speed of 4.7 m/s (11 mph), marking a slight uptick from the preceding months. This increase is in line with the seasonal shift, as the winds tend to strengthen during the colder months. Interestingly, December’s winds echo the patterns seen in October and November, which had similar speeds of 5.0 m/s and 4.5 m/s respectively. In contrast, the summer months, particularly July and June, experience notably calmer breezes, with averages dropping to around 3.2 m/s (7 mph). Thus, December not only heralds the festive spirit but also a return to more dynamic wind conditions as the year comes to a close, inviting all to enjoy the invigorating chill that accompanies this time of year.

Average December Wind Speed in Peterborough

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Peterborough, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.54.94.73.54.23.43.24.13.65.04.54.7 m/s
Data source: Peterborough December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Peterborough Compares to Other Months

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

December and January share similar maximum temperatures, both reaching up to 15°C (59°F), but January tends to be slightly colder overall with average highs of 5°C (41°F) compared to December's 6°C (43°F). December is characterized by more precipitation, totaling 77 mm (3.0 in) over 14 days, while January sees a marked decrease with just 47 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation across 10 days. Both months maintain high humidity levels at 90%, contributing to a chilly atmosphere throughout the winter season. For more specific details on January weather, you can visit Peterborough weather in January.

In December, the weather features a minimum temperature of -3°C (28°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), with maximums reaching 15°C (59°F). This month is characterized by a higher level of precipitation at 77 mm (3.0 in) over approximately 14 days, contributing to a humid atmosphere with humidity levels around 90%. In contrast, February sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (21°F) and a similar average of 6°C (43°F), but a higher maximum of 18°C (65°F). Precipitation drops to 48 mm (1.9 in) spread across about 11 days, and humidity remains slightly lower at 88%. For more detailed insights, check out Peterborough weather in February.

In December, temperatures in Peterborough range from a chilly -3°C (28°F) at night to a mild 15°C (59°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 6°C (43°F). The month sees significant moisture, with approximately 77 mm (3.0 in) of precipitation spread over 14 days, contributing to a high humidity of 90%. In contrast, March presents a slightly more varied temperature profile, with a minimum of -7°C (20°F), an average of 7°C (45°F), and a maximum of 22°C (71°F). Precipitation decreases to 56 mm (2.2 in) over 13 days, and humidity is slightly lower at 86%. For more detailed information, you can check Peterborough weather in March.

In December, temperatures can drop to as low as -3°C (28°F) and average around 6°C (43°F), with a maximum of 15°C (59°F). The month sees considerable precipitation, totaling 77 mm (3.0 in) spread over 14 days, and the humidity is fairly high at 90%. In contrast, April experiences slightly milder weather with minimum temperatures around -2°C (29°F) and an average of 9°C (49°F), peaking at 27°C (81°F). Precipitation decreases significantly to 37 mm (1.4 in) over just 8 days, accompanied by a lower humidity level of 84%. For more detailed information, you can check Peterborough weather in April.

In December, the weather tends to be quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a frosty -3°C (28°F) as a minimum to a mild maximum of 15°C (59°F), averaging around 6°C (43°F). The month also experiences considerable precipitation, with about 77 mm (3.0 in) spread over 14 days, and humidity levels peak at a high 90%. In contrast, May offers a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures around 1°C (34°F) and maximums reaching 27°C (81°F), averaging 13°C (55°F). The total precipitation decreases to 64 mm (2.5 in) over just 12 days, and humidity is relatively lower at 80%. For more detailed information, check out Peterborough weather in May.

December and June present strikingly different weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -3°C (28°F) to a maximum of 15°C (59°F), with an average of 6°C (43°F). The month also sees considerable precipitation, with 77 mm (3.0 in) over 14 days and a high humidity level of 90%. In contrast, June feels much warmer with temperatures varying from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a sunny high of 30°C (87°F), averaging around 16°C (61°F). Precipitation is slightly lower at 73 mm (2.9 in) over just 10 days, and humidity is a bit more comfortable at 81%. To learn more about the June weather specifics, check out Peterborough weather in June.

December and July in Peterborough present strikingly different weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -3°C (28°F) at the lowest to a milder 15°C (59°F) at the highest, with an average of 6°C (43°F). This month also experiences significant humidity at 90% and receives about 77 mm (3.0 in) of precipitation over 14 days. In contrast, July boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (46°F), an average of 18°C (65°F), and a peak reaching up to 36°C (97°F). Although July receives slightly less precipitation—70 mm (2.8 in) over 12 days—its lower humidity of 76% contributes to a more comfortable atmosphere. For more detailed information, check out Peterborough weather in July.

December weather in Peterborough is characterized by significantly cooler temperatures, with averages around 6°C (43°F) and a maximum of 15°C (59°F). In contrast, August boasts a much warmer climate, with average temperatures reaching 18°C (64°F) and highs of up to 34°C (94°F). While both months experience similar precipitation levels—77 mm in December compared to 74 mm in August—the winter month has a higher humidity of 90% compared to August's 77%. For more detailed insights on August conditions, check out Peterborough weather in August.

When comparing the weather in December to September, a striking contrast emerges. December experiences cooler temperatures, with minimums dropping to -3°C (28°F) and averaging around 6°C (43°F), while September boasts milder weather, ranging from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to an average of 15°C (59°F) and a maximum of 29°C (85°F). Additionally, December sees more precipitation, with 77 mm (3.0 in) over 14 days, compared to September's 56 mm (2.2 in) over just 10 days. Humidity levels are also higher in December at 90%, compared to September's 85%, contributing to a different overall feel in the air. For more detailed insights about September weather, you can explore Peterborough weather in September.

When comparing the weather in December to that of October, we see notable differences in temperatures and precipitation patterns. December experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -3°C (28°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), while October remains milder, featuring a minimum of 1°C (34°F) and an average of 12°C (53°F). Both months receive similar amounts of precipitation, approximately 77 mm (3.0 in), but December sees it spread over 14 days compared to October's 12 days. Additionally, humidity levels remain constant at 90% for both months. For more specific insights, you can view Peterborough weather in October.

In comparing the weather between December and November, December tends to be slightly colder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (28°F) to a maximum of 15°C (59°F), compared to November's range of -2°C (28°F) to 18°C (64°F). Additionally, December is wetter, receiving 77 mm (3.0 in) of precipitation over 14 days, while November has less rain at 51 mm (2.0 in) spread over 10 days. Humidity levels are fairly similar, with December at 90% and November slightly higher at 92%. For a more detailed look at November weather, you can check Peterborough weather in November.

Compare Peterborough's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Peterborough

As December settles in Peterborough, the weather takes a brisk turn, bringing a unique blend of chill and dampness. Unlike the milder months preceding it, December showcases its wintry character with maximum temperatures often peaking around 15°C, but settling closer to an average of 6°C, while nighttime lows can dip down to -3°C. This month also marks a significant increase in precipitation, with an average of 77 mm and about 14 rainy days, making it one of the wetter months of the year. The high humidity, a consistent 90%, adds to the overall chill, creating a decidedly different atmosphere from the preceding autumn days. For a deeper understanding of the seasonal shifts in weather, explore more at Peterborough Climate.