Last updated: March 17, 2025
In December, Portsmouth, United Kingdom experiences mild yet damp weather characterized by a maximum temperature of 14°C (57°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F), dropping as low as 0°C (33°F). Visitors can expect significant precipitation, with 118 mm (4.7 in) of rainfall spread across approximately 16 days. The high humidity level of 92% adds to the chill, creating a distinctly moody winter atmosphere. Whether you're exploring the city's rich maritime heritage or cozying up in a local café, December's weather sets the stage for a quintessential British winter experience.
In December, temperatures in Portsmouth, United Kingdom start to reflect the chill of winter, with minimums dropping to around 0°C (32°F) and averages settling at 8°C (47°F), offering a crisp atmosphere. The maximum temperature can reach up to 14°C (57°F), signaling mild days amid the cold. As the year winds down, the temperatures in December show a subtle yet noticeable decline from November’s averages of 10°C (50°F), hinting at the transition into the heart of winter. With these cool and variable temperatures, December invites a blend of cozy indoor gatherings and refreshing outdoor strolls, embodying the charm of a coastal winter in the UK.
In December, Portsmouth experiences one of its wettest months, with a notable precipitation amount of 118 mm (4.7 in), closely trailing behind the October peak of 117 mm. This aligns with a broader trend of increasing rainfall during the late autumn and winter months, as December records 16 rainy days, the same as October and November. The chilly air often carries heavier showers, and the overall precipitation in December surpasses the monthly totals of January and February, signaling a definitive transition into the wetter season. Such patterns not only highlight December as a pivotal month for rainfall in Portsmouth but also reflect the city's maritime climate, where moisture-laden systems frequently dominate the weather.
As winter envelops Portsmouth in December, humidity levels remain notably high, peaking at 92%, a continuation of the trend seen in the preceding months. After gradually decreasing from 91% in January to 71% in July, humidity levels begin to climb again, with November hitting a significant 92%. This resurgence in moisture reflects the typical dampness of the season, as the city's coastal climate contributes to a chilly, humid atmosphere. While the previous summer months offered a reprieve from the high humidity, winter welcomes an unmistakable return of that characteristic English dampness, setting the stage for a cozy December.
As December rolls in, the UV Index in Portsmouth, United Kingdom, hits its annual low at 1, categorized as low risk. With a burn time of 45 minutes, it’s a month where the sun’s rays are gentle and less intense, allowing for safer outdoor activities without the worry of quick sunburns. This trend underscores the shift in ultraviolet radiation exposure as the year progresses, moving from the very high levels seen in summer back to the more subdued winter months. For those curious about UV exposure throughout the year, explore more details at Portsmouth UV Index.
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In December, Portsmouth experiences a modest 118 hours of sunshine, a slight dip compared to the vibrant hours of summer. The trend throughout the year showcases a steady climb from a mere 105 hours in January, peaking at 423 hours in July—a time when daylight is abundant and inviting. As the seasons shift, the daylight hours gradually decrease, leading to the cooler and darker months of late fall and winter. From the lively 410 hours in May, sunshine dwindles through July and August, slowly tapering off to the crisp, shorter days of December. This pattern underscores a typical British winter, where cozy indoor activities become the norm as the days grow shorter and the festive spirit flows, even if the sun is playing hard to get.
In Portsmouth, the likelihood of experiencing sunny weather in December stands at a modest 22%, which is noticeably lower than the average seen in the spring months. This trend reflects a common pattern throughout the year, where sunshine levels typically rise in April (58%) and gradually decline towards the end of the year. Interestingly, while December's chance of sun is higher than January's mere 21%, it trails behind November's 37%, suggesting that as winter sets in, the sunny days become less frequent. Overall, potential beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts should prepare for a cloudier December, as the emerging chill signals the retreat of those warm, sunlit moments.
As December rolls in, Portsmouth, United Kingdom, experiences a continuation of its winter days characterized by a modest 8 hours of daylight—a stark contrast to the vibrant 16 hours seen in the height of summer. This month marks the tail end of a gradual decline in daylight that begins in October, reflecting the rhythm of the seasonal cycle. While shorter days might evoke feelings of coziness, they also set the stage for the slow return of longer daylight hours that start in late February. The gradual increase from 10 hours in February towards the brighter months ahead sparks a sense of anticipation, reminding residents of the gradual renewal that accompanies the arrival of spring.
As December settles in Portsmouth, the wind picks up to an average speed of 6.4 m/s (14 mph), echoing the brisk conditions of January. This month stands out as a time when the winds regain some strength after a dip in the warmer months. Notably, the wind speeds witnessed a gradual decline from April's mild breezes to the quieter summer months of June and July, with averages hovering around 4 m/s. However, with autumn in full swing, the winds began to assert themselves again, culminating in December's invigorating gusts that mirror the early winter chill. This trend illustrates a refreshing cyclical pattern, where the winds not only shape Portsmouth's winter landscape but also herald the changing seasons.
The weather in Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January exhibit relatively mild winter weather, but there are some notable differences between the two months. In December, average temperatures reach around 8°C (47°F), with a maximum of 14°C (57°F) and a minimum of 0°C (33°F). December also tends to be wetter, with 118 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation over 16 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 92%. In contrast, January sees slightly cooler temperatures, averaging 7°C (44°F), with a maximum of 13°C (56°F) and a minimum still hovering at 0°C (32°F). Precipitation is reduced to 68 mm (2.7 in), occurring on 11 days, and humidity is marginally lower at 91%. For more detailed insights on the weather, you can check Portsmouth weather in January.
In December, Portsmouth experiences a milder climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F). The month is characterized by higher precipitation, totaling 118 mm (4.7 in) over 16 days, along with high humidity at 92%. In contrast, February tends to be colder, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -3°C (28°F) and averaging around 7°C (45°F), peaking at 13°C (55°F). Precipitation in February is lower at 75 mm (3.0 in) across 12 days, and the humidity, while still high, is slightly reduced at 89%. For a closer look at the weather specifics, you can check Portsmouth weather in February.
In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a comfortable maximum of 14°C (57°F), with an average of 8°C (47°F). The month sees significant rainfall with 118 mm (4.7 in) over 16 days, and a high humidity level of 92%. In contrast, March experiences colder nights with temperatures dipping to -3°C (28°F), although it shares the same average high of 14°C (58°F) as December. Precipitation decreases to 70 mm (2.7 in) across 13 days, and humidity lowers slightly to 86%. For more details on March weather, check out Portsmouth weather in March.
In December, the weather in Portsmouth is considerably cooler, with average temperatures ranging from a chilly 0°C (33°F) at night to a mild 14°C (57°F) during the day. This month typically sees substantial rainfall, with 118 mm (4.7 in) over 16 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 92%. In contrast, April brings a gentle transition into spring, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 19°C (66°F) and an average of 10°C (50°F). Precipitation decreases significantly to just 32 mm (1.3 in) spread over 7 days, while humidity drops slightly to 85%. For more details on the weather in April, you can visit Portsmouth weather in April.
December and May present notably different weather patterns. In December, the temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), with an average around 8°C (47°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 92% and frequent precipitation, totaling 118 mm (4.7 in) over 16 days. In contrast, May offers a milder climate, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and peaking at 22°C (71°F), averaging around 13°C (55°F). Precipitation is less prevalent in May, with only 56 mm (2.2 in) over 11 days and a lower humidity level of 79%. For a more detailed look at the weather during this month, visit Portsmouth weather in May.
When comparing the weather in December and June, there are striking contrasts in temperature and precipitation. December experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (33°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F), compared to June, where temperatures range from a minimum of 9°C (49°F) to a comfortable average of 16°C (61°F). Additionally, December sees significantly more precipitation, totaling 118 mm (4.7 in) over about 16 days, while June has a mere 73 mm (2.9 in) over just 9 days. Humidity levels are also higher in December at 92%, compared to June's 80%. Overall, June offers a milder and drier climate, making it a more pleasant time of year for outdoor activities. For more details, you can check Portsmouth weather in June.
When comparing the weather in December and July, it’s clear that they embody contrasting seasonal characteristics. December experiences cooler temperatures, with minimums around 0°C (33°F) and average highs of 14°C (57°F), accompanied by high humidity at 92%. In contrast, July boasts a much warmer climate, featuring minimums of 12°C (53°F) and averages peaking at 25°C (78°F), along with lower humidity levels at 71%. Additionally, December sees more precipitation, with 118 mm (4.7 in) over 16 days, while July is drier with only 58 mm (2.3 in) over 11 days, creating a more pleasant outdoor atmosphere. For more details about the weather in July, visit Portsmouth weather in July.
When comparing the weather in December and August, a stark contrast emerges. December experiences cooler temperatures, with averages ranging from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), while August enjoys warmer conditions, with averages from 11°C (52°F) to 26°C (80°F). Not only is August significantly warmer, but it also has lower humidity at 76% compared to December's high humidity of 92%. Additionally, while December sees more precipitation, totaling 118 mm (4.7 in) over 16 days, August has less rainfall at 78 mm (3.1 in) over 12 days. For a detailed overview of the warmer month, you can check Portsmouth weather in August.
In comparing the weather between December and September, there are notable differences in temperature and precipitation. December is considerably colder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), while September boasts milder conditions, with averages from 8°C (47°F) to 24°C (76°F). Additionally, December experiences a higher amount of precipitation, measuring 118 mm (4.7 in) over 16 days, compared to September's 57 mm (2.2 in) over just 10 days. Humidity levels are also higher in December at 92%, compared to September's 82%. For a detailed overview of September weather in Portsmouth, check out Portsmouth weather in September.
December weather tends to be colder and more humid compared to October. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), with an average temperature of 8°C (47°F). This is notably lower than October, where temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), with an average temperature of 13°C (56°F). Both months experience similar levels of precipitation, with December slightly edging out October at 118 mm (4.7 in) compared to 117 mm (4.6 in). Interestingly, both months see around 16 days of precipitation, but December's high humidity at 92% creates a chillier feel compared to October's 90%. For more detailed information, you can check Portsmouth weather in October.
When comparing the weather in December to November, we see a noticeable drop in temperatures. December has a minimum temperature of 0°C (33°F) compared to November's 1°C (33°F), and its average temperature is slightly lower at 8°C (47°F) versus November's 10°C (50°F). Maximum temperatures also decline, from 16°C (61°F) in November to 14°C (57°F) in December. Precipitation increases in December, with 118 mm (4.7 in) falling over 16 days, compared to 87 mm (3.4 in) over 15 days in November. Humidity remains consistent at 92% for both months, creating similarly damp conditions. For more details on November's weather, you can visit Portsmouth weather in November.
As December settles in, Portsmouth transforms into a cool and often wet city, making it markedly different from the milder fall months. The average temperature dips considerably, with chilly days becoming more frequent, while humidity levels soar to a damp 92%. Rainfall also plays a significant role, with approximately half the month experiencing precipitation, creating a stark contrast to the drier summer months. This blend of cold and wet conditions not only sets the tone for winter but also envelops Portsmouth in a unique atmosphere. For a deeper dive into year-round weather patterns, explore Portsmouth Climate.