Last updated: March 17, 2025
In Saffron Walden, December brings a mixture of crisp temperatures and frequent rainfall. With maximums reaching 15°C (59°F) and dipping to a chilly -3°C (26°F) at night, residents can expect an average temperature of around 6°C (43°F). The month features about 14 days of precipitation, accumulating to around 83 mm (3.3 in), while humidity levels soar to a notable 92%. As the festive season unfolds, the cool, damp conditions create a unique charm, inviting both locals and visitors to embrace the cozy atmosphere of this picturesque town.
December in Saffron Walden embraces the chill of winter as temperatures begin to dip, with minimums averaging around -3°C (26°F). The month features a cool average of 6°C (43°F), providing a stark contrast to the milder autumn months that precede it. Daytime highs reach a comfortable 15°C (59°F), allowing for brisk yet manageable afternoons. As the year wraps up, this shift to colder temperatures sets the scene for festive cheer, with the scenery cloaked in winter’s charm. The trends clearly show a gradual descent into the colder season, inviting residents and visitors alike to cozy up and enjoy the seasonal delights that December brings.
December in Saffron Walden, UK, wraps up the year with a notable precipitation total of 83 mm (3.3 in), matching the rainfall of October and marking it as one of the wettest months. Interestingly, this month also sees an uptick in rainy days, experiencing 14 days of precipitation, the highest in the annual cycle. This trend of increased rainfall as the year comes to a close contrasts with the relatively drier spring months, particularly April, which boasts only 31 mm over just 8 days of rain. Such a pattern underscores December's transition into winter, characterized by more frequent wet spells that contribute to the lush greenery of the region heading into the new year.
As winter envelops Saffron Walden, December sees humidity levels rise to 92%, mirroring the dampness of November. This trend towards increased moisture contrasts with the summer months, where humidity drops to a low of 73% in August. Overall, from January’s 91% to December’s peak, there’s a subtle, consistent decline in humidity throughout the year until late autumn, after which levels stabilize. These seasonal fluctuations not only reflect a changing climate but also set the stage for Saffron Walden’s characteristic cool and crisp winter atmosphere. The persistent high humidity in December contributes to the town's serene and foggy winter charm, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the cozy season.
As December rolls into Saffron Walden, the UV Index drops back to a low level of 1, mirroring the quiet beginning of the year in January. With a burn time of 45 minutes, residents can enjoy the fresh winter air without the impending threat of sunburn. This month's UV levels reflect a broader trend in the seasonal cycle, where exposure reaches its peak during the summer months—particularly in June and July, when the Index soars to 8. As days grow shorter and temperatures decrease, safety from ultraviolet rays becomes less of a concern, making December a perfect time for cozy, indoor activities. For those keen on outdoor adventures this winter, understanding the Saffron Walden UV Index can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience year-round.
UV Risk Categories
As the year draws to a close, December in Saffron Walden sees a notable dip in sunshine hours, with only 105 hours of bright skies compared to the sunny heights of summer. This seasonal transition reflects a consistent trend, showcasing a steady increase in sunlight from the bleak 91 hours of January, peaking in the vibrant warmth of May and July with nearly 400 hours each. A gradual decline sets in as autumn approaches, culminating in late autumn's further reductions, with December concluding the year on a relatively subdued note. This pattern underscores the rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight experienced throughout the seasons in this charming UK town.
In December, residents of Saffron Walden can expect a notably low likelihood of sunny weather, with only a 16% chance of sunshine gracing the days. This reduction in sunshine follows a trend seen throughout the year, where the chances rise dramatically in the spring and early summer months, peaking at 47% in April. As autumn approaches, the likelihood begins to taper off, leading into the darker, colder December days. Thus, as the year draws to a close, the overall pattern suggests that if you're hoping for bright, sunny skies during this time, it might be best to manage your expectations!
In Saffron Walden, United Kingdom, December brings the shortest daylight duration of the year, offering just 7 hours of sunlight. This decline follows a gradual decrease from 16 hours in June, the peak of summer daylight. As the months shift from the vibrancy of spring—where daylight reaches 13 hours in April—to the crisp, shorter days of winter, the transition is evident. By November, daylight dwindles to 8 hours, paving the way for December’s further dimming. As the year closes, the contrast between these shorter days and the bright, long summer evenings underscores the seasonal shifts, inviting reflections on the cozy charm of winter.
As December rolls in, Saffron Walden experiences a notable uptick in wind activity, with an average wind speed of 4.8 m/s (11 mph), mirroring the gusty conditions often felt in October and standing out from the lighter breezes of the summer months. This month sees a return to the more robust winds reminiscent of early autumn, creating a vibrant backdrop for local holiday festivities. While the wind speeds dipped in the warmer months, December's breezy characteristics hint at the seasonal transition, reintroducing that invigorating chill that accompanies longer nights and festive cheer. The pattern of fluctuating wind speeds throughout the year underscores the unpredictability of British weather, making Saffron Walden a dynamic place to enjoy the changing seasons.
The weather in Saffron Walden 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 Saffron Walden and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January present a notably similar climate, though January tends to be slightly cooler overall. December boasts minimum temperatures around -3°C (26°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), while January dips to a minimum of -4°C (24°F) and averages 5°C (41°F). Interestingly, December experiences more precipitation at 83 mm (3.3 in) over 14 days, compared to January's 52 mm (2.0 in) across just 9 days. Humidity levels are slightly lower in January at 91%, compared to December's 92%. For more detailed insights on January weather patterns, you can explore Saffron Walden weather in January.
December and February exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. While December typically sees a minimum temperature of -3°C (26°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), February experiences slightly cooler nights, with a minimum around -7°C (20°F). However, February tends to have a higher maximum temperature, averaging 17°C (64°F), compared to December's peak of 15°C (59°F). Precipitation levels are also lower in February, with only 49 mm (1.9 in) over 11 days, compared to December's 83 mm (3.3 in) across 14 days. Humidity remains high in both months, with February recording 89% compared to December's 92%, making both months feel quite damp, but February is slightly less so. For more detailed insight into February, you can check Saffron Walden weather in February.
December and March present contrasting weather patterns as winter transitions into spring. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -3°C (26°F) to a milder average of 6°C (43°F), with highs reaching 15°C (59°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, averaging 83 mm (3.3 in) over 14 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 92%. In contrast, March boasts slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (22°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F). However, it can warm up to a maximum of 21°C (70°F). Precipitation decreases to 54 mm (2.1 in) over 13 days, and humidity is slightly lower at 86%. For more details, visit Saffron Walden weather in March.
December and April present contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures typically range from a chilly -3°C (26°F) to a mild 15°C (59°F), with an average of 6°C (43°F). The month is marked by considerable precipitation, totaling 83 mm (3.3 in) over about 14 days, and high humidity at 92%. In contrast, April brings warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from -2°C (29°F) to a much sunnier 26°C (79°F), and an average of 9°C (49°F). Precipitation is significantly lower at 31 mm (1.2 in) spread across just 8 days, accompanied by slightly lower humidity at 85%. For more specific details, check out Saffron Walden weather in April.
December and May offer contrasting weather experiences. In December, temperatures can dip as low as -3°C (26°F) with an average of 6°C (43°F) and a maximum of 15°C (59°F). The month is marked by high humidity at 92% and frequent precipitation, totaling 83 mm (3.3 in) over about 14 days. In contrast, May brings milder temperatures, with lows of 1°C (35°F), an average of 13°C (55°F), and highs reaching 27°C (80°F). Although it is also a rainy month, May sees less precipitation at 68 mm (2.7 in) over 11 days, and slightly lower humidity at 82%. For more details, you can check the link: Saffron Walden weather in May.
December and June present striking contrasts in weather. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -3°C (26°F) at night to a mild 15°C (59°F) during the day, with an average of 6°C (43°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, with 83 mm (3.3 in) falling over 14 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 92%. In contrast, June boasts a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a comfortable 6°C (43°F) up to 29°C (85°F) and an average of 16°C (62°F). Precipitation is less frequent, totaling 72 mm (2.8 in) over just 11 days, and the humidity is lower at 81%. For more details on June weather, visit Saffron Walden weather in June.
December and July present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures typically range from a chilling minimum of -3°C (26°F) to a mild maximum of 15°C (59°F), with an average of 6°C (43°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling around 83 mm (3.3 in) over approximately 14 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 92%. In contrast, July boasts much warmer weather, with temperatures that vary from a minimum of 9°C (48°F) to a scorching maximum of 35°C (95°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F). Rainfall in July is lighter, at 65 mm (2.6 in) over about 12 days, with a lower humidity of 76%. For a detailed look at specific conditions, you can view the Saffron Walden weather in July.
When comparing the weather in December and August, notable contrasts emerge. December experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -3°C (26°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), while August features much warmer conditions, starting at a minimum of 8°C (47°F) and averaging 18°C (64°F). The maximum temperatures in December reach only 15°C (59°F), compared to August's high of 34°C (93°F). In terms of precipitation, December has a slightly higher rainfall of 83 mm (3.3 in) over 14 days, whereas August sees 74 mm (2.9 in) across 12 days. Humidity levels also differ significantly, with December at a humid 92% compared to August's more comfortable 73%. For more details on the weather in August, you can check Saffron Walden weather in August.
December and September experience quite distinct weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -3°C (26°F) to a mild 15°C (59°F), with an average temperature of 6°C (43°F). The month sees significant precipitation, accumulating to 83 mm (3.3 in) over about 14 days, and the humidity levels are quite high at 92%. In contrast, September enjoys a more temperate climate, with minimum temperatures of 3°C (37°F) and maximums reaching 28°C (83°F), averaging 15°C (59°F). Precipitation is lower in September, amounting to 52 mm (2.1 in) over roughly 10 days, and the humidity is comparatively less at 80%. For more details about September weather, you can check Saffron Walden weather in September.
In comparing the weather between December and October, there are notable differences in temperature and conditions. December experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -3°C (26°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), while October remains milder, starting from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) and averaging 12°C (53°F). Although both months receive similar amounts of precipitation at 83 mm (3.3 in), December typically sees rain over a slightly longer duration, with precipitation occurring on 14 days compared to October's 12 days. Humidity levels are also higher in December at 92%, compared to 89% in October, contributing to a chillier feel overall. For more details on October weather, you can check Saffron Walden weather in October.
In December, the weather brings slightly cooler temperatures compared to November, with a minimum of -3°C (26°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), while November has a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and an average of 8°C (46°F). Maximum temperatures in December reach 15°C (59°F), slightly lower than November's peak of 17°C (63°F). Precipitation increases significantly in December, totaling 83 mm (3.3 in) over 14 days, compared to November's 47 mm (1.8 in) over just 10 days. Both months maintain high humidity levels at 92%. For more detailed insights, visit Saffron Walden weather in November.
December in Saffron Walden marks a notable shift in weather, as the days grow shorter and temperatures dip, creating a distinct chill in the air. Unlike the milder months of autumn, residents can expect a much cooler average temperature, often reaching its nadir, with nighttime lows that sometimes plunge below freezing. The higher humidity levels paired with frequent precipitation—over two weeks of rain—contributes to a moody and often drizzly atmosphere. This combination not only adds a layer of coziness to the holiday season but also encourages locals and visitors to embrace indoor activities and festive gatherings. For a deeper understanding of the town's weather patterns throughout the year, you can explore more at Saffron Walden Climate.