Last updated: March 17, 2025
December in Southampton, United Kingdom is characterized by a chilly yet somewhat mild atmosphere, where temperatures typically range from a maximum of 14°C (58°F) to a minimum of -3°C (27°F), with an average of 7°C (45°F). This month witnesses considerable precipitation, with total rainfall reaching 93 mm (3.7 in) over approximately 13 days, contributing to a humid environment with humidity levels hovering around 92%. Visitors can expect a festive yet damp vibe, making it essential to bundle up while exploring this historic city.
As December arrives in Southampton, temperatures begin to cool considerably, reflecting the transition into winter. The minimum temperature hovers around -3°C (27°F), while the average settles at a crisp 7°C (45°F). Daytime highs can reach a mild 14°C (58°F), bringing a touch of warmth amidst the chilly air. Notably, December's temperatures are slightly elevated compared to the preceding months, such as November, which saw averages dip to 8°C (47°F). This gradual shift signals the onset of festive cheer, inviting residents and visitors alike to bundle up and enjoy the cozy ambiance that Southampton embodies this time of year.
December in Southampton sees a significant increase in precipitation, with 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain accumulated over about 13 days. As the year draws to a close, this month tends to be one of the wetter periods, reflecting a broader trend of increasing rainfall during the autumn and winter months. Comparatively, December's precipitation is higher than most months, even topping November’s 65 mm (2.6 in), highlighting a shift towards more persistent dampness as the chilly winter advances. This seasonal uptick in rainfall not only adds to the monthly totals but also underscores the importance of being prepared for typical British winter weather in this coastal city.
In Southampton, December marks the continuation of high humidity levels, maintaining a significant 92%—a figure consistent with the trend seen in November. This winter month draws in the chilly air, reminiscent of the preceding months, where humidity hovered around 90% or higher from October through December. As the year draws to a close, the dampness in the air reinforces the city's maritime climate, contrasting sharply with the lower figures experienced in the summer months, such as July, where humidity dipped to 71%. Overall, December's persistent humidity reflects a gradual shift from the summer's drier conditions back towards the moistness typical of late autumn and winter in this coastal region.
In December, Southampton experiences its lowest UV Index of the year, registering at a modest 1, which falls into the low exposure category. This means that residents can enjoy the outdoors without intense sun protection, as the typical burn time is a generous 45 minutes. Following the trend of the colder months, the UV Index has gradually decreased since the high summer readings, which peaked at 8 in June and July, highlighting a significant seasonal shift. As winter settles in, December offers a welcome respite from intense UV radiation, making it an ideal time for cozy outdoor activities without the worry of sunburn. For more details on the UV Index throughout the year, visit Southampton UV Index.
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In Southampton, December brings a modest 108 hours of sunshine, marking a significant decrease from the sun-drenched days of summer, where July peaks at an impressive 395 hours. As the year transitions, daylight wanes, showing a steady decline from November's 141 hours. This trend showcases the city's seasonal rhythm, with spring and early summer basking in abundant sunlight, notably May with 384 hours. As winter settles in, Southampton's sunshine retreats, underscoring the cozy charm of the holiday season amid the cool, crisp air. Despite the shorter days, December's soft light invites residents and visitors alike to embrace the allure of winter, reminding us that even the darkest months have their own beauty.
In Southampton, the likelihood of sunny weather in December falls to a modest 21%, making it one of the least favorable months for sunshine. This trend is consistent with the colder winter months, as January and February also see low chances of sun, with only 22% and 25% respectively. Interestingly, the month of November marks a slight uptick with a 34% chance, hinting at the lingering autumnal sun before the deep winter sets in. As the year progresses, a noticeable peak occurs in April at 55%, showcasing the shift towards brighter days. Overall, December’s sun is scarce, but it aligns seamlessly with the pattern of diminishing sunlight as winter takes hold in the English south coast.
As December settles over Southampton, daylight begins to dwindle, offering only 7 hours of sunlight each day. This seasonal dip follows a gradual pattern that is evident throughout the year. Starting from the longest days of summer, with up to 16 hours of daylight in June, the trend shifts dramatically towards the darker winter months. The transition is swift, with days shrinking notably in October and November, each providing just 10 and 8 hours of light, respectively. By December, the city's residents embrace the cozy atmosphere of shorter days, drawing attention to the stark contrast with the brighter spring and summer months ahead, which promise an eventual return to longer, sunlit hours.
As December settles in Southampton, the winds pick up slightly, averaging 4.6 m/s (10 mph), mirroring the gusty beginnings of winter. This month showcases a subtle pattern in the city's wind speeds, with December tied with January for the highest average of the year. What stands out in this seasonal shift is the contrast to the gentle breezes of summer, where June and July both recorded the lowest averages of 3.2 m/s (7 mph) and 3.4 m/s (8 mph), respectively. The transition from the mild autumn winds of 3.5 m/s (8 mph) in September to the brisk December gales encapsulates the essence of the changing seasons, inviting residents to wrap up warmly as they enjoy the fresh air.
The weather in Southampton 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 Southampton and find detailed weather information for every month.
In comparison to December, January experiences a slightly cooler average temperature, dropping from 7°C (45°F) to 5°C (42°F), while the maximum typically remains steady at 14°C (57°F). Both months share a minimum temperature of -3°C (27°F). January also sees a significant reduction in precipitation, with 52 mm (2.1 in) over 10 days, compared to December's 93 mm (3.7 in) over 13 days. Humidity levels remain relatively high, but slightly decrease from 92% in December to 91% in January. For more insights, check out Southampton weather in January.
In December, temperatures typically range from a chilly -3°C (27°F) at night to a mild 14°C (58°F) during the day, with an average temperature around 7°C (45°F). The month sees considerable precipitation, accumulating to about 93 mm (3.7 in) over 13 days, accompanied by high humidity at 92%. In contrast, February experiences slightly colder minimum temperatures at -6°C (21°F) and averages 6°C (44°F), while maximum temperatures can reach up to 16°C (62°F). Precipitation in February is less, totaling around 60 mm (2.4 in) over 11 days, and humidity is slightly lower at 89%. For more detailed information on February weather, visit Southampton weather in February.
In December, the weather is characterized by colder temperatures, with a minimum of -3°C (27°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F), peaking at a maximum of 14°C (58°F). This month also sees higher precipitation levels of 93 mm (3.7 in) over 13 days, along with a high humidity of 92%. In contrast, March experiences slightly milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), with an average of 8°C (46°F). Precipitation decreases to 67 mm (2.6 in) over the same number of days, and humidity drops to 86%. For more details on March weather, visit Southampton weather in March.
December and April present contrasting 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 (45°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 92% and significant precipitation, totaling 93 mm (3.7 in) over 13 days. In sharp contrast, April offers a more temperate climate, with temperatures varying from -3°C (27°F) to a pleasant 24°C (76°F), and an average of 10°C (49°F). Precipitation decreases significantly to 39 mm (1.5 in), occurring over just 7 days, and humidity is slightly lower at 85%. For a detailed glimpse into April weather, check out Southampton weather in April.
December weather tends to be quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), averaging around 7°C (45°F). The month is also characterized by relatively high humidity at 92% and frequent precipitation, averaging 93 mm (3.7 in) over 13 days. In contrast, May offers a much milder climate, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 1°C (33°F) and reaching up to 25°C (77°F), averaging 13°C (55°F). This month experiences less rainfall, totaling about 70 mm (2.8 in) spread over 10 days, and a lower humidity level of 79%. For more details on the pleasant weather in May, you can refer to Southampton weather in May.
The weather in December features colder temperatures, ranging from a chilly minimum of -3°C (27°F) to an average of 7°C (45°F), and a maximum of 14°C (58°F), making it a stark contrast to June. In June, temperatures are much milder, with a minimum of 6°C (43°F) and an average high of 30°C (87°F). Precipitation is similar in both months, with December receiving 93 mm (3.7 in) over 13 days and June slightly less at 83 mm (3.3 in) across 10 days. Additionally, December boasts high humidity at 92%, while June is more comfortable at 80%. For a closer look at June weather, check this link: Southampton weather in June.
When comparing the weather in December and July, it is evident that these months present stark contrasts. December typically sees colder temperatures, with a minimum of -3°C (27°F) and average highs reaching only 14°C (58°F), while July enjoys milder conditions with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (46°F) to a comfortable maximum of 31°C (88°F). Precipitation is more frequent in December, occurring on 13 days and totaling 93 mm (3.7 in), compared to July's 11 days of rain and 58 mm (2.3 in). Additionally, December is characterized by high humidity levels at 92%, in contrast to July's more moderate humidity of 71%. For further details on the climate during July in Southampton, you can visit Southampton weather in July.
In comparing the weather between December and August, it's evident that the two months offer vastly different climates. December experiences colder temperatures, with minimums dropping to -3°C (27°F) and average highs around 14°C (58°F), along with higher humidity levels of 92% and more precipitation at 93 mm (3.7 in) over 13 days. In contrast, August boasts a much warmer climate, with minimums of 7°C (45°F) and average highs reaching 31°C (89°F). The month sees less rainfall at 71 mm (2.8 in) over 12 days and more comfortable humidity levels at 76%. For a more detailed look at August weather specifically, visit Southampton weather in August.
In December, temperatures in Southampton drop significantly, with a minimum of -3°C (27°F) and an average reaching only 7°C (45°F), compared to September's more moderate conditions, where the minimum is 3°C (37°F) and the average climbs to a pleasant 15°C (59°F). The maximum temperatures in December, while still cool at 14°C (58°F), are well below September's peak of 28°C (82°F). Additionally, December experiences more precipitation, averaging 93 mm (3.7 in) over 13 days, whereas September has only 47 mm (1.9 in) spread across 9 days. This contributes to a higher humidity level in December at 92%, compared to 82% in September. For more information, you can visit Southampton weather in September.
Comparing the weather in December to that of October reveals some distinct differences. December experiences colder temperatures, with an average of 7°C (45°F), whereas October is milder, averaging 12°C (54°F). The maximum temperature in December peaks at 14°C (58°F), significantly lower than October's warm 21°C (71°F). Additionally, December sees slightly less precipitation at 93 mm (3.7 in) compared to October’s 103 mm (4.1 in), although both months have about 13 days of rain. Humidity levels are also slightly higher in December at 92%, compared to 90% in October, contributing to a more damp and chilly atmosphere. For more detailed insights into October weather, you can check Southampton weather in October.
In comparing the weather between November and December, December tends to be slightly cooler, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), while November's temperatures range from -2°C (28°F) to 16°C (61°F). Additionally, December experiences more precipitation, totaling 93 mm (3.7 in) over 13 days, compared to November's 65 mm (2.6 in) over 11 days. Interestingly, while both months maintain a high humidity level of 92%, December's cooler temperatures and increased rainfall create a distinctly different atmosphere than that of November. For more detailed information, you can check Southampton weather in November.
As December wraps Southampton in a chill, it marks a significant shift from the milder months that precede it. The days grow colder, with temperatures often dipping to their lowest of the year, and the city sees heightened precipitation, resulting in more overcast skies and rain-soaked streets. With humidity levels soaring to 92%, the air feels heavier, making this time of year particularly brisk. Unlike the more temperate fall, December sets the stage for winter's arrival, transforming the landscape and inviting residents to bundle up and seek warmth indoors. For more detailed insights into the weather patterns throughout the year, visit Southampton Climate.