Last updated: March 17, 2025
December in Sunderland, United Kingdom is characterized by chilly temperatures, where daily highs reach a maximum of 14°C (57°F) and can dip as low as -4°C (24°F). The month averages around 6°C (42°F), creating a brisk atmosphere enhanced by high humidity levels of 88%. Rainfall is a common occurrence, with a total of 69 mm (2.7 in) spread across approximately 14 days, ensuring the scenery remains lush, albeit wet. This blend of conditions sets a classic winter scene, inviting both locals and visitors to embrace the festive spirit amid typical British weather.
In Sunderland, United Kingdom, December ushers in the heart of winter, with temperatures reflecting a chill that whispers of the season. The month typically sees a minimum temperature of around -4°C (24°F), while the average hovers at 6°C (42°F), peaking at a maximum of 14°C (57°F). As the calendar year draws to a close, a noticeable drop in temperatures compared to the milder previous months sets in, showcasing the shift from autumn's mild embrace to winter's frosty grip. This trend of cooler weather also marks December as a time for festive gatherings and cozy indoor activities, making it a month of warmth amidst the chill.
December in Sunderland sees an average precipitation of 69 mm (2.7 in) spread over approximately 14 days, marking a trend of relatively consistent rainfall as the year winds down. This amount closely follows November's 63 mm (2.5 in), indicating that the region experiences a steady pattern of damp weather during the late autumn to winter transition. The frequency of rainy days in December is on par with several preceding months, suggesting that while rainfall may decrease slightly in intensity, it remains a frequent occurrence. As the festive season approaches, residents can expect that the characteristic British grey skies will continue to deliver their share of moisture, making for a classic winter atmosphere in Sunderland.
In December, Sunderland experiences a humidity level of 88%, reflecting a slight dip from the peak of 90% seen in November. As the year winds down, this month showcases a modest fluctuation in humidity, remaining relatively stable compared to late autumn. The city's humidity typically starts at its highest point in early winter and gradually eases from November's peak. However, with December holding at 88%, it continues the trend of consistently high humidity throughout the colder months, making the air feel quite moist as the region braces for winter's chill. This level aligns closely with the humidity seen in January, suggesting that the dampness is a hallmark of Sunderland's winter climate.
As December rolls into Sunderland, the UV Index dips to a low of 1, mirroring the conditions of January and November. This consistent trend reflects the winter season's minimal sun exposure, allowing for a burn time of 45 minutes. Throughout the year, Sunderland experiences a dynamic range of UV levels, peaking during the summer months of June and July at 8, where sun safety becomes paramount with a quick burn time of just 15 minutes. As winter settles in, residents can enjoy outdoor activities with fewer concerns about UV exposure. For more detailed information on Sunderland's UV Index and safety recommendations, visit Sunderland UV Index.
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In Sunderland, December presents a notable decline in sunshine hours, with 101 hours of bright light illuminating the shorter days of winter. This month marks a stark contrast to the vibrant 401 hours of sunshine seen in May, showcasing the region's seasonal variability. As the year winds down, December's figures reflect a continuous drop from January's 93 hours, following a gradual increase through spring and summer, culminating in July's peak of 414 hours. The sunlight begins to dwindle significantly after the summer months, highlighting a natural ebb as the city transitions into the cozy embrace of winter. Despite the chill and reduced daylight, Sunderland's December still offers a sense of brightness, serving as a gentle reminder of the sunny days that lie ahead as the year turns anew.
In Sunderland, December tends to be one of the least sunny months of the year, with only an 18% chance of enjoying bright, sunny days. This trend reflects a noticeable drop in clear skies compared to earlier months, especially when compared to a more favorable 50% in April. It appears that as the year progresses towards winter, the likelihood of sunshine dips, peaking in the milder spring months before falling into the gray of December. As the festive season approaches, residents and visitors alike should prepare for cooler and cloudier weather, making those rare sunny moments all the more special.
As December descends upon Sunderland, the daylight hours recede to about seven hours, mirroring the brief brightness found in January. This time of year underscores a gradual decrease in daylight that began after the summer months, where June shines with a generous 17 hours of light. Following this peak, the days progressively shorten, with each month marking a distinct transition, especially noticeable from the 16 hours in July down to 14 hours in August and further to 11 hours by March. December serves as a reflective period, encasing the cozy essence of shorter days, while anticipation builds for the return of longer daylight as winter wanes. The cycle of daylight in Sunderland encapsulates the rhythm of the seasons, reminding us of nature’s ebb and flow.
As December arrives in Sunderland, the average wind speed settles at 4.5 m/s (10 mph), providing a brisk yet manageable chill that characterizes the month. This slight drop from November's 5.5 m/s reflects a trend of diminishing winds as winter deepens, mirroring the overall pattern observed since early autumn. October and November boasted stronger breezes at 5.3 m/s and 5.5 m/s, respectively, while December's winds gently taper off, reminiscent of the calmer days of May and June. The fluctuating wind speeds throughout the year reveal a natural rhythm in Sunderland's climate, with December offering a quiet respite before the more animated winds of spring return.
The weather in Sunderland 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 Sunderland and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January both experience cool temperatures, but January is slightly milder on average. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -4°C (24°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), with an average of 6°C (42°F). The month sees about 69 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over 14 days, with high humidity at 88%. In contrast, January presents a more stable weather pattern, featuring a minimum temperature of -3°C (27°F), an average of 5°C (41°F), and a maximum that matches December at 14°C (58°F). Precipitation drops to 49 mm (1.9 in) over 9 days, while humidity remains comparable at 89%. For more detailed insights into January's climate, check out Sunderland weather in January.
When comparing the weather in December and February, both months share an average temperature of 6°C (42°F), but November tends to experience slightly milder maximum temperatures, reaching up to 14°C (57°F), whereas February can peak at 16°C (62°F). December records a minimum temperature of -4°C (24°F), while February is colder at -7°C (19°F). Precipitation levels are somewhat similar, with December receiving 69 mm (2.7 in) over 14 rainy days, and February experiencing slightly higher rainfall at 74 mm (2.9 in) across 15 days. Humidity is overall high in both months, with December at 88% and February slightly lower at 87%. For more specific details, you can check out this link: Sunderland weather in February.
In December, temperatures tend to be cooler, with a minimum of -4°C (24°F) and an average of 6°C (42°F), peaking at 14°C (57°F). The month also experiences higher humidity levels at 88% and considerable precipitation, totaling 69 mm (2.7 in) over 14 days. In contrast, March marks a gradual warming trend, with temperatures hovering between -4°C (25°F) and a maximum of 18°C (64°F), averaging around 7°C (45°F). Precipitation is slightly lower at 62 mm (2.4 in) over 12 days, accompanied by a slightly decreased humidity of 85%. For more detailed weather insights, you can check Sunderland weather in March.
December and April exhibit contrasting weather patterns, reflecting the transition from winter to spring. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -4°C (24°F) to a mild 14°C (57°F), with an average of 6°C (42°F). This month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 69 mm (2.7 in) over about 14 days, and humidity levels are high at 88%. In contrast, April offers a more moderate climate, with temperatures varying from -2°C (29°F) to a pleasant 23°C (73°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F). The month features less rainfall, averaging 33 mm (1.3 in) across just 7 days, and slightly lower humidity at 84%. For a more detailed look at what to expect, check out Sunderland weather in April.
In contrast to December, which experiences colder temperatures with a minimum of -4°C (24°F) and an average of 6°C (42°F), May offers a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures at 1°C (34°F) and an average of 12°C (53°F). December sees a maximum temperature of only 14°C (57°F), while May can reach up to 24°C (76°F), fostering a more pleasant outdoor environment. Precipitation is slightly higher in December at 69 mm (2.7 in) over 14 days, compared to May's 49 mm (1.9 in) across 13 days, which contributes to a somewhat more humid atmosphere in winter with 88% humidity, compared to 83% in May. For those interested in more detailed weather conditions during this month, Sunderland weather in May provides valuable insights.
In December, the weather is notably colder with minimum temperatures dropping to -4°C (24°F) and averaging around 6°C (42°F), while the maximum can reach 14°C (57°F). This month experiences higher humidity at 88% and around 14 days of precipitation totaling 69 mm (2.7 in). In contrast, June brings milder temperatures, with minimums of 6°C (43°F) and an average of 15°C (59°F), peaking at 27°C (81°F). Rainfall in June is slightly increased at 75 mm (2.9 in) but occurs over fewer days, approximately 10. The humidity remains relatively high at 85%. For more details on June weather, visit Sunderland weather in June.
When comparing the weather in December and July, it's evident that July is considerably warmer, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 29°C (85°F), whereas December sees much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (24°F) and a maximum of 14°C (57°F). Additionally, July experiences slightly less precipitation, totaling 73 mm (2.9 in) over approximately 13 days, compared to December's 69 mm (2.7 in) spread over 14 days. Humidity levels are also somewhat lower in July at 83%, compared to December's higher humidity of 88%. For more detailed insights, you can check Sunderland weather in July.
In December, temperatures typically range from a chilly -4°C (24°F) at night to a mild 14°C (57°F) during the day, with an average of 6°C (42°F). The month experiences about 69 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation across approximately 14 days, coupled with a high humidity level of 88%. In contrast, August offers more temperate conditions with minimum temperatures of 8°C (47°F) and maximum readings reaching 26°C (80°F), averaging around 16°C (61°F). Precipitation in August is slightly higher at 82 mm (3.2 in) over about 15 days, but humidity is a bit lower at 82%. For more detailed information, you can visit Sunderland weather in August.
December and September showcase stark contrasts in weather. In December, temperatures can dip as low as -4°C (24°F), with an average of 6°C (42°F) and highs reaching 14°C (57°F). The month sees considerable humidity at 88%, along with 69 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation spread over 14 days. In contrast, September offers a milder climate, with minimum temperatures of 4°C (40°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F) peaking at 27°C (80°F). Precipitation is slightly lower at 61 mm (2.4 in) over 12 days, and humidity is just slightly lower at 87%. These differences highlight September as a significantly warmer and drier month compared to the cold and damp December. For more details, check out Sunderland weather in September.
In comparing December and October weather, December presents a notable drop in temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (24°F) and an average of 6°C (42°F), while October enjoys milder conditions with a minimum of 2°C (37°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F). October also features a higher maximum temperature of 21°C (70°F), compared to December's maximum of 14°C (57°F). Precipitation is slightly lower in December at 69 mm (2.7 in) over 14 days, compared to October's 82 mm (3.2 in), although both months exhibit similar humidity levels, around 88% and 89% respectively. For more details on October conditions, you can visit Sunderland weather in October.
December weather typically exhibits cooler temperatures compared to November, with average highs of 6°C (42°F) against November's 8°C (46°F). The minimum temperatures in December drop to -4°C (24°F), slightly colder than November's -2°C (28°F). Precipitation levels remain relatively consistent, with December experiencing 69 mm (2.7 in) over 14 days and November seeing 63 mm (2.5 in) across 13 days. Humidity levels are slightly lower in December at 88%, compared to November's higher humidity of 90%. For more details on November's weather, you can visit Sunderland weather in November.
As December rolls in, Sunderland experiences a distinctive shift in weather that sets it apart from other months. With a notable drop in temperatures, the average cools down significantly, offering a brisk chill that can dip into the negatives on particularly cold days. This month sees increased precipitation, with more frequent rainy spells, contributing to the lush landscapes, but also making it a time to prepare for damp and chilly conditions. The heightened humidity adds to the feeling of chill in the air, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for warm drinks and indoor gatherings. For those interested in the broader patterns of weather throughout the year, visit Sunderland Climate for an in-depth look.