December Weather in Dumfries, United Kingdom

Last updated: March 17, 2025

December in Dumfries, United Kingdom, ushers in a chill as temperatures range from a maximum of 12°C (55°F) to a minimum of -6°C (21°F), with an average hovering around 5°C (42°F). The month is marked by substantial precipitation, totaling 108 mm (4.2 in) over 17 days, contributing to a damp atmosphere with humidity levels reaching a high of 89%. As the landscape transforms, the combination of cool temperatures and rain creates a uniquely festive ambiance, characteristic of a British winter.

December Temperature in Dumfries

In December, Dumfries, United Kingdom experiences a notable chill as winter sets in, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -6°C (21°F). The average temperature hovers around 5°C (42°F), providing a crisp, invigorating atmosphere perfect for the festive season. Although daytime highs struggle to reach 12°C (55°F), the gradual decline in temperatures from the milder months of autumn creates a stark contrast, marking the transition into the colder part of the year. This month reflects a trend of descending temperatures, as Dumfries prepares to embrace the colder elements of winter, inviting both locals and visitors to enjoy the beautiful, frosty landscape.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Dumfries, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec404143475258615955504541
Data source: Temperature data for Dumfries 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 Dumfries

In December, Dumfries sees a notable increase in precipitation, with 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain falling over 17 days, marking it as one of the wetter months of the year. This increase follows November's tally of 103 mm and demonstrates a trend towards higher rainfall as winter sets in. On average, December experiences a higher number of rainy days than several preceding months, which indicates the onset of more persistent wet weather. This shift in precipitation patterns aligns with the broader seasonal trends observed throughout the year, suggesting that Dumfries embraces the cold and damp as it prepares for the darkest days of winter.

December Precipitation Trends in Dumfries

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Dumfries, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec75128964262948712090132103108
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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December Humidity in Dumfries

In Dumfries, United Kingdom, December ushers in a humidity level of 89%, reflecting a slight drop from the peak of 92% observed in November. This gradual decline in humidity is part of the broader trend seen throughout the autumn months, culminating in a consistent humidity range that hovers between 85% and 90% as the year draws to a close. While December remains one of the wetter months, the humidity levels are notably higher than the milder summer figures, which often fall to around 80%. As the winter chill sets in, residents can expect a brisk, damp atmosphere typical of this picturesque region.

December Average Humidity in Dumfries

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Dumfries, 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%85%81%83%82%82%88%90%92%89%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Dumfries

In December, Dumfries experiences a low UV Index of 1, mirroring the protective levels seen in January and November. This consistent index translates to a burn time of 45 minutes, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy the outdoors with minimal risk of sunburn. As the year winds down, Dumfries has seen a clear pattern: the UV Index tends to rise from the early months of the year, peaking in the summer with values reaching as high as 8 in June and July. Post-summer, the index gradually decreases, creating a safe environment for outdoor activities in the winter months. For more detailed information about UV exposure throughout the year, check out the Dumfries UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Dumfries for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Dumfries 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec123568865321
Data source: Dumfries 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 Dumfries

In Dumfries, United Kingdom, the trend of sunshine hours throughout the year reveals a stark seasonal contrast. December brings a mere 74 hours of sunlight, a significant dip as the year draws to a close. This low is part of a gradual decline that begins in late autumn, following the peak brightness of May and July, which each bask in 391 hours of sunshine. As days shorten, the transition from the vibrant greenery of spring to the dusky atmosphere of winter becomes more pronounced, while the sharp drop to just above the 71 hours recorded in January reminds us of the season's chill. Ultimately, December's fleeting rays offer a fleeting glimpse of light amidst the long nights, preceding a fresh start that the New Year promises.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Dumfries: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Dumfries 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec71h132h192h321h391h368h391h343h278h207h110h74h
Data source: Dumfries December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Dumfries During December

In Dumfries, the likelihood of sunny weather in December drops to a mere 15%, marking it as one of the least promising months for sunshine. This trend reflects a general decrease in sunny days throughout the year, with the peak occurring in April at 51%. Following that, the chances of a sunlit sky fluctuate, but by December, they dwindle significantly. Compared to other months like November with 29% and July at 37%, December's sunlight becomes a rare occurrence, making it a time when residents might want to embrace the cozy indoors rather than plan for outdoor activities under the sun.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Dumfries

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Dumfries 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 Dumfries experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec27%26%22%52%29%19%37%25%18%18%29%15%
Data source: Dumfries December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Dumfries in December

In Dumfries, United Kingdom, December marks a return to shorter days, with only 7 hours of daylight. This is a notable dip compared to the longer, sun-soaked days of summer, where June boasts a generous 17 hours of light. As the year progresses from January, where daylight also lingers for 7 hours, a gradual increase unfolds through February and March, peaking in the vibrant months of April and May, when days stretch to 14 and 16 hours respectively. However, as autumn settles in, daylight wanes, dwindling to a mere 8 hours in November before concluding the year on a brief note in December. This rhythmic dance of daylight throughout the months beautifully reflects the changing seasons, reminding us of the warmth and brightness of summer just a few months away.

Average Daylight Hours in Dumfries for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Dumfries throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7h 50m9h 40m11h 53m14h 10m16h 11m17h 16m16h 41m14h 51m12h 39m10h 24m8h 21m7h 14m
Data source: Dumfries daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Dumfries

December in Dumfries ushers in a moderate wind, with an average speed of 3.6 m/s (8 mph), showing a refreshing contrast to the stillness of summer. As the year draws to a close, wind speeds have settled into a steady rhythm, notably higher than the languid breezes of July, which sees the lowest average at 2.3 m/s (5 mph). This month's winds are slightly stronger than November's 4.1 m/s (9 mph), hinting at the typical winter patterns where cooler air invigorates the atmosphere. The transition from autumn to winter is marked by increasing gusts, reminding residents that while December can be chilly, it also brings a brisk energy to the landscape. Overall, the wind patterns throughout the year in Dumfries reflect a gentle ebb and flow, with December providing a calm yet spirited closure to the seasonal cycle.

Average December Wind Speed in Dumfries

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Dumfries, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.35.24.42.83.13.32.32.93.04.54.13.6 m/s
Data source: Dumfries December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Dumfries Compares to Other Months

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

In December, temperatures in Dumfries typically range from a minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 12°C (55°F), with an average of 5°C (42°F). During this month, the area experiences approximately 108 mm (4.2 in) of precipitation over 17 days, contributing to a relatively high humidity level of 89%. In contrast, January sees slightly lower minimum temperatures at -9°C (16°F) and a maximum of 13°C (56°F), with the average remaining similar at 5°C (41°F). However, January experiences less precipitation, totaling around 75 mm (3.0 in) over 11 days, and a marginally higher humidity of 90%. For more detailed insights into the January climate, you can check Dumfries weather in January.

In December, the weather features a minimum temperature of -6°C (21°F) and averages around 5°C (42°F), with a maximum reaching 12°C (55°F). The month typically sees 108 mm (4.2 in) of precipitation over 17 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 89%. In contrast, February experiences a slightly milder minimum temperature of -5°C (23°F) and maintains the same average of 5°C (42°F), but the maximum temperature can go up to 15°C (60°F). Precipitation increases to 128 mm (5.0 in) across 16 days, with humidity remaining relatively stable at 88%. For more detailed information, you can check Dumfries weather in February.

December and March present contrasting weather patterns. December typically sees colder temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (21°F) and an average of 5°C (42°F), while March experiences slightly milder conditions, with a minimum of -5°C (23°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F). Additionally, March can reach a maximum of 17°C (64°F), significantly warmer than December's peak of 12°C (55°F). Precipitation levels are also notable; December has 108 mm (4.2 in) over 17 days, whereas March totals 96 mm (3.8 in) across 15 days. Humidity remains high in both months but is slightly lower in March at 86% compared to December's 89%. For more detailed information, check out Dumfries weather in March.

When comparing the weather in December and April, one can observe significant differences. In December, temperatures typically range from a chilly minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 12°C (55°F), with an average of around 5°C (42°F). The month sees considerable precipitation, averaging 108 mm (4.2 in) over 17 days, and high humidity at 89%. In contrast, April enjoys milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from -4°C (25°F) to a pleasant maximum of 21°C (71°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F). Additionally, April experiences much less rainfall, totaling around 42 mm (1.6 in) over just 9 days, and slightly lower humidity at 85%. For more detailed insights, you can visit Dumfries weather in April.

December and May present contrasting weather experiences. December often marks the coldest period of the year, with temperatures ranging from a chilling minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a mild maximum of 12°C (55°F). This month sees an average temperature of 5°C (42°F) accompanied by 108 mm (4.2 in) of precipitation over 17 days, with humidity levels reaching a high 89%. In contrast, May heralds the arrival of spring, featuring much warmer conditions where temperatures fluctuate between a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and a pleasant maximum of 26°C (79°F). The average temperature in May rises to a comfortable 11°C (52°F) with significantly less precipitation—62 mm (2.5 in) over 13 days—and a lower humidity level of 80%. For more detailed insights, you can check out the Dumfries weather in May.

December and June present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -6°C (21°F) at night to a mild 12°C (55°F) during the day, with an average of 5°C (42°F). This month also sees considerable precipitation, with 108 mm (4.2 in) falling over 17 days, and high humidity at 89%. In contrast, June boasts a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), averaging 14°C (58°F). Precipitation slightly decreases to 94 mm (3.7 in) over 14 days, and humidity remains lower at 83%. For more details on Dumfries' weather specifics, visit Dumfries weather in June.

December and July present striking contrasts in weather. In December, temperatures can drop as low as -6°C (21°F) and rarely exceed 12°C (55°F), with an average of just 5°C (42°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 89%, along with significant precipitation totaling 108 mm (4.2 in) over 17 days. In contrast, July enjoys much milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (44°F) to a maximum of 30°C (85°F), averaging around 16°C (61°F). Precipitation is also lower at 87 mm (3.4 in), occurring over 13 days, and humidity, while still high, drops to 82%. For a more detailed look at July weather, you can check out Dumfries weather in July.

December and August exhibit strikingly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures can plummet as low as -6°C (21°F), with a chilly average of 5°C (42°F) and a maximum of only 12°C (55°F). This month also brings significant precipitation, averaging 108 mm (4.2 in) over about 17 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 89%. In contrast, August enjoys much milder conditions, starting at a minimum of 6°C (43°F) and reaching an average of 15°C (60°F), peaking at 26°C (80°F). Although August sees slightly more total precipitation at 120 mm (4.7 in) over 18 days, the overall atmosphere is more comfortable with humidity at 82%. To explore the specific details of August's climate, you can check Dumfries weather in August.

In December, temperatures in Dumfries range from a chilly minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 12°C (55°F), making it significantly colder than September, which features a much milder average low of 1°C (34°F) and a high of 27°C (81°F). While December experiences a higher average precipitation of 108 mm (4.2 in) over 17 days, September has a slightly lower total of 90 mm (3.5 in) distributed over 14 days. The humidity levels are quite similar, with December at 89% and September at 88%. For more detailed insights on September weather, check out Dumfries weather in September.

When comparing the weather in December and October, important differences emerge. December typically experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (21°F) and an average high of 12°C (55°F), while October boasts milder conditions, featuring a minimum of -3°C (27°F) and an average high of 21°C (70°F). Precipitation levels are slightly lower in December at 108 mm (4.2 in) over 17 days, compared to October's 132 mm (5.2 in) across 16 days. Additionally, December's humidity is somewhat consistent at 89%, just a bit lower than October's 90%. For detailed insights on October conditions, you can refer to Dumfries weather in October.

December generally feels colder than November, with average temperatures dropping from 7°C (45°F) in November to 5°C (42°F) in December. The minimum temperature in December can reach as low as -6°C (21°F), compared to November's minimum of -4°C (25°F). Both months experience significant precipitation, with December receiving 108 mm (4.2 in) over 17 days, slightly more than November's 103 mm (4.0 in) across 15 days. Humidity levels remain high in both months, but December is marginally drier at 89% compared to November's 92%. For more details on November weather, you can visit Dumfries weather in November.

Compare Dumfries's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Dumfries

As December arrives in Dumfries, the weather shifts into a cooler, more characteristic winter pattern. With temperatures averaging around 5°C (42°F), chilly days become the norm, and the occasional dip to -6°C (21°F) reminds residents that frost is in the air. Unlike the milder months preceding it, December brings increased precipitation, with nearly half the month experiencing rain, resulting in a soggy atmosphere and high humidity levels around 89%. This combination of colder temperatures and frequent rain sets a distinctly cozy backdrop for holiday festivities. For a detailed look at the annual weather patterns, visit Dumfries Climate.