Last updated: March 17, 2025
December in Fort William, United Kingdom, presents a blend of crisp winter charm and wet weather. With average temperatures hovering around 3°C (38°F), the month experiences a maximum of 11°C (52°F) and dips to a chilly minimum of -9°C (17°F). Rain is a frequent visitor, with an impressive precipitation total of 181 mm (7.1 in) over 21 days, contributing to the region's picturesque, albeit soggy, landscapes. Coupled with humidity levels reaching a notable 86%, December in Fort William offers a true taste of the Scottish winter, inviting both adventure and introspection in its serene, albeit soaked, surroundings.
In Fort William, United Kingdom, December sees temperatures that mark the transition into the heart of winter. With a minimum of -9°C (17°F), the chill becomes more pronounced, setting a stark contrast to the milder days preceding it. The average temperature hovers around 3°C (38°F), while daytime highs reach a modest 11°C (52°F). This month generally experiences shorter daylight hours, contributing to the cool atmosphere. As part of a broader seasonal trend, these December temperatures reflect a decline from the autumn warmth, preparing the landscape for the frosty embrace of January. Visitors can expect a tranquil, if brisk, winter scene, perfect for enjoying the stunning natural beauty that Fort William has to offer.
December in Fort William brings an average precipitation of 181 mm (7.1 in), making it one of the wetter months of the year. This increase in rainfall, compared to the drier spells earlier in the year, is highlighted by 21 days of measurable precipitation, placing December among the months with the highest frequency of rain. Following November's 171 mm (6.7 in) and October’s peak of 235 mm (9.3 in), December maintains a consistent trend of substantial rainfall as winter settles in. The transition into the colder months showcases the region's characteristic weather patterns, where grey skies and persistent drizzle become a fixture of the landscape, setting a moody and atmospheric stage for the festive season.
In December, Fort William experiences a humidity level of 86%, maintaining a trend of relatively high moisture levels typical for the region during winter. This month continues a gradual decline from November's peak of 90%, marking a slight easing as temperatures drop. Throughout the year, humidity levels remain consistently elevated, particularly during the summer months, with July and August reaching their zenith at 87% and 88%, respectively. As the year progresses, a steady increase in humidity signals the onset of autumn, peaking in November before the seasonal shift in December leads to a minor reduction. Overall, the humidity patterns in Fort William illustrate a climate characterized by sustained moisture, an essential aspect of the local weather experience.
In December, Fort William experiences a low UV Index of 1, indicating minimal sun exposure risk. This seasonal dip follows a gradual increase from the moderate levels seen earlier in the year, specifically in March through September, where UV readings peaked at 8 during the height of summer. The trend highlights the natural ebb and flow of UV exposure throughout the year, encouraging residents and visitors alike to enjoy the outdoors in the winter months without too much concern for sunburn. With a burn time of 45 minutes under December’s sun, it’s a perfect time for crisp winter walks. For more detailed insights, check out the Fort William UV Index.
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In December, Fort William experiences a significant drop in sunshine hours, with just 48 hours recorded, marking the end of a gradual decline from the brighter months of summer. This decrease is a stark contrast to the vibrant 348 hours of sunlight in May and 340 hours in July. As autumn unfolds, the town transitions from the impressively long daylight hours seen in April and May to the shorter, grey December days. Despite this dip, Fort William's breathtaking scenery shines through, ensuring that its charm remains undiminished even under a blanket of clouds. The tendency toward less sunlight in winter serves as a reminder of the serene beauty that characterizes this enchanting region during the colder months.
In December, the likelihood of sunny weather in Fort William, United Kingdom, drops to a modest 9%, indicating a notable decline as the year draws to a close. This month experiences one of the lowest chances of sunshine compared to earlier months, particularly when contrasted with the brighter days of April, which boasts a 40% chance. Overall, the trend reveals that as winter settles in, the sun becomes increasingly elusive, with December trailing closely behind the dreary conditions often observed in October and November. Therefore, those looking for sunny skies in Fort William during the festive season may need to adjust their expectations accordingly.
As December draws near in Fort William, United Kingdom, the daylight hours continue their gentle decline, culminating in an average of just 6 hours of light. This is a stark contrast to the 17 hours enjoyed during the peak of summer in June and July. The seasonal shift is evident as the days shorten following the vibrant heights of May and June, where daylight reaches its maximum. By December, the fading light serves as a reminder of the approaching winter, emphasizing the cozy charm of the season. With each passing month, Fort William transitions from the 16 hours of daytime in May to the crisp, dark afternoons of December, underlining the region's captivating rhythm of light and shadow throughout the year.
As December settles over Fort William, the winds pick up a gentle yet consistent rhythm, averaging 2.7 m/s (6 mph). This slight increase from the mellow summer months marks the transition into winter's more intense climate. Interestingly, the average wind speed during December is a modest rise compared to the calmer July and August, which see lows around 1.8 m/s (4 mph). While the winter months begin to stir the air, the winds remain relatively tame compared to the cooler gusts felt in November, where speeds reached 3.4 m/s (8 mph). Overall, December presents a balanced blend of crispness and calm, a fitting prelude to the more turbulent winter ahead.
The weather in Fort William 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 Fort William and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January weather in Fort William exhibit some similarities, yet they also present distinct characteristics. Both months have an average temperature of around 3°C (38°F), but January is slightly colder, with a minimum temperature of -10°C (14°F) compared to December's -9°C (17°F). Precipitation levels are somewhat lower in January, totaling 158 mm (6.2 in) over 16 days, in contrast to December's 181 mm (7.1 in) across 21 days. Despite these variations, humidity levels remain constant at 86% for both months, maintaining that characteristic dampness typical of the region. For a more detailed look at January's climate, check out Fort William weather in January.
December and February exhibit similar average temperatures, both around 3°C (38°F). However, February tends to be slightly colder, with a minimum temperature of -13°C (9°F) compared to December's -9°C (17°F). Precipitation is notably higher in February, with 210 mm (8.3 in) over 19 days, while December receives 181 mm (7.1 in) across 21 days. Despite slightly less precipitation in December, the humidity remains high in both months, at 86% and 85% respectively. For more detailed insights, you can check Fort William weather in February.
In December, temperatures typically range from a minimum of -9°C (17°F) to a maximum of 11°C (52°F), with an average temperature of 3°C (38°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 181 mm (7.1 in) across 21 days, contributing to the high humidity level of 86%. In contrast, March offers slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of -8°C (17°F) and a maximum reaching 15°C (60°F), while the average is slightly higher at 4°C (40°F). Precipitation is also substantial, amounting to 188 mm (7.4 in) over the same number of days, resulting in a humidity level of 85%. Both months feature a similar number of rainy days, but March showcases a gradual warming trend as spring approaches. For more details, check Fort William weather in March.
When comparing December and April weather, notable differences emerge. December typically experiences colder temperatures, with average highs reaching only 11°C (52°F) and frequent lows dipping to -9°C (17°F), while April sees a more moderate range, with average highs climbing to 20°C (69°F) and lows around -4°C (26°F). Precipitation is also more prevalent in December, totaling 181 mm (7.1 in) over 21 days, compared to April's 74 mm (2.9 in) spread across 15 days. Humidity levels are similar, with December at 86% and April at 84%, making both months feel relatively damp. For a more detailed look at April's conditions, you can check Fort William weather in April.
When comparing the weather in December and May, it's evident that May brings milder temperatures and less precipitation. In December, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -9°C (17°F), with an average of 3°C (38°F) and a maximum of 11°C (52°F), accompanied by significant rainfall of 181 mm (7.1 in) over 21 days and high humidity at 86%. In contrast, May showcases a more temperate climate, with minimum temperatures around -3°C (28°F), an average of 9°C (49°F), and maximums reaching a pleasant 24°C (76°F). Additionally, May experiences lower rainfall, totaling 99 mm (3.9 in) across 16 days and slightly reduced humidity at 82%. For a closer look at the weather during this lovely spring month, take a look at Fort William weather in May.
December and June present striking contrasts in weather. December temperatures range from a chilly -9°C (17°F) at night, averaging around 3°C (38°F) during the day, while June offers a much milder experience with minimum temperatures starting at 3°C (38°F) and soaring to a maximum of 26°C (79°F). Though December experiences more precipitation with 181 mm (7.1 in) over 21 days, June's rainfall totals 144 mm (5.7 in) spread across 19 days. Humidity levels are similar, with December at 86% and June slightly lower at 84%. For more details on June weather, visit Fort William weather in June.
December and July present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -9°C (17°F) to a comfortable maximum of 11°C (52°F), with an average of 3°C (38°F). The month is quite damp, receiving 181 mm (7.1 in) of precipitation over 21 days and maintaining high humidity at 86%. In contrast, July boasts milder temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and a maximum of 26°C (78°F), averaging around 14°C (57°F). Although July is still rainy, it receives less precipitation at 128 mm (5.0 in) over 19 days and has a similar humidity level of 87%. For more details on July weather, you can check Fort William weather in July.
The weather in December contrasts sharply with that of August. In December, temperatures fluctuate between a minimum of -9°C (17°F) and a maximum of 11°C (52°F), with an average temperature of just 3°C (38°F). This chilly month sees significant precipitation totals of 181 mm (7.1 in) over 21 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 86%. In comparison, August brings much milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a low of 5°C (41°F) to a pleasant high of 24°C (75°F) and an average of 13°C (56°F). The summer month receives slightly less precipitation at 168 mm (6.6 in) over 22 days, with humidity levels remaining close at 88%. For more specific details on August weather, you can refer to Fort William weather in August.
December and September present contrasting weather patterns in Fort William. In December, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -9°C (17°F), with an average of 3°C (38°F) and a maximum of 11°C (52°F). The month also sees significant precipitation, totaling 181 mm (7.1 in) over 21 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 86%. In contrast, September enjoys milder temperatures, with minimums around -2°C (29°F) and averages of 11°C (52°F), peaking at 23°C (73°F). While precipitation is slightly lower at 176 mm (6.9 in) over 19 days, humidity remains high at 89%. For a detailed look at September weather, you can check Fort William weather in September.
In comparing the weather between December and October, it's evident that December is colder with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -9°C (17°F) to a maximum of 11°C (52°F), whereas October enjoys slightly milder conditions with temperatures ranging from -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 17°C (62°F). December also sees less precipitation, with 181 mm (7.1 in) over 21 days compared to October's 235 mm (9.3 in) across 24 days. Furthermore, humidity is slightly lower in December at 86% compared to October's 89%. For a closer look at October weather specifics, visit Fort William weather in October.
In comparing the weather between December and November, December tends to be colder, with a minimum temperature dropping to -9°C (17°F) compared to November's minimum of -4°C (24°F). The average temperature in December is 3°C (38°F), slightly cooler than November's average of 5°C (41°F). Precipitation levels are also slightly higher in December, with 181 mm (7.1 inches) compared to November's 171 mm (6.7 inches), although both months experience a similar number of rainy days, with December having 21 days of precipitation and November 19 days. Humidity remains high in both months, but December averages 86% compared to November's 90%. For a more detailed insight into November’s weather conditions, you can check out Fort William weather in November.
As December arrives in Fort William, the chill of winter sets in, marking a significant shift from the milder months. With an average temperature of just 3°C, this month brings cooler days and brisk nights, in stark contrast to the warmer autumn. The weather also becomes notably wetter, with precipitation occurring on over half the days of the month, creating a damp atmosphere and contributing to the already high humidity levels. This combination of cold and wet conditions often envelops the region in a serene, albeit chilly, winter landscape. For those intrigued by the seasonal shifts, more details can be found on the Fort William Climate page.