Last updated: March 17, 2025
December in Glasgow, United Kingdom offers a blend of chilly temperatures and frequent rainfall, perfect for embracing the cozy winter season. The maximum temperature hovers around 13°C (55°F), while the average falls to a brisk 5°C (41°F) and can dip as low as -6°C (21°F) at night. With 117 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation spread over 17 days, residents and visitors alike should be prepared for damp days complemented by a high humidity level of 89%. This month’s weather sets the stage for festive gatherings, warm beverages, and the beautiful sights of Glasgow wrapped in winter's embrace.
As December rolls into Glasgow, temperatures shift towards the chill of winter, with minimums dipping to -6°C (21°F) and an average hovering around 5°C (41°F). This month marks a gradual decline from the milder temperatures of November, where the average rested at 7°C (45°F). The month features a maximum temperature often capping at 13°C (55°F), signaling the colder days ahead. Despite the drop, December's weather generally remains consistent with the overall trend seen throughout the year, where Glasgow experiences a unique blend of cool temperatures and occasional bursts of milder weather. This fluctuation not only defines the city's winter climate but also casts a festive charm, making it a captivating time to explore the vibrant streets adorned with holiday cheer.
In December, Glasgow experiences a notable shift in weather, with precipitation measuring around 117 mm (4.6 in) across 17 days of the month. This marks a slight decrease from the wetter months of October and November, yet it still contributes to the city's reputation for a damp winter. The consistent precipitation in December aligns with the overall trend of increased rainfall during the latter part of the year, highlighting a transition from the crisp days of autumn to the soggy conditions of winter. As Glasgow bids farewell to the year, its landscape remains lush and green, nourished by the frequent showers that are characteristic of this vibrant Scottish city.
As the year draws to a close, December in Glasgow sees a slight dip in humidity, settling at 89%—a level that remains relatively high compared to many other months. This drop follows a trend observed from the peak in November at 92%, suggesting a subtle reduction in moisture as the city embraces the winter chill. While January is known for its damp conditions, with humidity reaching 90%, December's humidity offers a glimpse of what is to come. The overall pattern reveals a stable yet somewhat fluctuating humidity throughout the colder months, with falling levels from autumn elevating the uniqueness of December's atmospheric experience.
As the year draws to a close, Glasgow's December UV Index remains a consistent 1, reflecting a low exposure category, much like the preceding months of November and January. This indicates that residents can enjoy outdoor activities with minimal risk of sunburn, as the burn time stretches to a comfortable 45 minutes. Throughout the year, Glasgow experiences fluctuating UV levels, ranging from very high peaks in the summer months of June and July (UV Index 8) to the milder winter readings. Understanding these trends is crucial for sun safety, regardless of the season. Embrace the beauty of Glasgow while staying informed about the UV Index by visiting Glasgow UV Index.
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While December in Glasgow may bring the chill of winter, it also sees a modest slice of sunshine, with an average of 71 hours of daylight. This marks a notable decline from the more sun-drenched months of summer, where Glasgow basked in approximately 390 hours in July. The trend is clear: as the year progresses from May's vibrant 389 hours to the dwindling daylight of December, the city transitions into a season characterized by shorter days and longer nights. However, the festive spirit of December can create a warm glow that transcends the limited sunlight, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the magic of the season, even as the sun sets earlier.
December in Glasgow sees a modest 16% chance of sunny weather, marking it as one of the cloudier months of the year. As the year progresses, there's a noticeable decline in sunshine likelihood, with December exhibiting the lowest chances compared to late autumn and earlier winter months. This trend reflects the seasonal shift towards darker days, as the vibrant sun-kissed skies of spring and summer fade away. As you prepare for the festive season, don't forget your umbrella—this month's weather is more likely to bring overcast skies than sunny rays.
In December, Glasgow sees daylight duration dropping back to around 7 hours, mirroring the light constraints of January. This pattern reflects a typical seasonal trend, where the shortest days of the year precede the slow return of light in the following months. As autumn transitions into winter, daylight gradually decreases from November's 8 hours to the bleakest days of late December. Following this period of minimal sunlight, there’s a promise of resurgence, with days lengthening significantly from January onward, culminating in the vibrant 17 hours of daylight by June. This cyclical dance of light not only marks the changing seasons but also influences the city’s rhythm and the activities of its residents.
As the year draws to a close, December in Glasgow brings a gentle but noticeable increase in wind speed, averaging 3.6 m/s (8 mph). This month’s winds are a bit stronger than those of the summer, which often see lower averages, peaking at a modest 2.2 m/s (5 mph) in July. Interestingly, the wind picks up significantly through the autumn months, reaching 4.3 m/s (10 mph) by November, before settling slightly in December. This trend indicates a transition towards more brisk winter conditions, as the city prepares for the chill of January where winds soften to 3.3 m/s (7 mph). Overall, December presents a refreshing breeze that hints at the drifty winter ahead, bridging the calm of summer’s end with the gusty challenges of the season to come.
The weather in Glasgow 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 Glasgow and find detailed weather information for every month.
In December, the weather tends to be slightly milder with average temperatures around 5°C (41°F) and a maximum reaching up to 13°C (55°F), though it can drop to a minimum of -6°C (21°F). The month sees considerable precipitation, with 117 mm (4.6 in) over 17 days, and humidity levels are high at 89%. In contrast, January experiences similar average temperatures of 5°C (41°F) and a slightly higher maximum of 14°C (57°F), but the minimum dips a bit lower to -7°C (20°F). Precipitation decreases to 84 mm (3.3 in) spread over just 12 days, and humidity remains comparable at 90%. For more detailed information, you can check Glasgow weather in January.
In December, Glasgow experiences slightly colder temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (21°F) and a maximum of 13°C (55°F), while February sees a slight increase in warmth with a minimum of -5°C (23°F) and a maximum of 15°C (59°F). Both months feature similar average temperatures of around 5°C (41°F). However, February has a touch more rainfall, totaling 129 mm (5.1 in) compared to December's 117 mm (4.6 in), though both months share a similar precipitation frequency of 17 days. Humidity levels are quite consistent between the two months, with December at 89% and February at 88%. For more detailed weather insights specific to February, you can check Glasgow weather in February.
When comparing the weather in December to March, we notice some notable differences. December experiences a colder average temperature, with a minimum of -6°C (21°F) and a maximum of only 13°C (55°F), while March shows a slight increase, ranging from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a more pleasant maximum of 17°C (63°F). Although both months receive precipitation on about 17 days, December sees slightly more with a total of 117 mm (4.6 in) compared to March's 106 mm (4.2 in). Humidity levels are also similar, with December at 89% and March at 86%. For a more detailed look at March weather, check out Glasgow weather in March.
December and April present quite a contrast in weather. December typically experiences colder temperatures, with averages around 5°C (41°F) and low temperatures dipping to -6°C (21°F). The month is also characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 117 mm (4.6 in) over about 17 days, coupled with high humidity levels of 89%. In contrast, April welcomes spring with milder conditions, featuring an average temperature of 8°C (46°F) that can rise to a maximum of 22°C (72°F). April has considerably less rainfall, with only 44 mm (1.7 in) occurring over approximately 10 days, and humidity slightly lower at 85%. For more detailed insights, you can check Glasgow weather in April.
December and May showcase strikingly different weather patterns. In December, temperatures can drop as low as -6°C (21°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F) and highs reaching 13°C (55°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 89% and considerable precipitation, averaging 117 mm (4.6 in) over 17 days. In contrast, May brings milder temperatures with a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and averages of 11°C (52°F), peaking at a warm 26°C (79°F). Precipitation in May is lower, totaling 67 mm (2.6 in) across 12 days, and humidity decreases to 80%. For more details, you can check Glasgow weather in May.
December and June present stark contrasts in weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a chilly -6°C (21°F) to a mild 13°C (55°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F). The month experiences more precipitation, totaling 117 mm (4.6 in) over approximately 17 days, coupled with a high humidity of 89%. In contrast, June boasts a significantly warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from 6°C (43°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), and an average of 14°C (57°F). Precipitation levels are slightly lower at 113 mm (4.4 in) across the same number of days, while humidity drops to 83%. For a closer look at what to expect, explore Glasgow weather in June.
December and July present a stark contrast in weather. In December, temperatures can drop to a minimum of -6°C (21°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F) and a maximum of 13°C (55°F). The month sees considerable precipitation, averaging 117 mm (4.6 in) over 17 days, with a high humidity level of 89%. In contrast, July offers a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures around 6°C (43°F), an average of 15°C (60°F), and a high of 28°C (83°F). Although July has slightly less rainfall at 98 mm (3.8 in) across 15 days, it enjoys lower humidity at 82%. For a detailed look at the warm and pleasant summer conditions, you can check the Glasgow weather in July.
When comparing the weather in December and August, noticeable differences emerge in temperature and precipitation patterns. December experiences colder temperatures, with averages ranging from a minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 13°C (55°F), while in August, temperatures are milder, ranging from a minimum of 6°C (43°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F). Although December has slightly less precipitation at 117 mm (4.6 in) over 17 days compared to August's 127 mm (5.0 in) spread over 19 days, the humidity remains higher in December at 89%, contrasting with August's 82%. For a more detailed look at the weather specifics, you can refer to Glasgow weather in August.
The weather in December contrasts significantly with that of September. December experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (21°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F), compared to September's milder range, where temperatures start at a minimum of 1°C (33°F) and peak at an average of 13°C (55°F). Additionally, December sees higher precipitation levels, totaling 117 mm (4.6 in) over 17 days, whereas September has slightly less rainfall at 91 mm (3.6 in) over 15 days. Humidity remains fairly high in both months, with December at 89% and September slightly lower at 88%. For more specifics about the weather patterns, you can check Glasgow weather in September.
When comparing the weather in December and October, we see notable differences. December experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (21°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F), whereas October boasts a milder average temperature of 10°C (50°F) and a maximum reaching up to 20°C (69°F). Both months feature significant precipitation, but October is slightly wetter, recording 130 mm (5.1 in) across 19 days compared to December's 117 mm (4.6 in) over 17 days. Humidity remains high in both months, with December at 89% and October at 90%. For more details on October weather, visit Glasgow weather in October.
In comparing the weather between December and November, December tends to be slightly colder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 13°C (55°F), compared to November's range of -3°C (26°F) to 14°C (58°F). Precipitation levels are also elevated in December, with 117 mm (4.6 in) falling over 17 days, slightly more than November’s 105 mm (4.1 in) over the same number of days. Humidity is marginally lower in December at 89%, while November is higher at 92%. For more specific information on November weather, you can visit Glasgow weather in November.
As December unfolds in Glasgow, the city experiences a noticeable shift in weather patterns, marked by chilly temperatures and frequent rain. With chilly highs around 13°C and lows dipping to -6°C, residents and visitors alike should be prepared for a brisk, wintry ambiance. While December boasts an average temperature of 5°C, the high humidity of 89% only adds to the biting cold, making it one of the wetter months with about 17 days of rainfall contributing to a total of 117 mm. This contrast to the milder months showcases December as a time when layers and umbrellas become essential companions. For those looking to understand Glasgow’s weather trends in depth, visit Glasgow Climate.