Last updated: March 17, 2025
December in Inverness, United Kingdom, brings a cool and damp climate, characterized by a maximum temperature of 13°C (55°F) and an average of 4°C (40°F). With temperatures occasionally dipping to a minimum of -7°C (20°F), it’s a month where warmth is a rare comfort. The city sees 85 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation over approximately 16 days, contributing to a notable humidity level of 88%. This combination creates a chilly, moisture-laden atmosphere, ideal for cozy indoor pursuits or braving the scenic landscapes adorned in winter's embrace.
As December arrives in Inverness, temperatures mirror the chill of the preceding months, with minimums dipping to -7°C (20°F) and averages settling at around 4°C (40°F). This festive month finds highs reaching a modest 13°C (55°F), characteristic of the gradual transition into winter. Unlike the sporadic warmth felt in late autumn, December's temperatures are a reminder of the colder days ahead, maintaining a consistent chill as the city prepares for the holiday season. The overall pattern reveals a steady decline in warmth as the year draws to a close, setting the stage for Inverness’s winter landscape, which is both crisp and inviting.
In December, Inverness experiences a notable shift in its precipitation patterns, with an accumulation of 85 mm (3.4 in) spread over 16 days. This places December among the wetter months of the year, albeit slightly less so than the preceding October, which recorded the highest precipitation at 107 mm (4.2 in). The frequency of rainy days remains consistent, contributing to a damp atmosphere as winter settles in. Following a trend seen throughout the fall, December's rainfall supports the overall pattern of increasing precipitation from summer to winter, making it a key period for soaking up the region's rich natural beauty.
December in Inverness experiences an average humidity of 88%, a slight dip from the increasingly damp conditions of the preceding months. Following a gradual rise through the autumn, with November peaking at 92%, December’s humidity showcases a trend of mild fluctuations typical for this time of year. Despite the decrease, humidity levels remain relatively high compared to earlier months; a notable pattern emerges as winter approaches, where humidity generally stabilizes around the upper eighties to low nineties. This consistent moisture not only contributes to Inverness’s lush landscapes but also emphasizes the city's maritime influence as it heads deeper into winter.
As December sets in Inverness, the UV Index takes a noticeable dip to 1, classified under the low exposure category. This means residents can enjoy the festive season without the worry of sunburn, as the safe burn time extends to a soothing 45 minutes. This trend of lower UV levels continues from November, signaling a significant decrease since the summer peaks of June and July, when the Index soared to 8 and 7, respectively. With winter here, those shorter days and overcast skies are accompanied by a reassurance that UV rays are less of a concern. For more insights into UV exposure throughout the year, check out the detailed Inverness UV Index.
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December in Inverness offers a notable retreat from the abundant sunshine of the summer months, capturing just 82 hours of bright light. This marks a stark contrast to the vibrant summer, where July basks in 396 hours of sunshine. As the year comes to a close, daylight dwindles significantly from November's 119 hours, highlighting a seasonal trend of decreasing illumination. Interestingly, the gradual increase in sunlight from January's mere 70 hours to June's peak shows a lively transition, leading us towards the long, sunlit days of summer. While December may not dazzle with extended sunshine, it signals the approach of a new year, bringing the promise of light and warmth with the gradual lengthening of days.
Inverness, nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, experiences a decidedly subdued chance of sunny weather in December, with only a 17% likelihood of sunshine. This figure aligns closely with the trends observed in the preceding months, such as November and October, which also hover around the 17% mark. Compared to the brighter days of April, where the sun shines 36% of the time, December's gray skies reflect a wintery chill that permeates the region. As the year closes, the consistent low percentages of sunshine reinforce the notion that December in Inverness tends to be more about cozy indoors than outdoor adventures under the sun.
Inverness experiences a distinct seasonal rhythm in daylight duration, peaking in the long summer months before retreating to shorter days. December, with its mere 6 hours of daylight, marks the nadir of sunlight, inviting early evenings and a cozy, reflective atmosphere as winter takes hold. The transition from November's 7 hours already sets the stage for a gradual decline in natural light, which contrasts sharply with the vibrancy of June and July, where daylight stretches to a remarkable 17 hours. This annual cycle reveals a captivating ebb and flow, where early spring offers a promising 11 hours in March, gradually building toward the exuberance of summer, only to close the year with the introspective dimness of December.
As December settles in Inverness, the average wind speed reaches a moderate 3.1 m/s (7 mph), offering a gentle breeze that contrasts with the preceding gustier months. Following a notable peak in November at 4.3 m/s (10 mph), the wind begins to calm, leading into the new year with a more tranquil atmosphere. Throughout the year, wind patterns fluctuate, with the highest speeds typically seen in the late autumn months, while summer brings the calmest conditions. This gradual easing of the wind in December signals the onset of winter, inviting cozy evenings by the fire and a refreshed appreciation for the serene beauty of the Scottish landscape.
The weather in Inverness 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 Inverness and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January share similar temperature ranges, with both months seeing minimums around -7°C (20°F) and maximums reaching approximately 13°C (55°F). December tends to be slightly wetter, receiving 85 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation over 16 days compared to January's 73 mm (2.9 in) across 12 days. The humidity levels remain high, at 88% in December and slightly higher at 89% in January. Overall, while the temperatures are consistent, January offers a drier experience with fewer rainy days. For more specific details, you can check Inverness weather in January.
December and February exhibit similar average temperatures, both hovering around 4°C (40°F). However, December tends to be slightly milder, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 13°C (55°F), compared to February's peak of 15°C (59°F). In terms of minimum temperatures, February is colder, with lows dipping to -13°C (9°F), while December's lowest temperatures are a bit warmer at -7°C (20°F). Precipitation levels in both months are comparable, with December receiving 85 mm (3.4 in) over 16 days and February experiencing slightly less at 78 mm (3.1 in) over 14 days. Humidity remains consistent at a high 88% in both months, contributing to the overall chilly feel. For a more detailed look at February weather, check out Inverness weather in February.
In December, the weather is typically colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 13°C (55°F) and an average temperature of 4°C (40°F). The month sees around 85 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation over 16 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 88%. In contrast, March experiences slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of -5°C (23°F) and a maximum of 17°C (63°F), averaging at 5°C (41°F). Precipitation in March is slightly lower at 79 mm (3.1 in) across 17 days, with humidity remaining relatively high at 86%. For a detailed look at the weather specific to this month, visit Inverness weather in March.
In December, the weather is generally colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 13°C (55°F) and an average of 4°C (40°F). The month receives about 85 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation over 16 days, coupled with high humidity at 88%. In contrast, April brings a noticeable warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a maximum of 22°C (71°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F). Precipitation decreases to 51 mm (2.0 in) over 13 days, and humidity slightly declines to 84%. For more details on the weather in April, visit Inverness weather in April.
December and May present contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures can drop to a chilly -7°C (20°F), with an average of 4°C (40°F) and a maximum of 13°C (55°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 85 mm (3.4 in) over 16 days, accompanied by high humidity at 88%. In comparison, May offers a milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (30°F) to a pleasant average of 10°C (50°F) and a maximum of 25°C (78°F). Precipitation is slightly lower at 81 mm (3.2 in) over 15 days, and humidity remains relatively comfortable at 82%. For more details on May weather, you can visit Inverness weather in May.
In December, temperatures in Inverness can drop as low as -7°C (20°F), while average highs tend to be around 4°C (40°F), creating a chilly and crisp atmosphere. The month also sees a significant amount of precipitation, with about 85 mm (3.4 in) falling over 16 days, and humidity levels peaking at 88%. In contrast, June offers a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a pleasant average of 13°C (56°F), and highs reaching up to 28°C (82°F). While June experiences slightly less precipitation at 80 mm (3.1 in) over 15 days, humidity is still relatively high at 84%. For more detailed information, check out Inverness weather in June.
In December, the weather in Inverness is notably colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 13°C (55°F), and an average of 4°C (40°F). The month sees considerable precipitation, totaling 85 mm (3.4 in) over 16 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 88%. In contrast, July brings a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a warm maximum of 28°C (82°F) and an average of 15°C (59°F). While July also experiences precipitation over 16 days, it totals a slightly lower 76 mm (3.0 in) and maintains humidity at a slightly lower 86%. For a more detailed look at July's weather in Inverness, you can visit Inverness weather in July.
When comparing the weather in December and August, notable differences emerge. December experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -7°C (20°F) and an average of 4°C (40°F), while August offers milder conditions, showcasing a minimum temperature of 5°C (42°F) and an average of 14°C (58°F). Precipitation levels are similar, with December receiving 85 mm (3.4 in) and August slightly less at 81 mm (3.2 in), both spread over 16 days. Humidity levels are also comparable, with December at 88% and August at 86%. For a deeper look into the specifics of August weather in this region, you can visit Inverness weather in August.
In comparing the weather of December and September, there are notable differences in temperature and overall climate conditions. December typically experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -7°C (20°F) and an average of 4°C (40°F), compared to September, which has a milder range with a minimum of 2°C (35°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F). While both months receive similar amounts of precipitation—approximately 85 mm (3.4 in)—December often feels wetter due to its higher humidity level of 88%, compared to September's 90%. Additionally, September enjoys warmer maximum temperatures reaching up to 24°C (75°F), making it a much more pleasant month for outdoor activities. For those looking to explore the specific weather patterns of September, you can find more information here: Inverness weather in September.
In comparing the weather between December and October, December tends to be colder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 13°C (55°F), while October sees milder temperatures, averaging from -3°C (27°F) to 18°C (64°F). Precipitation is also noteworthy; October experiences slightly higher rainfall at 107 mm (4.2 in) over 20 days, compared to December's 85 mm (3.4 in) across 16 days. Humidity levels are quite similar, with December at 88% and October slightly higher at 91%. For a more detailed look at October's weather, you can visit Inverness weather in October.
December and November present relatively similar weather patterns, but with some notable differences. December features a slightly colder temperature range, with minimums reaching -7°C (20°F) compared to November's minimum of -5°C (23°F). The average temperatures also dip in December to around 4°C (40°F), while November maintains a slightly warmer average of 6°C (43°F). Precipitation remains consistent, with December receiving 85 mm (3.4 in) over 16 days, just a touch less than November's 88 mm (3.5 in) across 17 days. Humidity levels in December are also marginally lower at 88%, compared to November's 92%. For more detailed information on November weather, you can check Inverness weather in November.
As December unfolds in Inverness, the weather takes on a distinctly chilly character compared to the milder months of autumn. With average temperatures hovering around 4°C (40°F), it's a time when warm layers become essential. The month experiences increased precipitation, with rain gracing the city on about 16 days, contributing to a notable humidity level of 88% that adds to the brisk atmosphere. While maximum temperatures can reach up to 13°C (55°F), the sharp drop to -7°C (20°F) at night reminds residents of winter's arrival. For those keen to explore the intricacies of Inverness's climate throughout the year, be sure to check out Inverness Climate.