Last updated: March 17, 2025
In December, Kirkwall experiences a cool maritime climate characterized by an average temperature of 7°C (45°F), with peaks reaching a maximum of 11°C (52°F) and dipping to a chilly minimum of 3°C (37°F). The month is marked by significant precipitation, accumulating to 111 mm (4.4 in) across approximately 21 days, contributing to the region's lush greenery. With humidity levels hovering around 80%, December in Kirkwall offers a crisp, damp atmosphere, making it a time for cozy gatherings and festive cheer amidst the stunning backdrop of Orkney's rugged beauty.
In December, Kirkwall embraces the chill of winter with temperatures that bring a sense of seasonal joy. The month starts off with a minimum of around 3°C (37°F), gradually settling into an average of 7°C (45°F), peaking at a maximum of 11°C (52°F). This slight dip in warmth compared to the preceding months illustrates a typical winter trend, where the temperatures transition from the milder autumn days of November. December in Kirkwall not only introduces brisk air but also offers a cozy atmosphere, perfect for festive gatherings and enjoying the serene beauty of the Orkney Islands in winter. As the year draws to a close, the cool crispness fosters a delightful contrast to the holiday spirit that envelops the town.
In December, Kirkwall, United Kingdom, wraps up the year with substantial precipitation, averaging 111 mm (4.4 in) over 21 days. This marks a continuation of the wetter trend characteristic of late autumn, though slightly less than the average rainfall seen in October and November, which both experienced significantly more precipitation. The increased number of rain days in December contributes to a damp, chilly climate, setting the stage for the invigorating yet often drizzly winter months ahead. As the year winds down, the consistent rainfall serves as a reminder of Kirkwall's maritime climate, with each drop nurturing the lush landscapes that define this picturesque region.
In December, Kirkwall experiences a drop in humidity to 80%, marking the end of a year characterized by relatively high moisture levels. The trend throughout the year shows a gradual increase in humidity starting from January's 82%, peaking in the summer months of July and September with 87% and 88%, respectively. As the seasons shift, humidity fluctuates slightly but remains consistently high during the warmer months, only to taper off as the year concludes. This December decline signals the transition into the drier winter months, providing a brief reprieve before the cycle starts anew.
In Kirkwall, December brings a low UV Index of 1, similar to the preceding months of January and November. This consistent low exposure category allows for a burn time of 45 minutes, which means you can spend ample time outdoors without worrying about harmful effects from the sun. Notably, as the year progresses, the UV Index fluctuates significantly, peaking at 7 during the sunnier months of June and July, indicating a shift towards more hazardous conditions. As temperatures cool and daylight dwindles in the winter months, the UV index drops back down, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy the outdoors with minimal sun protection concerns. For more detailed information on Kirkwall's UV levels, check out Kirkwall UV Index.
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In Kirkwall, December marks a significant dip in sunshine, offering only 74 hours of daylight, a stark contrast to the bright, lingering months of summer. This decline follows the gradual decrease from the year's peak in June, where residents basked in an impressive 428 hours of sun. As autumn sets in, the sunlight wanes sharply, dropping to 94 hours in November before December's twilight transition. Interestingly, while winter draws in, the early months of the year show a promising uptick, as the sunshine steadily increases from January's mere 55 hours to 141 hours in February. This trend suggests a rhythmic cycle of light that inspires hope for brighter days ahead, even as the dark days of December envelop Kirkwall.
In December, Kirkwall experiences a modest likelihood of sunny weather, with a 22% chance of sunshine. This figure is a subtle decline from the preceding months, with November and October both hovering around 20%. Interestingly, despite December's chill, it offers a slightly brighter glimmer compared to some summer months like July and August, which plummet to 16% and 15%, respectively. The overall trend shows that while the darkness of winter descends, December still offers a sliver of hope for those seeking a rare sunny day amidst the typically overcast skies.
In Kirkwall, United Kingdom, December marks the culmination of a gradual decline in daylight hours, which begin at a vibrant 18 hours in June and dwindle down to just 6 hours by the end of the year. As autumn gives way to winter, the shift becomes more pronounced, with November starting at 7 hours before plunging further into short days. The daylight duration trends illustrate a vivid seasonal rhythm, with the sun gracing Kirkwall for longer stretches in spring and summer, while the dark, quiet embrace of December invites cozy nights and festive cheer. The contrast between the sun-drenched days of May and the dimming December sun vividly encapsulates the unique charm of this northern locale through its evolving light palette.
As December rolls into Kirkwall, the winds shift to a brisk average speed of 8.9 m/s (20 mph), mirroring the calmer conditions of both January and March. This pattern indicates a gradual decrease from the preceding months, where November peaked with a notable 10.8 m/s (24 mph), marking it as one of the windiest times of the year. The overall trend reveals a transition from the blustery autumn months to the cooler, more stable winter breezes, providing a refreshing yet manageable chill as the year draws to a close. With the wind continuing to dance around an average of 8.9 m/s, residents and visitors alike can expect a typical winter ambiance, perfect for enjoying the rugged beauty of the Orkney Islands while wrapped snugly against the elements.
The weather in Kirkwall 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 Kirkwall and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January exhibit similar cool and damp weather patterns, but with some notable differences. In December, temperatures typically range from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 11°C (52°F), with an average of 7°C (45°F). This month experiences higher precipitation, averaging 111 mm (4.4 in) over 21 days, contributing to a humidity level of 80%. In contrast, January sees a slight dip in temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F), peaking at 12°C (53°F). Precipitation decreases to 91 mm (3.6 in) over just 16 days, leading to a slightly higher humidity of 82%. For further details on January’s weather, you can check Kirkwall weather in January.
December weather is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 11°C (52°F), and an average temperature of 7°C (45°F). This month also sees significant precipitation, averaging 111 mm (4.4 in) over about 21 days, while humidity remains high at 80%. In contrast, February experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (33°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), peaking at 11°C (51°F). Precipitation in February is a bit lower, totaling 99 mm (3.9 in) across 18 days, and humidity is slightly elevated at 81%. For more detailed insights, you can check Kirkwall weather in February.
December and March exhibit distinct weather patterns, though they share some similarities in terms of precipitation and humidity. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 11°C (52°F), with an average of 7°C (45°F). The month sees a considerable amount of rain, totaling 111 mm (4.4 in) over approximately 21 days, while humidity remains high at 80%.
In contrast, March experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (31°F), an average of 6°C (43°F), and a maximum of 10°C (50°F). Precipitation in March is slightly less at 104 mm (4.1 in) over around 20 days, and humidity stays comparable at 81%. For more details on the weather specifics in March, you can check out Kirkwall weather in March. Overall, while December is milder, March ushers in a chill, reflecting the transition from winter to early spring.
In December, the weather is generally cooler than in April, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 11°C (52°F), and an average of 7°C (45°F). The month is also marked by significant precipitation, totaling 111 mm (4.4 in) over 21 days, coupled with high humidity levels of 80%.
In contrast, April offers slightly milder conditions with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 11°C (53°F), maintaining the same average of 7°C (44°F). However, this month sees a marked reduction in precipitation, with only 51 mm (2.0 in) falling over 12 days, and humidity rises slightly to 81%.
For a detailed overview of the rainfall patterns, check out Kirkwall weather in April.
December and May present contrasting weather patterns, despite both months featuring similar minimum temperatures of around 3°C (37°F). In December, the average temperature hovers at 7°C (45°F) with peaks reaching 11°C (52°F), accompanied by significant precipitation of 111 mm (4.4 in) over 21 days, creating a noticeably damp and humid environment with an 80% humidity level. In contrast, May brings a slight increase in average temperature to 8°C (47°F) and a maximum of 13°C (56°F), with reduced precipitation of 55 mm (2.2 in) across just 13 days, resulting in a comparatively milder and drier atmosphere, albeit with slightly higher humidity at 83%. For a detailed look at the weather typical of May, you can explore Kirkwall weather in May.
December and June weather presents a marked contrast, with December experiencing lower temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 11°C (52°F), while June sees slightly warmer conditions with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F). Precipitation is higher in December, totaling 111 mm (4.4 in) over 21 days, compared to 55 mm (2.2 in) over just 11 days in June. Interestingly, humidity remains quite similar, with December at 80% and June slightly higher at 84%. For further details on June conditions, check out Kirkwall weather in June.
When comparing the weather between December and July, notable differences emerge. December is characterized by cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (37°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F), reaching a maximum of 11°C (52°F). It also experiences higher precipitation levels, averaging 111 mm (4.4 in) over 21 days, alongside relatively high humidity at 80%. In contrast, July enjoys milder conditions, with a minimum temperature of 9°C (49°F), an average of 12°C (54°F), and a maximum of 17°C (63°F). The month typically sees less rainfall, at 70 mm (2.8 in) over 13 days, and slightly higher humidity at 87%. For those interested in a more detailed look at July weather, visit Kirkwall weather in July.
The weather in December is significantly colder than in August, with average temperatures ranging from 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 11°C (52°F), compared to August's milder range of 10°C (51°F) to 16°C (61°F). December also experiences more precipitation, with 111 mm (4.4 in) falling over 21 days, while August sees less rain at 72 mm (2.8 in) across 15 days. Additionally, the humidity in August is slightly higher at 86%, compared to December's 80%. For a more detailed comparison of August weather, you can check out Kirkwall weather in August.
In comparing the weather between December and September, notable differences emerge. December experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (37°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F), while September offers milder conditions, featuring a minimum of 9°C (48°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in September, totaling 125 mm (4.9 in) over 19 days compared to December's 111 mm (4.4 in) across 21 days. Additionally, September has a higher humidity level at 88%, as opposed to December's 80%. For more details on September weather, visit Kirkwall weather in September.
When comparing the weather in December to that of October, it is clear that December is generally cooler, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C to a maximum of 11°C, while October sees slightly milder temperatures with a minimum of 5°C and a maximum of 15°C. Both months experience considerable precipitation, but October is wetter overall, recording 163 mm over 25 days compared to December's 111 mm over 21 days. Additionally, October has slightly higher humidity levels at 87%, compared to December's 80%. For a more detailed look at October's weather, you can visit Kirkwall weather in October.
In comparing the weather between November and December, it is evident that December experiences slightly cooler temperatures overall, with an average of 7°C (45°F) compared to November's 9°C (48°F). While both months share the same minimum temperature of 3°C (37°F), December's maximum temperature is 11°C (52°F), which is a bit lower than November's 13°C (56°F). Precipitation is notably heavy in both months, but December has 111 mm (4.4 in) over 21 days, whereas November records a higher total of 136 mm (5.4 in) spread over 23 days. Humidity levels are also higher in November at 87%, compared to December's 80%. For a more detailed look at November's weather, you can check out Kirkwall weather in November.
As December sets in, Kirkwall transforms into a chillier landscape compared to the milder conditions of previous months. With an average temperature dipping to around 7°C, the air carries a noticeable bite, inviting cozy layers and warm beverages. Rain becomes a frequent visitor, making December one of the wetter months with over 21 days of precipitation, a stark contrast to the drier summer days. This humidity level of 80% adds to the dampness, creating an atmosphere that is quintessentially wintery. For those intrigued by Kirkwall's unique climate transitions, be sure to explore more about it at Kirkwall Climate.