November Weather in Kirkwall, United Kingdom

Last updated: March 17, 2025

In November, Kirkwall, United Kingdom experiences a mild and damp climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F), yielding an average of 9°C (48°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, with 136 mm (5.4 in) of rain spread over 23 days, resulting in a notably high humidity level of 87%. Residents and visitors alike should prepare for a wet and chilly month, making warm clothing and waterproof gear essential.

November Temperature in Kirkwall

In November, Kirkwall experiences the transition into winter with temperatures that range from a mild 3°C (38°F) at night to a comfortable 13°C (56°F) during the day. This month marks a cooling trend compared to the preceding autumn, as the average temperature dips to 9°C (48°F). With these temperatures, it's a time when the area begins to showcase its softer, serene beauty, often highlighted by a mix of crisp air and occasional rain. The resilient coastal landscape, paired with the cool breezes, creates a refreshing atmosphere that's perfect for cozying up indoors or enjoying the early dusk with warm beverages. As the year winds down, November in Kirkwall encapsulates the charm of the season, balancing between the lingering warmth of autumn and the impending chill of winter.

November Weather in Kirkwall: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates November temperature patterns in Kirkwall, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec444343444751545554514845
Data source: Temperature data for Kirkwall generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

November Precipitation in Kirkwall

November in Kirkwall brings notable precipitation, with the month receiving around 136 mm (5.4 in) of rain over 23 days. This marks a slight decrease from October's peak of 163 mm but is still significantly higher than many other months of the year. As autumn gives way to winter, the wet conditions continue to dominate, reflecting the climate's trend of increasing rainfall during the season. The persistent drizzle and robust moisture levels in November contribute to the region's lush landscapes, making it a perfect time for cozy indoor activities as nature dons its wintry cloak.

November Precipitation Trends in Kirkwall

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Kirkwall, with values for each month alongside November's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how November's conditions compare to those of other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec91991045155557072125163136111
Data source: Precipitation data for November generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

November Humidity in Kirkwall

In November, Kirkwall's humidity remains consistent with the dreary autumn ambiance, sitting at a notable 87%. This marks a continuation of the elevated moisture levels that begin in the summer months, peaking in September at 88% before slightly tapering off. As the year progresses, there is a visible pattern of increased humidity from the earlier months, which hover around 81% from January to April, to a peak in the later half of the year. Thus, November’s humidity reflects the trend of a more humid environment, contributing to the rich, often misty atmosphere that characterizes this time of year in the United Kingdom’s Orkney archipelago. As winter approaches, the humidity eventually dips to a refreshing 80% in December, wrapping up the year on a milder note.

November Average Humidity in Kirkwall

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Kirkwall, with November's data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, allowing you to see how November's humidity levels compare to other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec82%81%81%81%83%84%87%86%88%87%87%80%
Data source: Humidity data for November generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

November UV Index in Kirkwall

As November settles in Kirkwall, the UV Index drops to a low level of 1, mirroring the conditions typical of January and February. With a burn time of 45 minutes, residents and visitors can enjoy outdoor activities with minimal risk of sunburn. This decline in UV radiation is a continuation of a downward trend seen since the height of summer, where the Index peaked at 7 during the warmer months of June and July. As autumn transitions to winter, it's a reminder that protective measures against UV exposure are less critical during this time, but awareness remains important. For more detailed information on the UV Index in Kirkwall, check out Kirkwall UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Kirkwall for November

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Kirkwall in November, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec113457754311
Data source: Kirkwall November 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.

November Sunshine in Kirkwall

November in Kirkwall, United Kingdom, presents a striking contrast to the sun-drenched summer months, with only 94 hours of sunshine. This drop marks a notable decrease from the previous months, especially after enjoying peaks of 406 hours in May and 428 hours in June. As autumn unfolds, the days grow shorter and cloudier, yielding a stark transition from the vibrant warmth of summer to the cooler embrace of winter. The trend of declining sunlight continues into December, which offers even less illumination at just 74 hours. This seasonal shift serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of light in Kirkwall, where sun-soaked days are cherished amid the encroaching gloom of winter.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Kirkwall: November Highlighted

The November sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Kirkwall experiences direct sunlight during the month of November, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of November with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec55h141h204h337h406h428h413h384h288h209h94h74h
Data source: Kirkwall November Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Kirkwall During November

As November rolls into Kirkwall, the chances of encountering sunny weather dip to 20%, aligning closely with the gloomy autumn months of October and September. This trend reflects a gradual decline in sunlit days, peaking earlier in the year, with the highest likelihood occurring in February at 36%. The notable decrease in sunshine from the vibrant spring months paints a rather bleak picture for those yearning for rays, as the long winter nights draw nearer. Nevertheless, while November may not bring abundant sunshine, its crisp air and the dramatic landscapes of the Orkney Islands can still offer their own unique charm.

Percentage of Sunny Days in November in Kirkwall

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Kirkwall throughout the year, with November 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 Kirkwall experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec28%36%19%36%26%27%16%15%21%20%20%22%
Data source: Kirkwall November chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Kirkwall in November

As November arrives in Kirkwall, the days begin to shorten significantly, offering only 7 hours of daylight—a noticeable decline that reflects the transition into the winter months. Following the brighter days of summer, which peak at 18 hours in June, the gradual decrease in daylight is particularly pronounced as we move from October's 10 hours to November's twilight. This trend sets the stage for December's longest nights, where daylight lingers a mere 6 hours. Thus, November serves as a gentle reminder of nature's cyclical rhythm, where the embrace of longer evenings invites cozy indoors, while the shifting light transports residents into the heart of winter.

Average Daylight Hours in Kirkwall for November

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Kirkwall throughout the year, with November highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7h 3m9h 16m11h 52m14h 31m16h 57m18h 20m17h 35m15h 20m12h 45m10h 8m7h 41m6h 17m
Data source: Kirkwall daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

November Winds in Kirkwall

As November sweeps into Kirkwall, the wind begins to pick up intensity, marking a notable shift in the seasonal breeze. With an average wind speed of 10.8 m/s (24 mph), November stands as one of the blustiest months of the year, a sharp contrast to the gentle summer winds that diminish to 5.1 m/s (11 mph) in July. Following a moderate October, which recorded 9.2 m/s (21 mph), the gusts of November signal a transition towards the winter months, reflecting a steady increase from the milder winds of earlier autumn. This trend underscores Kirkwall's dynamic weather patterns, inviting both locals and visitors to brace for the invigorating chill that the November winds bring.

Average November Wind Speed in Kirkwall

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Kirkwall, with values for each month shown alongside November's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how November's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8.910.38.97.96.36.65.16.06.79.210.8 m/s8.9
Data source: Kirkwall November wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How November Weather in Kirkwall Compares to Other Months

The weather in Kirkwall changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of November'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.

November and January exhibit distinctly different weather patterns. In November, temperatures range from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F), with an average of 9°C (48°F). The month is notably wet, with 136 mm (5.4 in) of precipitation spread over 23 days and a high humidity level of 87%. In contrast, January is slightly cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 12°C (53°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F). Precipitation is also less, totaling 91 mm (3.6 in) across 16 days, and humidity drops to 82%. For more detailed information, you can check Kirkwall weather in January.

November and February present contrasting weather patterns, although both months are characterized by cool temperatures. In November, the average temperature hovers around 9°C (48°F), with minimums of 3°C (38°F) and maximums reaching 13°C (56°F). In contrast, February is typically colder, with an average of 6°C (43°F) and minimum temperatures dropping to 0°C (33°F). Precipitation also varies, with November experiencing significantly more rain at 136 mm (5.4 in) over 23 days, compared to February's 99 mm (3.9 in) over 18 days. The humidity levels are relatively high in both months, but November holds a slightly higher average of 87%, as opposed to February's 81%. For a detailed look at February's weather patterns, you can visit Kirkwall weather in February.

November and March present distinct weather patterns. November typically sees a mild range of temperatures with average highs reaching 13°C (56°F), while March experiences cooler conditions, with average highs peaking at 10°C (50°F). Precipitation is higher in November, totaling 136 mm (5.4 in) over 23 days, compared to March's 104 mm (4.1 in) over 20 days, suggesting a wetter month overall for late autumn. Additionally, November exhibits higher humidity levels at 87%, contrasted with March's lower 81%. For more detailed insights on March weather, you can visit Kirkwall weather in March.

When comparing the weather in November and April, it’s clear that November tends to be slightly warmer and much wetter. November has average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F), along with significant precipitation of 136 mm (5.4 in) spread over 23 days, resulting in an overall humidity of 87%. In contrast, April experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and a maximum of 11°C (53°F), and notably less rainfall at 51 mm (2.0 in) over just 12 days, accompanied by lower humidity at 81%. This indicates that while November might feel damper and milder, April offers a crisper and drier atmosphere. For those interested in detailed April weather patterns, you can check out Kirkwall weather in April.

In comparing the weather between November and May, both months exhibit similar temperature ranges, with November experiencing slightly higher average and maximum temperatures—averaging 9°C (48°F) and reaching up to 13°C (56°F)—while May sees averages of around 8°C (47°F) and the same maximum. However, November is notably wetter, with 136 mm (5.4 in) of precipitation spread over 23 days, compared to May's 55 mm (2.2 in) over just 13 days. The humidity levels are also relatively high in both months, with November at 87% and May slightly lower at 83%. For those considering a visit, more detailed information can be found at Kirkwall weather in May.

When comparing the weather in November and June, notable differences emerge. November tends to be cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F). It also experiences significantly more rainfall, totaling 136 mm (5.4 in) over approximately 23 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 87%. In contrast, June boasts milder temperatures with a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum of 14°C (58°F), along with lower precipitation at 55 mm (2.2 in), spread across just 11 days and a slightly lower humidity of 84%. For more detailed information, you can visit Kirkwall weather in June.

When comparing the weather between November and July, it's clear that November is significantly chillier and wetter. November temperatures range from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F), with an average of 9°C (48°F). This month also sees a substantial amount of precipitation, with 136 mm (5.4 in) falling over 23 days. In contrast, July experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (49°F) and a maximum of 17°C (63°F), averaging around 12°C (54°F). Additionally, there is much less rainfall in July, totaling 70 mm (2.8 in) over only 13 days. Both months have a humidity level of 87%, making them equally damp, but the overall experience is quite different due to the temperatures and rainfall patterns. For more details, you can check out Kirkwall weather in July.

When comparing the weather in November and August, it becomes clear that November is significantly cooler and wetter. November features average temperatures ranging from a low of 3°C (38°F) to a high of 13°C (56°F), whereas August enjoys milder temperatures, with averages between 10°C (51°F) and 16°C (61°F). Additionally, November sees a considerable amount of precipitation, totaling 136 mm (5.4 in) over 23 days, compared to August's 72 mm (2.8 in) over just 15 days. The humidity levels are quite similar, with November at 87% and August at 86%. For more detailed insights, check out Kirkwall weather in August.

When comparing the weather in November to that of September, it becomes clear that November is generally cooler and wetter. November sees lower average temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F), while September enjoys milder conditions with temperatures between 9°C (48°F) and 16°C (61°F). In terms of precipitation, November is slightly wetter, with 136 mm (5.4 in) of rain over 23 days compared to September's 125 mm (4.9 in) over 19 days. Both months experience high humidity levels, but November comes in at 87%, slightly lower than September's 88%. For more detailed insights into September weather, you can visit Kirkwall weather in September.

In comparing the weather of November and October, we see a noticeable drop in temperatures as November brings a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and an average of 9°C (48°F), compared to October's milder minimum of 5°C (42°F) and average of 11°C (51°F). Additionally, November tends to be wetter, accumulating 136 mm (5.4 in) of precipitation over 23 days, although October records slightly higher precipitation at 163 mm (6.4 in) over 25 days. Interestingly, both months share the same humidity level of 87%, making November feel quite crisp compared to October's relatively warmer conditions. For more details on October's climate, you can visit Kirkwall weather in October.

November and December weather exhibits notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. In November, temperatures range from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F), with an average of 9°C (48°F). The month is characterized by significant rainfall, with 136 mm (5.4 inches) falling over 23 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 87%. In contrast, December sees a slight decline in average temperature to 7°C (45°F), with highs reaching 11°C (52°F) and lows remaining steady at 3°C (37°F). Although December is still wet, it has less precipitation at 111 mm (4.4 inches) over 21 days, and humidity decreases to 80%. For a detailed look at December weather, you can visit Kirkwall weather in December.

Compare Kirkwall's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From November Weather in Kirkwall

As November settles in Kirkwall, the weather takes on a distinctly cooler and wetter character compared to previous months. The average temperatures drop noticeably, leading to an atmosphere that's increasingly crisp and humid. With over three-quarters of the month seeing precipitation, the landscape transforms, inviting a sense of coziness indoors. While the dramatic changes in weather might deter some, they also create a beautiful backdrop for enjoying the vibrant autumn scenery. For those curious to learn more about Kirkwall's climatic nuances, visit Kirkwall Climate.