Last updated: March 17, 2025
In December, Lerwick experiences a chilly and damp climate, characterized by a maximum temperature of 11°C (52°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F). The minimum temperature can drop to 3°C (37°F), contributing to a brisk winter atmosphere. This month sees a substantial precipitation total of 137 mm (5.4 in) spread across 25 days, making it quite the wet period. Coupled with an average humidity of 78%, December in Lerwick offers a quintessentially wintry backdrop, ideal for experiencing the rugged beauty of the Shetland Islands.
In Lerwick, United Kingdom, December marks a subtle transition into winter, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a comfortable maximum of 11°C (52°F). The average temperature settles around 7°C (45°F), indicating a mild yet crisp climate compared to the colder months ahead. As the year draws to a close, December temperatures start to dip slightly from the previous months, reflecting a consistent cooling trend typical of this time of year. Despite the chill, Lerwick's December offers a charm of its own, urging locals and visitors alike to embrace the beauty of winter while staying warm in cozy layers.
In December, Lerwick, United Kingdom, experiences a notable uptick in precipitation, with 137 mm (5.4 in) of rainfall spread over 25 days. This trend marks an increase from the previous months, with rainfall intensifying as winter sets in. Following October's peak of 146 mm and November's 133 mm, December continues this pattern, contributing to the overall wet climate characteristic of the region during the colder months. The frequent precipitation days underscore Lerwick's reputation for damp winters, making it a pivotal month for rainfall before the New Year. As the year's end approaches, residents brace for the persistent drizzle that defines their December landscape.
In Lerwick, United Kingdom, December marks a slight dip in humidity, averaging around 78%, compared to the year's higher levels, particularly in the summer months when humidity peaks at 89% in July. As the year progresses from January's consistent 79%, there's a gradual rise in humidity, reaching 84% by June. The autumn months maintain a relatively stable range around 85% to 87%, before the December air brings a refreshing, if chilly, reduction. This pattern highlights Lerwick's overall dampness, with a notable seasonal fluctuation that characterizes its maritime climate, where even the colder months carry a palpable moisture in the air.
In Lerwick, United Kingdom, December heralds the return of the low UV Index, registering at just 1. This is part of a trend observed throughout the winter months, where both January and February also maintain a consistent low UV Index. With a burn time of 45 minutes, residents and visitors can enjoy outdoor activities with minimal sun exposure risk. The gradual increase in UV levels starts in spring, peaking in the summer months, but December's cool, dark days provide a comforting reminder of the season's nature, making it an ideal time for cozy indoor pursuits. For more details regarding UV levels throughout the year, visit Lerwick UV Index.
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In Lerwick, December brings a notable dip in sunshine, with only 58 hours of bright skies, marking one of the lowest points in the year. This trend reflects the transition from the extended daylight of summer months, where the peak shines at around 430 hours in July, gradually declining as autumn progresses. As the year winds down, December's limited sunshine contrasts sharply with the spring's revitalizing warmth, where light increases rapidly, reaching about 335 hours in April and 415 hours in May. This seasonal ebb highlights Lerwick's unique Nordic charm, with its long, dark winters that make the fleeting sunshine all the more cherished.
In December, Lerwick, United Kingdom, experiences a 20% chance of sunny weather, marking a slight decline compared to the preceding months. This seasonal trend reveals a gradual decrease in sunshine probabilities as winter sets in, with November having a 19% chance and earlier months like April and February hovering around 33%. The pattern indicates that while the likelihood of clear skies diminishes during this chillier time of year, December still offers a glimmer of optimism for those hoping to catch some sunlight amidst the longer nights and colder temperatures. Overall, residents and visitors can expect a mix of overcast days with occasional bursts of sunshine, typical of Lerwick’s winter climate.
As the year draws to a close, December in Lerwick, United Kingdom, experiences a notable dip in daylight, with just 5 hours to brighten the long winter nights. This trend emphasizes the stark contrast between the sun-soaked days of June, when residents enjoy a remarkable 18 hours of daylight, and the fleeting sunlight of December. Following the gradual transition from the extended radiance of summer, the shift in daylight hours reflects the region's seasonal rhythm, providing a natural tapestry of light and dark. By the time December arrives, the days have shortened significantly from the 17 hours seen in July, inviting an introspective coziness as inhabitants embrace the shorter daylight and prepare for the long nights ahead.
As December sets in Lerwick, the winds begin to whisper tales from earlier months, averaging 9.2 m/s (21 mph). While this marks a slight dip from November's peak of 10.7 m/s (24 mph), it still maintains a robust presence in the turbulent Shetland weather. The transition from brisk autumn gales to the more tempered winter breeze is evident, as the winds gather strength from the closing months of the year. Interestingly, the trend showcases a gradual decline in wind speeds from the summer months, where July and August languished around 5.3 m/s (12 mph) and 5.9 m/s (13 mph), and a notable resurgence as we move towards winter, suggesting that Lerwick's December winds are both invigorating and dynamic, offering a taste of the wild beauty that the region is known for.
The weather in Lerwick 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 Lerwick and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January exhibit similar temperature ranges, with both months experiencing highs of around 11°C (52°F). However, December tends to be slightly warmer overall, averaging 7°C (45°F) compared to January's average of 6°C (44°F). Precipitation levels also differ, with December receiving a heftier 137 mm (5.4 in) over 25 days, while January sees reduced precipitation at 96 mm (3.8 in) across 18 days. Humidity remains fairly consistent, slightly increasing in January to 79%, compared to December's 78%. For more detailed information, you can check Lerwick weather in January.
In December, the weather is generally milder with an average temperature of 7°C (45°F), while February sees a slight drop to an average of 6°C (43°F). Both months experience frequent precipitation, but December stands out with significantly higher total rainfall of 137 mm (5.4 in) over 25 days, compared to February's 97 mm (3.8 in) over 19 days. Humidity levels remain relatively similar, hovering around 78% in December and 79% in February, creating a damp atmosphere in both months. For a detailed overview of the weather conditions in February, you can check Lerwick weather in February.
In December, the weather tends to be milder with average temperatures ranging from 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 11°C (52°F), accompanied by significant precipitation of 137 mm (5.4 in) over 25 days and a humidity level of 78%. In contrast, March presents cooler conditions, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and an average temperature of 6°C (43°F). While March experiences less precipitation, at 103 mm (4.1 in) over 20 days, it has a slightly higher humidity of 81%. For a more detailed outlook, you can check Lerwick weather in March.
When comparing the weather in December and April, we can see distinct differences in temperature and precipitation. December tends to be milder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 11°C (52°F), accompanied by significant precipitation of 137 mm (5.4 in) over 25 days. In contrast, April experiences slightly cooler temperatures with a minimum of 0°C (31°F) and a maximum of 10°C (51°F), but benefits from significantly lower rainfall, totaling only 51 mm (2.0 in) over 13 days. Additionally, humidity levels remain relatively high in both months, with December at 78% and April at 82%. For more specific details about Lerwick weather during April, visit Lerwick weather in April.
December and May offer distinctly different weather conditions. 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). This month is characterized by frequent precipitation, with about 137 mm (5.4 in) falling over 25 days and a humidity level of 78%. In contrast, May presents slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F), an average of 8°C (47°F), and a maximum of 12°C (54°F). Precipitation drops significantly to 47 mm (1.8 in), spread over just 13 days, while humidity remains relatively high at 84%. For a detailed comparison of May's weather, you can refer to this link: Lerwick weather in May.
When comparing the weather in December and June, notable differences arise in both temperature and precipitation. December sees cooler temperatures, with averages ranging from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 11°C (52°F) and a relatively high precipitation of 137 mm (5.4 in) over 25 days, contributing to a humidity level of 78%. In contrast, June experiences milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (44°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F). There is significantly less rainfall in June, totaling 53 mm (2.1 in) across just 12 days, along with a slightly higher humidity level of 84%. For a closer look at what to expect, you can check out Lerwick weather in June.
In December, the weather is notably cooler and wetter compared to July, with average temperatures ranging from a chilly 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 11°C (52°F). This month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 137 mm (5.4 in) over 25 days, and humidity levels average around 78%. In contrast, July brings milder temperatures, with averages between 8°C (48°F) and 17°C (63°F), and considerably less rainfall at 69 mm (2.7 in) over 12 days. The humidity is slightly higher in July, reaching 89%, contributing to the lush summer atmosphere. For more detailed information on July weather, you can check this link: Lerwick weather in July.
In December, the weather is significantly cooler and wetter compared to August. With temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 11°C (52°F), December averages a chilly 7°C (45°F). This month also sees substantial precipitation, totaling 137 mm (5.4 in) over 25 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 78%.
In contrast, August experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of 10°C (50°F) and a maximum of 15°C (60°F), averaging around 13°C (55°F). The precipitation is also less prevalent, at 74 mm (2.9 in) across 15 days, but humidity is higher at 87%. Overall, December presents a more wintry climate, while August offers a comparably warmer and drier experience. For more detailed information, check out Lerwick weather in August.
In comparing the weather between December and September, December is generally colder and wetter. With average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 11°C (52°F), December sees a chillier climate compared to September's milder range of 8°C (46°F) to 15°C (59°F). Additionally, December experiences more precipitation, with 137 mm (5.4 in) spread over 25 days, compared to September's 115 mm (4.5 in) across 18 days. Humidity levels are also higher in September at 87%, while December maintains a slightly lower humidity of 78%. For a closer look at September conditions, check out Lerwick weather in September.
In comparing the weather of December to that of October, December tends to be slightly cooler, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 11°C (52°F), while October has milder conditions with temperatures between 5°C (42°F) and 14°C (57°F). Despite December's lower average temperatures, it experiences a wetter month with 137 mm (5.4 in) of precipitation over 25 days, compared to October's 146 mm (5.8 in) of rain spread across 23 days. Additionally, humidity levels in October are higher at 87%, in contrast to December's 78%. For further details on October's weather, you can visit Lerwick weather in October.
In comparing the weather of December and November, both months show similar temperature ranges, with December featuring a minimum temperature of 3°C (37°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F), slightly cooler than November, which maintains an average of 8°C (47°F) with the same minimum. Precipitation levels are also comparable, with December receiving 137 mm (5.4 in) over 25 days, just slightly more than November's 133 mm (5.2 in) over 23 days. However, December tends to feel more humid, averaging 78% compared to November's 85%. For a deeper dive into November's weather, check out Lerwick weather in November.
As December settles in Lerwick, the weather shifts toward its chilliest embrace, characterized by frequent rain and a noticeable dip in temperatures. With the average hovering around 7°C (45°F), this month often feels colder than its fall predecessors, as nights dip to a brisk 3°C (37°F). The 78% humidity adds to the dampness, making the air feel heavier. While 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain falls over 25 days, contrasting sharply with the drier spells earlier in the year, this creates a vivid landscape, albeit one cloaked in a blanket of grey. For more insights into Lerwick's climate throughout the year, visit Lerwick Climate.