December Weather in Musselburgh, United Kingdom

Last updated: March 17, 2025

In Musselburgh, United Kingdom, December presents a chilly atmosphere, with maximum temperatures reaching 12°C (54°F) and average temperatures hovering around a brisk 5°C (42°F). This month experiences minimum lows that can plummet to -4°C (26°F), emphasizing the need for warm attire. With 86 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation spread across 15 days, residents and visitors alike can expect a mix of rain and dampness, contributing to the high humidity level of 89%. Despite the chill and wet conditions, December in Musselburgh offers a unique charm, perfect for cozy indoor activities and brisk outdoor strolls.

December Temperature in Musselburgh

In Musselburgh, December marks a transition into the coldest part of the year, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -4°C (26°F) and peaking at a milder 12°C (54°F). The average temperature hovers around 5°C (42°F), consistent with the trend of the preceding months where average temperatures have remained fairly low, gradually decreasing from 7°C (45°F) in November. This month showcases a noticeable chill, as the wintry nights deepen, reflecting the coldest extremes seen since the start of the year. As the festive season approaches, residents and visitors alike brace for the crisp air that defines December, with natural beauty cloaked in winter's embrace, inviting cozy gatherings and holiday cheer against the backdrop of a tranquil, frosty landscape.

December Weather in Musselburgh: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Musselburgh, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec414143455055595855504542
Data source: Temperature data for Musselburgh 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.

December Precipitation in Musselburgh

In Musselburgh, December brings an average precipitation of 86 mm (3.4 in) over approximately 15 days, maintaining the trend of the wetter autumn months. This slight dip compared to November's 84 mm signals a transition as the year wraps up, with the festive season often accompanied by a mix of rain and occasional frosty spells. Notably, December's rainfall is part of a broader pattern of increasing precipitation throughout the fall, culminating in one of the wettest months of the year, only surpassed by the heavier downpours of October and August. As the days grow shorter and temperatures cool, the persistent precipitation underscores the diverse and often unpredictable nature of winter weather in this charming United Kingdom town.

December Precipitation Trends in Musselburgh

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Musselburgh, with values for each month alongside December's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how December's conditions compare to those of other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec60918235639485102751118486
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

December Humidity in Musselburgh

In Musselburgh, United Kingdom, December ushers in a humidity level of 89%, slightly lower than the preceding month’s 92%. This trend reflects a general pattern over the colder months, where humidity hovers at elevated levels. As the year progresses, humidity tends to fluctuate, peaking at 90% in both January and October. However, descending from November’s high, December maintains a relatively high moisture content in the air, indicative of the winter climate. Interestingly, despite the chill, humidity levels remain notable, suggesting a persistent dampness typical of this coastal region.

December Average Humidity in Musselburgh

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Musselburgh, with December's data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, allowing you to see how December's humidity levels compare to other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec90%88%86%85%81%83%82%82%88%90%92%89%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Musselburgh

In December, Musselburgh, United Kingdom, experiences a low UV Index of 1, indicating minimal sun exposure risks. With a burn time of 45 minutes, residents can enjoy outdoor activities without intense concern for UV-related harm. This trend of lower UV levels continues from November and contrasts sharply with the peak of summer months, where the UV Index reached as high as 8 in June. Notably, the winter months, including December, commonly see a decline in UV intensity, allowing for safer sun exposure. For more detailed information, visit Musselburgh UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Musselburgh for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Musselburgh in December, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec123568765311
Data source: Musselburgh December 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.

December Sunshine in Musselburgh

December in Musselburgh, United Kingdom, sees a total of 77 hours of sunshine, mirroring the sparse light of January, which also records the same modest amount. This chill of winter contrasts sharply with the vibrant brightness of the spring and summer months, where sunshine peaks dramatically. From 394 hours in May to 390 hours in July, these warmer months showcase the town basking in radiant light, an inviting respite from the darker days of autumn and winter. As the year transitions, September begins to trim down daylight, dropping to 283 hours, leading into November’s further decline to 111 hours. By December, residents find themselves once again enveloped in the tranquility of shorter days, yet this cyclical dance of light offers a beautiful reminder of the coming brightness with the new year.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Musselburgh: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Musselburgh experiences direct sunlight during the month of December, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of December with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec77h131h195h325h394h371h390h352h283h203h111h77h
Data source: Musselburgh December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Musselburgh During December

In Musselburgh, December presents a rather bleak outlook for sunny weather, with the chances of sunshine dwindling to just 19%. This marks a noticeable decline in sun probability compared to the preceding months; after a relatively brighter November at 32%, December slips even lower than other winter months such as January and February, which sit at 29% and 24% respectively. As the year draws to a close, the trend suggests that while spring months like April showcase a promising 48% chance of sun, the outlook in December leans more towards the gloomy, typical of the UK's winter climate. Whether seeking sunshine or simply bracing for the chill, it's essential to manage expectations as Musselburgh settles into its winter routine.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Musselburgh

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Musselburgh throughout the year, with December 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 Musselburgh experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec29%24%23%48%27%24%29%25%21%20%32%19%
Data source: Musselburgh December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Musselburgh in December

In Musselburgh, United Kingdom, December marks the culmination of a gradual decline in daylight hours that begins after the bright summer months. As the year winds down, daylight slips to around 7 hours, mirroring January's early-winter light. This trend of diminishing daylight emphasizes the seasonal shift, starkly contrasting the peak of 17 hours in June. Between the vernal equinox in March and the winter solstice in December, the city experiences a steady ebb, dipping from 11 hours in March to just 7 hours by the end of the year. This cyclical pattern not only highlights the changing seasons but also invites residents to embrace the cozy charm of winter evenings.

Average Daylight Hours in Musselburgh for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Musselburgh throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7h 41m9h 35m11h 53m14h 14m16h 20m17h 28m16h 51m14h 57m12h 40m10h 21m8h 13m7h 3m
Data source: Musselburgh daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Musselburgh

In Musselburgh, December ushers in a gentle chill, with an average wind speed of 4.8 m/s (11 mph)—a refreshing breeze that is slightly higher than the calm of summer months but less forceful than the gusty winds of late autumn. As the year transitions, wind speeds generally demonstrate a notable increase from the quieter summer months, peaking in November with an average of 6.0 m/s (13 mph). Comparatively, December offers a moderate reprieve, maintaining a balance between the brisk autumn winds and the stillness often encountered in early winter. This pattern highlights Musselburgh's dynamic weather system, where each month tells a story of changing seasons, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the beauty of December's winds.

Average December Wind Speed in Musselburgh

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Musselburgh, with values for each month shown alongside December's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how December's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.76.85.53.73.74.32.93.33.95.46.04.8 m/s
Data source: Musselburgh December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Musselburgh Compares to Other Months

The weather in Musselburgh 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 Musselburgh and find detailed weather information for every month.

December and January both showcase chilly temperatures, but December tends to be slightly cooler overall. In December, the minimum temperature drops to -4°C (26°F) and averages at 5°C (42°F), while January has a slightly milder minimum of -3°C (27°F) with the same average temperature of 5°C (41°F). January enjoys marginally warmer maximum temperatures reaching up to 13°C (55°F) compared to December's 12°C (54°F).

Precipitation is more abundant in December, with 86 mm (3.4 in) falling over 15 days, compared to January's 60 mm (2.4 in) over just 10 days, indicating a drier start to the year. Humidity remains quite high, with both months hovering around 89% in December and 90% in January, adding to the chill in the air. For more detailed information on weather patterns, you can check Musselburgh weather in January.

December and February share similar temperature ranges, with both months experiencing minimums around -4°C (26°F) and average highs of approximately 5°C (42°F) in December and 5°C (41°F) in February. However, February tends to be slightly warmer, with a maximum temperature reaching 14°C (57°F) compared to December's 12°C (54°F). Precipitation levels are also comparable, with December receiving 86 mm (3.4 in) and February slightly higher at 91 mm (3.6 in), both spread across 15 days. Additionally, humidity levels remain high, hovering around 89% in December and 88% in February. For a more detailed look into February weather specifically, you can check out the information here: Musselburgh weather in February.

In December, temperatures typically range from a chilly -4°C (26°F) at night to a mild 12°C (54°F) during the day, with an overall average of 5°C (42°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 86 mm (3.4 in) over 15 days, and maintains a high humidity level of 89%. In contrast, March offers a slight warming trend, with temperatures also dipping to -4°C (26°F) at night but peaking at a more comfortable 15°C (60°F) during the day, averaging around 6°C (43°F). Precipitation remains similar at 82 mm (3.2 in) with rain occurring on approximately 15 days, and the humidity decreases slightly to 86%. For a more detailed look at March weather patterns, you can visit Musselburgh weather in March.

December weather is characterized by colder temperatures, with lows dropping to -4°C (26°F) and an average of 5°C (42°F), while the highs only reach up to 12°C (54°F). Additionally, December sees relatively high precipitation levels of 86 mm (3.4 in) over 15 days, combined with humidity at 89%. In contrast, April brings a milder climate, featuring a minimum temperature of -2°C (29°F), an average of 7°C (45°F), and maximums reaching 21°C (70°F). Precipitation in April is significantly lower at 34 mm (1.4 in) over just 8 days, with humidity slightly less at 85%. For a detailed look at April weather, you can check Musselburgh weather in April.

In December, temperatures in Musselburgh range from a chilly -4°C (26°F) to a mild 12°C (54°F), with an average of 5°C (42°F). The month also sees significant precipitation, with 86 mm (3.4 in) spread over 15 days and high humidity at 89%. In contrast, May brings much warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (35°F) to a pleasant maximum of 22°C (71°F) and an average temperature of 10°C (51°F). Precipitation decreases to 63 mm (2.5 in) over 12 days, and humidity is slightly lower at 80%. For a detailed look at the weather conditions you can expect in May, visit Musselburgh weather in May.

In December, the weather is notably colder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 12°C (54°F), while June enjoys a milder climate with temperatures varying from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a pleasant maximum of 24°C (75°F). Both months experience similar levels of precipitation, with December recording 86 mm (3.4 in) and June slightly higher at 94 mm (3.7 in), although the humidity levels in December are slightly elevated at 89% compared to June's 83%. For more detailed information about June weather, check out Musselburgh weather in June.

December and July present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a mild maximum of 12°C (54°F), while the average hovers around 5°C (42°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation, with 86 mm (3.4 in) over 15 days, alongside high humidity levels at 89%. In contrast, July brings warmer and more pleasant weather, characterized by a minimum temperature of 9°C (49°F) and a maximum of 24°C (76°F), averaging 15°C (59°F). Precipitation is slightly lower in July at 85 mm (3.3 in), also across 15 days, and humidity decreases to a more comfortable 82%. For more insight into July’s climate, you can visit Musselburgh weather in July.

When comparing the weather in December and August, one can observe significant differences in temperature and overall conditions. December experiences colder temperatures, with averages around 5°C (42°F) and lows dipping to -4°C (26°F), while August enjoys milder weather, with average temperatures of 15°C (59°F) and lows of 8°C (48°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in August, totaling 102 mm (4.0 in) across 16 days compared to December's 86 mm (3.4 in) over 15 days. Additionally, December's humidity is higher at 89%, while August maintains a comfortable humidity level of 82%. For a detailed look at the weather specifics in August, check out Musselburgh weather in August.

December and September showcase contrasting weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 12°C (54°F), with an average temperature of 5°C (42°F). The month experiences a higher level of precipitation at 86 mm (3.4 in) over 15 days, accompanied by high humidity at 89%. In comparison, September is milder, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and peaking at a comfortable 22°C (71°F), leading to an average of 13°C (55°F). Precipitation is slightly lower at 75 mm (2.9 in) over the same number of days, while humidity sits just a notch lower at 88%. For more details on September weather, you can check out Musselburgh weather in September.

In comparing the weather of December and October, December tends to be colder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 12°C (54°F), whereas October sees milder conditions with a range of 2°C (36°F) to 17°C (63°F). Precipitation is slightly lower in December, totaling 86 mm (3.4 in) over 15 days, compared to October's 111 mm (4.4 in) across 16 days. Humidity levels are relatively similar, with December at 89% and October at 90%. For more details, you can visit Musselburgh weather in October.

When comparing the weather in December to that in November, a noticeable drop in average temperatures can be observed. December typically sees a minimum temperature of -4°C (26°F) and an average of 5°C (42°F), whereas November's temperatures range from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to an average of 7°C (45°F). In terms of precipitation, both months are relatively similar, with December recording 86 mm (3.4 in) over 15 days, compared to November's 84 mm (3.3 in) during the same number of days. Humidity levels are slightly lower in December at 89% compared to November’s 92%. For those interested in specifics about November, more details can be found here: Musselburgh weather in November.

Compare Musselburgh's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Musselburgh

December in Musselburgh marks a distinct shift in weather, characterized by cooler temperatures and increased precipitation compared to other months. With chilly averages around 5°C, this month often brings frosty nights and occasional sub-zero temperatures, making it much colder than the preceding autumn. Rainfall is more frequent, with about half the month experiencing precipitation, contributing to the elevated humidity levels. Those venturing out should be prepared for the wet and brisk conditions typical of winter. For a deeper understanding of how Musselburgh's climate evolves throughout the year, explore Musselburgh Climate.