Last updated: March 17, 2025
In Portree, United Kingdom, December brings a chill with average temperatures hovering around 7°C (45°F), peaking at a maximum of 12°C (54°F) and dipping to a brisk 0°C (32°F). This month's weather is characterized by a significant precipitation total of 205 mm (8.1 in), spread across 25 wet days, making it one of the rainier periods of the year. The high humidity level of 86% adds to the damp atmosphere, inviting cozy indoor gatherings and the enchanting views of this picturesque harbor town.
In December, Portree experiences a notable transition into winter, with temperatures reflecting a typical chill for this time of year. The minimum temperature hovers around 0°C (32°F), while the average settles at a brisk 7°C (45°F), peaking at a mild 12°C (54°F) during the day. This month marks a gradual decline from the more temperate conditions of autumn, where November saw slightly higher averages. As the year draws to a close, residents and visitors alike can expect a blend of cool breezes and the enchanting scenery of winter, making it a charming time to enjoy the distinct beauty of the Isle of Skye.
December in Portree, United Kingdom, marks a notable uptick in precipitation, with the month receiving an average of 205 mm (8.1 in) of rain over 25 days. This increase follows a trend of escalating moisture throughout the autumn, peaking in October with 252 mm. As the year wraps up, December's dampness bridges the typically wetter months of fall into the colder, more unpredictable winter season. With rain continuing almost every day, the landscape remains lush and vibrant, emphasizing Portree's characteristic charm despite the frequent downpours.
In December, Portree experiences a humidity level of 86%, contributing to the generally moist climate of the region. This month reflects a slight drop from the peak 90% observed in November, marking a trend of gradual decline as the year wraps up. The humidity in December is consistent with the higher levels seen in the preceding months, especially as late summer and autumn brought the highest readings of 88% in August and 89% in both September and October. Overall, while December sits at a comfortable humidity level compared to the earlier fall months, it still echoes the region's characteristic maritime climate, ensuring that residents and visitors alike should be prepared for a humid winter atmosphere.
In December, Portree experiences a low UV Index of 1, similar to November, which suggests that sun exposure remains minimal during this winter month. With a burn time of 45 minutes, it’s safe to enjoy the outdoors without extensive sun protection, making this a great time for scenic walks or enjoying local festivities. December's UV levels highlight a notable trend of lower exposure categories as the year draws to a close, providing a protective buffer against sunburn compared to the higher indexes seen in the summer months. For more detailed information on UV levels throughout the year, check out Portree UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In December, Portree experiences a notable dip in sunshine, with only 65 hours of daylight gracing the picturesque Isle of Skye. This marks a significant decline from the vibrant spring and summer months, where sunlight peaked in May at a brilliant 385 hours. As the year winds down, the contrast is striking; the preceding months of growth and lush landscapes yield to the quiet, reflective beauty of winter. Despite December's limited sunshine, the gradual transition from the long, sunlit days of June and July to the cozy atmosphere of winter creates a unique charm, inviting visitors to appreciate the stark beauty of the landscape under the soft glow of low winter light. As the island bids farewell to another year, the promise of longer days lies just beyond the horizon.
In Portree, December brings a 19% chance of sunny weather, a figure that aligns closely with the generally overcast autumn months preceding it. As we transition from the slightly warmer autumn into winter, the likelihood of clear skies remains relatively low compared to the spring months, where sunshine peaks—like in April at 43%. Interestingly, while January and February offer some glimmers of hope for sunny days, December and its predecessors suggest that those seeking warmth and brightness might need to adjust their expectations. With such modest chances for sun, visitors and locals alike should prepare for a classic, cozy winter experience rather than sun-soaked days.
In December, Portree, United Kingdom, experiences a significant decline in daylight duration, with only 6 hours of light—a contrast to the longer days seen earlier in the year. This month marks the end of a slow descent that began after the long summer days of June and July, when daylight peaked at an impressive 17 hours. As autumn wanes, daylight fast diminishes, dropping from 16 hours in May to just 7 hours by November. The trend is a poignant reminder of the shifting seasons, as longer winter nights embrace the charming coastal town, inviting cozy evenings and a reflective ambiance.
In December, Portree experiences a refreshing average wind speed of 5.8 m/s (13 mph), marking a slight increase from the calmer summer months of July and August, which recorded their lowest winds at 3.0 m/s (7 mph) and 3.7 m/s (8 mph), respectively. As the year progresses, the winds generally pick up, peaking in February with an energetic average of 7.9 m/s (18 mph) before gently declining. This trend highlights the seasonal variations typical of this coastal region, with the latter months like November and December providing a pleasant blend of briskness without the intensity often felt earlier in winter. By the time the year draws to a close, the December winds serve as a refreshing reminder of the dynamic and ever-changing nature of Portree’s weather.
The weather in Portree 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 Portree and find detailed weather information for every month.
December and January share similar temperature ranges, with average highs around 12°C (54°F) and lows near 0°C (32°F). However, December tends to be slightly wetter, receiving 205 mm (8.1 in) of precipitation over about 25 days, compared to January's 159 mm (6.3 in) across 20 days. Despite the marginally cooler average temperature in January (6°C or 44°F compared to December's 7°C or 45°F), both months maintain high humidity levels of 86%. For more detailed information, check out Portree weather in January.
December and February weather exhibit some notable similarities and differences. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 12°C (54°F), with an average of 7°C (45°F). The month sees considerable precipitation, totaling 205 mm (8.1 in) over 25 days, and humidity levels are high at 86%.
In contrast, February experiences slightly cooler conditions, with minimum temperatures dipping to -1°C (30°F) while maintaining a maximum of 12°C (53°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F). Precipitation decreases to 172 mm (6.8 in) across 20 days, and humidity remains similar at 85%. For more detailed weather information, you can check Portree weather in February.
December and March exhibit distinct weather patterns, with December generally being milder yet wetter. December temperatures range from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 12°C (54°F), with an average of 7°C (45°F) and a high level of precipitation at 205 mm (8.1 in) over 25 days. In contrast, March experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with lows of -3°C (28°F) and highs reaching 13°C (56°F), resulting in an average of 6°C (44°F). Although March sees less rainfall at 169 mm (6.7 in) across 21 days, it maintains similar humidity levels at 85%. For more details on the weather in March, you can visit Portree weather in March.
December and April exhibit distinct contrasts in weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 12°C (54°F), with an average of 7°C (45°F). This month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 205 mm (8.1 in) over 25 days, resulting in a high humidity level of 86%. In contrast, April sees a moderate increase in temperature, with a minimum of 0°C (33°F) and a maximum of 17°C (62°F), averaging 8°C (46°F). The overall precipitation drops to 73 mm (2.9 in) over 15 days, with humidity slightly lower at 84%. For more detailed information about the weather in April, you can check Portree weather in April.
December and May exhibit markedly different weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a chilly 0°C (32°F) to a mild 12°C (54°F), with an average temperature of 7°C (45°F). The month is quite wet, with a total precipitation of 205 mm (8.1 in) spread over 25 days, coupled with a high humidity level of 86%. In contrast, May experiences more comfortable temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a pleasant maximum of 21°C (69°F), with an average of 10°C (50°F). Rainfall is significantly lower at 81 mm (3.2 in), occurring on 16 days, and humidity is slightly lower at 82%. For more detailed information, visit Portree weather in May.
December and June present contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a mild maximum of 12°C (54°F), with an average around 7°C (45°F). This month sees substantial rainfall, accumulating to 205 mm (8.1 in) over 25 days, and the high humidity level of 86% contributes to a damp atmosphere. In contrast, June offers more pleasant temperatures, starting at 6°C (44°F) and peaking at 22°C (72°F), with an average of 12°C (54°F). Rainfall is significantly lower, with only 107 mm (4.2 in) over 17 days, and humidity levels are slightly less at 84%. For a closer look at June weather specifics, check out Portree weather in June.
The weather in December contrasts significantly with that in July. In December, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 12°C (54°F), with an average temperature of 7°C (45°F). This month also sees considerable precipitation, measuring about 205 mm (8.1 in) over 25 days and a high humidity level of 86%. In contrast, July offers milder conditions, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 9°C (48°F) and reaching up to 22°C (71°F), averaging 14°C (57°F). Precipitation is lower in July at 130 mm (5.1 in) over 19 days, and the humidity remains similarly high at 87%. For a closer look at July’s climate specifics, you can refer to Portree weather in July.
December and August present contrasting weather patterns. December tends to be colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 12°C (54°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F). This month also sees significant rainfall, totaling 205 mm (8.1 in) over 25 days, contributing to high humidity levels at 86%. In contrast, August enjoys milder temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (49°F), an average of 14°C (57°F), and a maximum of 21°C (70°F). It has less precipitation at 151 mm (5.9 in) over 21 days, and while the humidity is slightly higher at 88%, the overall weather is much more pleasant. For more details on weather conditions during this month, check this link: Portree weather in August.
In December, the weather is characterized by colder temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F), peaking at a maximum of 12°C (54°F). This month also experiences significant precipitation, totaling 205 mm (8.1 in) over approximately 25 days, and a high humidity level of 86%. In contrast, September enjoys slightly milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to an average of 13°C (55°F), reaching up to 19°C (66°F) at its warmest. September sees a lower total precipitation of 177 mm (7.0 in) over 21 days and slightly higher humidity at 89%. For a closer look at what to expect, visit Portree weather in September.
In comparing the weather between October and December, December tends to be cooler, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 12°C (54°F), while October experiences milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from 4°C (39°F) to 17°C (62°F). Despite December's lower average temperatures, it experiences less rainfall than October, whose precipitation totals reach 252 mm (9.9 in) compared to December's 205 mm (8.1 in). Both months share a high level of humidity, slightly higher in October at 89%, compared to 86% in December. For those looking for more detailed insights into October's weather, you can refer to Portree weather in October.
In comparing the weather of December and November, December typically experiences cooler temperatures, with an average of 7°C (45°F), compared to November's slightly warmer average of 8°C (47°F). The minimum temperature in December drops to 0°C (32°F), while November starts at a higher minimum of 2°C (36°F). Precipitation levels are relatively similar, with December receiving 205 mm (8.1 in) over 25 days, just surpassing November’s 193 mm (7.6 in) over 23 days. Additionally, December's humidity stands at 86%, slightly lower than November's 90%. For more detailed insights into November's weather, you can explore Portree weather in November.
As December descends upon Portree, the weather transforms into a blend of chilly temperatures, persistent humidity, and considerable precipitation. With an average temperature that hovers around a brisk 7°C (45°F), this month stands out from the milder conditions of previous months, often dipping to 0°C (32°F) at night. The frequent rainfall, occurring on about 25 days, adds a notable chill, making it one of the wetter periods of the year. The elevated humidity of 86% only amplifies the frosty atmosphere, contrasting sharply with the drier and warmer days of the autumn season. If you're curious about how Portree's December weather compares to the rest of the year, you can explore more in detail at Portree Climate.