December Weather in Prestonpans, United Kingdom

Last updated: March 17, 2025

In December, Prestonpans, United Kingdom experiences a dynamic winter climate characterized by an average temperature of 5°C (42°F). The maximum temperature reaches 12°C (54°F), while the chilly nights can dip to a minimum of -4°C (26°F). This month is notably wet, with precipitation totals around 86 mm (3.4 in) spread over approximately 15 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 89%. As such, December in Prestonpans is a time where the crisp air and occasional rains create a quintessential winter atmosphere.

December Temperature in Prestonpans

In December, Prestonpans experiences chilly temperatures that signal the approaching heart of winter. With minimums dipping to -4°C (26°F), there's a noticeable chill in the air that contrasts with the average temperature holding steady at 5°C (42°F). While daytime highs reach a modest 12°C (54°F), the overall trend reflects a gradual decline from the milder autumn months, leading into colder conditions typical of this season. As daylight fades, the town’s winter charm emerges, inviting residents and visitors alike to wrap up warmly and embrace the festive spirit, even as the temperatures drop.

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

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Prestonpans, 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 Prestonpans 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 Prestonpans

As December arrives in Prestonpans, the town experiences a notable uptick in rainfall, with an average precipitation amount of 86 mm (3.4 in) spread over approximately 15 wet days. This consistent pattern reflects a transition into the heart of winter, following a series of damp months, including October's peak of 111 mm. While the overall precipitation in December is slightly lower than in the more rain-soaked October and August, it remains robust, illustrating a trend of steadily high moisture levels as the year draws to a close. Such weather patterns contribute to the region’s lush landscapes and underscore the importance of preparing for lingering showers throughout the winter months.

December Precipitation Trends in Prestonpans

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Prestonpans, 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.
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December Humidity in Prestonpans

In December, Prestonpans experiences a humidity level of 89%, reflecting a slight decrease from the higher levels observed in the preceding months. As the year winds down, this moderate humidity is part of a trend where winter months tend to maintain elevated moisture levels, with November reaching its peak at 92%. Interestingly, December humidity marks a transition, as the levels remain significantly higher than the spring and summer months, like May's 80%. This consistent humidity throughout the colder months suggests that Prestonpans endures a notably damp winter, setting the stage for a refreshing but chilly seasonal experience.

December Average Humidity in Prestonpans

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Prestonpans, 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 Prestonpans

In December, Prestonpans experiences a low UV Index of 1, akin to the indices seen in January and November, indicating minimal sun exposure risk for residents and visitors alike. With a burn time of 45 minutes, it's a perfect time for leisurely outdoor activities without the immediate worry of sunburn. This trend of low UV values during the winter months reflects the consistent cloud cover and cooler temperatures typical of the season, making it a welcome respite after the more intense sun exposure of the summer months. For more detailed information, visit Prestonpans UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Prestonpans for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Prestonpans 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: Prestonpans 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 Prestonpans

In Prestonpans, December brings a familiar chill, with the sunshine calculated at 77 hours, mirroring the sun-deprived early months of the year. As we transition from winter to spring, sunlight gradually increases, peaking in May and June with an impressive 394 hours and 371 hours, respectively. The trend reveals a thriving summer, where residents bask in nearly 400 hours of golden rays during the height of July. However, as autumn approaches, the daylight dwindles, dropping to a mere 111 hours in November before returning to the wintry shadow of December. This yearly cycle accentuates the stark contrast between the bright, lively summer months and the more subdued, shorter days of winter, crafting a unique rhythm for the local experience.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Prestonpans: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Prestonpans 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: Prestonpans December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Prestonpans During December

In Prestonpans, United Kingdom, the likelihood of experiencing sunny weather in December tends to be among the lowest of the year, with only a 19% chance of sunshine. This trend reflects a broader seasonal pattern, as the earlier months of the year often have comparable or slightly higher odds, with January and November offering 29% and 32% chances of sun, respectively. By contrast, April shines brightly with a remarkable 48%, showcasing a peak in sunny weather as the region transitions into spring. As winter settles in, the chances of sun plummet, suggesting that December is generally marked by overcast skies rather than clear, sunny days.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Prestonpans

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

Daylight Hours in Prestonpans in December

In Prestonpans, United Kingdom, December marks a return to shorter days, with daylight lasting only 7 hours. This follows a gradual decline from the longest days of summer in June, which offered an impressive 17 hours of sunlight. As the year progresses into the colder months, daylight gradually diminishes, peaking in May at 16 hours and consistently tapering off until we find ourselves back at December's early dusk. This cyclical pattern highlights the seasonal rhythm of light, where each month invites residents to adapt their activities to the changing daylight, embodying the essence of winter's embrace in this charming coastal town.

Average Daylight Hours in Prestonpans for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Prestonpans 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: Prestonpans daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Prestonpans

As December settles in Prestonpans, the wind picks up slightly, averaging 4.8 m/s (11 mph), marking a subtle increase from the calmer summer months. After experiencing the year's lightest winds in July and August, where speeds dropped to around 2.9 m/s (7 mph), the fall months bring a steady uptick, with November reaching 6.0 m/s (13 mph). December's breezes act as a gentle reminder of winter's arrival, blending the crisp air with a refreshing vigor that's characteristic of this time of year. Overall, December's winds maintain a moderate pace, echoing the transition from the more tumultuous gales of autumn, which often serve as a prelude to the winter season ahead.

Average December Wind Speed in Prestonpans

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Prestonpans, 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: Prestonpans December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Prestonpans Compares to Other Months

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

In December, the weather typically features a minimum temperature of -4°C (26°F) and an average of 5°C (42°F), with a maximum reaching 12°C (54°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 86 mm (3.4 in) across about 15 days, and the humidity levels are high at 89%. In contrast, January sees slightly milder conditions, with a minimum temperature of -3°C (27°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F), peaking at 13°C (55°F). The total precipitation decreases to 60 mm (2.4 in) spread over approximately 10 days, and humidity rises slightly to 90%. For a more detailed look at January's weather in Prestonpans, visit Prestonpans weather in January.

December and February share similar temperatures, with both months experiencing minimums around -4°C (26°F) and average highs close to 5°C (42°F). However, February tends to be slightly milder, reaching a maximum of 14°C (57°F) compared to December's 12°C (54°F). Precipitation is comparable, with December receiving 86 mm (3.4 in) and February at 91 mm (3.6 in), both spread over about 15 days. The humidity levels are also similar, with December at 89% and February slightly lower at 88%. For a detailed look at the weather in February, check out Prestonpans weather in February.

December and March both feature a minimum temperature of -4°C (26°F), but March shows a slight increase in average temperature, rising to 6°C (43°F) compared to December’s 5°C (42°F). The maximum temperature in March can reach up to 15°C (60°F), significantly warmer than December's high of 12°C (54°F). Precipitation levels are quite similar in both months, with December receiving 86 mm (3.4 in) and March recording 82 mm (3.2 in), though both months experience precipitation on about 15 days. Humidity levels are slightly lower in March at 86%, compared to December’s higher average of 89%. For more insights into the weather in March, explore Prestonpans weather in March.

December and April present quite a contrast in weather conditions. 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 average of 5°C (42°F). The month is also characterized by higher precipitation, totaling 86 mm (3.4 in) over 15 rainy days, and a humidity level of 89%. In comparison, April experiences milder temperatures, with lows around -2°C (29°F) and highs peaking at 21°C (70°F), averaging 7°C (45°F). The month is much drier, accumulating only 34 mm (1.4 in) of rain across 8 days and slightly lower humidity at 85%. For more detailed insights on what to expect, you can visit Prestonpans weather in April.

December and May weather in Prestonpans show a notable contrast in temperatures and conditions. In December, temperatures can dip as low as -4°C (26°F), with an average of 5°C (42°F) and a maximum of 12°C (54°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation at 86 mm (3.4 in), spread over 15 days, along with high humidity levels of 89%. In contrast, May offers a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures around 2°C (35°F) and an average of 10°C (51°F), peaking at 22°C (71°F). It also sees reduced precipitation at 63 mm (2.5 in) over 12 days and slightly lower humidity at 80%. For more details, check out the link: Prestonpans weather in May.

In December, temperatures in Prestonpans can drop to a chilly minimum of -4°C (26°F), with an average of 5°C (42°F) and a maximum of 12°C (54°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 86 mm (3.4 in) over approximately 15 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 89%. In contrast, June offers a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a pleasant average of 13°C (56°F) and a maximum of 24°C (75°F). While June has slightly higher precipitation at 94 mm (3.7 in) over 15 days, its lower humidity of 83% creates a more comfortable atmosphere. For more detailed information about weather conditions in June, you can check Prestonpans weather in June.

December and July present contrasting weather experiences. In December, temperatures can drop as low as -4°C (26°F) at their minimum, with average highs reaching only 12°C (54°F). The month is characterized by a high level of humidity at 89% and significant precipitation over about 15 days, accumulating to 86 mm (3.4 in). In stark contrast, July showcases milder temperatures, beginning at a minimum of 9°C (49°F) and typically peaking at 24°C (76°F) on warmer days. Despite a similar number of rainy days (15), July's total precipitation is slightly lower at 85 mm (3.3 in), and the humidity decreases to 82%. For a closer look at July weather patterns, check out Prestonpans weather in July.

December weather in Prestonpans is characterized by colder temperatures, with averages around 5°C (42°F) and a maximum of 12°C (54°F), while August enjoys milder conditions, with average temperatures reaching 15°C (59°F) and highs of 23°C (73°F). In December, the region experiences significant precipitation of 86 mm (3.4 in) over approximately 15 days, coupled with higher humidity levels of 89%. Conversely, August sees slightly more rain at 102 mm (4.0 in) over 16 days, but with lower humidity at 82%. For a detailed look at the weather in August, you can visit Prestonpans weather in August.

December and September present quite different weather patterns. In December, temperatures drop significantly, with an average around 5°C (42°F) and a maximum reaching only 12°C (54°F), while it can feel notably colder with a minimum of -4°C (26°F). In contrast, September enjoys milder conditions with an average temperature of 13°C (55°F) and maximums soaring up to 22°C (71°F). Precipitation is relatively similar in both months, with December experiencing 86 mm of rainfall over 15 days, compared to September's 75 mm over the same number of days. Humidity levels are comparable as well, with December at 89% and September at 88%. For more detailed insights into September's weather in Prestonpans, visit Prestonpans weather in September.

In comparing the weather of December to October, it's clear that December is significantly colder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 12°C (54°F), while October enjoys milder temperatures, averaging between 2°C (36°F) and 17°C (63°F). Additionally, while December sees about 86 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation over 15 days, October has slightly higher rainfall at 111 mm (4.4 in) spread over 16 days. Humidity levels remain similar, with December at 89% and October at 90%. For a more in-depth look at October’s weather patterns, check out Prestonpans weather in October.

In comparing the weather between November and December, December tends to be slightly colder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 12°C (54°F), while November sees temperatures from -2°C (29°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F). Precipitation levels are comparable, with December receiving 86 mm (3.4 in) and November 84 mm (3.3 in), both spread over 15 days. Interestingly, December has slightly lower humidity at 89% compared to November’s 92%. For more details on the weather during November, you can check Prestonpans weather in November.

Compare Prestonpans's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Prestonpans

As December rolls into Prestonpans, the weather takes a noticeable turn from the previous months, revealing the chill of winter. While the temperatures can peak at a mild 12°C, the average drops to a brisk 5°C, making for a crisp atmosphere that invites cozy gatherings indoors. This month also brings a higher frequency of rain, with about half the days experiencing precipitation, leading to an increased humidity level of 89%. Unlike the drier earlier months, December’s dampness and cold underscore a shift, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland. For insights into the broader climate patterns, check out Prestonpans Climate.