If you’re planning to visit or spend December in London, understanding the weather can make a big difference in your experience. The city typically faces cool temperatures, frequent rain, and limited daylight, which can affect how you dress and plan your activities. From possible frost to unpredictable showers, knowing what to expect helps you stay comfortable and prepared. Curious about the specifics of winter weather in London and how it varies throughout the month?
Typical Temperature Range During December
In December, London experiences a typical temperature range that can be quite chilly. Daytime temperatures usually hover between 8°C and 11°C, so you’ll want to dress warmly, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors.
Mornings and evenings tend to be colder, often dropping to around 3°C or 4°C, which means frost and icy patches are possible. You might notice the air feels crisp and brisk, making it necessary to layer up.
While snow isn’t common every year, light snowfalls can occasionally occur, adding a picturesque touch to the city’s historic scenery.
Rainfall and Precipitation Patterns
Rainfall in December tends to be moderate but can vary throughout the month, often bringing frequent showers and overcast skies.
You might experience light drizzles or steady, persistent rain on some days, while others stay relatively dry. London’s average precipitation is around 50-70mm, but this can fluctuate, leading to wetter or drier periods.
Expect rain to be spread unevenly, with some days seeing multiple short showers and others remaining mostly dry. Cloud cover is common, and you’ll likely need an umbrella or raincoat when heading outdoors.
While heavy downpours are less frequent, they can still occur, especially during cold fronts. Overall, you should prepare for a wet month, but the pattern usually includes enough dry spells to get around comfortably.
Chances of Snow and Frost
In December, you have a good chance of seeing snowfall on some days, especially during colder spells.
Frosty nights are common, often creating icy conditions in the mornings.
Temperature fluctuations can be sharp, so be prepared for sudden changes in how cold it feels.
Likelihood of Snowfall
While snow is less common in London during December than in colder regions, there’s still a chance you’ll see some snowfall, especially during cold snaps. Typically, snow falls on a few days each winter, often resulting in light or brief showers.
Temperatures usually hover around 2°C to 8°C, which can support snow if cold air moves in from the north or east. However, London’s urban heat island effect tends to warm the city slightly, reducing snowfall chances.
You might wake up to a dusting on rooftops or grass, but significant snow accumulations are rare. The likelihood increases if a cold front arrives, bringing prolonged low temperatures.
Frosty Night Conditions
Frosty nights are a common feature of December in London, especially when clear skies and calm conditions prevail. You’ll notice your breath fogging in the cold air, and frost forming on windows and grass by morning.
The chances of frost increase on nights with little wind and clear skies, allowing temperatures to drop sharply. While snow isn’t guaranteed, frost is almost certain during cold snaps, creating a sparkling winter landscape.
You should prepare for icy pavements and potentially slippery roads, so take care when walking or driving. Frost can also affect outdoor plants and delicate surfaces, so protect vulnerable greenery if you can.
Temperature Fluctuations
As December progresses, temperature fluctuations in London become more pronounced, affecting the likelihood of snow and frost.
You’ll notice temperatures swinging between mild daytime warm-ups and chilly nights, increasing the chance of frost forming overnight. These fluctuations can cause snow to fall if the cold snap is strong enough, especially during clear, calm evenings.
Conversely, milder spells reduce snow chances but may still bring icy patches on roads and pavements. You should stay alert to weather forecasts, as sudden drops in temperature can lead to icy conditions, making travel hazardous.
Your best bet is to prepare for variable weather, dressing in layers and watching for frost warnings. Fluctuating temperatures mean you’ll need to be ready for both cold snaps and brief warm periods throughout December.
Daylight Hours and Sunshine
In December, daylight hours in London shrink considerably, giving residents just about 8 hours of natural light each day.
You’ll notice the mornings are darker, with the sun rising around 8 AM, and evenings fall quickly, with sunset happening around 4 PM. This limited sunlight impacts your daily routine, making afternoons feel shorter and often gloomier.
Cloud cover is common, so sunshine isn’t guaranteed even during the day. When the sun does shine, it’s usually weak and low on the horizon, casting long shadows.
These shorter daylight hours can influence your mood and energy levels, prompting you to seek cozy indoor activities. Despite the reduced sunlight, you can still enjoy crisp winter days, especially if you take advantage of a sunny afternoon.
Wind Conditions and Humidity
During December in London, you’ll notice wind speeds can change quickly, affecting how chilly it feels outside.
Humidity levels also fluctuate, making the air feel damp or crisp at different times.
These factors directly impact your comfort, especially when walking or spending time outdoors.
Wind Speed Variability
Wind speed in London during December can fluctuate considerably, influenced by shifting weather patterns and atmospheric pressure systems.
You might experience brisk breezes on some days, reaching speeds of 20 to 30 miles per hour, especially when cold fronts pass through. These stronger winds often bring a sense of chill, making it feel colder than the thermometer suggests.
On calmer days, wind speeds drop to gentle breezes of around 5 miles per hour, providing a brief respite from the gusts.
The variability is driven by low-pressure systems moving across the Atlantic and their associated weather fronts. As a result, you should prepare for both sudden gusts and periods of relative calm, making wind conditions unpredictable throughout December.
Humidity Fluctuations
Humidity levels in London in December can vary considerably, often influenced by changing wind conditions.
When winds blow from the Atlantic, they bring moist air, raising humidity levels and creating damp, chilly atmospheres. Conversely, when winds shift from the land, humidity drops, leading to drier air that can make the cold feel sharper.
These fluctuations can cause a sense of unpredictability, with mornings feeling damp and muggy, only for the air to become noticeably drier later in the day. You might notice fog forming during high-humidity periods, reducing visibility and adding to the winter gloom.
Wind direction and strength directly impact how humid or dry the air feels, making it important to stay prepared for these shifts when planning outdoor activities.
Impact on Comfort
The interplay between wind conditions and humidity directly affects how comfortable you feel outdoors in December. When the wind is strong, it can make chilly temperatures feel even colder, increasing the risk of wind chill.
Humidity levels influence how cold or damp you perceive the air to be; high humidity can make it feel wetter and more uncomfortable, especially if you’re exposed for extended periods. Conversely, low humidity often makes the air feel drier and less oppressive, but it can also dry out your skin and respiratory passages.
If you encounter windy, humid days, you might find yourself feeling colder and more unsettled. To stay comfortable, layering clothes and shielding yourself from the wind can make a significant difference in how you experience the weather.
How to Prepare for the Weather
Since December in London can bring chilly temperatures and unpredictable weather, it’s important to prepare accordingly.
Dress in layers so you can adjust as temperatures change throughout the day. A warm, waterproof coat is essential for staying dry and comfortable during rain showers.
Don’t forget a hat, gloves, and a scarf to protect your extremities from the cold. Comfortable, waterproof shoes will help you navigate wet streets and puddles.
Carry an umbrella for unexpected showers, and consider packing a small thermal blanket if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors.
Staying prepared means you can enjoy your day without discomfort or worry about the weather. With the right gear, you’ll stay warm, dry, and ready for whatever December throws your way.
Seasonal Variations Across Different Weeks
Throughout December, London’s weather can vary considerably from week to week, making it important to stay flexible with your plans.
In the first week, you might experience milder days with occasional rain, so carrying an umbrella is wise.
By mid-December, temperatures often drop, and you could face colder, frosty mornings.
The third week sometimes brings brief cold snaps or even light snowfall, especially towards the end of the month.
However, there are also milder spells with overcast skies and drizzly conditions.
The last week can be unpredictable, with temperatures fluctuating and varying weather patterns.
Staying adaptable guarantees you can enjoy outdoor activities or cozy indoors without being caught off guard by sudden changes.
Keep an eye on weekly forecasts to make the most of your December in London.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Does December Weather Vary Between Central London and Suburbs?
You’ll notice that central London tends to be slightly milder and wetter than the suburbs, which can be colder and drier. Urban heat effects and proximity to the Thames influence temperature differences, making city areas more temperate.
Are There Any Specific Outdoor Activities Suited for December Weather?
In December, you can enjoy outdoor activities like ice skating, festive markets, and winter walks. Dress warmly, and you’ll find plenty to do outside, even with the chilly weather, making the most of the holiday season.
What Are the Best Clothing Options for December in London?
You should choose warm, layered clothing like thermal underwear, a waterproof coat, cozy sweaters, and sturdy boots to stay comfortable and dry. Don’t forget a hat, gloves, and a scarf to protect against the cold and damp weather.
How Does December Weather Impact Transportation and Travel Plans?
December weather can cause delays and disruptions, so you should check for updates regularly, allow extra travel time, and be prepared for possible cancellations or slowdowns due to rain, snow, or icy conditions impacting your plans.
Are There Any Unusual Weather Events Expected in London This December?
You might encounter unexpected weather this December, such as storms or sudden cold snaps, which could disrupt your travel plans. Stay updated with local forecasts and plan ahead to avoid delays and guarantee smooth journeys.
Conclusion
December in London can be chilly and damp, so staying prepared is key. Dress warmly in layers, carry waterproof gear, and be ready for short, overcast days. Embrace the festive atmosphere despite the grey skies, and don’t forget to enjoy cozy indoor activities. With the right preparations, you’ll stay comfortable and make the most of your time in London during this winter month. Stay safe and enjoy the season!
