Manchester Weather Update: What to Expect This December 2025

Understanding Manchester’s December Weather Patterns

As December 2025 unfolds, Manchester residents and visitors are experiencing typical winter conditions that characterise this time of year in the North West of England. Understanding the city’s weather patterns is crucial for planning daily activities, from commuting to enjoying the festive season’s outdoor events.

Current December Weather Conditions

Manchester has entered December with average high temperatures around 6.4°C (43.5°F) and nightly lows dropping to approximately 2.6°C (36.7°F). Daytime temperatures typically reach 7°C, falling to 2°C at night, creating chilly conditions that require warm clothing and layers.

Rain falls for approximately 16.1 days throughout December, with about 43mm of precipitation accumulated. Manchester experiences frequent rainfall, though it’s usually light and drizzly rather than heavy downpours. Snow may fall for 1.3 days during December, typically accumulating around 15mm, though this is generally confined to higher ground.

What Makes Manchester Weather Significant

Despite its reputation for rain, Manchester’s annual average of 86.71 cm makes it far from being the wettest city in the UK. December sees only about 1 hour of bright sunshine each day, representing just 17% of daylight hours, contributing to the characteristically grey winter atmosphere.

December ranks among the months with the highest humidity, averaging 89%, which can make the cold feel more penetrating. The combination of wind and moisture often increases the sensation of cold beyond what the thermometer indicates.

Planning for Manchester’s Winter Weather

For those navigating Manchester this December, packing a waterproof jacket or umbrella is a smart choice, especially during autumn and winter. December features the shortest days of the year, with an average of just 7 hours and 36 minutes of daylight, meaning most commutes occur in darkness.

Winter offers a festive atmosphere with Christmas Markets and cosy indoor spots, making it an ideal time to experience the city’s seasonal celebrations despite the challenging weather conditions. The key to enjoying Manchester in December lies in proper preparation and embracing the city’s resilient spirit.