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Donegal Weather in December

With daytime temperatures of 9°C (48°F) and nighttime lows of 3°C (37°F), December in Donegal brings low temperatures during the day. It is also the wettest month of the year, so pack an umbrella.

Rainfall in Donegal in December

Since this month has the highest rainfall, keep an umbrella with you to handle sudden showers. You can expect rain on around 24 days based on historical patterns, with 132 mm (5.2 in) average for the month. Rain falls regularly this month and can be quite heavy when it does. Showers can be substantial, so waterproof gear is a good idea.

Temperature in Donegal in December

If you're visiting Donegal in December, expect highs of 9°C (48°F) and overnight lows around 3°C (37°F). The month of December belongs to the winter season. Expect a cold feel throughout the day, not just in the mornings and evenings. Warm layers are essential. Nights fall to 3°C (37°F), which is cold enough to feel it indoors too. A good thick duvet makes all the difference for a comfortable night's sleep.

Sunshine in Donegal in December

With limited sunshine this month, there are about 39 hours of sun. It's ideal for those who prefer a cooler, cloudier climate.

December in Donegal can still be great, but if you prefer pleasant temperatures along with dry and sunny conditions, our weather planner can help you explore other options in the world.

Select a Month

Check the conditions for any month of the year.

For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Ireland, check out our Donegal's climate page.

Donegal Temperature in December

Min TemperatureMin Temperature 3°C (37°F)  
Max TemperatureMax Temperature 9°C (48°F)  
Chance of RainChance of Rain 79%  
PrecipitationPrecipitation 132 mm (5.2 in)  
Rainy daysRainy days 24 days  
SunshineSunshine 39 hours *  
Percentage SunshinePercentage Sunshine *  
* Data from: Derry, Ireland (63 KM, 39 Miles).

Daily Historical Temperatures

50-year average (1976-2025)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Donegal typically stay consistent throughout December, with daily highs averaging around 9°C (48°F). Nights are cold, with lows around 3°C (37°F).

Average temperatures in December

Historical weather for Donegal in December

Browse day-by-day weather records for Donegal spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.

Donegal historical weather extremes in December

Our historical data for Donegal spans 1976 to 2025, revealing these weather extremes.

  • The hottest December day on record in Donegal reached 17°C (63°F) (December 1, 1985).
  • On December 20, 2010, Donegal saw its coldest December day with temperatures maxing out at -5°C (23°F).

Best Places in Ireland in December

Find out more about the weather in Ireland and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Ireland in December →

Map not visible? Whoops sorry! Please refresh the page.
Legend perfect weather pleasant tolerable unpleasant poor
Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).

What to Wear in Donegal in December

Dress warmly and in layers for your trip to Donegal in December. A good base layer system works wonders. Start with good thermal underwear, add something warm like a fleece sweater, then finish with a waterproof jacket on top. Expect heavy rainfall, so bring good rain protection and waterproof bags. Sunglasses aren't essential this month, though you might want them for the occasional bright moment.

What To Do in Donegal in December

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

Swimming
4/10
Cycling
4/10
Walking
4/10
Camping
3/10
Outdoor sports
4/10

Select a Month

Check the conditions for any month of the year.

For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Ireland, check out our Donegal's climate page.

More climate data for Donegal