January Weather in Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan

Last updated: August 21, 2025

In January, Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan, experiences a diverse range of weather conditions, marked by maximum temperatures reaching 20°C (68°F) and average lows of 5°C (42°F), with the potential to dip to a chilly -9°C (16°F). This month typically sees about 28 mm (1.1 in) of precipitation spread over 6 days, contributing to a humidity level of 69%. Visitors can expect a blend of cool and mild days, making winter in this historic city both unique and captivating.

January Temperature in Mazar-e Sharif

In Mazar-e Sharif, January presents a striking contrast as temperatures range from a frigid -9°C (16°F) to a moderate 20°C (68°F). This month marks the peak of winter, where the average temperature hovers around 5°C (42°F), setting the stage for a gradual warming trend in the following months. As February rolls in, the chill begins to ease slightly, with minimum temperatures rising to -6°C (21°F), and averages moving up to 8°C (47°F). The transition into spring really takes hold by March when daytime highs can reach 31°C (89°F). As the year progresses, particularly from April onwards, Mazar-e Sharif warms significantly, showcasing a clear trajectory of increasing temperatures leading into the summer months, where peaks soar to an impressive 42°C (108°F) in July and August. This seasonal evolution not only highlights the region's stark climate shifts but also invites a vivid tapestry of experiences throughout the year.

January Weather in Mazar-e Sharif: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Mazar-e Sharif, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Mazar-e Sharif, January typically has an average temperature of {2}°C ({3}°F), with highs reaching up to {4}°C ({5}°F) and lows dropping to around {6}°C ({7}°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec424657667785898273604944
Data source: Temperature data for Mazar-e Sharif 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.

January Precipitation in Mazar-e Sharif

In January, Mazar-e Sharif experiences a refreshing start to the year with 28 mm (1.1 in) of precipitation spread over approximately 6 days. This uptick in rainfall sets a tone for the winter as the region transitions from drier months, with February and March following suit, showcasing slightly increased precipitation levels of 40 mm (1.6 in) and 35 mm (1.4 in), respectively. As spring approaches, monthly rainfall tapers significantly, culminating in a near-total dry spell during the summer months of June, July, and August, where no rain is recorded at all. Interestingly, the precipitation resumes in November with 26 mm (1.0 in), hinting at the seasonal patterns that define the region’s climate, characterized by a stark contrast between wet and dry periods throughout the year.

January Precipitation Trends in Mazar-e Sharif

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Mazar-e Sharif, with values for each month alongside January’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how January’s conditions compare to those of other months. In Mazar-e Sharif, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2840353811100042616
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Mazar-e Sharif

In Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan, January brings a relatively high humidity level at 69%, setting the tone for the month as one of the most humid of the year. This significant moisture lingers into February and March, where humidity remains consistent at 67%. As spring unfolds in April, a noticeable drop occurs, dropping to 57%, which continues to decline through May and June, reaching a low of 33% in the heat of summer. The transition from summer to autumn sees humidity levels gradually rise again, peaking at 70% in November before closing the year with a slight increase to 71% in December. This cyclical pattern highlights the unique climatic trends in Mazar-e Sharif, contrasting the dry heat of summer with the more humid conditions at the beginning and end of the year.

January Average Humidity in Mazar-e Sharif

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Mazar-e Sharif, with January’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In January, average humidity in Mazar-e Sharif is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec69%68%67%57%47%33%21%20%31%48%70%71%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Mazar-e Sharif

In Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan, January marks the beginning of the year with a moderate UV Index of 3, allowing for up to 30 minutes of sun exposure before the risk of burning increases. As the months progress, the UV Index steadily rises, peaking at a striking 11 from May to July, which is categorized as extreme and necessitates a much shorter burn time of just 10 minutes. This trend indicates a significant increase in sun intensity as spring transitions into summer. Interestingly, the UV Index gradually declines again in the latter months, dropping to 4 in November and returning to 3 in December, reflecting the changing seasons. For more in-depth details on UV levels throughout the year, check Mazar-e Sharif UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Mazar-e Sharif for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Mazar-e Sharif in January, 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. In January, the maximum UV index in Mazar-e Sharif typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3589111111109743
Data source: Mazar-e Sharif January 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.

January Sunshine in Mazar-e Sharif

January in Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan, welcomes the year with a modest 211 hours of sunshine, setting a transformative tone as the months progress. As winter fades, February sees a notable increase to 251 hours, hinting at the approaching warmth. By March, the sun shines more vibrantly with 309 hours, heralding the arrival of spring. The trend escalates through April with 333 hours, reaching a peak of 393 hours in May, as the sun bathes the city in brilliant light. The summer months continue to bask in glory, with June and July showcasing impressive hours at 407 and 411 respectively. However, as the season shifts, August witnesses a gentle decline to 385 hours, leading into the more muted patterns of autumn. September yields 347 hours, while October and November provide a cozy retreat with 321 and 266 hours of sunlight, respectively. As December closes the year with 262 hours, the cycle of vibrant sunshine reaffirms Mazar-e Sharif's dynamic climate, promising a new year filled with warmth and light.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Mazar-e Sharif: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Mazar-e Sharif experiences direct sunlight during the month of January, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of January with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec211h251h309h333h393h407h411h385h347h321h266h262h
Data source: Mazar-e Sharif January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Mazar-e Sharif During January

In Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan, January boasts an impressive 81% chance of sunny weather, positioning it as a bright start to the year. As we transition into February, the likelihood of sunshine dips to 63%, indicating a shift toward cloudier days. However, the trend quickly rebounds in the spring, with April and May showing 76% and 75% sunshine chances, respectively. As the summer months roll in, the sunny forecast skyrockets, peaking in August with an astonishing 99% probability of clear skies. This sunny disposition creates a vibrant atmosphere, particularly as September maintains a 100% likelihood of sunshine, highlighting the region’s propensity for bright days as the year progresses. In contrast, the chances of sun decrease in the cooler months of November and December, showcasing a seasonal rhythm that underscores the sunny allure of this Afghan city throughout much of the year.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Mazar-e Sharif

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Mazar-e Sharif throughout the year, with January 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 Mazar-e Sharif experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec82%63%39%76%75%98%96%99%100%83%65%61%
Data source: Mazar-e Sharif January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Mazar-e Sharif in January

In Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan, January marks the beginning of the year with 9 hours of daylight, setting the stage for a gradual increase in sunlight. As winter gives way to spring, daylight hours steadily lengthen, reaching 10 hours in February and 11 hours by March. This upward trend continues into April, peaking at 13 hours before hitting a summer plateau of 14 hours in May through July. As summer wanes, the daylight begins its decline, with August seeing a slight reduction back to 13 hours, followed by a gradual tapering to 12 hours in September, and further down to 10 hours in November. Ultimately, January's daylight duration mirrors that of December, closing the annual cycle with 9 hours once more, emphasizing a rhythmic dance between light and dark throughout the seasons.

Average Daylight Hours in Mazar-e Sharif for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Mazar-e Sharif throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 57m10h 50m11h 58m13h 8m14h 7m14h 36m14h 21m13h 29m12h 22m11h 13m10h 12m9h 41m
Data source: Mazar-e Sharif daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Mazar-e Sharif

In January, the winds of Mazar-e Sharif blow gently at an average speed of 2.4 m/s (5 mph), marking the calm before the seasonal shift. As the year progresses into February and March, a subtle increase in wind speed reflects the transition into spring, peaking at 2.9 m/s (6 mph) in March. The April winds dip slightly, followed by a warm June that brings a notable uptick, with gusts reaching 3.0 m/s (7 mph). This trend continues into July, culminating in the strongest breezes of the year at 3.4 m/s (8 mph). However, as summer wanes and autumn approaches, the wind speed gradually decreases, echoing the retreat of heat. By the end of the year, January's winds return to their gentle pace, reminding us of the cyclical nature of this shifting climate.

Average January Wind Speed in Mazar-e Sharif

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Mazar-e Sharif, with values for each month shown alongside January's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how January's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.4 m/s2.62.92.52.23.03.42.82.32.42.12.5
Data source: Mazar-e Sharif January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Mazar-e Sharif Compares to Other Months

Weather in Mazar-e Sharif varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares January’s weather to other months in Mazar-e Sharif, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

When comparing the weather between January and February, January is characterized by cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -9°C (16°F) and an average of 5°C (42°F). This month experiences a maximum of 20°C (68°F) and has a total of 28 mm (1.1 in) of precipitation over six days, alongside relatively high humidity at 69%. In contrast, February sees a slight rise in temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (21°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F), reaching a maximum of 25°C (78°F). This month is also wetter, recording 40 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation over the same number of days, but with slightly lower humidity at 67%. For more detailed weather information, visit Mazar-e Sharif weather in February.

In January, the weather is characterized by colder temperatures, with a minimum of -9°C (16°F) and an average of 5°C (42°F), whereas March sees a significant rise in temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F). The maximum temperature in January reaches up to 20°C (68°F), while in March, it can soar to 31°C (89°F). Additionally, January experiences about 28 mm (1.1 in) of precipitation over 6 days, compared to March, which has slightly more precipitation at 35 mm (1.4 in) over 7 days. Despite these differences, both months maintain similar humidity levels, with January at 69% and March at 67%. For more detailed insights, check out Mazar-e Sharif weather in March.

In January, Mazar-e Sharif experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum reaching -9°C (16°F) and an average of 5°C (42°F). The month sees a total precipitation of 28 mm (1.1 in) spread over about six days, contributing to a higher humidity level of 69%. In contrast, April brings warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) up to a maximum of 36°C (97°F) and an average of 19°C (66°F). Although precipitation increases slightly to 38 mm (1.5 in), it still occurs over the same six days, and humidity dips to 57%. For more information on the April weather, check out Mazar-e Sharif weather in April.

In January, the weather is much cooler, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -9°C (16°F) at night to a mild 20°C (68°F) during the day, averaging around 5°C (42°F). This month experiences approximately 28 mm (1.1 in) of precipitation over an average of 6 days, coupled with a higher humidity level of 69%. In contrast, May brings a significant increase in warmth, with minimum temperatures of 10°C (50°F) and maximum temperatures soaring up to 39°C (103°F), averaging a hot 25°C (77°F). Rainfall is minimal in May, totaling only 11 mm (0.4 in) across just 2 days, and humidity drops to a comfortable 47%. For a closer look at the weather conditions during this month, check out Mazar-e Sharif weather in May.

The weather in January presents a stark contrast to that of June. In January, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -9°C (16°F) and average around 5°C (42°F), with a maximum reaching 20°C (68°F). This cooler month also sees a moderate amount of precipitation, totaling 28 mm (1.1 in) over approximately six days, along with a humidity level of 69%. In contrast, June boasts much warmer conditions with minimum temperatures starting at 15°C (60°F) and averaging a scorching 30°C (85°F), peaking at a blistering 42°C (108°F). Remarkably, June experiences almost negligible rainfall, with only 1 mm (0.0 in) recorded over the entire month and zero rainy days, resulting in a much lower humidity of 33%. For more detailed information, you can visit Mazar-e Sharif weather in June.

The weather in January is characterized by chilly temperatures, with a minimum of -9°C (16°F) and an average of 5°C (42°F), while July brings much warmer conditions with a minimum of 21°C (70°F) and an average high of 32°C (89°F). In January, the region experiences around 28 mm (1.1 in) of precipitation over six days, accompanied by a relatively high humidity level of 69%. In stark contrast, July is remarkably dry, recording no precipitation and a significantly lower humidity of 21%. For more detailed information on the weather in July, you can check Mazar-e Sharif weather in July.

In January, Mazar-e Sharif experiences chilly temperatures, with a minimum of -9°C (16°F) and an average of 5°C (42°F), while temperatures can peak at 20°C (68°F). The month sees about 28 mm (1.1 in) of precipitation over six days, and the humidity is relatively high at 69%. In stark contrast, August brings sweltering heat, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 15°C (59°F) to a scorching maximum of 42°C (108°F) and an average of 28°C (83°F). Notably, August features dry conditions with no recorded precipitation and a much lower humidity level of 20%. For more details, you can check Mazar-e Sharif weather in August.

In January, the weather is characterized by a cold climate, with temperatures ranging from a chilly minimum of -9°C (16°F) to a comfortable maximum of 20°C (68°F), averaging around 5°C (42°F). The month also sees a moderate level of precipitation at 28 mm (1.1 in) over six days, accompanied by a humidity level of 69%. In stark contrast, September boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (52°F) and a maximum soaring to 36°C (97°F), averaging 23°C (74°F). Notably, September experiences no recorded precipitation during the month, maintaining a much drier atmosphere with only 31% humidity. For more detailed insights into weather patterns, check out Mazar-e Sharif weather in September.

When comparing the weather between January and October, striking differences emerge. In January, temperatures range from a frigid minimum of -9°C (16°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), with an average of 5°C (42°F). The month also experiences significant precipitation, with 28 mm (1.1 in) falling over six days, coupled with a relatively high humidity of 69%.

In contrast, October boasts milder temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and a maximum of 30°C (86°F), averaging around 16°C (61°F). The weather is much drier, only receiving 4 mm (0.2 in) of precipitation across just one day, and the humidity drops significantly to 48%. For a detailed look at Mazar-e Sharif's October conditions, visit Mazar-e Sharif weather in October.

January and November weather exhibit notable differences despite their proximity in the calendar year. In January, temperatures range from a frigid minimum of -9°C (16°F) to an average of 5°C (42°F), with a maximum reaching 20°C (68°F). Precipitation during this month totals 28 mm (1.1 in) over six days, alongside a humidity level of 69%. In contrast, November offers milder conditions with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to an average of 9°C (49°F) and a peak of 30°C (86°F). The precipitation is slightly lower at 26 mm (1.0 in), also spread over six days, with a humidity of 70%. These shifts highlight the transition from the cold depths of winter to the more moderate temperatures of late autumn. For more details on November's climate specifics, you can visit Mazar-e Sharif weather in November.

In December, the weather in Mazar-e Sharif is characterized by slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (22°F), an average of 6°C (44°F), and a maximum reaching 22°C (72°F), while January sees colder standards with a minimum of -9°C (16°F) and a more stable average of 5°C (42°F). Precipitation is also lower in December, totaling 16 mm (0.6 in) over just 3 days compared to January's 28 mm (1.1 in) spread across 6 days. Humidity remains fairly similar, at 71% in December and 69% in January, indicating a consistent level of moisture in the winter air. For more detailed information, you can check Mazar-e Sharif weather in December.

Compare Mazar-e Sharif's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Mazar-e Sharif

January in Mazar-e Sharif presents a distinct contrast to the warmer months, as the chill envelops the region with temperatures dipping significantly. While enjoying mild highs during the day, the nights can plunge to chilly lows, requiring warm layers. The month also sees a noticeable increase in precipitation, with rain making an appearance on several days, complementing the winter atmosphere. Coupled with a higher humidity level, the overall climate can feel brisk and invigorating. This transitional month is a reminder of the stark seasonal variations that define the area. For a deeper dive into the broader climate patterns, visit Mazar-e Sharif Climate.