January Weather in Kabul, Afghanistan

Last updated: August 21, 2025

January in Kabul, Afghanistan, presents a chilly and dynamic climate, where the maximum temperature hovers around 10°C (51°F) while the average drops to a brisk -5°C (24°F). This month experiences frigid lows, with temperatures plunging to a staggering -26°C (-14°F), making it one of the coldest times of the year. With a total precipitation of 41 mm (1.6 in) over 7 days, the air is often laden with an ambient humidity level of 82%, contributing to a damp and biting atmosphere. Despite the cold, January offers a unique glimpse into Kabul's wintery charm, inviting those who brave the temperatures to experience its serene landscapes.

January Temperature in Kabul

In Kabul, Afghanistan, January marks the peak of winter, with temperatures plunging to a biting -26°C (-14°F) at night and averaging around -5°C (24°F) during the day. Despite the cold, the city experiences a modest maximum of 10°C (51°F), hinting at the gradual shift towards warmer months ahead. As the season progresses into February, a slight warming trend begins, with temperatures creeping closer to zero and daytime highs reaching 14°C (57°F). This period sets the stage for the coming spring, where the temperatures will increase significantly, transitioning from January’s harsh chill to the more temperate conditions of March and beyond. Overall, Kabul's winter showcases a stark contrast, reflecting both the resilience of its inhabitants and the beauty of its snowy landscapes.

January Weather in Kabul: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Kabul, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Kabul, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec232840546170757367544032
Data source: Temperature data for Kabul 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 Kabul

January in Kabul experiences moderate precipitation, totaling 41 mm (1.6 in) over an average of 7 days. This marks the start of a wetter season, with snowfall and rainfall contributing to the landscape's refreshing transformation. As the year progresses, precipitation steadily increases, peaking in March and April at 79 mm (3.1 in) each, before tapering off dramatically in the summer months of June and July, where rainfall drops to a meager 7 mm (0.3 in) and 11 mm (0.4 in) respectively. This early winter rain not only nourishes the parched earth but also sets the stage for a vibrant spring, paving the way for the lushness that characterizes the region following the dry summer months.

January Precipitation Trends in Kabul

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Kabul, 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 Kabul, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec416680797171163143512
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Kabul

In Kabul, Afghanistan, January marks a time of notable humidity, with levels at 82%. This high humidity sets the tone for the winter months, gradually rising to 83% in February before experiencing a decline as spring approaches, falling to 77% in March and further to 72% in April. As the year progresses into the warmer months, humidity levels continue to drop significantly, reaching a low of just 25% in August. This trend indicates that Kabul experiences a stark contrast between the moisture-rich winter and the arid summer, with conditions becoming increasingly dry as temperatures rise, particularly evident during the peak summer months of June and July. As autumn arrives, humidity levels begin to recover, closing the year on a more moderate note with 58% in October and gradually increasing to 69% by December.

January Average Humidity in Kabul

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Kabul, 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 Kabul is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec82%83%77%72%66%47%28%25%35%59%64%69%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Kabul

In January, Kabul experiences a UV Index of 6, indicating a high exposure category with a burn time of just 25 minutes. This moderate start to the year lays the groundwork for a noticeable upward trend in UV intensity as the months progress. By February, the UV Index rises to 7, maintaining the same burn time, but the real shift occurs in March when it reaches 10, categorizing the exposure as very high and reducing the burn time to a mere 15 minutes. The upcoming months see a relentless increase, peaking at 13 during the summer months from May to July, categorized as extreme, demanding caution with only 10 minutes of unprotected sun exposure. As summer transitions to fall, the UV Index starts to dip again, highlighting the importance of sun safety year-round. For more detailed insights on UV levels throughout the year, visit Kabul UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Kabul for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Kabul 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 Kabul typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec6710121313131211864
Data source: Kabul 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 Kabul

In Kabul, Afghanistan, the sun shines brightly throughout the year, but the intensity and duration of daylight vary significantly from month to month. January ushers in the year with 225 hours of sunshine, gradually increasing as February sees a leap to 265 hours. The trend continues, reaching a peak in July with an impressive 411 hours of sunlight, making it the sunniest month. As summer transitions into autumn, sunshine hours decline, but remain substantial, with August still enjoying 388 hours. Overall, the months leading up to summer showcase a consistent upward trend, while later months reflect a natural tapering into the cooler season. Such variations not only illuminate the landscapes of Kabul but also influence the rhythms of daily life in this vibrant city.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Kabul: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Kabul 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec225h265h327h351h394h404h411h388h352h334h281h293h
Data source: Kabul January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Kabul During January

In Kabul, Afghanistan, the month of January boasts a remarkable 86% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the sunniest times of the year. This trend of abundant sunshine is notable when compared to the following months; February drops to 69%, signaling a shift towards slightly cloudier days. As spring approaches, the likelihood of sun takes a dip, with March showing a mere 48% chance, reflecting the transition into a wetter season. However, as the weather heats up into summer, the sun returns with vigor, peaking in June at an impressive 95%. Interestingly, the trend of bright skies continues through the fall, with October and November both maintaining a high 88% and 71% chance of sun, respectively. This captivating pattern indicates that while January shines brightly, the allure of sunny days extends throughout much of the year in Kabul.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Kabul

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Kabul 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 Kabul experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec86%69%48%58%64%95%82%90%95%95%88%71%
Data source: Kabul January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Kabul in January

In Kabul, Afghanistan, January marks the beginning of a gradual shift in daylight duration, with the city enjoying 10 hours of light. This duration remains consistent through February, but as spring approaches, March introduces an increase to 11 hours, signaling the transition to longer days. Continuing this upward trend, April and May offer 13 hours of daylight, providing ample sunshine as nature awakens. The height of summer in June and July delivers the longest days of the year, with an impressive 14 hours of daylight. As summer gracefully gives way to fall, daylight begins to recede slowly, dropping to 13 hours in August and gradually down to 10 hours by November, before culminating in the depths of winter with only 9 hours of daylight in December. This cyclical dance of daylight illustrates the vibrant interplay of seasons in Kabul, capturing the city's unique rhythm throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Kabul for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Kabul throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10h 7m10h 55m11h 58m13h 3m13h 57m14h 24m14h 10m13h 23m12h 21m11h 17m10h 20m9h 52m
Data source: Kabul daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Kabul

In Kabul's January, the air is notably calm, with an average wind speed of 1.9 m/s (4 mph), setting the stage for the tranquil winter months. This gentle breeze persists into February and March, where the winds slightly drop to 1.6 m/s. As spring approaches in April, the wind picks up slightly to 1.7 m/s, hinting at a seasonal transition. Interestingly, the winds remain consistent through the later months, oscillating between 1.4 m/s in November and December to a peak of 2.5 m/s (6 mph) in June, revealing a trend of gradually increasing breeziness as the year matures. Overall, Kabul's wind patterns reflect a serene winter climate that gradually intensifies, inviting a refreshing shift as the seasons change.

Average January Wind Speed in Kabul

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Kabul, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1.9 m/s1.61.61.71.92.52.22.01.61.81.41.4
Data source: Kabul January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Kabul Compares to Other Months

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

January weather in Kabul is characterized by colder temperatures, with a minimum of -26°C (-14°F) and an average around -5°C (24°F). The maximum reaches 10°C (51°F), and the month sees about 41 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation over 7 days, alongside a humidity level of 82%. In contrast, February experiences milder conditions, with minimum temperatures rising to -17°C (2°F) and an average of -2°C (29°F). The maximum temperature in February climbs to 14°C (57°F), and precipitation increases to 66 mm (2.6 in) across 8 days, coupled with slightly higher humidity at 83%. For more detailed insights, you can check Kabul weather in February.

In January, the weather in Kabul is notably frigid, with temperatures ranging from a chilling -26°C (-14°F) to a maximum of 10°C (51°F). This month typically experiences an average temperature of -5°C (24°F), accompanied by 41 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation over about 7 days and a relatively high humidity level of 82%. In contrast, March ushers in a significant warming trend, with temperatures soaring from a minimum of -13°C (9°F) to a pleasant maximum of 22°C (72°F). The average temperature in March rises to 5°C (41°F), and precipitation increases to 79 mm (3.1 in) over approximately 10 days, while humidity drops slightly to 77%. For more details about the weather during this month, visit Kabul weather in March.

In January, the weather is notably harsh, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -26°C (-14°F) to a mild 10°C (51°F), averaging around -5°C (24°F). The precipitation level is moderate at 41 mm (1.6 in), occurring over approximately 7 days, and the humidity is quite high at 82%. In contrast, April brings a significant transformation, with warmer temperatures that vary from -5°C (24°F) to a comfortable 26°C (79°F), averaging 12°C (54°F). The month is wetter, with total precipitation reaching 79 mm (3.1 in) across about 12 days, while humidity drops to 72%. For more detailed insights on the climate during this month, check out Kabul weather in April.

In January, the weather can be quite harsh, with temperatures ranging from a chilling -26°C (-14°F) to a maximum of just 10°C (51°F), averaging around -5°C (24°F). The month sees approximately 41 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation spread over 7 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 82%. In contrast, May brings a significant transition, with temperatures rising to a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and soaring to an average of 16°C (61°F), reaching up to 28°C (83°F) at times. The month records about 70 mm (2.8 in) of precipitation over 16 days, though the humidity is lower at 66%. For more detailed information about the climate during this month, you can check Kabul weather in May.

The weather in January is characterized by frigid temperatures, with lows plunging to -26°C (-14°F) and an average temperature of -5°C (24°F), while June offers a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 33°C (91°F) and an average of 21°C (71°F). January experiences significant precipitation over 7 days, totaling 41 mm (1.6 in), along with high humidity levels at 82%. In stark contrast, June sees only 2 days of precipitation, contributing to a mere 7 mm (0.3 in) and a lower humidity of 47%. For more information on the climate during this month, you can check Kabul weather in June.

January weather is characterized by its frigid temperatures, with lows reaching as low as -26°C (-14°F) and an average of -5°C (24°F). Precipitation is moderate, with about 41 mm (1.6 in) spread over 7 days and a high humidity of 82%. In stark contrast, July brings warmth, featuring minimum temperatures of 14°C (57°F) and average highs of 24°C (75°F), with maximums soaring up to 34°C (94°F). Precipitation in July is minimal at just 11 mm (0.4 in), falling over only 2 days and accompanied by significantly lower humidity at 28%. For more detailed information, you can visit Kabul weather in July.

The weather in January and August presents a stark contrast, reflecting the seasonal shifts experienced in many regions. January is characterized by frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -26°C (-14°F) and an average of -5°C (24°F), where snow and cold winds often dominate, leading to a high humidity level of 82%. In contrast, August boasts a much milder climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (52°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F), making it the warmest month of the year. The substantial drop in humidity to 25% and reduced precipitation, with only 6 mm (0.3 in) recorded over just one day, further highlights the differences between these two months. For more details, you can check Kabul weather in August.

In January, the weather is characterized by frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -26°C (-14°F) and an average of around -5°C (24°F). The month experiences significant precipitation with 41 mm (1.6 in) falling over approximately 7 days, accompanied by high humidity at 82%. In stark contrast, September boasts much milder conditions, featuring a minimum temperature of 7°C (45°F) and an average of 19°C (67°F), peaking at 29°C (85°F). The month is notably dry with only 3 mm (0.1 in) of precipitation, and a drastic drop in humidity to 34%. For more details, you can check out Kabul weather in September.

In January, the weather is harsh and frigid, with temperatures dropping as low as -26°C (-14°F) and averaging around -5°C (24°F). The month experiences moderate precipitation, totaling 41 mm (1.6 in), spread across about 7 days, and a high humidity level of 82%, adding to the chill in the air. In contrast, October brings a significant warming trend, where temperatures range from a minimum of -2°C (28°F) to a comfortable maximum of 25°C (76°F), averaging 12°C (55°F). With only 14 mm (0.6 in) of precipitation over 3 days and a lower humidity of 58%, October has a much milder and more pleasant climate. For more detailed information, check out Kabul weather in October.

In comparing the weather of January and November, we see a notable shift in temperatures and humidity levels. January is characterized by much colder temperatures, with an average low of -26°C (-14°F) and a maximum of only 10°C (51°F), whereas November experiences milder conditions, featuring an average low of -19°C (-2°F) and a maximum reaching 20°C (68°F). Additionally, precipitation levels are relatively similar, with January receiving 41 mm (1.6 in) over 7 days compared to November's 35 mm (1.4 in) over 6 days. The humidity is also higher in January at 82%, compared to November's 64%, indicating a drier feel in the later month. For more details on November weather, you can check Kabul weather in November.

In January, the weather is notably colder, with average temperatures hovering around -5°C (24°F) compared to December's average of 0°C (32°F). January experiences more extreme minimum temperatures, dropping to -26°C (-14°F), while December's lowest point is slightly milder at -18°C (0°F). Additionally, January has higher precipitation at 41 mm (1.6 in) over approximately 7 days, in contrast to December's comparatively dry conditions with only 12 mm (0.5 in) over 3 days. The humidity in January is also higher, reaching 82%, compared to December's 69%. For more specifics on December's climate, you can check Kabul weather in December.

Compare Kabul's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Kabul

As winter settles in, January in Kabul presents a distinctly chilly ambiance, marked by lower temperatures and higher humidity compared to other months. With an average temperature around -5°C, the capital experiences its coldest days, dipping to a minimum of -26°C. While precipitation is relatively moderate with about 41 mm spread over 7 days, January still feels wetter due to the increased humidity of 82%. This combination of cold and dampness makes January a notably different experience from the milder autumn months, inviting those who dare to explore the stark beauty of Kabul's winter landscape. For more detailed insights into this season, visit Kabul Climate.