January Weather in Kandahar, Afghanistan

Last updated: August 21, 2025

January in Kandahar, Afghanistan is characterized by a significant temperature range, with maximum highs reaching 23°C (74°F) and dipping to minimum lows of -6°C (21°F). The average temperature settles around 7°C (45°F), offering a brisk winter atmosphere. Precipitation is relatively low, accumulating to 37 mm (1.5 in) over just four days, contributing to a mild humidity level of 42%. This month strikes a balance between cool, crisp days and the occasional hint of moisture, making it a unique time to experience the region's winter climate.

January Temperature in Kandahar

January in Kandahar, Afghanistan, marks a notable transition as temperatures begin to rise from the biting cold of winter. With nighttime lows dipping to -6°C (21°F), the month starts off brisk, while daytime highs can reach a comfortable 23°C (74°F). The average temperature settles at around 7°C (45°F), indicating the gradual shift towards more temperate conditions. As the month progresses, a noticeable trend emerges: each passing week brings slightly warmer days, leading into February's milder average of 10°C (51°F). This upward trajectory continues into spring, with daytime temperatures soaring to 35°C (95°F) by March, highlighting Kandahar's stark contrast between winter chill and the impending heat of summer.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Kandahar, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Kandahar, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec455162748391959082695648
Data source: Temperature data for Kandahar generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

January Precipitation in Kandahar

In Kandahar, Afghanistan, January marks a notable shift in precipitation as it receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain over an average of four days. This sets the stage for the winter months, where precipitation gradually increases, peaking in March with 53 mm (2.1 in), before experiencing a steep decline. By April, rainfall drops to a mere 13 mm (0.5 in), and the summer months see virtually no precipitation at all, establishing a dry spell that persists until November. This cyclical pattern highlights the stark contrast between the relatively wet winter months and the extreme aridity of summer, painting a picture of Kandahar's unique climatic rhythm.

January Precipitation Trends in Kandahar

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Kandahar, 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 Kandahar, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec37435313300000163
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Kandahar

In Kandahar, Afghanistan, January brings a humidity level of 42%, setting a baseline that is consistent with February. However, as the months progress into spring and summer, there's a notable decline, with March seeing a drop to 32% and April sinking further to 28%. The dry heat of summer is unmistakable, peaking in June and July with a striking low of just 14% and 17%, respectively. As autumn approaches, humidity starts to creep back up, with 21% in September and a significant rise in November, reaching 43%. By December, the humidity culminates at 49%, wrapping up the year on a damp note. This trend highlights Kandahar's transition from a dry summer landscape to a more humid winter environment, creating a unique climate rhythm each year.

January Average Humidity in Kandahar

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Kandahar, 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 Kandahar is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec42%42%32%28%28%14%17%20%22%31%43%49%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Kandahar

In Kandahar, Afghanistan, January marks the beginning of the year with a moderate UV Index of 5, allowing for an exposure time of approximately 30 minutes before sunburn occurs. As winter transitions to spring, the UV Index steadily climbs, reaching a high level of 7 in February and continuing its ascent to a very high 10 by March. This trend of increasing UV exposure continues dramatically through the spring months, culminating in the summer with extreme levels peaking at 13 in May, June, and July, where the burn time drops to just 10 minutes. As the summer wanes into autumn, the UV Index gradually tapers off, but still remains high at 6 in November before dropping back to moderate levels of 5 in December. For a detailed breakdown of the UV Index throughout the year, visit Kandahar UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Kandahar for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Kandahar 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 Kandahar typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5710111313131211965
Data source: Kandahar 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 Kandahar

In Kandahar, Afghanistan, January ushers in 236 hours of sunlight, setting the stage for a gradual increase as the year unfolds. By February, sunlight climbs to 276 hours, hinting at the approaching warmth of spring. The brightness peaks in the summer months, with June basking in the most hours at 398. As the season transitions into autumn, the daylight begins to wane, yet remains substantial, with September still enjoying 347 hours. This pattern highlights a consistent annual progression, where the sun dominates the skies during the warmer months, encouraging both productivity and outdoor engagement before a gentle retreat into the cooler winter days of late in the year, with December closing at 297 hours.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Kandahar: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Kandahar 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec236h276h332h353h389h398h397h379h347h333h298h297h
Data source: Kandahar January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Kandahar During January

In Kandahar, Afghanistan, the month of January boasts an impressive 92% chance of sunny weather, setting the tone for a bright start to the year. This remarkably high likelihood of sunshine is consistent with a trend seen in the subsequent months, particularly in February, which still retains a solid 82%. As the seasons shift, the sunshine dominance peaks in the summer months, with June and August achieving a perfect 100%, while early fall maintains a strong hold on sun with 99% in September. Interestingly, while the chances gradually decline from March through April, they remain robust through to December, with sun probabilities lingering above 70% for most months. This consistent prevalence of sunny days not only highlights Kandahar's warm climate but also sets an inviting atmosphere for outdoor activities throughout the year.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Kandahar

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Kandahar 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 Kandahar experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec92%82%73%70%88%100%92%100%99%98%94%77%
Data source: Kandahar January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Kandahar in January

In Kandahar, Afghanistan, January marks the beginning of the year with approximately 10 hours of daylight, immersing the city in a serene winter atmosphere. As the months progress into February and March, daylight gradually increases to 11 hours, hinting at the approaching warmth of spring. This trend continues into April, where daylight extends to 12 hours, and reaches a peak of 14 hours in the sun-soaked days of June. However, as summer fades into autumn, the daylight hours begin to wane, dropping back to 13 hours in both July and August before settling down to 12 hours in September. By the time November rolls around, Kandahar experiences a return to 10 hours of daylight, maintaining a balanced rhythm that echoes the seasonal changes throughout the year. Thus, the daylight duration in Kandahar beautifully illustrates the cyclical nature of time, blending gradual increases and decreases while framing the region's very essence.

Average Daylight Hours in Kandahar for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Kandahar throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10h 19m11h 3m11h 59m12h 57m13h 45m14h 9m13h 57m13h 14m12h 19m11h 22m10h 32m10h 6m
Data source: Kandahar daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Kandahar

In Kandahar during January, the winds whisper at an average speed of 2.3 m/s (5 mph), setting the stage for a calm yet crisp start to the year. As the months progress, a subtle increase in wind speed can be observed, peaking in March and April at 3.1 m/s (7 mph). This gentle rise indicates the onset of spring, where the air stirs with a refreshing energy. However, as summer unfolds, the winds stabilize, maintaining a consistent average of 3.0 m/s (7 mph) through July before gradually tapering off as autumn approaches. By November, the winds whisper quieter at 2.1 m/s (5 mph), echoing the tranquility of winter's arrival. Overall, the trend showcases a seasonal rhythm, characterized by a gentle chill in January that gradually invigorates as the year unfolds, before returning to a serene calm by year-end.

Average January Wind Speed in Kandahar

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Kandahar, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.3 m/s2.53.13.23.03.13.02.72.42.52.12.2
Data source: Kandahar January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Kandahar Compares to Other Months

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

In January, Kandahar experiences cooler temperatures with a minimum of -6°C (21°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F), while February sees a slight rise with minimum temperatures around -2°C (29°F) and an average of 10°C (51°F). The maximum temperatures in January reach up to 23°C (74°F), but February brings even warmer highs, peaking at 29°C (84°F). Precipitation is similar between the two months, with January receiving 37 mm (1.5 in) over 4 days and February experiencing a bit more rainfall at 43 mm (1.7 in) across 5 days. Humidity levels remain consistent at 42% for both months. For more details, check out the Kandahar weather in February.

In January, temperatures in Kandahar typically range from a chilly minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a comfortable maximum of 23°C (74°F), with an average of 7°C (45°F). The month experiences relatively low precipitation, totaling 37 mm (1.5 in), over about four days, and a humidity level of 42%. In contrast, March sees a more significant shift in conditions, with temperatures rising to a minimum of 1°C (34°F) and a maximum that can reach a sweltering 35°C (95°F), averaging around 16°C (62°F). March also brings a bit more rainfall, totaling 53 mm (2.1 in) over five days, but the humidity drops to 32%. For a closer look at Kandahar's weather during this month, check out this link: Kandahar weather in March.

In comparing the weather of January and April, notable contrasts emerge in temperature and humidity levels. January experiences cooler temperatures, with minimums dropping as low as -6°C (21°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F), whereas April showcases a significant rise, with minimums starting at 7°C (44°F) and reaching a high average of 23°C (74°F). April can even peak at a maximum temperature of 38°C (101°F), highlighting the warmer climate of the spring months. Additionally, precipitation is more abundant in January, totaling 37 mm (1.5 in) across four days, compared to April's lighter rainfall of just 13 mm (0.5 in) over three days. The humidity also drops from 42% in January to a drier 28% in April, making the later month feel more arid overall. For more detailed insight into April's climate specifics, visit Kandahar weather in April.

In January, temperatures can be quite chilly, with a minimum of -6°C (21°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F), reaching a maximum of 23°C (74°F). The month also sees moderate precipitation, totaling 37 mm over about 4 days, coupled with a higher humidity level of 42%.

In contrast, May brings significantly warmer weather, where temperatures rise dramatically, with a minimum of 15°C (59°F) and an average of 28°C (83°F), soaring up to a maximum of 43°C (109°F). Precipitation drops to a mere 3 mm, falling over just 1 day, and humidity decreases to 27%. For a closer look at the conditions, you can visit Kandahar weather in May.

The weather in January in Kandahar is significantly cooler and wetter compared to June. January experiences a minimum temperature of -6°C (21°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F), with occasional highs reaching 23°C (74°F). During this month, the region sees 37 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation over four days, contributing to a humidity level of 42%. In contrast, June showcases a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) to a scorching average high of 33°C (92°F), and maximums soaring up to 45°C (114°F). Remarkably, June has no recorded precipitation or rainy days, leading to a much lower humidity level of 14%. For more detailed information, you can visit Kandahar weather in June.

January weather in Kandahar is notably cooler, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -6°C (21°F) at night to a warm 23°C (74°F) during the day. The month experiences an average temperature of 7°C (45°F) and sees some precipitation, totaling 37 mm (1.5 in) over about 4 days, along with a humidity level of 42%. In contrast, July brings sweltering heat, with minimum temperatures around 22°C (72°F) and daytime highs soaring up to 45°C (113°F), averaging 35°C (95°F). Remarkably, July is dry, with no recorded precipitation and a low humidity of 17%. For more details on the hot summer weather, you can visit Kandahar weather in July.

The weather in January is markedly different from that in August, showcasing the stark contrast between winter and summer conditions. In January, temperatures can drop as low as -6°C (21°F), with an average of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum of 23°C (74°F), accompanied by 37 mm of precipitation over four days and a humidity level of 42%. In contrast, August is characterized by significantly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 19°C (66°F), an average of 32°C (90°F), and peaks reaching as high as 44°C (111°F). This summer month boasts dry conditions, receiving no precipitation over zero days and a lower humidity level of 20%. For more detailed information, you can check out the Kandahar weather in August.

In January, the weather in Kandahar is characterized by a significant chill, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (21°F) to an average of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum of 23°C (74°F). This month sees about 37 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation over four days, with a humidity level of 42%. In stark contrast, September offers a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 13°C (56°F) to an average of 28°C (82°F) and soaring highs that can reach up to 40°C (105°F). Remarkably, September experiences no recorded precipitation or rainy days, and humidity drops to 21%. For more information on September weather specifics, you can visit Kandahar weather in September.

In January, Kandahar experiences a wider temperature range, with minimums dropping to -6°C (21°F) and average temperatures sitting at a cool 7°C (45°F). The month sees around 37 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation spread over four days, resulting in a humidity level of 42%. In contrast, October offers significantly warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures starting at 7°C (44°F) and averaging a pleasant 21°C (69°F). Notably, October is much drier, with no recorded precipitation and only 31% humidity, making it a stark contrast to the wetter, colder January climate. For more details on October weather in Kandahar, visit Kandahar weather in October.

January and November present contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F), with an average of 7°C (45°F). The month sees approximately 37 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation over four days, while humidity averages around 42%. In stark contrast, November boasts milder temperatures with a minimum of 1°C (34°F) and a maximum of 30°C (87°F), averaging 14°C (57°F). Precipitation is significantly lower at 16 mm (0.6 in) over just two days, accompanied by a slightly higher humidity of 43%. For a more detailed overview of November's weather, check out Kandahar weather in November.

January and December in Kandahar exhibit rather similar temperature ranges, with January experiencing a min temperature of -6°C (21°F) and a max of 23°C (74°F), while December sees a min of -5°C (23°F) and a max of 24°C (75°F). However, January is slightly wetter, receiving 37 mm (1.5 in) of precipitation over four days, compared to December's mere 3 mm (0.1 in) with no recorded precipitation days. Additionally, January has a lower humidity level at 42%, compared to December's 49%, indicating a drier feel to the air in the new year. For a more detailed look at December weather, you can check out Kandahar weather in December.

Compare Kandahar's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Kandahar

As January settles over Kandahar, it brings a refreshing shift in weather compared to the warmer months. The average temperatures drop significantly, allowing for crisp, cool days with occasional lows that can reach freezing. While the month records some precipitation, it’s manageable, contributing to a relatively low humidity level that makes the air feel brisk and revitalizing. Unlike the intense heat of summer, January’s atmosphere offers a unique charm, enticing those who appreciate a more temperate climate. For a deeper understanding of the seasonal nuances, explore more about the year-round conditions in this region at Kandahar Climate.