January Weather in Canberra, Australia

Last updated: February 25, 2025

Canberra, Australia, experiences a vibrant January, characterized by a maximum temperature soaring to 38°C (101°F) and an average of 21°C (70°F), offering warm summer days. However, the nights can be notably cooler, with minimums dipping to 6°C (44°F). While the city enjoys a generally dry climate, January sees an average precipitation of 34 mm (1.4 in) over approximately 6 days, accompanied by a moderate humidity level of 58%. This blend of warmth and occasional showers creates an inviting atmosphere for both residents and visitors to explore the capital's outdoor offerings.

January Temperature in Canberra

In January, Canberra basks in the height of summer, showcasing a dynamic range of temperatures that cater to various preferences. With a minimum of 6°C (44°F) in the early mornings and afternoons soaring to a sizzling 38°C (101°F), it's a month that invites both cool, breezy escapes and sun-soaked adventures. The average temperature settles around a comfortable 21°C (70°F), providing a pleasant backdrop for outdoor activities. As the month progresses into February, temperatures remain similarly warm, indicating a consistent summer vibe, while transitioning to cooler months, the temperature begins to dip noticeably, showcasing Canberra’s dramatic seasonal shifts. This January warmth not only highlights the beauty of the Australian landscape but also sets the stage for the cooler yet equally stunning months that follow.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Canberra, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec706663564843424348556065
Data source: Temperature data for Canberra 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 Canberra

In January, Canberra experiences relatively low precipitation, with an average of just 34 mm (1.4 in) spread over approximately 6 days. This sets the tone for a month that balances warmth with occasional refreshing showers. As summer unfolds, the city's rainfall begins to increase, culminating in February's higher total of 55 mm (2.2 in). The trend of rising precipitation continues into March, where the monthly average reaches 72 mm (2.8 in), indicating the onset of the wetter season. This gradual increase is a key characteristic of Canberra's climate, as the city transitions from the dry heat of summer to the more temperate conditions of autumn, marked by distinct variations in precipitation across the months that follow.

January Precipitation Trends in Canberra

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Canberra, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec345572234336336443598677
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Canberra

In January, Canberra experiences a comfortable humidity level of 58%, marking the start of a gradual increase that continues through the summer months. As the season progresses, the humidity rises to 65% in February and peaks at 68% in March. This upward trend continues into the cooler months, reaching 74% in April and climbing to 78% in May. By mid-winter, humidity levels remain high, hitting 79% in June and 80% in July, reflecting Canberra's relatively moist climate during this time. As the year advances, humidity begins to taper off, with a notable decline to 77% in August and further decreasing to 70% in September. The transition into spring brings a drop to 58% in October, with November and December holding steady at 57% and 61%, respectively. Overall, January sets the stage for a month-by-month climb in humidity, culminating in winter's peak, before a gradual easing as the year draws to a close.

January Average Humidity in Canberra

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Canberra, with January's data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, allowing you to see how January's humidity levels compare to other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec58%65%68%74%78%80%81%77%70%58%57%61%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Canberra

In Canberra, Australia, January boasts a searing UV Index of 15, placing it squarely in the extreme exposure category, where unprotected skin can burn in just 10 minutes. This peak in UV intensity transitions into February and March, with indices of 13 and 12, respectively, maintaining that extreme classification and the same brief burn time. As the seasons change, April sees a notable dip to an UV Index of 8, marking a shift to a very high exposure level, where the burn time extends to 15 minutes. The trend continues into the cooler months, with May through August displaying moderate UV levels, allowing for a safer 30 minutes of sun exposure. By September, the UV Index spikes again to 8, and returns to 10 in October, representing another surge before the drop in November. Finally, December mirrors the January blast of UV rays with an extreme index of 15, reminding residents that summer is still very potent. For detailed insights on the UV Index throughout the year, visit Canberra UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Canberra for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Canberra 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec151312853458101215
Data source: Canberra 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 Canberra

In Canberra, Australia, January shines brightly with an impressive 277 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for a sun-soaked summer. As the year unfolds, the sunny days trend upward, peaking in December with a remarkable 340 hours, providing a perfect backdrop for festive gatherings. Notably, October and November also bask in the glow, offering 296 and 301 hours respectively, while the early months of the year maintain a consistent brightness. However, from June to August, sunshine dips to its lowest, with June receiving only 214 hours. This seasonal ebb and flow highlight Canberra's climatic rhythm, where the warmth of the sun gradually returns, ensuring a vibrant atmosphere throughout the year.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Canberra: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Canberra 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec277h290h284h268h245h214h234h252h280h296h301h340h
Data source: Canberra January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Canberra During January

In January, Canberra enjoys a 48% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the more promising months for sunshine in the Australian capital. This is notably higher than the following month, February, which sees a 35% likelihood, indicating a gradual decline in sunny days as summer edges towards autumn. Interestingly, April stands out with a 66% chance, suggesting a rebound of sunny weather, while May and September maintain relatively moderate probabilities at 49% and 54% respectively. As the year progresses into the colder months, the likelihood of sun significantly drops, hitting a low of 24% in June. Thus, January serves as a vital peak in Canberra's sun-filled calendar, heralding warm days before the weather takes a notable turn.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Canberra

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Canberra 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 Canberra experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec48%35%37%66%49%24%33%43%54%44%20%41%
Data source: Canberra January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Canberra in January

In Canberra, Australia, January brings long days with 14 hours of daylight, providing ample time for outdoor activities and exploration. As the month progresses into February, daylight gently tapers to 13 hours, hinting at the transition toward autumn. March continues this gradual decrease with 12 hours of sunlight, while April shortens the days further to 11 hours. This trend reaches its nadir in June, when daylight is at its least, with only 9 hours to enjoy. However, as winter gives way to spring, daylight begins to extend once more—July and August both offer 10 hours before daylight rebounds to 11 hours in September. October sees a return to 12 hours, signaling a vibrant revival, which culminates in November with another 13 hours of sunshine, before December rounds out the year with equal 14 hours of daylight, bringing full circle the seasonal ebb and flow of light in Canberra.

Average Daylight Hours in Canberra for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Canberra throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec14h 12m13h 21m12h 16m11h 10m10h 15m9h 48m10h 2m10h 49m11h 51m12h 58m13h 57m14h 27m
Data source: Canberra daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Canberra

In Canberra, January greets visitors with an average wind speed of 3.1 m/s (7 mph), positioning it as one of the breezier months of the year. This pleasant airflow contrasts with February's slight dip to 2.8 m/s (6 mph), hinting at the onset of summer evenings. As temperatures rise, the winds pick back up in March at 3.2 m/s, maintaining that spirited energy through the spring months. Thereafter, a gradual decline begins, reaching its lowest in April at 2.4 m/s (5 mph), before hovering around moderate speeds for the rest of the year. Interestingly, July sees a notable peak at 3.4 m/s (8 mph), just as the chill of winter sets in. The overall trend indicates a steady rhythm of breezy conditions, creating a dynamic atmosphere that enhances Canberra's outdoor appeal throughout the year.

Average January Wind Speed in Canberra

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Canberra, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.1 m/s2.83.22.42.62.83.43.03.23.23.22.7
Data source: Canberra January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Canberra Compares to Other Months

The weather in Canberra changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of January's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Canberra and find detailed weather information for every month.

January and February exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of 6°C (44°F) to a maximum of 38°C (101°F), with an average temperature of 21°C (70°F). The month sees around 34 mm (1.4 in) of precipitation over six days and a humidity level of 58%. In contrast, February has slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and an average of 19°C (66°F), peaking at 39°C (103°F). Precipitation increases to 55 mm (2.2 in), occurring over the same number of rainy days, but with a higher humidity of 65%. For more detailed information, you can visit Canberra weather in February.

In January, Canberra experiences hotter temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (44°F), an average of 21°C (70°F), and a maximum reaching 38°C (101°F). The month is relatively dry, with only 34 mm (1.4 in) of precipitation over about 6 days, and humidity averages around 58%. In contrast, March sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F), an average of 17°C (63°F), and a maximum of 32°C (90°F). This month is wetter, featuring 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain spread over 8 days, and higher humidity levels at 68%. For more detailed insights, visit Canberra weather in March.

In January, the weather is significantly warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (44°F) to a maximum of 38°C (101°F) and an average of 21°C (70°F). This month experiences 34 mm (1.4 in) of precipitation over approximately 6 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 58%. In contrast, April sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (30°F), an average of 13°C (56°F), and a maximum of 29°C (84°F). This month has less precipitation, totaling 23 mm (0.9 in) over just 3 days, but humidity is higher at 74%. For more details, check Canberra weather in April.

In January, temperatures in Canberra typically range from a minimum of 6°C (44°F) to a maximum of 38°C (101°F), with an average of 21°C (70°F). The month sees about 34 mm (1.4 in) of precipitation spread over 6 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 58%. In contrast, May presents cooler conditions, with temperatures dropping to a minimum of -3°C (27°F) and averaging 9°C (48°F), while reaching a maximum of 22°C (72°F). There is slightly more rainfall during May, totaling 43 mm (1.7 in) over 7 days, and humidity levels rise to 78%. For more detailed information, visit Canberra weather in May.

In January, the weather in Canberra is marked by much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (44°F) and an average high reaching up to 38°C (101°F). Despite experiencing only 34 mm of precipitation over six days, the humidity sits at a moderate 58%. In contrast, June brings a significant drop in temperatures, with minimums dropping to -5°C (24°F) and average highs only reaching 16°C (60°F). The precipitation in June is slightly higher at 36 mm, with the same frequency of rain over six days, but the humidity increases notably to 79%. For more insights, you can check Canberra weather in June.

In comparing the weather of January and July, a stark contrast emerges in both temperature and humidity. January boasts a warm climate, with temperatures ranging from a mild 21°C (70°F) on average to a scorching peak of 38°C (101°F), paired with relatively low humidity at 58%. In contrast, July experiences much cooler conditions, with average temperatures dropping to 5°C (42°F), and a maximum of only 16°C (62°F). Additionally, July tends to be more humid, with levels reaching 80%. Both months receive similar amounts of precipitation, around 33-34 mm, falling over approximately 6 days. For more detailed insight into July weather, you can explore Canberra weather in July.

The weather in January is notably warmer than in August, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (44°F) to a scorching maximum of 38°C (101°F), averaging around 21°C (70°F). In contrast, August experiences much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -5°C (24°F) and a maximum of 18°C (65°F), averaging just 6°C (43°F). Additionally, January sees less precipitation, with 34 mm (1.4 in) over 6 days, while August has higher rainfall at 64 mm (2.5 in) spread across 9 days. The humidity is also higher in August at 77%, compared to January's 58%. For more detailed information, check out Canberra weather in August.

January and September showcase contrasting weather patterns in terms of temperature and humidity. In January, temperatures can soar with an average high of 38°C (101°F) and a comfortable average of 21°C (70°F), while September experiences much cooler conditions, with a maximum of only 26°C (79°F) and an average of 9°C (49°F). January also sees less precipitation, measuring 34 mm (1.4 in) over about 6 days, compared to September’s slightly higher rainfall of 43 mm (1.7 in) across about 5 days. Additionally, the humidity is lower in January at 58%, whereas September presents a more humid atmosphere at 70%. For more detailed insights into September weather, visit Canberra weather in September.

In January, temperatures in Canberra typically range from a minimum of 6°C (44°F) to a scorching maximum of 38°C (101°F), with an average temperature of 21°C (70°F). The month experiences relatively low precipitation, totaling 34 mm (1.4 in) over about 6 days, while humidity remains steady at 58%. In contrast, October sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and a maximum of 28°C (82°F), giving it an average of 13°C (56°F). This month encounters more precipitation, accumulating 59 mm (2.3 in) across 9 days, but still maintains a consistent humidity level of 58%. For more details on October weather, you can visit Canberra weather in October.

When comparing the weather in January and November, notable differences emerge. January boasts significantly higher temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 6°C (44°F) to a maximum of 38°C (101°F), while November experiences cooler temperatures, with a range from 1°C (35°F) to 35°C (95°F). Precipitation levels also vary considerably; January receives about 34 mm (1.4 in) over approximately 6 days, whereas November sees a higher total of 86 mm (3.4 in) across 9 days. Interestingly, humidity levels are relatively similar, at 58% in January and 57% in November. For a closer look at November weather specifics, you can explore Canberra weather in November.

In comparing the weather between January and December, January generally offers warmer temperatures, with an average of 21°C (70°F) compared to December's 18°C (65°F). The maximum temperatures also peak higher in January at 38°C (101°F) versus December's 37°C (98°F). However, December experiences more precipitation, totaling 77 mm (3.0 in) over 7 days, while January sees lesser rainfall of 34 mm (1.4 in) across 6 days. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly higher in December at 61% compared to January's 58%. For further details, you can check Canberra weather in December.

Compare Canberra's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Canberra

In January, Canberra experiences a striking warmth, with temperatures peaking at a maximum of 38°C (101°F), making it one of the hottest months of the year. The average warmth of 21°C (70°F), combined with a minimum of 6°C (44°F) during the night, creates a significant contrast to the cooler seasons. While rain graces the city with 34 mm (1.4 in) of precipitation over approximately 6 days, this month is generally marked by sunny skies and a refreshing, albeit humid, atmosphere at 58%. The blend of heat and sporadic showers sets January apart, inviting both locals and visitors to explore the vibrant summer landscapes. For a comprehensive look at the overall weather patterns, check out Canberra Climate.