January Weather in Mackay, Australia

Last updated: February 25, 2025

In Mackay, Australia, January presents a warm, tropical climate characterized by maximum temperatures reaching 33°C (92°F) and an average of 27°C (80°F). Nights remain mild with minimum temperatures around 23°C (73°F), offering a comfortable respite from the daytime heat. However, this month is also marked by significant rainfall, with 253 mm (10.0 in) accumulating over 17 rainy days, resulting in a humidity level of 73%. This blend of warmth and moisture underscores the dynamic weather patterns typical of Mackay in January, making it an intriguing time for both residents and visitors.

January Temperature in Mackay

In January, Mackay, Australia, experiences warm tropical temperatures that set the tone for summer. With a minimum of 23°C (73°F) and a maximum reaching up to 33°C (92°F), the average temperature hovers around 27°C (80°F), making it one of the hottest months of the year. This warmth is indicative of the region's subtropical climate, where the mercury remains consistently high, particularly in the early months of the year. As the transition to February occurs, temperatures remain stable, with similar minimums and maximums, ensuring the balmy weather continues. Notably, the evenings offer a mild reprieve, retaining their warmth, while February consistently reflects January's tropical allure. This trend of humid, warm conditions gradually gives way to a cool respite in March, marking a soft decline in maximum temperatures, yet January remains unmistakably the peak of Mackay's summer warmth.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Mackay, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec808079767167666770747779
Data source: Temperature data for Mackay 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 Mackay

In Mackay, Australia, January is characterized by a significant rainfall total of 253 mm (10.0 in) that occurs over 17 days. This month typically kicks off the wet season, setting the stage for even greater precipitation in the following months. Following January, precipitation tends to decrease in February before surging back up in March, where it peaks at 290 mm (11.4 in) across 21 days of rain. The trend then shows a noticeable decline toward the drier months, with April and May receiving much less precipitation—131 mm (5.2 in) and 82 mm (3.2 in) respectively, and fewer rainy days. By mid-year, Mackay experiences a substantial drop in both total rainfall and rainy days, with June recording only 29 mm (1.1 in) over just 8 days. This cyclical pattern highlights the tropical climate's marked contrast between the wet season's intensity and the dry season's relative aridity.

January Precipitation Trends in Mackay

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Mackay, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec25318329113182294618206045203
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Mackay

In Mackay, Australia, January sets the stage for a humid summer, with average humidity levels at a notable 73%. As the heat persists, February sees a slight uptick to 77%, leading into March, where humidity peaks at 80%. This trend illustrates the region’s tropical climate, characterized by increasingly moist conditions during the peak summer months. By April, humidity dips to 76%, but remains elevated compared to other months. As the cooler season approaches, May and June see a gradual decrease, with humidity levels dropping to 72% and 71%, respectively. The trend continues through the winter months of July and August, where humidity falls to its lowest point at 63%, only to rebound slightly in September and October. By November, conditions stabilize at 66%, and December wraps up the year with a humidity of 70%, reflecting seasonal variations that are both predictable and essential to Mackay's lush environment.

January Average Humidity in Mackay

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Mackay, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec73%77%80%76%73%71%63%71%65%64%66%70%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Mackay

In Mackay, Australia, January sets the tone for the year with a staggering UV Index of 16, classified as extreme. This intense exposure means that burn time is a mere 10 minutes, urging residents and visitors alike to take sun safety seriously. As the months progress into February and March, the UV Index remains high at 15 and 14, respectively, indicating that protection against UV rays is crucial. While the index slightly dips to 12 in April, the risk remains high as it escalates back to extreme levels in September and October, peaking again in November. Interestingly, the overall trend showcases that throughout the summer months, Mackay consistently experiences severe UV levels, necessitating vigilant sun safety practices. For more details on UV exposure in Mackay, visit Mackay UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Mackay for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Mackay 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec161514129781012141516
Data source: Mackay 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 Mackay

In Mackay, Australia, January shines with an impressive 249 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for a vibrant summer. As the year progresses, sunlight steadily increases, peaking in November with 334 hours, making it the sunniest month. The transition from January to the end of the year showcases a consistent upward trend, with February's 284 hours marking a strong start to the year. The sunshine hours peak in late spring and early summer, particularly in December, underscoring Mackay's reputation for glorious sunny days. This gradual ascent in daylight hours not only enhances the region's natural beauty but also enriches outdoor activities, drawing both locals and visitors to bask in the warmth of this tropical paradise.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Mackay: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Mackay 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec249h284h287h281h274h262h281h299h304h320h334h329h
Data source: Mackay January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Mackay During January

In Mackay, Australia, January marks the beginning of the year with a 33% chance of sunny weather, setting a slightly gloomy tone compared to the following months. As summer progresses into February, the likelihood of sunshine increases to 40%, hinting at brighter days ahead. The trend continues through March, where the potential for sun rises to 47%, and April maintains a solid 44%. However, the real shift occurs as we move into the middle of the year; May boasts a noteworthy 64% chance of sun, followed by June at 52%. The sunniest months peak during winter, with July showing an impressive 74% probability of clear skies, gradually tapering off to 67% in August and October. By the end of the year, November experiences a drop to 44%, followed by December at 57%, reminding us that while January may start cool and cloudy, the sunny prospects only get brighter as the season unfolds.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Mackay

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Mackay 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 Mackay experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec33%40%47%44%65%52%74%67%69%67%44%57%
Data source: Mackay January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Mackay in January

In Mackay, Australia, January shines bright with an impressive 13 hours of daylight, offering ample opportunity to embrace the summer sun. As the season transitions into February and March, daylight slightly dips to 12 hours, still providing plenty of time for outdoor activities. By the time April and May arrive, the daylight hours decrease further to 11 hours, ushering in the cooler autumn months. This pattern continues into winter, where June and July experience the longest nights at just 10 hours of daylight. However, as spring approaches in August, daylight gradually increases again, reaching 11 hours, before peaking once more at 12 hours in October. The year closes with a return to 13 hours of daylight in both November and December, creating a lively end to the year and a beautiful start to summer once again. This cyclical variation showcases Mackay's distinct seasons, where each month brings its own rhythm of light and activity.

Average Daylight Hours in Mackay for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Mackay throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec13h 15m12h 47m12h 11m11h 34m11h 4m10h 50m10h 57m11h 23m11h 57m12h 34m13h 6m13h 23m
Data source: Mackay daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Mackay

In Mackay, Australia, January ushers in the year with a brisk average wind speed of 5.7 m/s (13 mph), making it the windiest month. As the summer heat peaks, this higher wind speed provides a refreshing contrast that invigorates the coastal atmosphere. Following January, February and March see a slight dip in winds, averaging around 4.7 to 4.8 m/s (11 mph), creating a calmer yet pleasant environment. The winds begin to pick up again in April, reaching 5.3 m/s (12 mph), before tapering off in the cooler months of June and July, where speeds drop to around 3.6 to 3.9 m/s (8-9 mph). As the year progresses into spring, wind speeds gradually increase once more, averaging between 4.4 and 4.9 m/s (10-11 mph) from August to November. This seasonal ebb and flow not only enhances Mackay's delightful climate but also sets the stage for a variety of outdoor activities year-round.

Average January Wind Speed in Mackay

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Mackay, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5.7 m/s4.74.85.35.13.93.64.44.94.54.94.7
Data source: Mackay January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Mackay Compares to Other Months

The weather in Mackay 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 Mackay and find detailed weather information for every month.

In January, the weather is characterized by slightly higher temperatures, with minimums reaching 23°C (73°F) and maximums peaking at 33°C (92°F), while February sees a modest decrease in the minimum temperature to 21°C (71°F). Both months share an average temperature of 27°C (80°F), but January experiences significantly more rainfall, totaling 253 mm (10.0 in) compared to February's 183 mm (7.2 in). Additionally, humidity levels rise slightly in February to 77%, while January maintains a humidity of 73%. Overall, February presents a drier and slightly cooler option, making it a favorable choice for those looking to enjoy the warm weather without excessive precipitation. For more details, check Mackay weather in February.

In comparing the weather between January and March, both months experience warm temperatures, but March tends to be slightly cooler on average. January has a minimum temperature of 23°C (73°F) and an average of 27°C (80°F), while March starts a bit lower with a minimum of 21°C (70°F) and averages 26°C (80°F). Precipitation also increases in March, with 290 mm (11.4 in) falling over 21 days, compared to January's 253 mm (10.0 in) over 17 days. Additionally, humidity levels rise in March to 80%, compared to January's 73%. For more detailed information on the March weather patterns, you can visit Mackay weather in March.

In comparing the weather between January and April, January tends to be hotter, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 23°C (73°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F). In contrast, April features cooler temperatures, with averages between 16°C (61°F) and 30°C (86°F). Additionally, January experiences significantly higher rainfall, with 253 mm (10.0 in) of precipitation over 17 days, while April has only 131 mm (5.2 in) across 16 days. Despite the slightly lower humidity in January at 73%, April's humidity remains high at 76%, contributing to a muggy atmosphere. For more details on the weather specifics during this time, check out Mackay weather in April.

When comparing the weather in January and May, there's a noticeable shift in temperature and precipitation. January experiences warmer temperatures, with averages ranging from a minimum of 23°C (73°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F), while May sees cooler averages, from a low of 13°C (55°F) to a high of 27°C (80°F). Precipitation is significantly higher in January, totaling 253 mm (10.0 in) over 17 days, compared to May's much lighter rainfall of 82 mm (3.2 in) across 14 days. Despite the difference in rain, humidity remains fairly consistent, hovering around 73% in January and slightly lower at 72% in May. For more detailed insights into May's weather, you can check Mackay weather in May.

The weather in January contrasts significantly with that of June. In January, temperatures are much warmer, with a minimum of 23°C (73°F) and soaring up to a maximum of 33°C (92°F), accompanied by high humidity at 73%. This month also experiences heavy rainfall, averaging 253 mm (10.0 in) over 17 days. In stark comparison, June sees much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (52°F) and a maximum of only 24°C (76°F). Precipitation is minimal during this month, totaling just 29 mm (1.1 in) across 8 days, and humidity remains relatively low at 71%. For a more detailed look at weather conditions in June, you can visit Mackay weather in June.

In January, the weather in Mackay is notably warm, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 23°C (73°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F), and an average temperature of 27°C (80°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation, with 253 mm (10.0 in) of rain over approximately 17 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 73%. In contrast, July presents a cooler climate, where temperatures drop to a minimum of 12°C (53°F) and peak at 25°C (78°F), with an average of 19°C (66°F). Precipitation is minimal in July, totaling just 46 mm (1.8 in) across 4 days, and humidity levels decrease to 63%. For more detailed insights into the weather, you can check Mackay weather in July.

The weather in January and August presents a striking contrast. January boasts warmer temperatures with a minimum of 23°C (73°F) and an average high of 33°C (92°F), accompanied by significant rainfall of 253 mm (10.0 in) over 17 days, leading to a humidity level of 73%. In contrast, August welcomes cooler conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to a maximum of 25°C (78°F). The month is characterized by much lighter rainfall, with only 18 mm (0.7 in) over just 3 days, and slightly lower humidity at 71%. This shift highlights the transition from the wet, warm summer months to the cooler, drier winter period. For more details, check out Mackay weather in August.

In January, the weather is notably warmer and more humid, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 23°C (73°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F) and an average of 27°C (80°F). This month also experiences significant rainfall, totaling 253 mm (10.0 in) over 17 days, which contributes to a humidity level of 73%. In contrast, September offers a much cooler climate, with temperatures dropping to a minimum of 15°C (59°F), an average of 21°C (70°F), and a maximum of 26°C (80°F). Rainfall is minimal, with only 20 mm (0.8 in) over just 4 days and lower humidity at 65%. For a closer look at September's weather specifics, you can visit Mackay weather in September.

In comparing the weather between January and October, January tends to be significantly warmer and more humid. During January, temperatures range from a minimum of 23°C (73°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F), with an average of 27°C (80°F). The month also experiences substantial rainfall, with about 253 mm (10.0 in) of precipitation over 17 days, resulting in a humidity level of 73%. In contrast, October is milder, with temperatures ranging from 18°C (64°F) to 28°C (83°F) and an average of 24°C (75°F). Additionally, October sees much less rainfall, accumulating only 60 mm (2.3 in) over 7 days, and the humidity drops to 64%. For more details about weather conditions in October, you can check Mackay weather in October.

In comparing the weather between January and November, January tends to be warmer and much wetter. With average temperatures reaching up to 27°C (80°F) and maximum highs of 33°C (92°F), January has a slightly higher temperature range compared to November, which averages 25°C (77°F) with a maximum of 32°C (90°F). Additionally, January experiences significantly more rainfall, with 253 mm (10.0 in) over 17 days, while November sees only 45 mm (1.8 in) across 10 days. The humidity in January is also higher at 73%, compared to 66% in November, contributing to a more humid atmosphere during the first month of the year. For more details on November weather, check out Mackay weather in November.

In comparison to December, January experiences slightly higher temperatures, with minimums of 23°C (73°F) and maximums reaching 33°C (92°F), compared to December’s minimum of 22°C (73°F) and maximum of 31°C (88°F). January also sees more precipitation, averaging 253 mm (10.0 in) over 17 days, while December records 203 mm (8.0 in) across 14 days. Humidity levels are marginally higher in January at 73%, compared to December's 70%. For further details, you can check Mackay weather in December.

Compare Mackay's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Mackay

In January, Mackay experiences warm temperatures and significant humidity, making it one of the hottest months of the year. With average highs reaching around 27°C (80°F), this period contrasts sharply with the cooler months, where temperatures tend to be more moderate. The high precipitation of 253 mm (10.0 in) over 17 days also distinguishes January from the drier months, leading to lush landscapes but increased humidity levels, averaging at 73%. For anyone planning a trip or looking to understand seasonal changes, exploring the details of Mackay's climate can provide valuable insights. For more information, visit Mackay Climate.