January Weather in Brussels, Belgium

Last updated: August 21, 2025

January in Brussels, Belgium, brings a chilly yet captivating atmosphere as winter settles in. With maximum temperatures reaching 14°C (57°F) and minimums dipping to -7°C (20°F), residents and visitors alike can expect a brisk climate. The average temperature hovers around 4°C (39°F), setting the stage for a cozy experience. January also sees about 65 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation spread across 12 days, contributing to the city's enchanting, misty charm. High humidity levels at 91% further accentuate the winter feel, making this month a unique blend of cold air and atmospheric allure.

January Temperature in Brussels

January in Brussels showcases the tail end of winter, with temperatures ranging from a chilly minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a surprisingly mild maximum of 14°C (57°F). This month typically presents an average temperature of 4°C (39°F), signaling the gradual transition towards spring. As winter's grip loosens, January can surprise you with warmer spells, hinting at the approaching shift in seasons. Interestingly, the potential for warmer days is mirrored by the colder lows, bridging a notable contrast that characterizes this month. Embrace the crisp air and the allure of Brussels' winter charm, as the city gradually begins to awaken from its frosty slumber.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Brussels, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Brussels, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec394245505664666660544542
Data source: Temperature data for Brussels 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 Brussels

In January, Brussels experiences an average precipitation of 65 mm (or 2.5 inches), falling over 12 days. This sets the tone for the winter months, as the city transitions from the wetter December, which peaks at 93 mm. While January is relatively moderate, it’s a prelude to the slightly heavier rains of February, which see an increase to 69 mm. As spring approaches, the trend continues, with March experiencing even more precipitation. Interestingly, the number of wet days in January is on par with February, suggesting a consistent pattern of wet weather at the start of the year. Overall, the early months of the year in Brussels highlight a gradual buildup in precipitation that peaks in the spring months before tapering off into the milder conditions of late spring and summer.

January Precipitation Trends in Brussels

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Brussels, 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 Brussels, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec656971375866718055765793
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Brussels

January in Brussels is characterized by an impressive humidity level of 91%, making it one of the dampest months of the year. This high moisture content lingers into February but begins a gentle decline, reaching 89% in February and 87% in March. As spring approaches, humidity gradually decreases, dropping to 85% in April and continuing downward to 82% by May. However, a subtle rise in humidity reemerges in late summer and autumn months, peaking again in November and December at 92%. This pattern highlights a clear seasonal trend: Brussels experiences its most humid conditions during the winter months, while the summer brings slightly dryer air, creating a distinct annual rhythm in moisture levels.

January Average Humidity in Brussels

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Brussels, 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 Brussels is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec91%89%87%85%82%82%80%76%82%89%92%92%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Brussels

In January, Brussels experiences a low UV Index of 1, indicating minimal risk from sun exposure, with a burn time of 45 minutes—a perfect time to enjoy the outdoors without heavy sun protection. As we move into February, the UV Index slightly increases to 2, maintaining a low exposure category. However, by March, the index jumps to 4, entering the moderate range, which signifies the start of a shift towards stronger sun exposure as the spring approaches. This trend continues in April with a UV Index of 5; thus, it's crucial to stay mindful of sun safety, as the burn time reduces to 30 minutes. The real intensification arrives in May and June, where the indices peak at 7 and 8, respectively, and the burn time shrinks to a mere 15 minutes during the summer months. As autumn rolls in, the UV Index gradually declines back to moderate and low levels, closing the year with January and December returning to that comforting 1, encouraging winter wanderings without worry. For more detailed information, check out the Brussels UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Brussels for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Brussels 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 Brussels typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec124578875421
Data source: Brussels 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 Brussels

January in Brussels, Belgium, typically greets residents and visitors with 121 hours of sunlight, setting a comparatively subdued tone for the winter months. However, as the year progresses, the city's sunshine hours surge dramatically; February sees an increase to 200 hours, and by March, daylight climbs to 266 hours. This upward trend continues inexorably, peaking in the summer months, with July enjoying 406 hours of glorious sunshine. The progression from January’s modest offerings to the vibrant luminosity of mid-year not only invigorates the city but also highlights the seasonal transformation, with daylight hours gradually subsiding again in the autumn and winter months. By December, the charm of winter returns as sunshine slips to 143 hours, reminding us of the beautiful cycles of light in Brussels throughout the year.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Brussels: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Brussels 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec121h200h266h346h394h398h406h379h319h240h190h143h
Data source: Brussels January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Brussels During January

In January, Brussels, Belgium experiences a mere 11% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the gloomiest months of the year. This low likelihood stands in stark contrast to the sunnier months that follow, with February seeing a rise to 30% and March climbing even higher to 40%. The trend clearly indicates that as winter gives way to spring, opportunities for sunny days increase significantly. By April, the chances reach an encouraging 50%, showcasing the city’s transition to a more vibrant atmosphere. Thus, while January may feel drab and dreary, the promise of brighter skies is just around the corner.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Brussels

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Brussels 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 Brussels experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec11%30%40%50%33%34%34%29%36%32%24%16%
Data source: Brussels January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Brussels in January

In Brussels, Belgium, January ushers in a modest daylight duration of 8 hours, setting the tone for the colder months ahead. As winter gives way to spring, the days gradually lengthen, reaching 10 hours in February and then 11 hours in March, hinting at the promise of brighter days. April brings a significant leap to 13 hours, as nature awakens, followed by a delightful 15 hours in May and a peak of 16 hours in June, inviting locals and visitors alike to bask in the warm embrace of longer days. The gradual tapering begins in July, where daylight stays at 15 hours, before gently winding down through late summer and into autumn, with 14 hours in August and 12 hours in September. By October, daylight returns to 10 hours, leading into a retreat back to 8 hours in both November and December, closing the year where it began. This rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight not only defines the seasons but also shapes the lifestyle and activities of those in the heart of Europe.

Average Daylight Hours in Brussels for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Brussels throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 31m10h 2m11h 55m13h 50m15h 31m16h 23m15h 55m14h 25m12h 34m10h 39m8h 56m8h 2m
Data source: Brussels daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Brussels

In January, Brussels greets the New Year with an average wind speed of 4.4 m/s (10 mph), creating a brisk atmosphere that hints at the lingering chill of winter. This invigorating gustiness is slightly lower than February's windiness, which sees an increase to 4.6 m/s (10 mph), but it remains a consistent backdrop throughout the season. Interestingly, as spring approaches, March experiences a dip to 4.0 m/s (9 mph), signaling a subtle shift towards calmer days. The trend continues into April and May, where wind speeds decrease further to 3.4 m/s (8 mph) before rising back to 4.4 m/s (10 mph), suggesting nature's playful dance between winter and spring. Overall, the wind in Brussels during January not only sets a brisk tone for the month but also exemplifies the city's dynamic seasonal shifts.

Average January Wind Speed in Brussels

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Brussels, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.4 m/s4.64.03.44.42.83.33.43.04.33.34.2
Data source: Brussels January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Brussels Compares to Other Months

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

January typically experiences slightly milder temperatures compared to February, with average highs reaching about 14°C (57°F) versus February's warmer maximum of 19°C (66°F). While both months see a similar number of precipitation days, February has a marginally higher average rainfall at 69 mm (2.7 in) compared to January's 65 mm (2.5 in). Humidity levels remain high in both months, although January is a bit more humid at 91%, compared to February's 89%. For a more detailed look at the weather in February, you can check out Brussels weather in February.

In comparison to January, March experiences slightly milder temperatures, with an average of 7°C (45°F) compared to January’s average of 4°C (39°F). While January exhibits a maximum temperature of 14°C (57°F), March boasts a higher maximum of 23°C (74°F), making it feel significantly warmer as spring approaches. Precipitation levels are comparable, with March receiving 70 mm (2.8 in) over 14 days, while January has 65 mm (2.5 in) spread across 12 days. Additionally, humidity is slightly lower in March at 87% compared to January’s 91%, contributing to a fresher feel. For more detailed information, check out Brussels weather in March.

In January, temperatures in the region are quite cold, with a minimum of -7°C (20°F) and an average of 4°C (39°F), reaching a maximum of 14°C (57°F). The month also sees a fair amount of rain, with 65 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 12 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 91%. In contrast, April brings a notable warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to an average of 10°C (50°F) and peaking at 27°C (80°F). Precipitation decreases to 37 mm (1.5 in) over just 8 days, and humidity slightly drops to 85%. For a more detailed look at the weather patterns, check out Brussels weather in April.

January and May in Brussels exhibit distinctly different weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a chilly -7°C (20°F) at night to a mild 14°C (57°F) during the day, with an average of around 4°C (39°F). The month tends to be quite humid, with a humidity level of 91% and approximately 65 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over about 12 days. In contrast, May brings much warmer conditions, with temperatures rising from a minimum of 1°C (33°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), averaging 13°C (57°F). Although May sees slightly less precipitation at 58 mm (2.3 in), it maintains a similar frequency of rainy days at 12, and the humidity is more moderate at 82%. For more details on May weather, check out Brussels weather in May.

In January, the weather is quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F) and an average of 4°C (39°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 65 mm (2.5 in) over approximately 12 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 91%. In stark contrast, June brings much milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a maximum of 32°C (91°F), and an average of 18°C (65°F). Although the precipitation in June is slightly higher at 66 mm (2.6 in), it falls over fewer days (9 days), and the humidity decreases to 82%. For more detailed information about the climate, you can check out Brussels weather in June.

In January, the weather is marked by cold temperatures, with minimums dropping to -7°C (20°F) and an average of 4°C (39°F), while maximum temperatures reach 14°C (57°F). The month sees about 65 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over approximately 12 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 91%. In contrast, July experiences much milder conditions, with minimum temperatures of 8°C (46°F) and an average of 19°C (66°F), soaring to a maximum of 39°C (102°F). Precipitation slightly increases to 71 mm (2.8 in) over 11 days, and the humidity drops to a more comfortable 80%. For more details on July weather, check out Brussels weather in July.

The weather in January contrasts sharply with that of August in several ways. In January, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), with an average of just 4°C (39°F). This cold month experiences high humidity levels at 91% and sees about 65 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 12 days. Conversely, August boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (46°F) and a maximum soaring to 36°C (97°F), leading to a pleasant average of 19°C (66°F). While precipitation increases slightly to 80 mm (3.2 in) over 14 days, humidity drops to a more comfortable 76%. For more details, check out Brussels weather in August.

In January, the weather is quite cold, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F). The average temperature is just around 4°C (39°F), and the month sees significant humidity at 91% along with precipitation for about 12 days, totaling 65 mm (2.5 in).

In contrast, September brings a much milder climate, with temperatures fluctuating between a low of 4°C (39°F) and a high of 33°C (91°F), resulting in an average temperature of 15°C (60°F). The humidity is also lower at 82%, and there is slightly less rainfall compared to January, with 55 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over 9 rainy days. To learn more about the weather in September, you can check this link: Brussels weather in September.

In January, the weather is notably colder with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), accompanied by high humidity at 91%. Precipitation is relatively moderate, totaling 65 mm (2.5 in) over about 12 days. In contrast, October boasts milder temperatures, with a range from 1°C (34°F) to 25°C (77°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F). Although October experiences slightly more precipitation at 76 mm (3.0 in) over 13 days, the humidity remains similar at 89%. For more details about the weather in October, you can check Brussels weather in October.

January and November present quite different weather patterns. In January, temperatures can dip as low as -7°C (20°F) with an average of 4°C (39°F), whereas November sees milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from -2°C (28°F) to a maximum of 18°C (65°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F). Precipitation is slightly less in November at 57 mm (2.2 in) over 11 days, compared to January's 65 mm (2.5 in) over 12 days. Humidity remains relatively high in both months, hovering around 91% in January and 92% in November. For a detailed look at November weather specifics, you can check out Brussels weather in November.

Comparing the weather in January and December, January tends to be slightly cooler, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), while December sees a milder range from -5°C (24°F) to 15°C (59°F). Precipitation is also lower in January, with 65 mm (2.5 in) over 12 days compared to December's 93 mm (3.7 in) over 17 days, indicating a drier month ahead. Humidity levels are quite similar, with January at 91% and December at 92%. For more detailed insights on December's weather, you can visit Brussels weather in December.

Compare Brussels's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Brussels

As winter settles in, January in Brussels brings a stark change from the more temperate months, with chillier temperatures averaging around 4°C and dips that can reach as low as -7°C. The city experiences an increase in precipitation, with roughly half the days in the month contributing to the 65 mm of rainfall, making it one of the wetter periods of the year. High humidity, often lingering at 91%, adds to the chilly feel of the air. This makes January a distinct month, characterized by its crisp, damp atmosphere, ideal for enjoying the cozy indoor charms of Brussels. For more insights on the city's climate throughout the year, visit Brussels Climate.