January Weather in Mechelen, Belgium

Last updated: August 21, 2025

January in Mechelen, Belgium is characterized by a chill that shapes the month’s ambiance. With maximum temperatures reaching 14°C (58°F) and dipping down to a frigid -6°C (21°F), the average temperature hovers around a brisk 4°C (40°F). Rainfall is a regular feature, totaling 62 mm (2.4 in) over 11 days, contributing to the city's moisture-laden atmosphere, which boasts a humidity level of 91%. This combination makes January a month where the resilience against the cold and wet is truly tested.

January Temperature in Mechelen

In Mechelen, Belgium, January experiences chilly temperatures that signal the heart of winter. With minimums dropping to a brisk -6°C (21°F) and maximums reaching a moderate 14°C (58°F), the month averages around 4°C (40°F). This trend of cold begins to soften slightly as February approaches, but the dip in temperatures can still be felt, with lows of -9°C (16°F) and highs peaking at 19°C (66°F). January's cool climate invites cozy moments indoors, but it also hints at the gradual warming to come, as the average temperatures steadily rise into the early spring months. With each passing week, the chill begins to give way to the promise of milder days ahead, making it a month that balances the lingering winter with the anticipation of renewal.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Mechelen, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Mechelen, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec404245505765666660554542
Data source: Temperature data for Mechelen 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 Mechelen

January in Mechelen, Belgium, typically sees 62 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation, spread across an average of 11 days. This signals the start of the year with consistent moisture that gradually builds as winter transitions into spring. Notably, January's precipitation is slightly lower than February and March, which experience increases to 67 mm (2.6 in) and 68 mm (2.7 in) respectively. However, while the amount of rain may not be at its peak, the frequency of rainy days sets a pattern that prepares the landscape for the wetter months ahead. As winter deepens and the days grow longer, Mechelen's climate signals a steady approach toward a more vibrant spring, marked by a notable uptick in rainfall in late winter and early spring months.

January Precipitation Trends in Mechelen

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Mechelen, 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 Mechelen, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec626768355764717450775388
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Mechelen

In January, Mechelen, Belgium experiences a notable humidity level of 91%, marking the peak of the winter season's damp atmosphere. This high humidity gradually begins to decline in February and March, with levels dropping to 89% and 87% respectively, signaling the slow transition towards spring. As the months progress into April and May, humidity levels continue to ease, reaching 85% and then 82%. Interestingly, this trend of relative dryness continues through June and July, where humidity remains steady at 82% and 80%, offering a comfortable summer climate. However, by August, the humidity again slightly increases to 76%, adding a touch of warmth to the air. As autumn approaches, humidity surges back, with October rising to 89% and November and December both concluding the year with a high 92%. This cyclical pattern illustrates how Mechelen’s humidity mirrors the changing seasons, with winter and late autumn holding the most moisture, while the mid-year months offer a delightful respite.

January Average Humidity in Mechelen

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Mechelen, 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 Mechelen 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 Mechelen

In January, Mechelen experiences a low UV Index of 1, indicating minimal risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, with a burn time of 45 minutes. As the months progress, the UV Index gradually rises; February maintains the same low level, but by March, it escalates to a moderate rating of 4, reducing the safe exposure time to 30 minutes. April sees a slight increase to 5, and by May, the UV Index reaches a high level of 7, which requires more cautious sun practices with a burn time reduced to just 25 minutes. The trend continues into the summer months, peaking in June and July at a very high UV Index of 8, where exposure is limited to only 15 minutes. As autumn sets in, the index begins to decline, with September experiencing a moderate value again, followed by low levels in November and December. Overall, the shifting UV Index in Mechelen emphasizes the importance of adapting sun safety measures throughout the year. Stay informed with the detailed insights at Mechelen UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Mechelen for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Mechelen 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 Mechelen typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec124578875321
Data source: Mechelen 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 Mechelen

In Mechelen, Belgium, January brings a modest 120 hours of sunshine, marking the beginning of the year with a gentle glimmer of daylight. As winter gives way to spring, the sun's presence steadily increases, peaking impressively in June with 400 hours. This upward trend continues into July, where residents and visitors alike can bask in 411 hours of sunshine. However, as the seasons transition towards autumn, the days shorten, resulting in a gradual decline that sees September boasting 320 hours before returning to winter's embrace in December with just 143 hours. Overall, the pattern reveals a clear seasonal rhythm, transitioning from the winter's dim light to the vibrant sunshine of mid-year, before gracefully retreating once more.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Mechelen: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Mechelen 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec120h203h272h348h397h400h411h383h320h241h191h143h
Data source: Mechelen January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Mechelen During January

In Mechelen, Belgium, January is characterized by a modest 10% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the cloudiest months of the year. As winter gives way to spring, the likelihood of sunshine gradually increases, with February seeing a notable rise to 31%. This upward trend continues through to the warmer months, reaching a peak of 47% by April. By the time May arrives, the chances level out slightly at 33%, showcasing the transitional nature of early spring. The consistent 34% chance of sun during the summer months suggests that while January offers limited sunlight, the subsequent months gradually enhance opportunities to bask in the sun, providing a brighter outlook as the year progresses.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Mechelen

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Mechelen 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 Mechelen experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec11%31%39%47%33%34%34%31%34%31%24%17%
Data source: Mechelen January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Mechelen in January

In Mechelen, Belgium, January marks the beginning of the year with a modest 8 hours of daylight, setting a gradual pattern of increasing light as winter transitions into spring. By February, days lengthen to 10 hours, offering a hint of the bright months ahead. As March unfolds, daylight extends to 11 hours, and by April, the average climbs further to 13 hours, inviting outside activities and a sense of renewal. May shines with 15 hours of sunlight, while June peaks at 16 hours, making it the sunniest month of the year. Following the summer, daylight begins to wane; July maintains 15 hours but drifts to 14 hours in August, as September brings a further decline to 12 hours. With autumn settling in, October and November offer both 10 and 8 hours of daylight, respectively, leading into the shorter days of December, which culminate in only 7 hours. This rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight not only defines the seasons but also reflects the vibrant changes in everyday life in Mechelen.

Average Daylight Hours in Mechelen for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Mechelen throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 27m10h11h 55m13h 52m15h 34m16h 27m15h 59m14h 27m12h 34m10h 38m8h 53m7h 58m
Data source: Mechelen daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Mechelen

In Mechelen, Belgium, the January wind sets the tone for the year, with an average wind speed of 4.2 m/s (9 mph). This brisk beginning gradually transitions to slightly stronger gusts in February, reaching 4.3 m/s (10 mph), before taking a dip in the spring months. March and April bring a mild breeze, averaging 3.8 m/s and 3.3 m/s, respectively, reflecting the softening chill as winter recedes. The winds pick up again in May, returning to 4.1 m/s, but then settle into a calmer rhythm during the summer months, with speeds dropping to 2.7 m/s in June. This gentler breeziness persists through August, only to see a small resurgence in the fall, particularly in October, as the winds return to a more invigorating pace of 4.1 m/s. Overall, the January winds not only herald the start of the year but also showcase the natural ebb and flow of Mechelen's climate.

Average January Wind Speed in Mechelen

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Mechelen, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.2 m/s4.33.83.34.12.73.23.22.94.13.23.9
Data source: Mechelen January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Mechelen Compares to Other Months

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

January and February in Mechelen exhibit distinct weather patterns as winter transitions into early spring. January typically sees milder temperatures with an average of 4°C (40°F), while February is slightly cooler, averaging 6°C (42°F), although it can reach a maximum of 19°C (66°F) on warmer days. Precipitation is fairly consistent between the two months, with January receiving 62 mm (2.4 in) over 11 days and February totaling 67 mm (2.6 in) across 12 days. Humidity is also comparable, with January at 91% and February slightly lower at 89%. For more detailed information, you can check Mechelen weather in February.

In comparing the weather between January and March, we see marked differences in temperature and precipitation. January typically has a minimum temperature of -6°C (21°F) and an average of 4°C (40°F), while March experiences slightly colder nights with a minimum of -7°C (19°F) but a warmer average temperature of 7°C (46°F) and maximums that can reach 23°C (74°F). Precipitation levels are somewhat similar, with January receiving 62 mm (2.4 in) over 11 days, and March totaling 68 mm (2.7 in) across 13 days. Additionally, humidity is slightly higher in January at 91%, compared to March's 87%. For a detailed look at March weather patterns, you can visit Mechelen weather in March.

January and April in Mechelen present noticeably different weather patterns. January often features chilly temperatures, with lows plunging to -6°C (21°F) and an average temperature hovering around 4°C (40°F). In contrast, April brings a significant warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a comfortable average of 10°C (51°F) and maximums reaching 28°C (82°F). Additionally, January experiences more precipitation, totaling 62 mm (2.4 in) over about 11 days, compared to April's 35 mm (1.4 in) over just 7 days. Humidity levels also differ slightly, being higher in January at 91% compared to April’s 85%. For more detailed information on April weather in Mechelen, check out Mechelen weather in April.

In Mechelen, January's weather is characterized by cold temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (21°F) and an average of just 4°C (40°F). The month sees 62 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over 11 days, coupled with high humidity at 91%. In contrast, May brings a significant shift, with temperatures rising to a minimum of 1°C (34°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F), reaching a maximum of 32°C (89°F). Rainfall is slightly lower at 57 mm (2.3 in) over 12 days, along with reduced humidity at 82%. For more details on spring weather, you can check Mechelen weather in May.

In January, the weather in Mechelen is quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), and an average temperature of 4°C (40°F). This month experiences significant humidity at 91%, contributing to a damp atmosphere, along with approximately 62 mm (2.4 inches) of precipitation over 11 days.

Conversely, June brings a much warmer climate, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F), and an average temperature of 18°C (65°F). The humidity drops to 82%, and while the precipitation is slightly higher at 64 mm (2.5 inches), it occurs over fewer days—just 9. For a detailed look at what to expect, you can check out Mechelen weather in June.

In January, the weather in Mechelen is notably cold, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of just 14°C (58°F). The month typically experiences 62 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over about 11 days, along with high humidity levels reaching 91%. In contrast, July boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (47°F) and a maximum that can soar up to 39°C (103°F). Although July sees slightly more precipitation at 71 mm (2.8 in) over about 10 days, its humidity is lower at 80%. For more details on weather patterns during this summer month, check out Mechelen weather in July.

January and August present quite contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures range from a chilly -6°C (21°F) at their lowest to a mild 14°C (58°F) at their highest, with an average temperature of around 4°C (40°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 91% and 62 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over 11 days. In stark contrast, August boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (47°F) and a maximum soaring to 36°C (96°F), resulting in a comfortable average of 19°C (67°F). Additionally, August sees slightly more precipitation at 74 mm (2.9 in) over 13 days, but with lower humidity at 76%. For more details, you can check Mechelen weather in August.

January and September present distinctly different weather patterns. While January's average temperature hovers around 4°C (40°F) with a chilly minimum of -6°C (21°F) and a maximum of 14°C (58°F), September offers a milder average of 16°C (60°F), with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a warm maximum of 33°C (93°F). Precipitation in January totals 62 mm (2.4 in) over 11 days, making it one of the wetter months, whereas September sees slightly less precipitation at 50 mm (2.0 in) over 9 days. Additionally, January's humidity is quite high at 91%, compared to September’s more comfortable level of 82%. For more details and insights about September weather, check out Mechelen weather in September.

When comparing the weather between January and October, notable differences emerge. January experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C and an average around 4°C, while October enjoys milder weather, with a minimum of 2°C and an average of 13°C. Precipitation is slightly higher in October, totaling 77 mm over 12 days, compared to January's 62 mm over 11 days. Additionally, humidity levels are relatively high in both months, but January sees a slightly higher average at 91%, compared to October’s 89%. For more detailed information, check the Mechelen weather in October.

January typically experiences colder temperatures compared to November, with average highs of 4°C (40°F) in January versus 7°C (46°F) in November. While both months see similar amounts of precipitation, January has slightly more with 62 mm (2.4 in) over 11 days, compared to 53 mm (2.1 in) over 10 days in November. Humidity levels remain high in both months, but January is just a touch lower at 91%, compared to November's 92%. For a more detailed look at November weather, you can check Mechelen weather in November.

In comparing the weather of January and December, we find that both months are quite chilly, with January experiencing slightly lower temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F). In contrast, December sees temperatures that range from -5°C (23°F) to 15°C (60°F), making it marginally warmer overall. Additionally, January has a lower average precipitation of 62 mm (2.4 in) over 11 days, compared to December's 88 mm (3.5 in) spread over 16 days. Humidity remains similar in both months, with January at 91% and December at 92%. For more detailed insights, you can check out Mechelen weather in December.

Compare Mechelen's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Mechelen

January in Mechelen is a month of contrasts, where the crisp winter air can leave you reaching for a warm jacket. With temperatures often dipping to chilly lows, it stands out from the milder months that follow. This month typically brings higher humidity and noticeable precipitation, making it feel more brisk and damp compared to other times of the year. While the landscapes may be draped in a cold cloak, the quiet beauty of Mechelen in January offers a unique charm. For those looking to explore or understand how the weather shifts throughout the year, detailed insights can be found at Mechelen Climate.