January Weather in Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Last updated: August 21, 2025

January in Plovdiv, Bulgaria presents a blend of winter chill and potential for mild days. With maximum temperatures reaching 16°C (61°F) and a stark average of 2°C (35°F), residents experience a varied climate that can dip to a brisk -20°C (-5°F) at times. The month witnesses 41 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation spread over 7 days, contributing to a notably high humidity level of 89%. This combination of temperatures and moisture offers a unique glimpse into the atmospheric conditions of Plovdiv during the heart of winter, making it a noteworthy month for both locals and visitors alike.

January Temperature in Plovdiv

In January, Plovdiv, Bulgaria experiences a temperature range that underscores the heart of winter. With minimums dropping to a chilling -20°C (-5°F), the city can feel bitterly cold, yet the average temperature hovers around a more bearable 2°C (35°F). Residents and visitors alike can occasionally bask in maximums reaching 16°C (61°F), offering a glimpse of the gradual warming trend that begins to surface as the month progresses. This transitional period sets the stage for February's milder averages, which hint at the promise of spring just around the corner. As the days lengthen and temperatures slowly rise, January acts as a bridge between the harshness of winter and the impending warmth, captivating all who experience its varied climates.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Plovdiv, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Plovdiv, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec354046546472777869574840
Data source: Temperature data for Plovdiv 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 Plovdiv

In January, Plovdiv experiences an average precipitation of 41 mm (1.6 in) over approximately 7 days, marking the month as one of the wetter times of the year. This slight uptick in rainfall sets the stage for what follows in February, with precipitation slightly increasing to 44 mm (1.7 in) across 8 days. The trend continues into March, where the rain intensifies, culminating in 64 mm (2.5 in) spread over 11 days—the peak before a gradual decline in the following months. Spring brings more moderate conditions, with April and May showcasing 49 mm (1.9 in) and 51 mm (2.0 in), respectively. As summer approaches, the intensity fluctuates, reaching a high of 77 mm (3.0 in) in June, before tapering off in the drier months of August and September, which drop to 28 mm (1.1 in) and 17 mm (0.7 in). Overall, January sets a precursor to the shifting weather patterns in Plovdiv, where the trend is a notable transition from colder, wetter days to warmer, drier conditions as the year unfolds.

January Precipitation Trends in Plovdiv

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Plovdiv, 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 Plovdiv, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec414464495177472817515460
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Plovdiv

In January, Plovdiv experiences notably high humidity at 89%, setting the stage for a damp winter atmosphere. This trend continues into December, which matches January's moisture, suggesting a consistent chill that lingers through the season. As we transition into February, humidity slightly decreases to 85%, signaling the slow shift towards spring. By March, it further drops to 83%, and as warmer months approach, the humidity levels continue to decline, reaching 71% in April. May and June mark a gentle stabilization, with humidity hovering around the low seventies and late sixties, before dipping dramatically to 50% in August. The return of the cooler months brings increased moisture again, as September sees a rise to 59% and October jumps to 79%. Notably, November returns to high humidity levels at 87%, reinforcing the cyclical nature of moisture in Plovdiv as it returns to winter's embrace.

January Average Humidity in Plovdiv

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Plovdiv, 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 Plovdiv is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec89%85%83%71%73%67%68%50%59%79%87%89%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Plovdiv

In January, Plovdiv experiences a low UV Index of 2, indicating minimal risk for sunburn with a burn time of 45 minutes. As the year progresses, this trend shifts significantly; by February, the index rises to 4, entering the moderate exposure category with a reduced burn time of 30 minutes. March brings further increases, reaching a high UV Index of 6 that slashes the burn time to 25 minutes. As the days lengthen into spring and summer, the UV levels peak, with May and June seeing a formidable UV Index of 9 and 10 respectively, demanding only a 15-minute exposure before burning. Interestingly, this high risk persists through July and August before tapering off in the fall. By November, the UV Index drops to 3, and again to 2 in December, offering a reprieve as winter sets in. Understanding these trends is crucial for maintaining skin health year-round. For detailed information, check out the Plovdiv UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Plovdiv for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Plovdiv 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 Plovdiv typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2468910997632
Data source: Plovdiv 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 Plovdiv

In Plovdiv, Bulgaria, January greets the year with a modest 176 hours of sunshine, laying the groundwork for a gradual increase in daylight as winter gradually gives way to spring. By February, the sun brightens the days to 237 hours, signaling the promise of warmer months ahead. As spring blooms, March offers an inviting 288 hours of sunshine, which blossoms into an impressive 346 hours in April. The sun continues to shine brighter through the lush days of May and June, peaking at 400 hours during the peak of summer. Notably, July basks in the most sunlight of the year with 427 hours, before beginning a gentle decline through August and into the fall months, reflecting 344 hours in September and diminishing to 291 hours in October. As the days grow shorter, November and December still hold onto a respectable 232 and 220 hours, respectively, making January's modest light a mere whisper of the vibrant sunshine that will soon return, setting the perfect stage for the cyclical dance of seasons in Plovdiv.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Plovdiv: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Plovdiv 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec176h237h288h346h393h400h427h403h344h291h232h220h
Data source: Plovdiv January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Plovdiv During January

In Plovdiv, Bulgaria, the likelihood of sunny weather in January sits at a modest 33%, marking it as one of the bleakest months for sun compared to the rest of the year. As winter transitions to spring, the chances steadily improve, with February seeing a notable increase to 52%. This upward trend continues into March, where the probability of sunshine remains strong at 48%, and April and May maintain similar levels around 47%. It's clear that January's cool and often overcast days give way to more welcoming skies as the seasons shift, ultimately leading to the sun-drenched days of summer, where July boasts an impressive 80% chance of sunshine. So, while January may not be the sunniest month in Plovdiv, it sets the stage for a brighter, warmer future.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Plovdiv

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Plovdiv 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 Plovdiv experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec33%52%48%47%47%52%80%77%54%41%34%36%
Data source: Plovdiv January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Plovdiv in January

In Plovdiv, Bulgaria, January marks the beginning of a gradual increase in daylight, with the city enjoying approximately 9 hours of light each day. As winter transitions into spring, daylight extends steadily, reaching 10 hours in February and blossoming to 11 hours by March. This trend continues through April and May, where residents experience over 13 hours of sunlight, peaking at 15 hours in June. With the arrival of summer, daylight begins to taper off, providing 14 hours in July and gently decreasing to 12 hours by September. The autumn months bring shorter days once again, with daylight dwindling to 9 hours by November, and remaining steady through December. Overall, Plovdiv's daylight patterns reflect the natural ebb and flow of the seasons, offering a dynamic landscape of light throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Plovdiv for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Plovdiv throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 27m10h 33m11h 57m13h 23m14h 36m15h 12m14h 53m13h 48m12h 26m11h 1m9h 46m9h 7m
Data source: Plovdiv daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Plovdiv

In January, Plovdiv experiences an average wind speed of 2.3 m/s (5 mph), which is slightly higher than the wind speeds recorded in February and April, both at 2.0 m/s (4 mph). This brisk start to the year sets the tone for a generally mild wind pattern across the months, with wind speeds fluctuating but remaining mostly consistent. As spring approaches, notably in March and May, the winds gently pick up again at 2.2 m/s (5 mph), maintaining a friendly breeze that complements the area's blooming scenery. By summer, wind speeds stabilize at a lower average of 2.0 m/s (5 mph) in June and August, only to dip to its lowest in the late summer and autumn months, where a serene calm prevails, especially in October at 1.8 m/s (4 mph). Throughout the year, while January kicks off with a notable gust, the overall trend reveals a gentle rhythm of wind that characterizes Plovdiv’s weather, making it a peaceful backdrop for both residents and visitors.

Average January Wind Speed in Plovdiv

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Plovdiv, 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/s2.02.22.02.22.02.21.81.91.81.92.2
Data source: Plovdiv January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Plovdiv Compares to Other Months

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

January and February present notable differences in weather conditions. January experiences a chillier climate, with average temperatures around 2°C (35°F) and minimum lows plunging to -20°C (-5°F). In contrast, February brings a slight warming trend, with average temperatures rising to 5°C (41°F) and minimum temperatures only dipping to -13°C (8°F). Precipitation remains similar in both months, with January recording 41 mm (1.6 in) and February slightly higher at 44 mm (1.7 in). Additionally, while January has a humidity level of 89%, February is slightly drier at 85%. For more detailed information about February's weather, visit Plovdiv weather in February.

In January, the weather tends to be quite frigid, with temperatures reaching a minimum of -20°C (-5°F) and an average of around 2°C (35°F), peaking at a maximum of 16°C (61°F). The month experiences 41 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation over approximately 7 days, and the humidity is notably high at 89%. In contrast, March sees a gradual warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -18°C (0°F) to an average of 8°C (46°F) and a high of 24°C (76°F). This month is also wetter, with total precipitation reaching 64 mm (2.5 in) over about 11 days, while humidity remains lower at 83%. For more detailed insights, check out Plovdiv weather in March.

January and April present stark contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -20°C (-5°F), with an average of only 2°C (35°F) and a maximum reaching 16°C (61°F). The month sees a significant amount of precipitation, totaling 41 mm (1.6 in) over about 7 days, all while maintaining a high humidity level of 89%. In comparison, April witnesses a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to an average of 12°C (55°F) and a peak of 29°C (84°F). Although April has slightly higher precipitation at 49 mm (1.9 in) across 9 days, the humidity drops to 71%, creating a more pleasant atmosphere. For more details on April weather, check Plovdiv weather in April.

In January, the weather is quite frigid, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -20°C (-5°F) to a maximum of 16°C (61°F), resulting in an average of only 2°C (35°F). The month experiences a high humidity level of 89% and generally has around 41 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation over about 7 days. In contrast, May brings a significant shift in climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F) and an average temperature of 18°C (65°F). Although May has slightly more precipitation at 51 mm (2.0 in) over approximately 11 days, the humidity drops to a more comfortable 73%. For more details on the weather in May, visit Plovdiv weather in May.

In January, the weather is cold and harsh, with temperatures ranging from a frigid minimum of -20°C to a pleasant maximum of 16°C. The average temperature hovers around 2°C, accompanied by high humidity at 89% and moderate precipitation of 41 mm over about 7 days. In stark contrast, June brings warmth and sunshine, with minimum temperatures starting at 9°C and peaking at a scorching 39°C. The average temperature in June reaches a comfortable 22°C, and while precipitation increases to 77 mm over 12 days, humidity drops to a more pleasant 67%. For more details, check out Plovdiv weather in June.

January and July present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plummet as low as -20°C (-5°F), with an average of 2°C (35°F) and a maximum reaching 16°C (61°F). The month experiences high humidity at 89% and sees about 41 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation over 7 days. In contrast, July boasts much milder temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (54°F), an average of 25°C (77°F), and potential highs soaring up to 40°C (105°F). This summer month experiences slightly higher precipitation at 47 mm (1.8 in) also over 7 days but with a much more comfortable humidity level of 68%. For more detailed information, check out Plovdiv weather in July.

January and August present drastically different weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plunge as low as -20°C (-5°F), with an average of 2°C (35°F) and maximums reaching only 16°C (61°F). This month experiences frequent precipitation, occurring on about 7 days, alongside high humidity levels at 89%. In stark contrast, August boasts more pleasant warmth, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to an average of 25°C (78°F) and a scorching maximum of 42°C (107°F). Precipitation is less common, falling on only 4 days with a total of 28 mm (1.1 in) and significantly lower humidity at 50%. For more details, you can check Plovdiv weather in August.

In January, the weather is characterized by frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -20°C (-5°F) and an average of just 2°C (35°F), making it a chilly month overall. The precipitation level is relatively moderate at 41 mm (1.6 in) over about 7 days, accompanied by high humidity at 89%. In contrast, September sees significantly warmer conditions, with a minimum temperature of 2°C (37°F), an average temperature soaring to 21°C (69°F), and maximums reaching up to a sweltering 37°C (99°F). The month experiences much less rainfall, totaling only 17 mm (0.7 in) over just 2 days, and the humidity drops to a comfortable 59%. For further details on September weather, visit Plovdiv weather in September.

In January, temperatures in Plovdiv can plummet to a chilling minimum of -20°C (-5°F), with an average of 2°C (35°F) and a maximum of 16°C (61°F). The month is characterized by high humidity levels at 89% and receives about 41 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation over seven days, creating a cold and damp atmosphere. In stark contrast, October brings milder weather with a minimum temperature of 0°C (33°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F), peaking at a warm 33°C (92°F). With a lower humidity of 79% and slightly more precipitation at 51 mm (2.0 in) over five days, October offers a much more pleasant climate for outdoor activities. For more details about the weather during this month, check out Plovdiv weather in October.

In January, temperatures in Plovdiv can drop as low as -20°C (-5°F), but typically average around 2°C (35°F), reaching a maximum of 16°C (61°F). The month sees about 41 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation over approximately 7 days, with a high humidity level of 89%. In contrast, November experiences milder conditions, with a minimum temperature of -5°C (23°F) and an average temperature of 9°C (48°F), peaking at 26°C (79°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 54 mm (2.1 in) over the same number of rainy days, and humidity remains relatively high at 87%. For more detailed information, visit Plovdiv weather in November.

In January, temperatures are notably colder, with minimums dropping to -20°C (-5°F) and average highs reaching just 16°C (61°F), whereas December experiences milder conditions, with minimum temperatures around -8°C (18°F) and maximums of 18°C (65°F). Precipitation slightly decreases in January, totaling 41 mm (1.6 in) over about 7 days, compared to December's 60 mm (2.4 in) across 9 days. Both months share a high humidity level of 89%, creating a similarly damp atmosphere despite the colder temperatures in January. For more details on December's weather, you can check Plovdiv weather in December.

Compare Plovdiv's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Plovdiv

In January, Plovdiv experiences a notable shift in weather compared to the milder months of spring and summer. With temperatures dipping to an average of 2°C and the possibility of reaching a chilly -20°C, this month marks the peak of winter's embrace. Humidity levels rise to around 89%, and while precipitation is relatively low, the seven rainy days can bring a damp chill that sets January apart from sunnier seasons. As the city endures the cold, it offers a stark contrast to the vibrant life of the warmer months, making January a unique time to experience Plovdiv's serene winter landscape. For a deeper dive into the broader context of Plovdiv's weather patterns, visit Plovdiv Climate.