January Weather in Athabasca, Canada

Last updated: April 22, 2025

In Athabasca, Canada, January presents a striking contrast in temperatures, with a maximum of 7°C (45°F) and an average chilling at -12°C (11°F). The mercury can plummet to a frigid minimum of -40°C (-41°F), showcasing the extreme winter conditions typical of the region. Throughout the month, Athabasca experiences approximately 18 mm (0.7 in) of precipitation over 4 days, contributing to an 88% humidity level that hangs in the air, creating a uniquely frosty ambiance. This dramatic weather pattern offers both challenges and a breathtaking winter landscape, captivating all who venture into its depths.

January Temperature in Athabasca

In Athabasca, Canada, January ushers in the heart of winter with frigid temperatures that can plummet to a chilling -40°C (-41°F) at night, while the average hovers around a stark -12°C (11°F). Despite these extremes, daytime offers a glimpse of warmth, reaching up to 7°C (45°F), providing a stark contrast to the biting cold. As the month progresses into February, the chill intensifies slightly, with nighttime lows dipping until -41°C (-41°F). However, the overall trend shows a gradual ascent toward spring; by March, temperatures begin to rise significantly, with daytime highs touching 15°C (60°F). This progressive thaw continues into April, as Athabasca transitions from the harsh depths of winter, highlighting the region's resilient spirit in embracing the changing seasons.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Athabasca, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec11823355259636050372213
Data source: Temperature data for Athabasca 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 Athabasca

In January, Athabasca, Canada experiences a relatively dry start to the year, with only 18 mm (0.7 in) of precipitation spread over just 4 days. This modest rainfall marks the least wet month compared to the following ones, as February and March see a slight increase to 19 mm (0.8 in), but still maintain a low frequency of precipitation days. It isn't until April that the total rises significantly to 32 mm (1.3 in), signaling the transition to a wetter spring. The trend escalates dramatically from June onward, with monthly totals peaking in July at 122 mm (4.8 in), showcasing a clear shift towards wetter weather as summer approaches. Such patterns highlight how Athabasca's climate evolves from relatively dry winter months to a more humid environment by mid-year, making the region's seasonal transitions distinct and noteworthy.

January Precipitation Trends in Athabasca

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Athabasca, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec18191932401081236742383419
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Athabasca

In Athabasca, Canada, January ushers in a high humidity level of 88%, setting the stage for a consistently damp winter. As the year progresses into February, the humidity peaks at 93%, creating a notably chilly atmosphere. The trend continues with a slight drop in March to 90%, before easing into a more moderate 78% in April, signaling the transition towards spring. From May to June, humidity stabilizes at 70%, offering a respite from the cold. However, as summer approaches, levels rise again, peaking in July at 79% and then gradually tapering off in the late summer months. Interestingly, autumn brings a gradual increase once more, with November reaching 85% and December climbing back up to 93%, effectively closing the year on a moist note. This cyclical pattern highlights Athabasca's notably humid climate, particularly during the colder months.

January Average Humidity in Athabasca

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Athabasca, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec88%93%91%78%70%70%79%78%73%81%85%93%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Athabasca

In Athabasca, Canada, January brings a UV Index of 1, indicating a low exposure category with a comfortable burn time of 45 minutes. This trend of low UV levels continues into February, maintaining the same index and burn duration. However, a noticeable shift occurs in March and April when the UV Index rises to 4 and 5, respectively, transitioning into the moderate exposure category, which significantly reduces burn time to 30 minutes. As spring gives way to summer, the UV Index surges, reaching high levels of 7 in May and June and peaking at 8 in July, with burn times plummeting to just 15 minutes during this period of very high exposure. Subsequently, August through September sees a slight decrease but remains in the high category, before tapering off to moderate levels in October, and returning to low exposure in November and December. As winter approaches again, the pattern suggests a balance of safe sun exposure throughout the year, with winter months being the safest for outdoor activities. For more information on the UV Index throughout the year, visit Athabasca UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Athabasca for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Athabasca 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec124577876311
Data source: Athabasca 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 Athabasca

In Athabasca, Canada, January greets residents with a modest 109 hours of sunshine, a stark contrast to the sunnier months that follow. As winter fades, sunshine progressively increases, peaking in the vibrant summer months, particularly July, with an impressive 352 hours basking the region in warmth. The transition from the cold of January to the lushness of May highlights a gradual ascent in daylight, with February and March showing significant gains at 180 and 238 hours, respectively. This upward trend continues into late spring and summer, only to taper off gently as autumn sets in, reminding us of the cyclical nature of sunshine. As the year winds down, the daylight hours gradually diminish, culminating in the cozy embrace of December, which offers a reflective 142 hours. The sunshine patterns in Athabasca not only mark the changing seasons but also serve as a vibrant backdrop for the community's seasonal activities.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Athabasca: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Athabasca 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec109h180h238h276h338h329h352h321h237h191h143h142h
Data source: Athabasca January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Athabasca During January

In January, Athabasca, Canada, experiences a 36% chance of sunny weather, marking it as a time when clear skies can brighten the chilly winter days. As the months progress, the likelihood of sunshine tends to rise, peaking at 54% in July, suggesting that while January may offer fewer sunlit moments, the gradual transition towards spring brings more frequent sunny spells. Interestingly, both February and March follow closely behind January, with 29% and 35% chances of sun, respectively, indicating that this winter season isn't entirely devoid of light. By April, the sun's presence becomes more prominent at 39%, setting the stage for the sunnier months ahead.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Athabasca

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Athabasca 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 Athabasca experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec36%29%35%39%36%44%54%43%47%55%37%32%
Data source: Athabasca January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Athabasca in January

In Athabasca, Canada, the daylight duration begins its annual cycle at just 7 hours in January, offering a taste of the long winter nights. As February approaches, daylight increases to 9 hours, hinting at the impending shift toward spring. By March, the days stretch to 11 hours, marking a significant leap that continues through April, when daylight reaches a vibrant 14 hours. As May unfolds, sunlight embraces the region for an impressive 16 hours, leading to the peak of 17 hours in June, where summer maximizes its daylight bounty. However, July sees a slight decrease to 16 hours as the days gradually shorten. The transition continues, with August at 14 hours, followed by September at 12 hours. The retreat into winter is evident as October has 10 hours, then November dips to 8 hours, and finally, December returns to 7 hours. This rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight not only reflects the changing seasons but also paints a vivid picture of Athabasca’s unique climate experience throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Athabasca for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Athabasca throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7h 55m9h 43m11h 55m14h 9m16h 8m17h 11m16h 36m14h 47m12h 37m10h 24m8h 23m7h 18m
Data source: Athabasca daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Athabasca

In Athabasca, Canada, the winds of January usher in an average speed of 3.4 m/s (8 mph), marking the year's breeziest month. As winter transitions into spring, a gentle downward trend becomes apparent; February and March see only slight decreases to 3.3 and 3.2 m/s respectively. This calm atmosphere continues into April, where the winds settle to 3.0 m/s, maintaining a consistent yet mild breeze through the summer months. May through September hover around 3.2 to 3.3 m/s, offering a refreshing, stable airflow. However, as the year winds down, the breeze lightens further, culminating in December’s low of 3.0 m/s. Ultimately, Athabasca’s winds embody a rhythmic fluctuation, with January standing out as a noteworthy start to the year before a gentle decline into quieter, more serene months.

Average January Wind Speed in Athabasca

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Athabasca, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.4 m/s3.33.23.03.23.33.13.13.33.23.13.0
Data source: Athabasca January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Athabasca Compares to Other Months

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

In comparing the weather between January and February, January experiences slightly milder conditions with an average temperature of -12°C (11°F) and a maximum of 7°C (45°F), although minimum temperatures can plunge to -40°C (-41°F). February, on the other hand, is colder overall, with an average of -13°C (9°F) and maximum temperatures reaching 12°C (55°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in February at 19 mm (0.8 in) compared to January's 18 mm (0.7 in), though it occurs over fewer days, with precipitation recorded on just three days. Furthermore, February is characterized by a higher humidity level of 93% compared to January’s 88%. For more details, check out Athabasca weather in February.

January and March present a notable contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plummet to a chilling minimum of -40°C (-41°F), with an average of -12°C (11°F) and a maximum reaching only 7°C (45°F). The month sees relatively low precipitation at 18 mm (0.7 in) over about 4 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 88%. In contrast, March experiences a milder climate, with minimum temperatures around -31°C (-23°F), an average of -5°C (23°F), and maximums climbing to 15°C (60°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 19 mm (0.8 in) over 6 days, while humidity rises marginally to 90%. For more details on March weather specifics, you can check Athabasca weather in March.

January's weather is characterized by frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -40°C (-41°F) and an average of -12°C (11°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. Precipitation is low, falling only 18 mm (0.7 in) over four days, and the humidity remains quite high at 88%. In contrast, April brings a significant change, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -24°C (-11°F) to a pleasant maximum of 25°C (78°F) and an average of 2°C (36°F). Precipitation increases to 32 mm (1.3 in) over seven days, and while humidity decreases to 78%, the overall feel is much milder. For more details, you can check Athabasca weather in April.

January weather is characterized by frigid temperatures, with a minimum reaching an extreme -40°C (-41°F) and an average of -12°C (11°F). Precipitation is relatively low at 18 mm (0.7 in), occurring over just four days, while humidity remains high at 88%. In stark contrast, May welcomes milder conditions, where temperatures can dip to a minimum of -6°C (22°F) but soar to a pleasant maximum of 31°C (88°F), with an average temperature of 11°C (52°F). May also experiences increased precipitation at 40 mm (1.6 in) over six days, but with a lower humidity of 70%. For more details on May's weather, check out Athabasca weather in May.

January and June present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plunge to a chilling minimum of -40°C (-41°F), with an average of -12°C (11°F) and a maximum of 7°C (45°F). Precipitation is relatively low at 18 mm (0.7 in) over just four days, accompanied by high humidity at 88%. In contrast, June brings a significant warm-up, with minimum temperatures starting at 1°C (35°F) and averaging 15°C (60°F), reaching a maximum of 35°C (95°F). Precipitation increases to 108 mm (4.3 in) spread over 14 days, and humidity drops to a comfortable 70%. For a closer look at what to expect, you can check Athabasca weather in June.

In January, the weather in Athabasca is characterized by extremely low temperatures, with a minimum reaching -40°C (-41°F) and an average around -12°C (11°F). This starkly contrasts with July, where temperatures soar to a maximum of 36°C (96°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F). January experiences only 18 mm (0.7 in) of precipitation over just 4 days, while July sees a significant increase in rainfall, totaling 122 mm (4.8 in) across 15 days. Additionally, January's humidity is higher at 88%, compared to 79% in July, reflecting the seasonal shift from frigid winter to warm summer months. For more details on weather conditions in July, you can check Athabasca weather in July.

In January, temperatures plummet, with a chilling minimum of -40°C (-41°F) and an average around -12°C (11°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. The weather is characterized by light precipitation, totaling 18 mm (0.7 in) over just four days, while humidity levels remain high at 88%. In stark contrast, August experiences a more temperate climate, featuring a significant increase in temperature with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and an average of 16°C (60°F), reaching a maximum of 32°C (89°F). The month sees more rainfall totaling 67 mm (2.6 in) across about 10 days, accompanied by lower humidity at 78%. For more details, you can check Athabasca weather in August.

January and September in Athabasca present starkly contrasting weather patterns. In January, the temperatures are frigid, with a chilling minimum of -40°C (-41°F) and an average of -12°C (11°F), while the maximum only reaches 7°C (45°F). The month sees low precipitation levels at 18 mm (0.7 in) over just four days, coupled with high humidity at 88%. In contrast, September enjoys a milder climate with a minimum temperature of -4°C (26°F) and an average of 10°C (50°F), peaking at a warm 29°C (84°F). This month experiences more precipitation, totaling 42 mm (1.7 in) across eight days, with a significantly lower humidity of 73%. For a deeper insight into the weather patterns in September, you can visit Athabasca weather in September.

In January, the weather is frigid, with temperatures ranging from a chilling -40°C (-41°F) to a modest maximum of 7°C (45°F), averaging around -12°C (11°F). This month sees about 18 mm (0.7 in) of precipitation over just 4 days, with an impressively high humidity level of 88%. In contrast, October experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of -13°C (9°F) and a comfortable maximum of 21°C (71°F), averaging 3°C (37°F). While October has increased precipitation at 38 mm (1.5 in) spread over 6 days, the humidity is slightly lower at 81%. For a closer look at the weather conditions in October, you can visit Athabasca weather in October.

The weather in January is significantly colder than in November, with January experiencing minimum temperatures plunging to -40°C (-41°F) and an average of -12°C (11°F), whereas November's temperatures range between a minimum of -21°C (-6°F) and an average of -5°C (23°F). Precipitation levels are also higher in November, totaling 34 mm (1.3 in) over 8 days compared to January's 18 mm (0.7 in) over just 4 days. Additionally, humidity is slightly lower in November at 85%, compared to January's 88%. For a more detailed look at November's weather, you can check Athabasca weather in November.

In comparing the weather between January and December, January experiences slightly milder temperatures, with an average of -12°C (11°F), compared to December’s average of -10°C (14°F). While both months have similar precipitation levels at 18 mm (0.7 in), January sees precipitation over 4 days, which is one day less than December’s 5 days. Additionally, humidity is slightly lower in January at 88% compared to December’s 93%. For more detailed information, you can check Athabasca weather in December.

Compare Athabasca's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Athabasca

In Athabasca, January presents a stark contrast to the milder months of the year, characterized by its bitingly cold temperatures and high humidity levels that can feel even chillier. While the daylight hours may be shorter, the landscape transforms into a winter wonderland, often blanketed in snow. With an average temperature around -12°C and the potential to plummet to -40°C, January is not for the faint of heart. Unlike the drier summer months, this time of year sees moderate precipitation, typically falling as snow over just a few days. For those prepared for the chill, January in Athabasca offers a unique beauty that’s distinct from any other season. For more detailed insights, explore Athabasca Climate.