January Weather in Inuvik, Canada

Last updated: April 22, 2025

Inuvik, Canada, experiences a frigid January characterized by an average temperature of -24°C (-10°F), where maximums can reach up to -1°C (30°F), while the mercury can plummet to a chilling minimum of -40°C (-40°F). This polar climate is coupled with high humidity levels at 99%, creating an atmosphere that intensifies the already frosty conditions. Throughout the month, 20 mm (0.8 in) of precipitation falls over approximately 6 days, often manifesting as light snow, which blankets the region in a serene, white landscape. Embrace the unique beauty of Inuvik in January, where the stark contrasts of temperature and the allure of the Northern Lights create an unforgettable winter wonderland.

January Temperature in Inuvik

Inuvik, Canada, experiences bone-chilling temperatures in January, with the mercury plummeting to a shocking minimum of -40°C (-40°F). On average, residents endure -24°C (-10°F), but this severe cold brings only a fleeting relief as daytime highs barely creep above -1°C (30°F). As the season transitions into February, temperatures dip even lower, reaching an extreme minimum of -43°C (-46°F), maintaining a consistently frigid average that persists throughout the winter months. However, as March arrives, a subtle warming trend becomes evident, with temperatures gradually rising to an average of -19°C (-1°F)—showcasing the subtle shift toward spring. This cold grasp of winter ultimately gives way to milder temperatures in April, where the average rises to -11°C (12°F), indicating that the harshness of winter is slowly receding. This trend highlights the stark contrast of Inuvik's climate, where the severe cold of January heralds the gradual return to more temperate conditions as the year progresses.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Inuvik, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec-11-12-2123552585241264-8
Data source: Temperature data for Inuvik 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 Inuvik

In January, Inuvik experiences a modest precipitation total of 20 mm (0.8 in), spread across approximately 6 days. This marks a slight decline compared to the wetter summer months, reflecting the region's transition into its harsh winter climate. Following January, February sees even less precipitation, with only 17 mm (0.7 in) over 4 days, while March further cools to 12 mm (0.5 in) and just 4 days of rain or snow. Interestingly, this trend of declining precipitation continues until April, where amounts drop to 10 mm (0.4 in), suggesting that the dry winter conditions persist into early spring. However, as the seasons shift toward summer, precipitation begins to rise dramatically, culminating in the highest totals during July and August. Thus, January serves as a pivotal month, highlighting the arid stretch before the eventual resurgence of moisture later in the year.

January Precipitation Trends in Inuvik

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Inuvik, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec201712102125506045231819
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Inuvik

Inuvik, Canada, experiences an intriguing shift in humidity throughout the year, with January standing out at a staggering 99% humidity. This near-saturation level is indicative of the harsh winter environment, a trend that continues into February, albeit slightly lower at 98%. As spring approaches, the humidity begins to taper off, dropping to 90% in April and further to 81% by May, marking a gradual transition toward drier conditions. However, as summer unfolds, a slight uptick occurs, with humidity rising to 78% in July and 84% in August, hinting at the moisture-laden air typical of the warmer months. The trend becomes more pronounced in the fall, where humidity levels peak again, reaching 92% in September and climbing to 94% in October. The year concludes with a curious return to high levels, as both November and December showcase 100% and 99% humidity, respectively. This cyclical pattern of humidity not only reflects the extreme conditions of Inuvik's northern climate but also highlights the significant seasonal variations that define life in this unique region.

January Average Humidity in Inuvik

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Inuvik, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec99%98%95%90%81%73%78%84%92%94%100%99%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Inuvik

In Inuvik, Canada, the January UV Index stands at a low 1, indicating minimal risk for sunburn with a burn time of about 45 minutes. This pattern continues into February, maintaining the same low exposure category. As spring approaches in March, the UV Index slightly rises to 2, still classified as low, suggesting a gradual increase in solar radiation. However, as the months transition into late spring and summer, the index escalates to moderate levels by April, reaching a peak of 5 during the height of July. This month, along with June, showcases a trend of moderate exposure with a burn time of just 30 minutes. Then, as the seasons shift back towards winter in October and November, the index drops back down to 1, reflecting low exposure once again. With these variations, it’s vital for residents and visitors alike to stay informed about the UV Index throughout the year for safe UV exposure practices. For more detailed information, visit Inuvik UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Inuvik for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Inuvik 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec112345543110
Data source: Inuvik 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 Inuvik

Inuvik, Canada, experiences a striking transformation in daylight hours throughout the year, with January bringing a mere 17 hours of sunshine, a stark contrast to the bright embrace of June, which boasts an impressive 453 hours. The increasing daylight is particularly invigorating as winter yields to spring; by March, the sun graces Inuvik with 223 hours, and April follows closely with 322 hours. This upward trend peaks in the summer months, where May and June shine brightest, before gently tapering off into the warm hues of September's 147 hours. As the seasons shift back to winter, November and December plunge the region into darkness, with November offering only 41 hours and December a stark 0 hours, reminding us of the cyclical nature of light in this far northern retreat.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Inuvik: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Inuvik 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec17h105h223h322h357h453h391h236h147h105h41h0h
Data source: Inuvik January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Inuvik During January

In January, residents of Inuvik, Canada, can expect a *modest *20% chance of sunny weather, a trend that seems to linger throughout the winter months, with February also maintaining the same level of sunshine potential. As spring approaches, the likelihood of sun begins to rise significantly, jumping to 38% in March and further increasing to 43% in April. This upward trend highlights the gradual transition from the long, dark winters to brighter days, with May offering a 33% chance of sun as the region embraces the thaw. While summer months like June, July, and August see their own fluctuations, the increasing sunshine in spring hints at the promise of a vibrant and lively year ahead.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Inuvik

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Inuvik 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 Inuvik experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec20%20%38%43%33%37%34%26%28%24%14%22%
Data source: Inuvik January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Inuvik in January

In January, Inuvik experiences a stark 6 hours of daylight, a reminder of the long, dark winter nights that define this northern community. However, as the month progresses, daylight gradually extends, heralding the promise of brighter days ahead. By February, the daylight increases to 7 hours, setting a hopeful tone for the transition into spring. This upward trend continues into March with 11 hours, and by April, Inuvik basks in 15 hours of sunlight—the vibrant days of spring are clearly on the horizon. May ushers in an impressive 21 hours, paving the way for the enchanting midnight sun of summer, where daylight peaks at a remarkable 24 hours in June. As the summer months roll into July, the daylight slightly tapers to 22 hours, but the lingering warmth is palpable. The decline continues through August with 17 hours, leading into the comforting hues of autumn in September and October, where daylight gradually wanes to 9 hours. As winter returns, daylight diminishes dramatically, plunging to a mere 1 hour in December, completing the cyclical dance of light and darkness in this unique Arctic paradise.

Average Daylight Hours in Inuvik for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Inuvik throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec6h 57m7h 43m11h 50m15h 59m21h 19m24h22h 48m17h 19m13h 5m9h 2m5h 59m1h 36m
Data source: Inuvik daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Inuvik

In January, Inuvik experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 2.1 m/s (5 mph), setting the tone for the winter months ahead. As the year progresses into February and March, the winds gradually pick up, reaching 2.5 m/s (6 mph) and 2.7 m/s (6 mph) respectively. This steady increase continues through April and May, where the wind stabilizes at around 2.9 m/s (6 mph), providing a milder feel to the colder season. As June arrives, average wind speeds rise slightly to 3.1 m/s (7 mph), introducing a refreshing summer breeze. Interestingly, throughout July and August, wind speed remains consistent, reflecting the stability of the summer climate, before tapering off in the fall months of September and October. By the year’s end in December, winds reach a peak at 3.3 m/s (7 mph), reminding residents of the gusty conditions that often accompany winter in this northern locale. Overall, the wind patterns in Inuvik depict a rhythmic cycle, with transitions from gentle winter breezes to the more invigorating gusts of summer and back again.

Average January Wind Speed in Inuvik

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Inuvik, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.1 m/s2.52.72.92.93.12.92.72.92.42.93.3
Data source: Inuvik January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Inuvik Compares to Other Months

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

January and February present some striking similarities and differences in weather conditions. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of -40°C (-40°F) to a maximum of -1°C (30°F), with an average of -24°C (-10°F) and 20 mm (0.8 in) of precipitation occurring over 6 days. Conversely, February sees slightly colder conditions, with temperatures plunging to a minimum of -43°C (-46°F) and an average of -24°C (-12°F), although the maximum reaches -2°C (29°F). Precipitation in February is slightly lower at 17 mm (0.7 in) across just 4 days. Humidity remains high in both months, at 99% in January and 98% in February. For a detailed look at February’s weather patterns, visit Inuvik weather in February.

In January, temperatures in Inuvik can be extremely harsh, with averages around -24°C (-10°F) and frequent dips to a chilling -40°C (-40°F). The month sees about 20 mm of precipitation over six days, and the humidity hovers close to 99%, creating a stark winter landscape. In contrast, March brings a gradual warming, with average temperatures rising to -19°C (-1°F) and a maximum reaching a more bearable 5°C (42°F). Precipitation decreases to 12 mm over just four days, and humidity levels drop slightly to 95%, indicating a shift towards slightly milder conditions. For a detailed look at the weather during this month, check Inuvik weather in March.

January and April in Inuvik present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures plunge to an average of -24°C (-10°F), with a biting minimum of -40°C (-40°F) and a maximum of only -1°C (30°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 99% and light precipitation over about six days, totaling 20 mm (0.8 in). In contrast, April marks a notable shift, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -33°C (-26°F) to a much milder maximum of 9°C (48°F), resulting in an average of -11°C (12°F). Precipitation decreases to 10 mm (0.4 in) occurring over just two days, and humidity drops to 90%. For a more detailed look at the weather patterns, you can visit Inuvik weather in April.

January and May present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plunge to a frigid minimum of -40°C (-40°F), with an average low of -24°C (-10°F) and a max barely reaching -1°C (30°F). Humidity is exceptionally high at 99%, contributing to the biting cold, and precipitation occurs on six days, totaling around 20 mm (0.8 in). In contrast, May sees much milder weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -21°C (-5°F) to a comfortable maximum of 20°C (69°F) and an average temperature of 2°C (35°F). Precipitation slightly increases to 21 mm (0.8 in) but falls on only four days, and humidity drops to a more moderate 81%. For more details on the pleasant conditions in May, check Inuvik weather in May.

The weather in January presents a stark contrast to that of June in Inuvik. In January, temperatures plunge to a bone-chilling low of -40°C (-40°F), with an average of -24°C (-10°F) and a maximum of just -1°C (30°F). The air is humid at 99%, and the region sees light precipitation, totaling 20 mm (0.8 in) over six days. In contrast, June brings a warm embrace, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a pleasant maximum of 30°C (86°F) and an average of 11°C (53°F). With 25 mm (1.0 in) of precipitation spread over only five days, June also has a significantly lower humidity level of 73%. To learn more about the delightful summer conditions, visit Inuvik weather in June.

January and July present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures plummet, with a minimum of -40°C (-40°F) and an average around -24°C (-10°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. Precipitation is minimal, averaging only 20 mm (0.8 in) over six days, but the humidity remains exceptionally high at 99%. In contrast, July experiences a dramatic warming trend, with minimum temperatures around 2°C (35°F) and maximums reaching up to 29°C (85°F). Precipitation increases significantly to 50 mm (2.0 in) over eleven days, and humidity, while still relatively high, drops to 78%. For more details on the weather patterns in July, you can check Inuvik weather in July.

Inuvik experiences stark contrasts between January and August weather. In January, temperatures plunge with a minimum of -40°C (-40°F) and an average of -24°C (-10°F), often reaching a maximum of only -1°C (30°F). The humidity is a chilling 99%, with precipitation occurring on about six days of the month, totaling 20 mm (0.8 in). In sharp contrast, August brings a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures around 0°C (33°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F), peaking at a pleasant 28°C (83°F). The summer months see increased precipitation as well, with 59 mm (2.3 in) falling over eleven days, and the humidity, while still noticeable, drops to 84%. For a closer look at what to expect, check out Inuvik weather in August.

January and September present strikingly contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -40°C (-40°F), with an average of -24°C (-10°F) and a maximum of just -1°C (30°F). The month is characterized by extremely high humidity at 99%, albeit with limited precipitation of 20 mm (0.8 in) over just 6 days. In contrast, September offers a much milder climate, where minimum temperatures hover around -6°C (21°F) and can reach a pleasant maximum of 21°C (71°F). Precipitation increases to 45 mm (1.8 in) across 12 days, accompanied by humidity levels at 92%. For a closer look at September weather, visit Inuvik weather in September.

Inuvik's January weather presents a stark contrast to that of October. January's frigid temperatures can plummet to a low of -40°C (-40°F), resulting in an average temperature of -24°C (-10°F), with a maximum reaching just -1°C (30°F). The humidity is a chilling 99%, accompanied by light precipitation of 20 mm (0.8 in) over about 6 days. In contrast, October sees milder temperatures, with minimums around -18°C (0°F), an average of -3°C (26°F), and highs that can reach 12°C (55°F). This month experiences slightly more precipitation at 23 mm (0.9 in) across 7 days, but with reduced humidity at 94%. For more details on the October climate, check Inuvik weather in October.

Inuvik's weather presents a stark contrast between January and November. In January, temperatures plummet to a minimum of -40°C (-40°F), with an average of -24°C (-10°F) and a maximum of -1°C (30°F), accompanied by a precipitation total of 20 mm (0.8 in) over six days and a humidity level of 99%. November, while still frigid, experiences slightly milder temperatures with a minimum of -37°C (-34°F), an average of -16°C (4°F), and a maximum of 0°C (32°F). Precipitation is slightly lower at 18 mm (0.7 in) for the same number of days, with humidity reaching an impressive 100%. This comparison highlights the extreme cold and consistent dampness characteristic of both months in Inuvik. For more detailed information, you can check Inuvik weather in November.

Inuvik experiences some of its coldest weather in January and December, with both months characterized by extreme low temperatures and high humidity. January sees a minimum temperature of -40°C (-40°F) and an average of -24°C (-10°F), while December dips even lower with a minimum of -44°C (-47°F). Despite these frigid conditions, the maximum temperatures hover around similar levels, reaching -1°C (30°F) in January and -1°C (31°F) in December. Precipitation remains consistent, with January having 20 mm over 6 days and December slightly less at 19 mm over 5 days. Both months maintain a notably high humidity of 99%. For more detailed information about the weather in December, you can visit Inuvik weather in December.

Compare Inuvik's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Inuvik

January in Inuvik stands out as one of the coldest months of the year, characterized by its biting temperatures and high humidity that make the chill feel even more intense. Unlike the milder months, where temperatures can rise, January often experiences extreme lows, with frequent dips that promise a deep freeze. Precipitation remains minimal, yet the air is heavy with moisture, contributing to a wintry atmosphere that is both harsh and captivating. This stark climate is a defining feature of the far north, setting the stage for unique winter experiences that are unlike any other month. For those interested in exploring more, visit Inuvik Climate for detailed insights into this northern weather phenomenon.