January Weather in Halifax, Canada

Last updated: April 22, 2025

In January, Halifax, Canada experiences a captivating winter climate marked by a maximum temperature of 15°C (58°F) and an average chill of -3°C (27°F). Temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -18°C (0°F), showcasing the stark contrast of the season. This month also brings significant precipitation, with an average of 97 mm (3.8 in) spread over about 10 days of rain or snow. The humidity level sits at a brisk 82%, contributing to the crisp and often invigorating air that defines Halifax in January. Embrace the beauty of winter as the city transforms into a picturesque landscape, perfect for those who appreciate the charm of the colder months.

January Temperature in Halifax

January in Halifax, Canada, ushers in the chill of winter, with temperatures showcasing a dramatic range. The month typically begins with minimums plunging to -18°C (0°F), while average temperatures hover around a cool -3°C (27°F). Residents can occasionally experience surprisingly mild days, with maximums peaking at a balmy 15°C (58°F). This fluctuation hints at a seasonal trend, as both December and February exhibit similar average temperatures while pushing their minimums even lower. Notably, January sets a precursory tone for the subsequent months, illustrating the transition from the harsh winter lows to the gradual warming seen in the spring.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Halifax, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec272731414959666761514132
Data source: Temperature data for Halifax 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 Halifax

January in Halifax, Canada, greets residents with an average precipitation of 97 mm (3.8 in), distributed over approximately 10 days. This marks the beginning of the year with a moderate wetness that foreshadows the wetter months ahead, as precipitation gradually increases to 122 mm (4.8 in) in February, and continues to hover between 93 mm and 149 mm through the spring and fall. Notably, January's relatively low rainfall sets the stage for a stark contrast with the wetter late autumn months, particularly November, which sees 149 mm (5.9 in) of precipitation. Overall, the trend indicates that while January is certainly damp, it paves the way for the intensifying precipitation patterns characteristic of Halifax's winter and spring climate.

January Precipitation Trends in Halifax

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Halifax, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9712210312293999177104109149127
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Halifax

In January, Halifax experiences a notable humidity level of 82%, setting a trend that continues throughout the winter months. This relatively high humidity persists into February, reaching 83%, before stabilizing back at 82% in March and April. As spring blossoms in May, the humidity remains consistent at 82%, creating a damp yet serene atmosphere. As summer approaches, humidity steadily climbs, peaking in July at 86%—the most humid month of the year—before gently tapering off to 85% in August and 83% in September. The transition into fall sees a return to the mid-80s range before settling into a comfortable 83% in October through December. Overall, the data indicates a relatively stable humidity pattern throughout the year, with notable increases during the summer months, contributing to Halifax’s unique coastal climate.

January Average Humidity in Halifax

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Halifax, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec82%83%82%82%82%84%86%85%83%83%85%83%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Halifax

In Halifax, Canada, the UV Index in January is relatively low at 2, indicating that sun exposure is manageable with a burn time of around 45 minutes. As the months progress towards summer, there’s a noticeable climb in UV intensity. February and March see moderate levels of 4 and 5, respectively, with reduced burn times of 30 minutes. By April, the index spikes to 7, categorized as high, suggesting a greater need for sun protection, especially as the days grow warmer. The peak UV exposure arrives in May and June, where values reach a striking 9 and 10, and the burn time shrinks dramatically to just 15 minutes. This trend of high UV radiation continues through July and August before tapering off again in the fall. By September, the index drops back to 7 and then gradually declines towards another mild 2 in December. For more insights on sun safety and the UV Index throughout the year, visit Halifax UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Halifax for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Halifax 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2457910987532
Data source: Halifax 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 Halifax

In Halifax, Canada, the month of January brings a mere 110 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for a gradual increase in daylight as winter gives way to spring. By February, the sun shines for 176 hours, hinting at a vibrant approach to the following months. March sees a leap to 246 hours, creating a palpable anticipation for warmer days ahead. The sun continues its ascent in April with 235 hours, followed by a blooming 285 hours in May, as nature awakens from its slumber. June and July peak at 301 hours and 317 hours, respectively, basking the city in abundant light. As summer fades into fall, sunshine begins to retreat, with August remaining bright at 325 hours, before tapering off with 265 hours in September and further down to 223 hours in October. The last months of the year show a notable drop, with November at 152 hours and December at 142 hours, reminding us of the cyclical nature of seasons in Halifax. Overall, the trends clearly illustrate a sunny crescendo from winter to summer, followed by a gentle descent back into the cozy embrace of winter's chill.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Halifax: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Halifax 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec110h176h246h235h285h301h317h325h265h223h152h142h
Data source: Halifax January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Halifax During January

In Halifax, Canada, January marks the peak of winter with a mere 21% chance of sunshine, making it one of the cloudiest months of the year. As the seasons transition, a notable shift in sunny days emerges; February sees a modest increase to 28%, while March jumps significantly to 50%, heralding the arrival of spring. This trend continues as daylight hours lengthen, with later months, such as May and June, enjoying 36% and 39% of sunny weather, respectively. Interestingly, July experiences a dip back down to 24%, suggesting the variability in summer weather with potential for more clouds. Overall, Halifax's sunny days seem to follow a clear pattern, demonstrating that while January might be gloomy, the promise of brighter days lies just ahead.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Halifax

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Halifax 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 Halifax experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec21%28%50%31%36%40%24%32%41%40%35%34%
Data source: Halifax January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Halifax in January

In Halifax, Canada, the January landscape is marked by a modest 9 hours of daylight, a gentle reminder of the deep winter months. As the year progresses into February, daylight begins to extend slightly to 10 hours, hinting at the impending warmth of spring. By March, the days grow even longer, reaching 11 hours, while April welcomes a notable surge to 13 hours, igniting a sense of rejuvenation. The heights of summer shine in May and June, where daylight peaks at 14 and 15 hours respectively, providing ample time for outdoor adventures. However, as July transitions into August, daylight begins its gradual decline, dropping to 13 hours, followed by a further decrease in the fall months of September and October. Finally, November and December bring shorter days, with daylight dwindling to 9 and 8 hours. This rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight beautifully illustrates the change of seasons in Halifax, celebrating the return of longer days as winter retreats.

Average Daylight Hours in Halifax for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Halifax throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 14m10h 26m11h 57m13h 30m14h 49m15h 29m15h 7m13h 57m12h 27m10h 55m9h 33m8h 51m
Data source: Halifax daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Halifax

In January, Halifax experiences an average wind speed of 4.3 m/s (10 mph), setting a brisk tone for the winter month. The winds remain relatively stable as the season transitions into February, with a slight increase to 4.4 m/s (10 mph). As spring approaches, there’s a gradual upward trend, peaking at 4.7 m/s (11 mph) in April. However, as the warmer months unfold, wind speeds begin to decline, reaching a low of 3.1 m/s (7 mph) by August. This downward trend continues into early fall before picking up again in the later months, with November and December returning to a more vigorous 4.4 m/s and 4.5 m/s, respectively. Overall, the wind patterns in Halifax showcase a clear seasonal rhythm, with winter and early spring presenting the most spirited breezes.

Average January Wind Speed in Halifax

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Halifax, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.3 m/s4.44.64.73.93.83.43.13.93.54.44.5
Data source: Halifax January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Halifax Compares to Other Months

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

In January, the weather tends to be quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -18°C (0°F) to a maximum of 15°C (58°F), averaging around -3°C (27°F). The month experiences approximately 97 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over 10 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 82%. In contrast, February usually sees slightly colder conditions, with minimum temperatures dipping down to -20°C (-4°F) and a maximum of 12°C (53°F), while maintaining the same average of -3°C (27°F). This month brings a bit more precipitation, totaling 122 mm (4.8 in) across 11 days and a marginal increase in humidity to 83%. For more detailed information on February weather, you can check Halifax weather in February.

In January, temperatures in Halifax can dip as low as -18°C (0°F), with an average of -3°C (27°F) and a maximum reaching 15°C (58°F). The month experiences 97 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over roughly 10 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 82%. By March, the weather shows slight improvement, with the minimum temperature remaining the same at -18°C (0°F), but the average rises to 0°C (32°F) and the maximum reaches 16°C (61°F). Precipitation increases to 103 mm (4.1 in) over 11 days while maintaining the same humidity level of 82%. For more details, check Halifax weather in March.

January and April present stark contrasts in weather patterns. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -18°C (0°F), with an average of -3°C (27°F) and a maximum reaching 15°C (58°F). This month experiences about 97 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days, while humidity hovers around 82%. In contrast, April sees a noticeable rise in temperatures, with minimums around -7°C (19°F), an average of 5°C (41°F), and a maximum of 18°C (65°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 122 mm (4.8 in), occurring over 13 days, maintaining the same high humidity level of 82%. For more detailed insights into the conditions, you can visit Halifax weather in April.

In January, the weather in Halifax is characterized by frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -18°C (0°F) and an average of -3°C (27°F). The maximum temperature can reach up to 15°C (58°F), but this is quite rare, as cold conditions dominate the month. January also sees significant precipitation of 97 mm (3.8 in) over approximately 10 days, coupled with high humidity levels of 82%.

In contrast, May brings a dramatic shift in weather, featuring milder temperatures with a minimum of -3°C (26°F) and an average of 9°C (49°F). The month can warm up to a pleasant maximum of 27°C (82°F). While May experiences slightly less precipitation at 93 mm (3.7 in) over about 13 days, the humidity remains consistent at 82%. For more specific details about the weather in May, you can check Halifax weather in May.

The weather in January contrasts significantly with that of June. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -18°C (0°F), with an average of -3°C (27°F) and a maximum of 15°C (58°F). Humidity is relatively high at 82%, and the month sees about 97 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over roughly 10 days. In stark contrast, June enjoys a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (30°F) to an average of 15°C (59°F) and a maximum reaching 30°C (87°F). With slightly higher humidity at 84%, June's precipitation is similar, totaling around 99 mm (3.9 in) over 11 days. For a detailed look at what to expect, check out Halifax weather in June.

In January, Halifax experiences cold weather with temperatures ranging from a frigid minimum of -18°C (0°F) to a maximum of 15°C (58°F), while the average temperature hovers around -3°C (27°F). The month is characterized by high humidity levels at 82% and around 97 mm (3.8 inches) of precipitation over approximately 10 days. In contrast, July brings a significant warm-up, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a pleasant maximum of 32°C (90°F) and an average of 19°C (66°F). Despite slightly lower precipitation at 91 mm (3.6 inches) over the same number of days, the humidity remains high at 86%. For more details on Halifax weather in the summer, check out Halifax weather in July.

January and August present striking contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures can drop as low as -18°C (0°F), with an average of -3°C (27°F) and a maximum of 15°C (58°F). The month is characterized by a chilly atmosphere, with 97 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation spread over 10 days and a high humidity level of 82%. In contrast, August boasts much milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 9°C (48°F) to an average of 20°C (67°F) and a maximum of 30°C (86°F). While it sees slightly less precipitation at 77 mm (3.0 in), it maintains similar humidity levels at 85%. For more details, you can explore Halifax weather in August.

In January, the weather is characterized by much colder temperatures, with a minimum reaching -18°C (0°F) and an average of -3°C (27°F), while the maximum only climbs to 15°C (58°F). The month experiences about 97 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation spread over 10 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 82%. In stark contrast, September brings a significant warming trend, with minimum temperatures around 2°C (36°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F), peaking at a much warmer 28°C (83°F). While September sees slightly higher precipitation at 104 mm (4.1 in), it occurs over just 8 days, and humidity remains comparable at 83%. For a detailed look at September weather, you can check out Halifax weather in September.

January and October present contrasting weather patterns. In January, temperatures can plummet as low as -18°C (0°F), with an average of -3°C (27°F) and highs reaching only 15°C (58°F). The month sees considerable precipitation, averaging 97 mm (3.8 in) over about 10 days, paired with high humidity at 82%. In stark contrast, October offers milder conditions, with minimum temperatures around -2°C (28°F) and an average of 11°C (51°F), peaking at a comfortable 23°C (73°F). Rainfall is slightly higher at 109 mm (4.3 in) but occurs over just 9 days, maintaining a similar humidity level of 83%. For a deeper dive into October conditions, check out Halifax weather in October.

In comparing the weather between January and November, we see a significant difference in temperatures and precipitation levels. January experiences much colder temperatures with a minimum of -18°C (0°F) and an average of -3°C (27°F), while November is milder with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -11°C (12°F) to an average of 5°C (42°F). Additionally, November has higher precipitation at 149 mm (5.9 in) over 13 days, compared to January's 97 mm (3.8 in) over 10 days. Both months have similar humidity levels, with January at 82% and November at 85%. For more details, check out Halifax weather in November.

In comparing the weather between January and December, January experiences slightly colder temperatures overall, with average lows of -18°C (0°F) compared to December’s minimum of -15°C (5°F). However, both months have the same maximum temperature of 15°C (58°F), indicating that days can be mild at times. Precipitation levels are notably higher in December, with 127 mm (5.0 in) over 12 days, while January sees 97 mm (3.8 in) across 10 days. Humidity remains relatively consistent between the two months, with January at 82% and December at 83%. For more detailed information, you can check Halifax weather in December.

Compare Halifax's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Halifax

As winter firmly grips Halifax in January, the weather takes a sharp turn from the milder conditions of preceding months. With average temperatures hovering around -3°C (27°F), the chilly bite is felt more intensely as the coldest month of the year, exhibiting minimums plummeting to a brisk -18°C (0°F). This month sees a notable amount of precipitation, with approximately 97 mm (3.8 in) falling over about 10 days, adding to the winter's dampness and contributing to a high humidity level of 82%. Compared to other months, January's deep freeze and frequent rain or snowfall create a distinctly wintry atmosphere, perfect for enjoying cozy indoor activities or harnessing the magic of the outdoors. For a deeper understanding of how Halifax's January weather stacks up against the rest of the year, check out Halifax Climate.