January Weather in Montreal, Canada

Last updated: April 22, 2025

In January, Montreal, Canada experiences a diverse array of winter weather, showcasing both the beauty and challenges of the season. The maximum temperature hovers around 9°C (49°F), while the average plummets to a chilly -8°C (17°F), potentially dropping to a stark -32°C (-25°F) on the coldest nights. This month also sees precipitation totaling 84 mm (3.3 in) over approximately 11 days, contributing to the city’s winter wonderland atmosphere. With a humidity level lingering at a frosty 93%, residents and visitors alike should be prepared for both the magic and the bite of Montreal’s January chill.

January Temperature in Montreal

In January, Montreal experiences some of its coldest temperatures, with minimums plummeting to -32°C (-25°F) and an average hovering around -8°C (17°F). During this frigid month, highs occasionally reach up to 9°C (49°F), offering a brief respite from the winter chill. As the month progresses into February, there’s a slight warming trend, with average temperatures inching up to -7°C (20°F), while maximums can touch 13°C (56°F). This pattern reflects a gradual transition towards milder weather, as spring approaches, showcasing how swiftly Montreal shifts from the depths of winter to the impending thaw, setting the stage for the warmer months ahead.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Montreal, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec171929435766727062503524
Data source: Temperature data for Montreal 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 Montreal

In January, Montreal experiences a total precipitation of 84 mm (3.3 in) over approximately 11 days. This amount is consistent with the preceding month, December, which saw 88 mm of precipitation, hinting at a steady winter pattern. Notably, January's precipitation paves the way for February, which follows closely with 82 mm (3.2 in) despite having a day more of rain. As winter progresses, the precipitation levels remain relatively constant, with March echoing January's figures at 84 mm, suggesting that Montreal's cold season is marked by a reliable rhythm of snow and rain. This pattern is part of a broader trend where precipitation builds up as spring approaches, culminating in April's sharper increase to 121 mm (4.7 in). Overall, January reflects a typical Montreal winter, balancing moisture and chill as the city prepares for the eventual thaw.

January Precipitation Trends in Montreal

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Montreal, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec848284121971041031097313911888
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Montreal

In January, Montreal experiences its highest humidity of the year at a brisk 93%, setting the tone for a winter characterized by crisp air and the sensation of moisture lingering in the atmosphere. As the city transitions into February, humidity slightly dips to 92%, yet remains notably high, preserving the chill while making the cold feel more biting. March marks a gradual decline to 86%, as the promise of spring begins to emerge. This trend continues into April and May, where humidity levels fluctuate between 85% and 80%, offering a refreshing change after the harsh winter months. The summer months see a further reduction, with June dropping to 74% and July and August hovering around 75% to 76%, enabling a more comfortable outdoor experience. As fall approaches, humidity climbs again, with October and November showcasing levels of 86% and 88% respectively, while December returns to a moist 89%. This annual humidity cycle reveals Montreal's unique climate, where the winter months maintain a high level of humidity, creating an enchanting yet brisk atmosphere that evolves beautifully into warmer seasons.

January Average Humidity in Montreal

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Montreal, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec93%92%86%85%80%74%76%75%78%86%89%89%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Montreal

In January, Montreal experiences a UV Index of 2, categorized as low, meaning you're safe to enjoy the outdoors without much concern for sunburn—with a burn time of 45 minutes. As the months progress, there's a noticeable rise in UV intensity; by February, the index jumps to 4, marking a moderate level of exposure. This upward trend continues into March, where the UV Index reaches 5, further encouraging residents and visitors to be mindful of sun exposure. As spring transitions into summer, peak UV levels take hold in May and June with a striking 9, classified as very high, drastically reducing safe burn time to just 15 minutes. This pattern of increasing UV intensity highlights the importance of sun safety as the year advances. For more insights, check out Montreal UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Montreal for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Montreal 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec245799887532
Data source: Montreal 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 Montreal

In Montreal, the sun shines a modest 118 hours in January, marking the start of the year with a gentle glow that gradually brightens as winter yields to spring. By February, the city experiences a noticeable increase to 155 hours of sunshine, hinting at the warmth to come. March brings a more significant leap to 236 hours, as days lengthen and spring approaches. This upward trend continues through April and May, with April basking in 226 hours and May enjoying 285 hours of sunlight, inviting outdoor activities and blooming flowers. The peak of summer hits in July with an impressive 342 hours, followed closely by August with 326 hours, creating a vibrant atmosphere in the city. As autumn sets in, sunlight hours begin to dwindle, starting with 281 hours in September and tapering down to 196 hours in October. By the time winter returns, Montreal's sunlight diminishes further to 146 hours in November and 143 hours in December, completing the cycle but leaving the anticipation of brighter days ahead. This rhythmic pattern of sunshine throughout the year showcases the city’s seasonal transformation, resonating with its vibrant culture and lifestyle.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Montreal: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Montreal 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec118h155h236h226h285h321h342h326h281h196h146h143h
Data source: Montreal January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Montreal During January

In Montreal, January brings a 37% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the colder months but not the least sunny compared to its neighboring winter months. As the seasons transition, February sees a slight uptick in sunshine, reaching 39%, while March begins to show a promising 43%, hinting at the arrival of spring. Interestingly, January's sunshine probability is followed closely by April, which dips back down to 36%, suggesting that the lingering winter can still overshadow early spring. Overall, while there are fluctuations in sunny days throughout the months, January's percentage reflects a consistent trend of winter's grip gradually easing, paving the way for brighter skies as we move toward spring.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Montreal

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Montreal 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 Montreal experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec37%39%43%36%41%36%33%46%41%29%45%29%
Data source: Montreal January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Montreal in January

In January, Montreal experiences a modest 9 hours of daylight, a reflection of winter's grasp. As the month turns to February, daylight increases to 10 hours, heralding the slow return of sunlight. By March, the city enjoys 11 hours, and the promise of spring begins to emerge. This trend of elongating days continues into April with 13 hours and peaks in June and July at 15 hours, where summer's vibrant energy is at its height. As August transitions into September, daylight begins to taper off, offering 14 hours then receding to 12 hours. The decline continues through October and November, each month bringing just 10 and 9 hours, respectively. Finally, December ushers in the shortest days of the year with a mere 8 hours of daylight, closing the cycle and inviting the bitter cold of winter once more. The rhythm of daylight in Montreal beautifully illustrates the shift of seasons and the city's dance with nature.

Average Daylight Hours in Montreal for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Montreal throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 8m10h 23m11h 57m13h 33m14h 55m15h 36m15h 14m14h12h 28m10h 52m9h 28m8h 45m
Data source: Montreal daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Montreal

In Montreal, January greets residents with an average wind speed of 3.2 m/s (7 mph), setting a brisk tone for the winter month. As the year unfolds, a subtle increase is observed in February, where winds pick up slightly to 3.6 m/s (8 mph). This pattern continues into March, when winds further strengthen to 4.5 m/s (10 mph), marking the transition into spring. Interestingly, as temperatures warm in April and May, the winds ease back to 3.5 m/s (8 mph) and 3.4 m/s (8 mph), respectively. The summer months of July and August present a calm spell, with winds slowing to 3.0 m/s (7 mph), while September and October see a resurgence to 3.4 m/s (8 mph) and 3.2 m/s (7 mph). November continues this trend before December winds pick up again to 4.0 m/s (9 mph). Overall, Montreal's wind patterns throughout the year reveal a dynamic interplay between the chill of winter and the warmth of summer, with notable fluctuations that reflect the changing seasons.

Average January Wind Speed in Montreal

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Montreal, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.2 m/s3.64.53.53.43.73.03.03.43.23.44.0
Data source: Montreal January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Montreal Compares to Other Months

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

January and February in Montreal exhibit similar yet distinct weather characteristics. In January, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -32°C (-25°F), with an average of -8°C (17°F) and a maximum of 9°C (49°F). January sees a substantial amount of precipitation, totaling 84 mm (3.3 in) over 11 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 93%. In contrast, February experiences slightly milder conditions, with minimum temperatures of -25°C (-13°F) and an average of -7°C (20°F), peaking at 13°C (56°F). Precipitation remains similar, at 82 mm (3.2 in) over 12 days, and humidity is marginally lower at 92%. For more details on February weather, you can visit Montreal weather in February.

January and March present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -32°C (-25°F), with an average of -8°C (17°F) and a maximum of 9°C (49°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 93% and 84 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation over 11 days. In contrast, March brings a noticeable warming trend, with minimum temperatures around -23°C (-9°F) and an average of -2°C (29°F), peaking at a more comfortable 20°C (69°F). While the precipitation remains consistent at 84 mm (3.3 in) over the same number of days, humidity drops slightly to 86%. For more detailed insights, check out Montreal weather in March.

January and April present remarkable contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures plunge, with a minimum of -32°C (-25°F) and an average of -8°C (17°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. Conversely, April brings a noticeable warming trend, with minimum temperatures of -10°C (14°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), reaching a maximum of 25°C (78°F). Additionally, while January experiences 84 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation over 11 days, April sees an increase in rainfall, totaling 121 mm (4.7 in) over 12 days. Humidity levels also differ, with January at a chilly 93% compared to April's more moderate 85%. For more details on April weather, check out Montreal weather in April.

In January, the weather is characterized by frigid temperatures, with minimums dropping to -32°C (-25°F) and an average of -8°C (17°F), while May sees a dramatic shift with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (30°F) to a maximum of 36°C (97°F). Despite both months experiencing precipitation on approximately 11 days, January's total of 84 mm (3.3 in) is slightly less than May's 97 mm (3.8 in). Additionally, January's high humidity of 93% contrasts with May’s relatively lower humidity at 80%, highlighting the transition from the cold, damp conditions of winter to the warmer, more pleasant atmosphere of spring. For more detailed information on the month of May, visit Montreal weather in May.

January and June present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plummet to a chilling minimum of -32°C (-25°F), with an average temperature of -8°C (17°F) and a maximum of 9°C (49°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 84 mm (3.3 in) over 11 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 93%, making the cold feel even more biting.

Conversely, June witnesses a dramatic warming trend, with minimum temperatures rising to 3°C (38°F) and an average of 19°C (67°F). The maximum temperature can soar to 34°C (94°F), highlighting the summer heat. While June sees slightly more precipitation at 103 mm (4.1 in) over 12 days, the humidity drops to a more comfortable 74%. For more detailed information on how the weather shapes life in the city, visit Montreal weather in June.

January and July in Montreal present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plunge as low as -32°C (-25°F), with an average temperature around -8°C (17°F) and a maximum of just 9°C (49°F). This winter month sees high humidity levels at 93%, with precipitation occurring on 11 days and totaling 84 mm (3.3 in). In contrast, July ushers in warmth with minimum temperatures of 10°C (50°F), averages around 22°C (72°F), and peaks that can soar to 35°C (95°F). Although July experiences slightly more precipitation at 103 mm (4.1 in) over 14 days, humidity decreases to a more comfortable 76%. For more detailed insights, you can visit Montreal weather in July.

January and August present stark contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures can plunge as low as -32°C (-25°F), with an average of -8°C (17°F) and highs reaching only 9°C (49°F). This month is characterized by high humidity at 93% and frequent precipitation, averaging 84 mm (3.3 in) over about 11 days. In contrast, August brings a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to an average of 21°C (70°F), and highs soaring up to 33°C (92°F). While precipitation slightly increases to 109 mm (4.3 in) over 13 days, humidity drops to a more comfortable 75%. For more detailed information, you can check Montreal weather in August.

In January, the weather in Montreal is characteristically cold, with temperatures ranging from a brisk -32°C (-25°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F), averaging around -8°C (17°F). The month experiences considerable humidity at 93%, accompanied by 84 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation spread over 11 days. In stark contrast, September brings a much milder climate, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 2°C (35°F) and peaking at a warm 32°C (90°F), averaging a comfortable 16°C (62°F). This month sees a reduction in precipitation to 73 mm (2.9 in) over just 9 days and lower humidity at 78%. For more details, you can check Montreal weather in September.

In January, the weather is characterized by frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -32°C (-25°F) and an average around -8°C (17°F), peaking at a maximum of 9°C (49°F). This month sees significant precipitation of 84 mm (3.3 in) over 11 days, and the humidity remains high at 93%, contributing to the cold, damp environment.

In contrast, October experiences a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to an average of 10°C (50°F), reaching up to 27°C (80°F) on warmer days. Precipitation is slightly higher at 139 mm (5.5 in) over 13 days, and humidity is lower at 86%, providing a more comfortable autumn atmosphere. For more details, you can check Montreal weather in October.

January and November present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures plummet to as low as -32°C (-25°F), with an average around -8°C (17°F) and a maximum of 9°C (49°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 93% and relatively low precipitation of 84 mm (3.3 in) over 11 days. In comparison, November offers milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -17°C (1°F) to a maximum of 23°C (73°F) and an average temperature of 2°C (35°F). Novembers also see slightly higher precipitation at 118 mm (4.6 in) spread across 13 days, accompanied by lower humidity levels at 88%. For more details, visit Montreal weather in November.

January weather is typically colder than December, with average temperatures hovering around -8°C (17°F) compared to December's -5°C (24°F). The minimum temperatures in January can plunge to -32°C (-25°F), while December's minimum remains slightly milder at -26°C (-15°F). Precipitation levels are similar in both months, with January receiving 84 mm (3.3 in) over 11 days and December slightly higher at 88 mm (3.5 in) over 12 days. Additionally, January has a higher average humidity at 93% compared to December's 89%. For more detailed information about December weather, you can visit Montreal weather in December.

Compare Montreal's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Montreal

In January, Montreal experiences a distinct chill that sets it apart from other months, with a striking average temperature that can plummet to sub-zero levels. The winter air is notably humid, often making it feel even colder, while occasional precipitation adds to the city's snow-covered landscape. Unlike the milder springs or warm summers, January demands a well-prepared wardrobe and an appreciation for the beauty of frosty scenery. For those keen on understanding the broader climate patterns, a visit to Montreal Climate offers valuable insights into how this winter month fits into the overall weather tapestry of the city.