January Weather in Dawson City, Canada

Last updated: April 22, 2025

In January, Dawson City, Canada, experiences a stark winter landscape characterized by a maximum temperature of 2°C (36°F) and a chilling average of -24°C (-12°F). The mercury can plummet to a daunting minimum of -48°C (-55°F), creating an environment where frost dominates the skyline. Despite the intense cold, the city sees only 12 mm (0.5 in) of precipitation across a mere two days, highlighting its arid winter conditions. Humidity levels soar to 97%, giving the air an almost palpable chill. Embrace the extremities of Dawson City's January weather, where resilience meets breathtaking beauty.

January Temperature in Dawson City

In Dawson City, Canada, January is characterized by extreme cold, with temperatures plunging to an eye-watering minimum of -48°C (-55°F). The average temperature hovers around -24°C (-12°F), with a maximum of just 2°C (36°F). This frigid month closely mirrors February's bitter chill, where the minimum dips slightly to -45°C (-48°F) but maintains similar average and maximum temperatures. As winter progresses into March, a notable shift occurs, with temperatures beginning to rise; the average climbs to -13°C (10°F), while daytime highs can reach 10°C (51°F). This upward trend continues into April, where warmer days are welcomed as temperatures can peak at 15°C (60°F). Overall, while January remains the coldest month, it marks the culmination of extreme winter conditions, setting the stage for the gradual thaw that follows in the spring months.

January Weather in Dawson City: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Dawson City, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec-12-9929485861554327-1-6
Data source: Temperature data for Dawson City 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 Dawson City

January in Dawson City, Canada, brings a quiet yet noticeable amount of precipitation, totaling 12 mm (0.5 in) over just 2 days. This sparse winter rainfall reflects the broader trend of low precipitation during the early months of the year, with February seeing only a slight increase to 13 mm. As winter continues, precipitation begins to rise gradually, peaking in April at 22 mm (0.9 in) before transitioning into the wetter months of summer. The trend indicates that Dawson City experiences a distinct shift from the dryness of winter to the lush, rainy conditions starting in May, where averages jump to nearly 49 mm (1.9 in). This gradual evolution in precipitation patterns highlights the region's unique climate dynamics as it moves from the cold embrace of winter into the warmer, wetter months.

January Precipitation Trends in Dawson City

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Dawson City, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec121311224977547038363227
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Dawson City

January in Dawson City, Canada, brings a remarkable humidity level of 97%, setting the tone for a winter month that's consistently damp. This high humidity gradually tapers off over the following months, with February resting at 95% and March trailing at 91%. As spring approaches, humidity levels decline further to 87% in April and 81% in May, showcasing a shift towards drier conditions. However, this trend reverses in the summer months, where a slight increase occurs, culminating in 86% in July and 89% in August. As autumn arrives, humidity once again rises, peaking in November at 100% before settling back down to 98% in October and 99% in December. Thus, Dawson City experiences a cycle of humidity that ebbs and flows with the seasons, illustrating the region's unique climatic patterns.

January Average Humidity in Dawson City

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Dawson City, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec97%95%91%87%81%83%86%89%91%98%100%99%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Dawson City

In Dawson City, Canada, the UV Index in January is 1, indicating a low level of UV exposure. This means residents and visitors can enjoy outdoor activities with minimal risk of harm from the sun, as it takes approximately 45 minutes of sun exposure to cause sunburn. As winter transitions into spring, the UV Index gradually increases, moving to 2 in March and reaching moderate levels of 4 by April. This upward trend continues through the summer, where the UV Index stabilizes at 5 from May to August, highlighting a noticeable shift in sun intensity. As fall approaches, the index decreases again, dipping to 2 in October and returning to 1 for the winter months of November and December. Understanding these trends ensures that everyone can enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Dawson City while remaining sun-smart. For more detailed information, visit the Dawson City UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Dawson City for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Dawson City 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec112455553211
Data source: Dawson City 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 Dawson City

Dawson City, Canada, shines bright in the winter months, with January offering a modest 58 hours of sunlight. As February emerges, the days lengthen significantly, nearly doubling the sunlight to 140 hours. This upward trend continues into March, where residents can bask in 249 hours of daylight, marking the start of a remarkable seasonal transition. By April, the sun peaks further with 327 hours, setting the stage for the vibrant months ahead. May brings the most splendid sunshine, totaling 386 hours, while June and July maintain this summer glow, with totals of 382 and 392 hours, respectively. As the summer wanes, August experiences a drop to 296 hours, and the decline continues into autumn, culminating in a stark 48 hours by December. This captivating shift in daylight throughout the year paints a vivid picture of life in Dawson City, where long, sun-filled days in summer contrast sharply with the quiet, extended nights of winter.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Dawson City: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Dawson City 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec58h140h249h327h386h382h392h296h240h134h83h48h
Data source: Dawson City January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Dawson City During January

In Dawson City, Canada, January brings a modest 31% chance of sunny weather, setting the stage for the winter season. Although this percentage may seem low, it's important to note that as the months progress, the likelihood of sunshine gradually increases, with February reaching 46% and peaking at 54% in April. This upward trend hints at longer days and brighter skies just beyond the icy grip of January. Interestingly, the summer months of May, July, and August show a decrease in sunny days, likely due to increased cloud cover. Overall, while January offers limited sunshine, it serves as a precursor to the sunnier months that follow.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Dawson City

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Dawson City 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 Dawson City experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec31%46%43%54%27%36%37%27%30%19%20%23%
Data source: Dawson City January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Dawson City in January

In Dawson City, Canada, the transition from the deep winter of January, where daylight is a mere 5 hours, to the vibrant bursts of spring and summer is striking. As February arrives, the days gradually lengthen to 8 hours, ushering in a sense of anticipation. March continues this trend, offering 11 hours of sunlight, while April brings a noticeable increase with 15 hours, hinting at the warmth to come. By May, daylight blossoms to 18 hours, and in June, it peaks at an impressive 20 hours, allowing residents to revel in the extended evenings. However, as summer begins its slow fade, July still boasts 19 hours of daylight, followed by August's 16 hours. The cycle then shifts into fall, with daylight diminishing to 12 hours in September and dwindling further to 9 hours by October. As winter approaches once again, the reduction becomes more drastic, culminating in 4 hours of daylight in December. This cyclical pattern beautifully illustrates the rhythm of life in Dawson City, where each month is a stepping stone between the extremes of light and dark.

Average Daylight Hours in Dawson City for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Dawson City throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5h 33m8h 36m11h 52m15h 11m18h 30m20h 46m19h 24m16h 10m12h 53m9h 37m6h 24m4h 21m
Data source: Dawson City daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Dawson City

In Dawson City, Canada, January's wind whispers softly at an average speed of just 1.5 m/s (3 mph), setting the tone for a winter characterized by calm breezes. This gentle airflow remains consistent into February, maintaining the same serene pace. As spring approaches, a notable uptick emerges in March, with wind speeds slightly increasing to 1.6 m/s (3 mph). The transition to warmer months brings a gradual rise in wind activity, peaking in April at 2.2 m/s (5 mph). From there, while May experiences a slight dip, the summer months of July and August hover around 1.7 to 1.8 m/s (4 mph), reflecting a trend of mild breezes that sustain the region’s tranquil charm. As the year winds down, November witnesses a return to familiar calm with an average of 1.4 m/s (3 mph), echoing January’s gentle winds, creating a seamless cycle of tranquility throughout the year.

Average January Wind Speed in Dawson City

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Dawson City, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1.5 m/s1.51.62.22.01.71.71.81.81.71.41.5
Data source: Dawson City January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Dawson City Compares to Other Months

The weather in Dawson City 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 Dawson City and find detailed weather information for every month.

In comparing the weather of January and February, both months exhibit harsh winter conditions, but February shows a slight warming trend. The minimum temperature in January reaches a chilling -48°C (-55°F), while February's low is a marginally warmer -45°C (-48°F). The average temperatures are similar, with January averaging -24°C (-12°F) and February just a degree warmer at -23°C (-9°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in February at 13 mm (0.5 in), occurring over four days compared to only two days in January, which had 12 mm (0.5 in) of precipitation. Humidity levels are slightly lower in February at 95%, compared to January's 97%. For more detailed information, you can check Dawson City weather in February.

January and March present stark differences in weather conditions. In January, temperatures plummet to a minimum of -48°C (-55°F) and average around -24°C (-12°F), with a maximum of just 2°C (36°F). The month sees a significant humidity level of 97%, despite limited precipitation of 12 mm (0.5 in) over just two days. Conversely, March offers a slight reprieve with milder temperatures, featuring a minimum of -38°C (-35°F) and an average of -13°C (10°F), reaching up to 10°C (51°F) at its peak. Interestingly, March has slightly less precipitation at 11 mm (0.4 in), but it occurs over four days, indicating a more varied weather pattern. To explore more about the weather in Dawson City specifically during March, visit Dawson City weather in March.

In January, temperatures in Dawson City plummet to a chilling minimum of -48°C (-55°F), with an average of -24°C (-12°F) and occasional highs reaching just 2°C (36°F). Precipitation is sparse, with only 12 mm (0.5 in) recorded over two days, but humidity is high at 97%, contributing to the biting cold. In contrast, April brings a significant warming trend, with minimum temperatures at -28°C (-18°F) and averages rising to -2°C (29°F), peaking at a pleasant 15°C (60°F). The month sees increased precipitation at 22 mm (0.9 in) over four days, and humidity drops to a more comfortable 87%. For more detailed insights, you can explore Dawson City weather in April.

In January, Dawson City experiences frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -48°C (-55°F) and an average around -24°C (-12°F), only rising to a maximum of 2°C (36°F). The month sees limited precipitation, totaling just 12 mm (0.5 in) over a mere 2 days, but the humidity is exceptionally high at 97%. In stark contrast, May brings a dramatic shift in weather, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -7°C (20°F) to a pleasant maximum of 26°C (79°F) and an average temperature of 9°C (48°F). Additionally, May is considerably wetter, receiving 49 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation across 12 days, although the humidity decreases to 81%. For a detailed look at the weather patterns in this month, check out Dawson City weather in May.

January and June in Dawson City present a striking contrast in weather conditions. January experiences extreme cold, with temperatures ranging from a chilling -48°C (-55°F) to a maximum of just 2°C (36°F), accompanied by high humidity levels of 97%. Precipitation is minimal, falling only over 2 days, with a total of 12 mm (0.5 in). In contrast, June brings a significant warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a low of 1°C (34°F) to a high of 29°C (85°F). The summer month sees much higher precipitation levels, totaling 77 mm (3.0 in) over 15 days, and lower humidity at 83%. The stark differences in temperature and humidity highlight the dramatic seasonal shifts experienced in this region. For more detailed information, visit Dawson City weather in June.

In January, Dawson City experiences extreme cold, with temperatures plummeting as low as -48°C (-55°F), averaging around -24°C (-12°F) and reaching a maximum of just 2°C (36°F). The month sees approximately 12 mm (0.5 in) of precipitation over just two days, with humidity levels at a staggering 97%. In stark contrast, July brings a warm respite, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a comfortable average of 16°C (62°F) and a peak of 29°C (85°F). The warmer month also experiences a significant increase in precipitation, totaling 54 mm (2.1 in) across 12 days, but with lower humidity at 86%. For a detailed look at July weather, check out Dawson City weather in July.

January and August in Dawson City present a striking contrast in weather. January is characterized by frigid temperatures, with average lows plummeting to -24°C (-12°F) and record lows reaching a staggering -48°C (-55°F). Precipitation is minimal, occurring over just two days, with humidity hovering at a high 97%. In stark contrast, August brings a more temperate climate, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (28°F) to a maximum of 30°C (85°F). The month enjoys significantly higher precipitation levels, totaling 70 mm (2.8 in) over 13 days, and humidity remains relatively high at 89%. For more detailed information, you can check Dawson City weather in August.

In January, Dawson City experiences frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -48°C (-55°F) and an average of -24°C (-12°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. The area sees minimal precipitation, averaging just 12 mm (0.5 in) over 2 days, but the humidity remains high at 97%, contributing to the biting cold. In contrast, September offers a milder climate, where temperatures range from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a pleasant maximum of 22°C (72°F), with an average of 6°C (44°F). This month also experiences increased rainfall, totaling 38 mm (1.5 in) over 9 days, and slightly lower humidity at 91%. For more details about the weather in September, you can check out Dawson City weather in September.

January and October showcase a stark contrast in weather conditions. In January, the temperatures plunge to a minimum of -48°C (-55°F) and are characterized by an average of -24°C (-12°F), while struggling to reach a maximum of just 2°C (36°F). Precipitation is limited, occurring on only 2 days with a total of 12 mm (0.5 in), and humidity hovers at a high 97%. In comparison, October presents milder temperatures, with a minimum of -23°C (-9°F) and an average of -3°C (27°F), peaking at a comfortable 16°C (61°F). The month experiences more precipitation, totaling 36 mm (1.4 in) over 8 days, and brings a slight increase in humidity to 98%. For a more detailed look at the climate in this month, check out Dawson City weather in October.

In comparing January and November weather, January presents a more extreme cold with average temperatures hovering around -24°C (-12°F) and dipping as low as -48°C (-55°F). In contrast, November, while still chilly, has a milder average temperature of -18°C (-1°F), with a minimum of -39°C (-39°F). Precipitation also differs significantly; January sees only 12 mm (0.5 in) over just 2 days, while November experiences a much wetter climate with 32 mm (1.2 in) spread across 8 days. Additionally, November boasts a humidity level of 100%, compared to January’s slightly lower 97%. For more details on the winter conditions in November, you can check out Dawson City weather in November.

January and December in Dawson City exhibit similarly frigid temperatures, with both months experiencing maximums around 2°C (36°F). However, January is slightly cooler on average, with an average temperature of -24°C (-12°F) compared to December's -21°C (-6°F). Precipitation also varies significantly; January has only 12 mm (0.5 in) spread over 2 days, while December sees a more substantial 27 mm (1.1 in) over 5 days. Additionally, January's humidity at 97% is marginally lower than December's peak of 99%. For more details on December's climate, visit Dawson City weather in December.

Compare Dawson City's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Dawson City

January in Dawson City presents a stark contrast to the temperate months, characterized by bitter cold and extreme low temperatures—often plunging to chilling depths. The average temperature hovers around a frosty -24°C, with occasional maximums reaching just 2°C, making this the coldest month of the year. While January sees minimal precipitation, with only a couple of mildly snowy days, the high humidity of 97% adds a biting edge to the air. This unique weather scenario sets January apart as a time for resilient winter adventures. For more insights into Dawson City's climate throughout the year, be sure to check out Dawson City Climate.