Last updated: April 22, 2025
In January, Whitehorse, Canada experiences a striking winter landscape, characterized by a maximum temperature of 3°C (38°F), while the average drops to a chilling -16°C (3°F). The month can bring frigid lows plunging down to -46°C (-50°F), making it important for residents and visitors alike to prepare adequately for the cold. With 28 mm (1.1 in) of precipitation spread over 7 days, the humidity level often hovers around an impressive 97%, creating a crisp and frosty atmosphere that defines this northern wonderland.
In January, Whitehorse, Canada experiences a deep chill, with temperatures plunging to a staggering minimum of -46°C (-50°F). The average temperature sits around a bitter -16°C (3°F), providing a stark contrast to the fleeting warmth of summer. Daytime highs just reach 3°C (38°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. As winter progresses into February, temperatures remain frigid but slightly improve, with a minor increase in the maximum to 4°C (40°F), while the minimum still hovers near -41°C (-41°F). This slow warming continues through March, where the average temperature rises to -8°C (17°F), signaling the gradual transition toward spring. Overall, January stands out not just for its extreme cold, but as a pivotal point in the seasonal cycle, highlighting Whitehorse's dramatic climatic shifts as it moves from winter’s harsh grip toward the milder days ahead.
In January, Whitehorse experiences a modest 28 mm (1.1 in) of precipitation over approximately 7 days, setting the tone for a winter month that feels both crisp and fresh. This precipitation amount aligns closely with the following months, with February and March sharing similar totals, suggesting a steady winter pattern. As the year progresses into April, a notable decrease to 20 mm (0.8 in) hints at a gradual transition towards spring. Interestingly, while January's precipitation is relatively sparse, it's situated within a broader trend of consistent moisture in the winter months, paving the way for the heavier rains that emerge by mid-year. This seasonal rhythm offers a glimpse into the dynamic climatic tapestry of the region, where each month contributes to the overall ecological balance.
In January, Whitehorse experiences its peak humidity at an impressive 97%, setting the tone for a month that often feels crisp yet damp. Following closely, February and March maintain a similar level of humidity at 95%, creating an atmosphere that highlights the frosty beauty of winter. As spring approaches in April, humidity slightly decreases to 93%, suggesting a gradual transition. This trend continues into May and June, where levels drop further to 90% and 88%, respectively, hinting at the arrival of warmer days. However, by August, humidity spikes again to 98%, indicating a sultry summer. The pattern stabilizes in the subsequent months, with a return to the high humidity levels characteristic of the fall, peaking at 99% in November before settling back to 97% in December. This cyclical fluctuation showcases Whitehorse's unique climate dynamics throughout the year.
In January, Whitehorse experiences a low UV Index of 1, indicating minimal risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, with a burn time of 45 minutes before the skin becomes vulnerable. As the month progresses into February, the UV Index slightly increases to 2, but still remains in the low category, maintaining the same burn time. A notable shift occurs in March when the UV Index rises to 3, marking the transition to moderate exposure, which reduces the burn time to 30 minutes. This trend continues into April with a further increase to 4, reinforcing the need for sun protection as spring approaches. The UV Index peaks in the summer months, hitting 6 to 7 from May to July, where skiers and outdoor enthusiasts should take extra precautions, as burn times shorten to 25 minutes. As autumn arrives, the UV levels begin to drop again, settling back to low levels of 1 and 2 through October to December. This cyclical pattern highlights the importance of being sun-smart throughout the year. For more details on the UV Index and sun safety, visit Whitehorse UV Index.
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In Whitehorse, Canada, January greets its residents with a modest 55 hours of sunshine, a stark contrast to the vibrant increase that follows in the months ahead. As winter gives way to spring, February experiences a significant leap to 138 hours, signaling longer, brighter days. The trend continues upwards, reaching a generous 236 hours in March and blossoming to 310 hours by April, as the daylight gracefully extends. May and June hold the peak at around 353 and 342 hours respectively, creating a sun-soaked atmosphere perfect for outdoor exploration. Despite a gentle decline in the latter half of the year, with August still boasting 282 hours, the gradual retreat into fall is marked by September's 228 hours before dwindling into the quieter months of October through December, where daylight diminishes to 129 and finally 56 hours. This rich tapestry of sunshine illustrates the dynamic shift in light throughout the year, inviting both adventure and reflection in the breathtaking Yukon landscape.
In Whitehorse, Canada, January presents a modest 24% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the cooler months for sun-seekers. This percentage mirrors March, suggesting that while winter holds sway, occasional sunny breaks occur. Notably, as the year progresses into late winter and early spring, sun chances increase significantly, with February seeing a boost to 41% and April reaching a promising 47%. However, May dips to 16%, hinting at a seasonal transition that may often cloak the sun. The trend not only highlights a mid-winter lull in sunny days but also sets the stage for a brighter spring, where the chances of sunshine soar before settling to more moderate levels in the summer and fall months.
In Whitehorse, Canada, January marks the beginning of a gradual transition in daylight duration, with only 6 hours of sunlight illuminating the snowy landscape. As the month progresses, daylight begins to expand, bringing a welcome increase of 3 hours by February. This upward trend continues into the spring, where March sees 11 hours, and April stretches to an impressive 14 hours of daylight. The peak arrives in the summer months of June and July, basking in the glory of 18 hours of daylight, creating long, bright days perfect for outdoor adventures. However, as August fades into September, a gentle decline begins, and daylight shifts back to 12 hours. By autumn's arrival in October, the hours dwindle to just 9, and the cycle continues into the winter, with December offering the year's shortest daylight at a mere 5 hours. This rhythm of shifting light not only marks the passage of seasons but also shapes the lifestyle and spirit of this northern community.
In January, the wind in Whitehorse, Canada, gently stirs at an average speed of 2.0 m/s (4 mph), setting a tone of crisp winter air. As the months unfold, February sees a slight dip to 1.7 m/s (4 mph), but the winds pick up again in March, reaching 2.1 m/s (5 mph) and continuing on a steady ascent through the spring months with gusts peaking at 2.3 m/s (5 mph) in both April and May. This consistency in wind speed remains well into the summer, offering a balanced climate as temperatures rise, before tapering off in late autumn when November brings it back down to 1.7 m/s (4 mph). Throughout the year, Whitehorse experiences a harmonious interplay of calmness and breeziness, with the winds providing a refreshing contrast to the serene, snow-covered landscape.
The weather in Whitehorse 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 Whitehorse and find detailed weather information for every month.
In comparing January and February weather, both months experience biting cold temperatures, with January seeing a minimum of -46°C (-50°F) and an average of -16°C (3°F), while February's minimum is slightly warmer at -41°C (-41°F). The maximum temperatures in both months hover just above freezing, with January reaching 3°C (38°F) and February peaking at 4°C (40°F). Precipitation levels are relatively consistent, with January receiving 28 mm (1.1 in) over 7 days and February slightly less at 27 mm (1.1 in) over 6 days. Additionally, humidity remains high, with January at 97% and February at 95%. For more detailed information on February weather, visit Whitehorse weather in February.
In January, temperatures in Whitehorse plummet, with minimums reaching a chilling -46°C (-50°F) and an average of -16°C (3°F), while highs barely reach 3°C (38°F). The month sees a significant amount of humidity at 97% and experiences seven days of precipitation totaling 28 mm (1.1 in). In contrast, March brings a noticeable warming trend, with minimum temperatures around -33°C (-27°F) and an average soaring to -8°C (17°F), peaking at a more comfortable 12°C (55°F). March also maintains a similar level of precipitation at 28 mm (1.1 in), albeit over eight days, and humidity slightly decreases to 95%. For further details, you can check Whitehorse weather in March.
January and April showcase stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures plummet, with minimums reaching -46°C (-50°F) and average temperatures hovering around -16°C (3°F), while the maximum only slightly rises to 3°C (38°F). The month is characterized by high humidity levels at 97% and a modest 28 mm (1.1 in) of precipitation over 7 days. In contrast, April brings a significant shift; the minimum temperature is milder at -26°C (-15°F), with an average of -1°C (31°F) and maximums peaking at a comfortable 15°C (60°F). Although precipitation decreases to 20 mm (0.8 in) over 6 days, humidity slightly lowers to 93%. For more detailed weather specifics, you can explore Whitehorse weather in April.
January and May present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures plunge to an average of -16°C (3°F), with lows reaching a frigid -46°C (-50°F), while precipitation occurs on about 7 days, totaling 28 mm (1.1 in) and accompanied by a high humidity of 97%. In contrast, May witnesses a significant warm-up, with average temperatures rising to 7°C (45°F) and daytime highs soaring to 24°C (75°F). May also sees slightly more precipitation, with 33 mm (1.3 in) over 9 days, but humidity levels remain lower at 90%. This seasonal shift illustrates the dramatic changes in climate experienced in this region as it transitions from the depths of winter to the blossoming warmth of spring. For more details, visit Whitehorse weather in May.
January and June present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures plummet, with a minimum of -46°C (-50°F) and an average of -16°C (3°F), while maximum temperatures barely rise above freezing at 3°C (38°F). The month sees significant humidity at 97% and limited precipitation of 28 mm (1.1 in) over 7 days. In contrast, June experiences a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to an average of 12°C (53°F) and reaching a maximum of 29°C (84°F). Although June has higher precipitation at 60 mm (2.4 in) over 13 days, the overall humidity is slightly lower at 88%. For more detailed weather information, you can check Whitehorse weather in June.
January and July in Whitehorse showcase stark contrasts in weather. January experiences frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -46°C (-50°F) and an average around -16°C (3°F), while July offers much warmer conditions, defined by a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and an average of 14°C (58°F). Precipitation also varies, with January receiving 28 mm (1.1 in) over 7 days compared to July's increased total of 68 mm (2.7 in) across 13 days. Humidity is particularly high in January at 97%, but remains significant in July at 90%. For more details on July weather, you can refer to Whitehorse weather in July.
In January, the weather in Whitehorse can be extremely cold, with temperatures plummeting as low as -46°C (-50°F) and an average temperature of -16°C (3°F). The month typically sees a total precipitation of 28 mm (1.1 in) over about 7 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 97%. In contrast, August brings a dramatic shift, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 28°C (84°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F). This month experiences more extensive precipitation of 73 mm (2.9 in) over approximately 13 days, with humidity increasing slightly to 98%. For more details, you can check Whitehorse weather in August.
January and September present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures plunge to a minimum of -46°C (-50°F), with an average of -16°C (3°F) and only reaching a maximum of 3°C (38°F). This month also experiences high humidity at 97%, along with light precipitation totaling 28 mm (1.1 in) over approximately 7 days. In comparison, September showcases much milder weather, starting from a minimum of -7°C (19°F) and averaging 7°C (45°F), peaking at 23°C (74°F). Furthermore, September sees increased precipitation of 40 mm (1.6 in) over about 10 days, with humidity remaining relatively high at 95%. For more insights on the weather during this month, check out Whitehorse weather in September.
In January, temperatures plunge to a chilling minimum of -46°C (-50°F) and experience an average of -16°C (3°F), with a peak at 3°C (38°F). The month typically sees 28 mm (1.1 in) of precipitation over about 7 days, accompanied by extremely high humidity at 97%. In contrast, October offers a milder climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -15°C (5°F) to an average of 0°C (33°F) and a maximum of 13°C (55°F). This month receives a higher precipitation total of 51 mm (2.0 in) over 11 days, while humidity remains nearly constant at 96%. For more details about the October weather in Whitehorse, visit Whitehorse weather in October.
January and November present significant contrasts in weather conditions. In January, the temperatures are notably colder, with a minimum of -46°C (-50°F) and an average of -16°C (3°F), whereas November experiences milder temperatures with a minimum of -34°C (-28°F) and an average of -10°C (15°F). Precipitation also differs slightly; January sees 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain over 7 days, while November has a higher precipitation total of 39 mm (1.6 in) across 11 days. Humidity levels are consistently high in both months, peaking at 97% in January and reaching an even higher 99% in November, contributing to the overall chill. For more detailed information about the weather in November, you can visit Whitehorse weather in November.
When comparing the weather in January and December, January is generally colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -46°C (-50°F) to a maximum of 3°C (38°F), while December sees a slightly warmer average with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -37°C (-35°F) to a maximum of 4°C (40°F). Precipitation is also lower in January, with only 28 mm (1.1 in) over 7 days compared to December's 47 mm (1.9 in) over 11 days. Both months share remarkably high humidity levels, remaining at 97%. For a more detailed insight into December's weather, you can check Whitehorse weather in December.
In January, Whitehorse experiences a stark, chilly contrast to other months, with average temperatures plunging to a frigid -16°C (3°F). While the maximum rarely rises above 3°C (38°F), the city can also endure extreme lows, dipping to a bone-chilling -46°C (-50°F). The atmosphere is often laden with high humidity levels reaching 97%, contributing to a moist cold that feels even more biting. With only 28 mm (1.1 in) of precipitation spread over 7 days, winter weather dominates, setting the stage for stunning, snowy landscapes. For more details on what to expect throughout the year, check out Whitehorse Climate.