January Weather in Harbin, China

Last updated: August 21, 2025

January in Harbin, China presents a striking winter landscape characterized by bitterly cold temperatures. With a maximum of 0°C (32°F) and an average temperature plummeting to -17°C (1°F), residents and visitors alike feel the chill, experiencing minimum lows of -37°C (-34°F). Despite the frigid weather, precipitation is minimal at just 5 mm (0.2 in), occurring over typically only 1 day of the month. Humidity levels hover around 73%, adding to the cold's bite. Embrace the frost as Harbin’s winter charm captivates all who venture into its icy embrace.

January Temperature in Harbin

In January, Harbin, China experiences its coldest temperatures of the year, with averages dipping to a brisk -17°C (1°F) and nighttime lows plummeting to an extreme -37°C (-34°F). As the month progresses, temperatures inch upward, edging toward the freezing mark, while the city transforms into a winter wonderland, setting the stage for its famous Ice Festival. This stark chill is the precursor to February's slight thaw, where temperatures rise to an average of -13°C (9°F) and daytime highs can surprisingly reach 10°C (50°F). The transition into spring in March brings a notable shift, as temperatures continue to rise, with averages climbing to -2°C (29°F), and daytime highs reaching a pleasant 21°C (70°F) by the end of the month. This upward trend signals the gradual departure from the frigid temperatures of winter, offering a refreshing glimpse of the warmer months ahead.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Harbin, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Harbin, January typically has an average temperature of {2}°C ({3}°F), with highs reaching up to {4}°C ({5}°F) and lows dropping to around {6}°C ({7}°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec192947606876716145256
Data source: Temperature data for Harbin 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 Harbin

January in Harbin, China, is characterized by minimal precipitation, receiving only 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain across just one day. This pattern marks the beginning of the year with dry conditions, a stark contrast to the subsequent months where precipitation steadily increases. As winter transitions into spring, February sees a slight uptick to 8 mm, with two precipitation days. The real change occurs in the warmer months, where rainfall becomes more significant, peaking in July and August with 156 mm and 176 mm, respectively. This progression highlights a clear trend of increasing moisture, transforming Harbin's climate from the frigid, arid conditions of January to the lush, vibrant landscape of mid-summer.

January Precipitation Trends in Harbin

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Harbin, 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. In Harbin, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5817237610715617610423279
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Harbin

In January, Harbin experiences a relatively high humidity level of 73%, setting the stage for a cold, crisp winter atmosphere. This month marks the beginning of a gradual decline in humidity as the year progresses; by February, levels drop to 66%, making way for slightly drier conditions. However, as spring approaches, humidity continues to fall, reaching a low of 60% in April. This trend shifts dramatically in the warmer months, with humidity climbing back up to a peak of 87% by August. As the seasons transition again, a decline sets in, bringing November and December humidity down to 65% and 53% respectively, signaling the return of winter’s chill. This cyclical pattern highlights Harbin's unique seasonal climate, where vibrant summers contrast sharply with frigid winters.

January Average Humidity in Harbin

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Harbin, with January’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In January, average humidity in Harbin is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec73%66%61%60%65%79%85%87%84%81%65%53%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Harbin

In January, Harbin enjoys a low UV Index of 2, indicating minimal risk for sunburn with a safe exposure time of 45 minutes. This trend of low UV levels continues into December and November, making winter months ideal for outdoor activities without the worry of intense UV exposure. As the year progresses into February and March, the UV Index rises to 3 and 5, respectively, transitioning to a moderate exposure category. It's essential for residents and visitors to be aware that as we enter spring, UV levels gradually increase, calling for shorter burn times. By late spring and summer, the UV Index skyrockets to 8 and 9, categorized as very high, where protective measures become crucial, reducing safe sun exposure to just 15 minutes. This clear escalation in UV intensity highlights the importance of sun safety as the seasons change. For more detailed insights, visit Harbin UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Harbin for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Harbin 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. In January, the maximum UV index in Harbin typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec235689986422
Data source: Harbin 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 Harbin

In January, Harbin experiences a modest 183 hours of sunshine, setting the tone for a winter cloaked in snow and charm. However, as the year progresses, the sun begins to shine brighter, with February offering 236 hours of daylight, hinting at the approaching spring. March sees a leap to 283 hours, while April welcomes an impressive 292 hours, as daylight swells with the awakening of nature. This upward trend continues into the warmer months, peaking in July with a dazzling 337 hours of sunshine. As summer gives way to autumn, the hours gradually taper off, but even October holds onto 256 hours, ensuring that Harbin's beauty remains illuminated well into the fall. Ultimately, the fluctuating patterns of sunshine throughout the year highlight Harbin's diverse seasonal charm, with each month presenting its unique allure under the sun.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Harbin: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Harbin 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec183h236h283h292h316h324h337h282h271h256h214h227h
Data source: Harbin January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Harbin During January

In Harbin, China, January boasts a 65% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the brighter months of the year in this northern locale. This delightful surge in sunshine stands out against the subsequent months, where the likelihood of sunny days gradually diminishes, dropping to 52% in February and declining further to 32% by July. Interestingly, January's sun-filled days are closely flanked by the neighboring months—December sees a 67% chance, while October basks in 59%. As the year progresses towards spring, a slight rebound is noted with March at 57%, hinting at fleeting moments of sunshine that elude the summer. Thus, if you're seeking winter warmth and light in Harbin, January emerges as a prime choice for sun enthusiasts.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Harbin

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Harbin 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 Harbin experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec65%52%58%49%46%43%32%35%42%59%36%67%
Data source: Harbin January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Harbin in January

In Harbin, China, January ushers in a modest 9 hours of daylight, a stark reminder of winter's grip. As the year progresses into February, daylight increases to 10 hours, hinting at the slow but steady transition towards spring. By March, 11 hours of brightness invigorate the city, while April further enhances the experience with 13 hours of daylight, inviting outdoor activities. The momentum continues with 14 hours in May and peaks at 15 hours during the summer months of June and July. However, as August rolls in, the daylight begins to wane slightly to 14 hours, paving the way for the gradual descent into autumn. September sees a reduction to 12 hours, followed by October's 10 hours, and November's return to 9 hours of sunlight. Finally, December culminates the cycle with only 8 hours of daylight, completing the seasonal dance of light that defines Harbin's unique climate throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Harbin for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Harbin throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 6m10h 21m11h 55m13h 32m14h 55m15h 38m15h 16m14h 3m12h 30m10h 53m9h 28m8h 43m
Data source: Harbin daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Harbin

In January, Harbin's winds whisper gently, averaging around 3.2 m/s (7 mph), setting the stage for a crisp and cool winter atmosphere. As the months progress, a subtle increase in wind speed is noted, peaking in April at 4.3 m/s (10 mph), before gradually subsiding as summer approaches. February and March maintain a steady pace, showing how the winds dance playfully, transitioning from the chilling grasp of winter to the mild embrace of spring. Interestingly, the winds begin to calm down in the warmer months, with July seeing a low of 2.9 m/s (7 mph), giving way to the serene, still days of summer. As autumn unfolds, the winds pick up slightly again, reflecting a cyclical rhythm that highlights Harbin's dynamic seasonal changes, each month weaving a story of nature's delicate balance.

Average January Wind Speed in Harbin

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Harbin, 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/s3.94.04.33.93.32.93.32.83.63.83.8
Data source: Harbin January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Harbin Compares to Other Months

Weather in Harbin varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares January’s weather to other months in Harbin, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

In January, temperatures are particularly frigid, with minimums plummeting to -37°C (-34°F) and an average temperature of -17°C (1°F). The month sees minimal precipitation, only about 5 mm (0.2 in) over just one day, and humidity levels remain high at 73%. In contrast, February experiences a slight warming trend, with minimum temperatures around -32°C (-25°F) and an average of -13°C (9°F), rising to a maximum of 10°C (50°F). Precipitation increases to 8 mm (0.3 in) over two days, and humidity drops to 66%. For more details, you can check Harbin weather in February.

In January, Harbin experiences extreme cold, with average temperatures hovering around -17°C (1°F) and a maximum of only 0°C (32°F). The month sees minimal precipitation, with just 5 mm (0.2 in) falling over a single day and humidity levels at 73%. In contrast, March brings a significant shift in weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -28°C (-18°F) to a much warmer average of -2°C (29°F) and a peak of up to 21°C (70°F). Precipitation also increases, totaling 17 mm (0.7 in) spread over five days, while humidity decreases to 61%. For a more detailed look, you can check out Harbin weather in March.

January and April present stark contrasts in weather conditions. January is characterized by frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -37°C (-34°F) and an average of -17°C (1°F), while the maximum only reaches 0°C (32°F). Precipitation is minimal, with just 5 mm (0.2 in) falling over the course of a single day, alongside a high humidity level of 73%. In contrast, April ushers in a significant warming trend, featuring a minimum temperature of -9°C (17°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F), peaking at a maximum of 27°C (82°F). This month sees more precipitation, totaling 22 mm (0.9 in) over four days, with humidity dropping to 60%. For more detailed insights, you can explore Harbin weather in April.

January and May present stark contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures plummet with a minimum of -37°C (-34°F) and an average of -17°C (1°F), peaking at 0°C (32°F). The month is characterized by low precipitation, receiving only 5 mm (0.2 in) over the course of just one day, while humidity remains high at 73%. In contrast, May ushers in a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to an average of 16°C (60°F) and reaching a maximum of 34°C (93°F). Precipitation increases significantly to 76 mm (3.0 in) across 10 days, and humidity drops slightly to 65%. This transformation from the frigid grip of winter to the warming embrace of spring is quite pronounced. For more detailed insights, you can refer to Harbin weather in May.

In January, Harbin experiences frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -37°C (-34°F) and an average of -17°C (1°F), while the maximum reaches just 0°C (32°F). The month sees minimal precipitation, with only 5 mm (0.2 in) falling over just 1 day and humidity around 73%. In stark contrast, June brings a marked warm-up with minimum temperatures of 9°C (48°F) and averages around 20°C (69°F), peaking at a scorching 37°C (99°F). This month is much wetter, with total precipitation of 107 mm (4.2 in) spread over 14 days, and humidity levels rise slightly to 79%. For more details, check out Harbin weather in June.

The weather in January is characterized by extreme cold, with temperatures ranging from a chilling -37°C (-34°F) to a maximum of 0°C (32°F) and an average of around -17°C (1°F). Precipitation is minimal during this month, with just 5 mm (0.2 in) expected over one day, and humidity levels averaging 73%. In stark contrast, July offers a much milder climate, where temperatures soar from a minimum of 14°C (57°F) to a maximum of 34°C (94°F), with an average of 25°C (76°F). Rain is much more frequent, totaling 156 mm (6.2 in) over 16 days, and humidity rises slightly to 84%. This significant difference highlights how dramatically weather conditions can change between these two months. For more details on summer weather, check Harbin weather in July.

January and August present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures plunge to an average of -17°C (1°F), with lows reaching a chilling -37°C (-34°F) and highs barely touching 0°C (32°F). The month is characterized by minimal precipitation of just 5 mm (0.2 in) over a single day, paired with a humidity level of 73%. In sharp contrast, August basks in warmth, featuring an average temperature of 22°C (71°F) and highs soaring to 32°C (90°F). The month sees significantly more rainfall, with 176 mm (6.9 in) spread over 17 days, accompanied by heightened humidity levels of 87%. For more details on the August climate, visit Harbin weather in August.

January and September present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures plummet with a chilling minimum of -37°C (-34°F) and an average of -17°C (1°F), reaching a maximum of 0°C (32°F). The month sees minimal precipitation of just 5 mm (0.2 in) over a single day, while humidity hovers around 73%. In stark contrast, September boasts a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (35°F) to a warm average of 16°C (61°F) and a maximum of 29°C (84°F). Rainfall increases significantly to 104 mm (4.1 in), spread over 11 days, and humidity rises slightly to 84%. For a deeper look at September's weather, you can visit Harbin weather in September.

January and October weather starkly contrast each other. In January, temperatures plunge to a minimum of -37°C (-34°F), with an average of -17°C (1°F) and a maximum of 0°C (32°F), accompanied by low precipitation of just 5 mm over 1 day and a humidity of 73%. In contrast, October experiences milder conditions with a minimum of -9°C (16°F), an average temperature of 7°C (45°F), and a maximum that can reach 28°C (84°F). The month sees increased precipitation of 23 mm over 5 days, along with slightly higher humidity at 81%. To explore more about the weather patterns in October, you can check Harbin weather in October.

In January, temperatures in Harbin plunge to a minimum of -37°C (-34°F) and struggle to reach an average of -17°C (1°F), with a maximum of just 0°C (32°F). The month sees minimal precipitation, totaling only 5 mm (0.2 in) over just 1 day, alongside a high humidity level of 73%. In contrast, November experiences milder conditions with a minimum temperature of -22°C (-7°F), an average of -4°C (25°F), and a maximum that can reach 15°C (59°F). This month also brings more precipitation, with 27 mm (1.1 in) occurring over 4 days, alongside a lower humidity of 65%. For a detailed look at Harbin's November weather, check out Harbin weather in November.

In January, the weather in Harbin is significantly colder than in December, with average temperatures plummeting to -17°C (1°F) compared to December's average of -15°C (6°F). The minimum temperature in January can reach a chilling -37°C (-34°F), whereas December's lows are slightly milder at -29°C (-19°F). Additionally, January experiences less precipitation at just 5 mm (0.2 in) compared to December's 9 mm (0.4 in), though both months see similarly low precipitation days. The humidity in January is also higher at 73%, while December has a lower humidity level of 53%. For more details on the December climate, you can check Harbin weather in December.

Compare Harbin's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Harbin

January in Harbin is a chilly spectacle, standing apart from other months with its frigid average temperatures that often dip well below freezing. With maximum temperatures just hovering around 0°C, the air is crisp and biting, while the stark minimum can plunge to an astonishing -37°C. The low precipitation of merely 5 mm this month means that snow is less common compared to the lively spring and summer months, putting the spotlight on the dramatic winter beauty of the city. The average humidity levels at 73% can make the cold feel even sharper, reminding visitors that they are indeed immersed in one of China’s coldest climates. For a deeper dive into the captivating weather patterns of Harbin, visit Harbin Climate.