January Weather in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Last updated: August 21, 2025

January in Kinshasa, the vibrant capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, showcases a warm climate characterized by a maximum temperature soaring up to 34°C (93°F) and an average of 26°C (79°F). The weather remains pleasantly mild, with a minimum temperature around 21°C (69°F). However, this month also brings notable humidity levels averaging 88% and approximately 99 mm (3.9 in) of rainfall, spread over 18 days. Visitors should anticipate a mix of sun and showers, making light, breathable clothing essential for experiencing the dynamic atmosphere of this bustling city.

January Temperature in Kinshasa

In January, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, experiences warm temperatures, with a minimum of 21°C (69°F) and an average around 26°C (79°F), reaching up to a peak of 34°C (93°F). This pattern of consistently warm weather continues into February, where average temperatures remain stable. However, as the months progress into March and April, slight increases in average temperatures to around 27°C (80°F) are noted, along with maximums rising to 35°C (95°F) and 96°F, respectively. The transition to May sees a marginal decrease, stabilizing back to 34°C (94°F) despite a drop in minimums to 20°C (69°F). As June and July arrive, a notable cool spell occurs, with minimums dipping to 16°C (61°F) and average temperatures falling to 24°C (75°F), providing a refreshing contrast to the earlier months. However, the warmth returns in August and remains consistent through to October, characterized by maximums reaching 35°C (94°F) once again. By November and December, temperatures moderate slightly, yet the warmth persists with average highs around 33°C (91°F). Overall, Kinshasa's January weather sets the tone for a hot and humid tropical climate, with seasonal variations that highlight both heatwaves and cooler months throughout the year.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Kinshasa, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Kinshasa, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec798080807977757779797978
Data source: Temperature data for Kinshasa 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 Kinshasa

In January, Kinshasa experiences a significant shift in weather as it welcomes an average precipitation of 99 mm (3.9 in) over the course of 18 days. This marks the onset of the city's wet season, which builds momentum in the following months. Compared to the previous month, January's rainfall is notably higher, though less than the peaks in later months, such as October and November, where totals soar to 157 mm (6.2 in) and 193 mm (7.6 in), respectively. The consistent rainfall throughout January lays the groundwork for the months ahead, characterized by an uptick in rainfall days, culminating in a high of 26 days by November. This pattern highlights a distinct progression toward increased precipitation as the year unfolds, signaling the region's vibrant and dynamic climate.

January Precipitation Trends in Kinshasa

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Kinshasa, 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 Kinshasa, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec991271011298563724157193172
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Kinshasa

In January, Kinshasa experiences a notably high humidity level of 88%, continuing a trend that persists through February. This consistent moisture in the air is characteristic of the city’s tropical climate, laying the groundwork for the humid conditions that follow in the subsequent months. As the year progresses into the wetter season, humidity remains elevated, peaking at 91% in November before reaching its highest point of 92% in December. While there is a slight dip in July and August, humidity levels remain relatively high throughout the year, underscoring Kinshasa's lush environment and vibrant, thriving ecosystem.

January Average Humidity in Kinshasa

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Kinshasa, 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 Kinshasa is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec88%88%86%87%88%86%77%74%78%87%91%92%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Kinshasa

In January, the UV Index in Kinshasa reaches a striking 13, classifying the exposure risk as extreme, with a rapid burn time of only 10 minutes. This trend of heightened UV levels continues throughout the month of February, remaining at 13. As spring approaches, March sees a slight increase to 14, marking the highest UV reading for the year, yet the burn time remains persistently short at 10 minutes. By April and November, the UV Index returns to 13, emphasizing that sun protection is crucial during these peak months. However, as the year progresses into May, there’s a gradual decline to 11, while June and July show a shift to a very high UV Index of 8, allowing for a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes. The late summer months of August and September maintain a UV Index of 10, still warranting vigilance. As the year draws to a close, October and December see a return to 12 - underlining the persistent demand for sun safety in this equatorial region. For detailed insights, visit Kinshasa UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Kinshasa for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Kinshasa 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 Kinshasa typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1313141311881010121312
Data source: Kinshasa 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 Kinshasa

In January, Kinshasa basks in an inviting 238 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for a vibrant start to the year. As the months progress, sunshine hours steadily increase, peaking in July with an impressive 311 hours. This mid-year brightness offers a striking contrast to the slightly cooler months of November and December, where sunlight dips to 266 and 274 hours, respectively. Overall, the trend shows a gradual ascent to the sunniest days, with February and March also contributing significantly to this radiant progression. As the lush landscapes awaken and the city thrives under the sun's embrace, January serves as a beautiful prologue to a year of vibrant warmth in the heart of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Kinshasa: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Kinshasa 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec238h278h304h278h291h299h311h283h290h285h266h274h
Data source: Kinshasa January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Kinshasa During January

In Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, January brings a modest 18% chance of sunny weather, a trend that remains consistent with the subsequent month of February. As the rainy season transitions into its peak, the likelihood of sunshine shows little fluctuation during the early months of the year, hovering around this percentage. However, a noticeable shift occurs as the dry season approaches, particularly from May to August, where the chances of sun soar to a high of 47% in July. This gradual increase highlights the region's shift towards drier, sunnier conditions in mid-year, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Kinshasa

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Kinshasa 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 Kinshasa experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec18%18%17%18%39%43%47%41%26%23%24%22%
Data source: Kinshasa January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Kinshasa in January

In January, Kinshasa enjoys a consistent 12 hours of daylight, a trend that continues into February and March, offering plenty of time for both work and leisure under the sun's warm rays. As April arrives, daylight begins to wane slightly, dropping to 11 hours and persisting through the dry months until August. However, by September, the city experiences a gradual resurgence, returning to 12 hours of daylight for the latter part of the year. Notably, this stability in daylight hours fosters a vibrant atmosphere throughout the region, making each month uniquely enjoyable while showcasing Kinshasa's characteristic weather patterns.

Average Daylight Hours in Kinshasa for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Kinshasa throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec12h 19m12h 13m12h 6m11h 59m11h 54m11h 51m11h 53m11h 57m12h 4m12h 11m12h 17m12h 21m
Data source: Kinshasa daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Kinshasa

In January, the winds in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, are calm and gentle, averaging a steady 1.5 m/s (3 mph). This tranquil breeze is characteristic of the early year, as the wind speed remains unchanged through February and March, creating a serene atmosphere. However, as the months progress into the heart of the year, a gradual uptick emerges, with April dropping slightly to 1.2 m/s before picking up pace in June. The peak gusts arrive during the mid-year months of July and August, where wind speeds escalate to 2.1 m/s (5 mph), offering a refreshing contrast to the earlier calm. As the year winds down, the breeze softens once again, settling around 1.4 m/s in November and further tapering to 1.2 m/s by December, drawing the cycle of wind patterns to a close. This gradual ebb and flow highlights the seasonal transitions that define Kinshasa’s climate.

Average January Wind Speed in Kinshasa

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Kinshasa, 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/s1.51.51.21.31.72.12.12.01.71.41.2
Data source: Kinshasa January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Kinshasa Compares to Other Months

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

In comparing the weather between January and February, both months feature similar temperature patterns, with minimums around 21°C (69°F), average highs near 26°C (79-80°F), and maximums reaching about 34°C (93-94°F). However, February experiences a notable increase in precipitation, totaling 127 mm (5.0 in) over the course of 18 days, compared to January's 99 mm (3.9 in). Additionally, humidity remains consistent at 88% for both months, but February's increased rainfall may lead to a wetter feel overall. For more detailed information, you can check Kinshasa weather in February.

In January, the weather in Kinshasa features a minimum temperature of 21°C (69°F), with an average of 26°C (79°F) and a maximum of 34°C (93°F). The month sees approximately 99 mm (3.9 in) of precipitation over 18 days, along with a high humidity level of 88%. In contrast, March experiences slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 21°C (69°F), an average of 27°C (80°F), and a maximum of 35°C (95°F). Precipitation in March is marginally higher at 101 mm (4.0 in) spread over 17 days, and humidity levels drop slightly to 86%. For more detailed information, you can view the complete weather profile here: Kinshasa weather in March.

In January, temperatures in Kinshasa range from a minimum of 21°C (69°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F), with an average temperature of 26°C (79°F). The month experiences significant rainfall, with 99 mm (3.9 in) of precipitation over 18 days, accompanied by high humidity at 88%. In contrast, April sees slightly warmer conditions, with temperatures averaging 27°C (80°F) and peaking at 35°C (96°F). Precipitation increases to 129 mm (5.1 in) over 20 days, while humidity remains relatively similar at 87%. For more detailed weather information for April, you can visit Kinshasa weather in April.

In January, the weather in Kinshasa features a minimum temperature of 21°C (69°F) and an average of 26°C (79°F), reaching a maximum of 34°C (93°F). This month experiences a significant amount of precipitation, totaling 99 mm (3.9 in) over 18 days, with a high humidity level of 88%. Conversely, May presents slightly milder conditions, with a minimum temperature of 20°C (69°F) and the same average of 26°C (80°F), but a maximum temperature of 34°C (94°F), which is only slightly higher than in January. Rainfall decreases to 85 mm (3.3 in) over 14 days, maintaining the same humidity level of 88%. For more details on May's specific weather patterns, you can visit Kinshasa weather in May.

In January, Kinshasa experiences warm temperatures with a minimum of 21°C (69°F) and an average of 26°C (79°F), peaking at a maximum of 34°C (93°F). The month is characterized by significant rainfall, receiving 99 mm (3.9 in) over 18 days and maintaining high humidity levels at 88%. In contrast, June brings slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 18°C (64°F), an average of 25°C (77°F), and a maximum of 33°C (92°F). Notably, June is much drier, experiencing only 6 mm (0.2 in) of precipitation and no rainy days, while humidity remains relatively low at 86%. For more details, visit Kinshasa weather in June.

When comparing the weather in January and July, one can see distinct differences in temperature and humidity. January tends to be warmer, with average temperatures around 26°C (79°F) and a maximum of 34°C (93°F), combined with high humidity at 88%. This month also experiences significant precipitation, with around 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain falling over 18 days. In contrast, July sees cooler temperatures, with an average of 24°C (75°F) and a maximum of 31°C (89°F). The humidity drops to 77%, and rainfall is minimal, with only 3 mm (0.1 in) recorded and no rainy days. For those interested in the specifics of July weather, you can find more information at Kinshasa weather in July.

In January, the weather tends to be quite humid, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 21°C (69°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F) and an average of 26°C (79°F). It experiences significant rainfall, with 99 mm (3.9 in) of precipitation over 18 days, contributing to the high humidity level of 88%. In contrast, August brings milder temperatures, with a minimum of 18°C (64°F) and a maximum of 35°C (94°F), averaging at 25°C (77°F). Precipitation drops dramatically to just 7 mm (0.3 in) over only one day, and the humidity decreases to a more comfortable 74%. For more detailed information on August's climate, you can check Kinshasa weather in August.

In comparing the weather between January and September, both months feature similar average temperatures, with January experiencing a minimum of 21°C (69°F) and September slightly cooler at 19°C (66°F). However, September tends to be drier, receiving only 24 mm (0.9 in) of precipitation over 6 days, in stark contrast to January's 99 mm (3.9 in) over 18 days. Humidity is also lower in September at 78%, compared to January's 88%, making September feel less muggy. Overall, while both months have comparable average temperatures, September offers a more comfortable and drier experience. For more detailed information, you can check Kinshasa weather in September.

In comparing the weather between January and October, both months exhibit a similar average temperature of 26°C (79°F), but there are some notable differences. January experiences slightly warmer daily highs, peaking at 34°C (93°F), while October reaches a maximum of 35°C (94°F). Precipitation is significantly higher in October, with 157 mm (6.2 in) over 20 days compared to January's 99 mm (3.9 in) over 18 days. Additionally, humidity levels are quite similar, with January at 88% and October at 87%. For more detailed information on October weather, visit Kinshasa weather in October.

In January, the weather in the region is characterized by a minimum temperature of 21°C (69°F), with an average of 26°C (79°F) and a maximum reaching 34°C (93°F). The month sees a significant amount of rainfall, totaling 99 mm (3.9 in) over approximately 18 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 88%.

Conversely, November experiences slightly lower maximum temperatures, peaking at 33°C (92°F), while maintaining a similar minimum and average temperature. However, there is a notable increase in precipitation, with November recording 193 mm (7.6 in) over 26 days, leading to a slightly higher humidity at 91%. For a more detailed look at the weather in November, you can check out Kinshasa weather in November.

In comparing the weather between January and December, we see some notable differences. Both months share a similar minimum temperature of around 21°C (69°F), but January experiences slightly warmer maximum temperatures, peaking at 34°C (93°F) compared to December's 33°C (91°F). Precipitation is significantly higher in December, with 172 mm (6.8 in) over 25 days, versus January's 99 mm (3.9 in) spread across 18 days, indicating wetter conditions toward the end of the year. Additionally, December has a slightly higher humidity level of 92% compared to January's 88%. For a detailed look at December weather, you can visit Kinshasa weather in December.

Compare Kinshasa's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Kinshasa

January in Kinshasa presents a distinctly humid atmosphere, characterized by elevated temperatures and frequent rainfall. With an average temperature hovering around 26°C (79°F), the month stands out as one of the warmer periods of the year, often reaching peaks of 34°C (93°F). The high humidity levels and approximately 18 rainy days contribute to a lush environment, making January noticeably wetter compared to drier months. If you're planning a visit, be prepared for both the warmth and the rainfall, making the vibrant scenery of Kinshasa come alive. For a more detailed overview of what to expect throughout the year, explore Kinshasa Climate.