January Weather in Massawa, Eritrea

Last updated: August 21, 2025

In January, the coastal city of Massawa, Eritrea experiences a delightful blend of warm temperatures and refreshing breezes. With a maximum of 31°C (89°F) and an average hovering around 24°C (75°F), the weather invites both locals and visitors to enjoy outdoor activities. The evenings bring a cool respite, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of 18°C (64°F). However, expect some occasional rain, as the month records 74 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 14 days, contributing to a humidity level of 51%. This unique climate not only highlights Massawa's winter beauty but also enriches its vibrant culture.

January Temperature in Massawa

In January, Massawa, Eritrea, greets visitors with refreshing temperatures, featuring a comfortable average of 24°C (75°F). The month starts with mild nights, where temperatures dip to a minimum of 18°C (64°F), before rising to a warm 31°C (89°F) during the day. As the season transitions into February, the warmth continues, maintaining a minimum of 18°C (65°F) while average highs edge slightly higher to 32°C (90°F). This trend persists into the following months, as temperatures gradually climb, peaking in the summer months of May through August, where maximums can soar to 39°C (102°F). Notably, the warmth remains consistent, with minimums only slightly rising, ensuring that the dry heat of Massawa is a hallmark of its January to August climate. As autumn approaches, temperatures begin to ease, with October showing a noticeable dip in max temperatures to 36°C (96°F) and a gradual cooling trend leading into the year’s end. Overall, January in Massawa offers a perfect blend of mildness and warmth, setting the tone for a summery year ahead.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Massawa, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Massawa, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec757477828690919190868177
Data source: Temperature data for Massawa 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 Massawa

In January, Massawa experiences a notable uptick in precipitation, measuring 74 mm (2.9 in) over the course of 14 days. This marks one of the wettest months of the year, alongside December, which captures a similar amount of rainfall at 76 mm (3.0 in). Following January, precipitation decreases significantly, plummeting to just 28 mm (1.1 in) by March and dwindling further towards the dry months of April and May. The trend indicates a transition from the wetter months to a distinct dry season, characterized by minimal rainfall in the latter half of the year, with June experiencing virtually no precipitation at all. This pattern highlights January as a pivotal month in Massawa's climatic calendar, bridging the gap between the rainy season and the arid stretches that follow.

January Precipitation Trends in Massawa

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Massawa, 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 Massawa, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec74712817141782194776
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Massawa

In January, Massawa, Eritrea, experiences a comfortable humidity level of 51%, making it one of the more pleasant months of the year. As the year progresses into February, humidity dips slightly to 47%, continuing an overall trend of decreasing moisture through March, where it reaches a peak low of 34%. This dry spell persists until April and May, with humidity stabilizing at 38%. Entering the warmer months, June sees a modest rise to 41%, but it’s in August that the climate shifts significantly, culminating in higher humidity levels peaking at 60%. This increase signals the onset of the rainy season, which carries into the later months with autumn bringing humidity back down to 46% in September and slightly higher levels in November and December at 57%. Thus, January marks a transitional month, setting the stage for the inevitable humidity rises that follow in the tropical rhythm of this coastal city.

January Average Humidity in Massawa

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Massawa, 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 Massawa is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec51%47%34%38%38%42%48%60%46%49%58%57%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Massawa

In January, Massawa, Eritrea experiences a very high UV Index of 9, indicating that sun exposure can lead to skin damage in just 15 minutes. As the year progresses, UV levels peak in March and April at an alarming 12, moving into the extreme category, where the burn time drops to just 10 minutes. This trend of high UV levels continues through May before returning to a very high index of 10 from June to September. Interestingly, the UV Index begins to taper off in the later months, settling at 9 in October and November, and drops slightly to 8 in December. With such significant fluctuations throughout the year, it's essential for residents and visitors alike to monitor the UV index carefully to protect their skin. For more detailed information, explore the Massawa UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Massawa for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Massawa 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 Massawa typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec91012121110101010998
Data source: Massawa 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 Massawa

In January, Massawa, Eritrea, basks in a delightful 255 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for a year filled with bright and sunny days. As the months progress, sunshine hours gradually increase, peaking in May with a stellar 351 hours. This trend highlights the region's flourishing daylight as winter turns to spring, inviting both locals and visitors to embrace outdoor activities and vibrant gatherings. Following the peak, the sunshine hours begin a gentle decline, yet still remain generous, with December rounding out the year with 315 hours. Overall, Massawa's climate gifts its residents with ample sunlight, creating an enviable coastal paradise throughout the year.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Massawa: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Massawa 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec255h278h339h335h351h346h342h335h325h329h313h315h
Data source: Massawa January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Massawa During January

In January, Massawa, Eritrea enjoys a 56% chance of sunny weather, setting the stage for a pleasant start to the year. As winter progresses into February, this likelihood dips slightly to 50%, but the sun makes a strong comeback in March with a notable 73% chance. The trend continues upward into the spring months, reaching 65% in April and 69% in May, making the transition to sunnier days palpable. However, as summer approaches, the chance of sunshine takes a dip, particularly in July with just a 45% likelihood. Fortunately, the sun returns in the later summer months, peaking in October with an impressive 77% chance, reminding us that clear skies are just around the corner. Overall, Massawa experiences a dynamic weather pattern in January, hinting at a vibrant and sunny season ahead.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Massawa

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Massawa 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 Massawa experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec56%50%73%65%69%60%45%67%70%77%73%69%
Data source: Massawa January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Massawa in January

In Massawa, Eritrea, January marks the beginning of a consistent daylight pattern, offering approximately 11 hours of light each day. This steady duration continues into February, providing a seamless transition as the days begin to elongate. As March arrives, daylight duration increases to 12 hours, a trend that persists through May, highlighting the region’s gradual shift toward longer, sun-filled days as summer approaches. The peak is reached in June, with 13 hours of daylight, creating vibrant opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration. As the year progresses into the second half, daylight returns to 12 hours from July through September, before tapering off back to 11 hours in October and remaining consistent through December. This cyclical rhythm of daylight not only shapes daily life in Massawa but also enriches its diverse cultural and recreational pursuits throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Massawa for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Massawa throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec11h 18m11h 37m12h 2m12h 28m12h 50m13h 1m12h 56m12h 36m12h 11m11h 45m11h 23m11h 12m
Data source: Massawa daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Massawa

In Massawa, Eritrea, the January winds begin the year with a gentle breeze at an average speed of 2.3 m/s (5 mph), setting a tranquil tone for the month. This calm persists into February and March, where the winds remain slightly increased but still moderate at 2.7 m/s (6 mph). As spring approaches, April welcomes a slight uptick to 2.8 m/s (6 mph), maintaining this pace through June, before gently rising to 3.0 m/s (7 mph) in July, marking the peak of the wind cycle. Following this summer gust, the winds begin to taper off again, returning to a stable rhythm of 2.8 m/s (6 mph) from August through September and gradually decreasing toward the end of the year, with December receding back to 2.3 m/s (5 mph). This cyclical pattern showcases Massawa's characteristic mild winds, creating a pleasant ambiance that underscores its coastal charm throughout the year.

Average January Wind Speed in Massawa

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Massawa, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.3 m/s2.72.72.82.62.83.02.82.82.32.12.3
Data source: Massawa January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Massawa Compares to Other Months

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

In comparing the weather between January and February, both months exhibit warm temperatures typical of the region. January features a minimum temperature of 18°C (64°F) and an average of 24°C (75°F), peaking at 31°C (89°F). In contrast, February sees a slightly cooler average temperature of 23°C (75°F), although it reaches a maximum of 32°C (90°F). Precipitation is similar for both months, with January receiving 74 mm (2.9 in) over 14 days and February recording 71 mm (2.8 in) across 15 days. Humidity levels also demonstrate a slight variation, with January at 51% and February dropping to 47%. For more detailed information on February weather, check out Massawa weather in February.

January and March present distinct contrasts in weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (64°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F), with an average of 24°C (75°F). The month sees a higher level of precipitation at 74 mm (2.9 in) over 14 days, resulting in a humidity level of 51%. In contrast, March experiences warmer conditions, with temperatures fluctuating between a minimum of 20°C (68°F) and soaring up to a maximum of 36°C (98°F), averaging 25°C (77°F). Precipitation drops significantly to just 28 mm (1.1 in) over 8 days, leading to lower humidity at 34%. For a more detailed look at March's climate, you can visit Massawa weather in March.

In comparing the weather between January and April, we see a notable increase in temperature. January has a minimum temperature of 18°C (64°F) and an average of 24°C (75°F), while April starts at a higher minimum of 20°C (69°F) and averages 28°C (82°F). The maximum temperature in April can reach up to 36°C (97°F), significantly warmer than January's maximum of 31°C (89°F). Precipitation also decreases sharply from January’s 74 mm (2.9 in) over 14 days to just 16 mm (0.6 in) on 3 days in April, contributing to a more pleasant and drier environment. Additionally, humidity drops from 51% in January to a comfortable 38% in April. For more detailed information on April weather, you can visit Massawa weather in April.

January weather in Massawa is characterized by milder temperatures, with averages ranging from a minimum of 18°C (64°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F). The month experiences moderate precipitation, totaling 74 mm (2.9 in) across about 14 days, and humidity levels sitting at 51%. In contrast, May sees a significant rise in temperatures, with minimums of 25°C (77°F) and maximums reaching up to 37°C (99°F). Precipitation drops sharply to just 14 mm (0.5 in) over only 2 days, and humidity decreases to 38%. This shift highlights the transition from the cooler, wetter January to the hotter, drier conditions typical of May. For more details, you can refer to Massawa weather in May.

Comparing the weather in January and June reveals notable differences in temperature and precipitation. January experiences milder temperatures, with average lows of 18°C (64°F) and highs peaking at 31°C (89°F), alongside significant rainfall of 74 mm over 14 days, resulting in a humidity level of 51%. In contrast, June sees a substantial rise in temperature, with averages ranging from a minimum of 27°C (80°F) to a maximum of 39°C (102°F), and remarkably little precipitation at just 1 mm across the entire month and no rainy days. The humidity also decreases to 41% during June, making it a far drier period. For more detailed information, check out Massawa weather in June.

January and July present distinct weather patterns in Massawa. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (64°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F), with an average of 24°C (75°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 74 mm (2.9 in) over about 14 days, and humidity levels sit at 51%. In contrast, July experiences much hotter conditions, with a minimum of 27°C (80°F) and reaching up to 39°C (102°F), averaging 33°C (92°F). Rainfall is scarce in July, with only 7 mm (0.3 in) occurring over a single day, and humidity drops slightly to 48%. For more detailed insights, you can refer to Massawa weather in July.

When comparing the weather in January and August, a stark contrast emerges in both temperature and precipitation patterns. January typically enjoys milder temperatures, with a minimum of 18°C (64°F) and an average of 24°C (75°F), peaking at 31°C (89°F). The month also experiences considerable rainfall, with 74 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 14 days and a humidity level of 51%. In contrast, August is significantly hotter, with minimum temperatures averaging 28°C (82°F) and soaring to a maximum of 39°C (102°F). The month sees just 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain over only 2 days, accompanied by a higher humidity of 60%. For more detailed information, you can visit Massawa weather in August.

January weather in Massawa is characterized by milder temperatures, with a minimum of 18°C (64°F) and an average of 24°C (75°F), reaching a maximum of 31°C (89°F). This month also experiences a fair amount of precipitation, totaling 74 mm (2.9 in) over 14 days, along with humidity levels around 51%. In contrast, September brings significantly warmer conditions with a minimum temperature of 27°C (82°F) and an average of 32°C (90°F), peaking at 37°C (99°F). Remarkably, September receives only 1 mm (0.1 in) of precipitation, typically experiencing no rainy days and a lower humidity of 46%. This stark difference in weather patterns is notable. For more details, visit Massawa weather in September.

In January, temperatures range from a mild minimum of 18°C (64°F) to a warm maximum of 31°C (89°F), with an average of 24°C (75°F). The month experiences higher precipitation, totaling 74 mm (2.9 in) over 14 days, and humidity levels are around 51%. In contrast, October brings warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 24°C (76°F) and a maximum of 36°C (96°F), averaging 30°C (86°F). October is notably drier, receiving only 19 mm (0.8 in) of rain over just 6 days, and humidity decreases slightly to 49%. For more detailed information, visit Massawa weather in October.

In January, temperatures in Massawa range from a minimum of 18°C (64°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F), with an average temperature of 24°C (75°F). The month sees about 74 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 14 days, resulting in a humidity level of 51%. In contrast, November boasts warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 23°C (73°F), an average of 27°C (82°F), and a peak of 34°C (94°F). The precipitation is lighter, totaling 47 mm (1.9 in) across 8 days, leading to a higher humidity of 57%. Overall, November tends to be hotter and more humid than January, making for a more tropical climate. For more details, check out Massawa weather in November.

In January, the weather is slightly cooler than in December, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 18°C (64°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F), compared to December's range of 21°C (71°F) to 33°C (91°F). While both months experience a similar amount of precipitation, January sees a bit less with 74 mm (2.9 in), compared to December's 76 mm (3.0 in). Additionally, January has a lower humidity level of 51%, making it feel a bit more comfortable than December's 57%. For more detailed insights into December weather, you can visit Massawa weather in December.

Compare Massawa's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Massawa

As January wraps up the cooler season in Massawa, it stands out with mild temperatures and a refreshing touch of humidity, making it a pleasant escape from the heat typically experienced in the following months. The occasional rainfall is a welcome change, providing a lush contrast to the drier conditions that dominate much of the year. With an average temperature hovering around 24°C, January offers a balance of warmth and coolness, creating an ideal climate for both residents and visitors alike. This transitional month serves as a gentle reminder of the region's diverse weather patterns, distinctly setting the stage for the warmer days ahead. For more insights into Massawa's weather dynamics, explore the full details at Massawa Climate.