January Weather in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Last updated: August 21, 2025

In January, Addis Ababa experiences a pleasant climate that is characterized by moderate temperatures and low humidity. With a maximum temperature reaching 27°C (81°F) and an average of 15°C (59°F), daytime conditions are comfortable. Nighttime can be cooler, dipping to a minimum of 0°C (32°F). Remarkably, precipitation is minimal, with only 3 mm (0.1 in) recorded and no rainy days, making it a great time for outdoor activities. The humidity level remains around 50%, contributing to the city's refreshingly crisp atmosphere. Whether exploring the vibrant culture or enjoying the scenic landscapes, January offers ideal weather for visitors and locals alike.

January Temperature in Addis Ababa

In January, Addis Ababa experiences a notable temperature fluctuation that sets the stage for its mild climate throughout the year. With temperatures ranging from a brisk 0°C (32°F) at night to a warm 27°C (81°F) during the day, the month offers an inviting average of 15°C (59°F), perfect for outdoor exploration. As the year progresses into February, temperatures begin to rise slightly, introducing a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and maintaining a maximum of 27°C (81°F). This trend of gradual warming continues, leading into March, where daytime highs peak at 29°C (84°F). Remarkably, while January begins with a chill, it transitions seamlessly into the mild comfort of February and March, showcasing the city’s temperate climate amidst its highland backdrop. The overall progression highlights Addis Ababa’s distinct seasonal shifts, further inviting visitors to enjoy its unique weather throughout the year.

January Weather in Addis Ababa: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Addis Ababa, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Addis Ababa, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec596264646461595960606058
Data source: Temperature data for Addis Ababa 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 Addis Ababa

In Addis Ababa, January marks a notably dry start to the year, with a mere 3 mm (0.1 in) of precipitation recorded and no rainy days. This parched beginning contrasts sharply with the subsequent months, particularly from April to August, when the city experiences its peak rainfall, accumulating over 1,600 mm (63.0 in) in just five months. February welcomes a slight increase with 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain spread over a few days, but it is not until March that precipitation becomes more frequent, with 37 mm (1.4 in) falling over eight days. As the wet season hits its stride, the number of rainy days escalates dramatically, peaking in July and August with 31 days and rainfall exceeding 400 mm (16 in) each month. The transition into the dry season in October and November sees a sharp decrease in both rain and rainy days, culminating in another dry spell by December, mirroring January’s conditions.

January Precipitation Trends in Addis Ababa

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Addis Ababa, 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 Addis Ababa, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3223716122132938640730565153
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Addis Ababa

In Addis Ababa during January, the humidity is a comfortable 50%, providing a pleasant start to the year. This level of moisture is relatively moderate compared to the drier February, which drops to 41%. As the months progress into the dry season, March experiences an even lower 34% humidity, heralding a period of increased warmth. However, April sees a slight uptick to 43%, signaling the onset of pre-rainy season changes. The situation shifts dramatically by May, where humidity rises to 66%, coinciding with the arrival of the rain. This trend continues, peaking in the heart of the rainy season between July and August, with humidity soaring to 83% and an astonishing 88% respectively. Following this peak, the moisture levels gradually decline as we move into the drier months of September (81%), October (78%), November (79%), and December (67%), showcasing a clear seasonal rhythm in Addis Ababa's annual climate cycle.

January Average Humidity in Addis Ababa

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Addis Ababa, 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 Addis Ababa is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec50%41%34%43%66%60%83%88%81%78%79%67%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Addis Ababa

January in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, showcases an impressive UV Index of 13, categorizing the exposure as extreme, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. This high UV intensity is reflective of a trend that the city experiences throughout the dry season, where levels remain consistently elevated. Notably, as the year progresses into February and March, the UV Index climbs even higher, peaking at 16, revealing a significant risk for sunburn during these months. Despite a slight dip in June and December, UV levels in Addis Ababa predominantly remain in the extreme range, asserting the necessity for protective measures year-round. For more insights and monthly breakdowns, visit Addis Ababa UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Addis Ababa for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Addis Ababa 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 Addis Ababa typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec131516161512151614141312
Data source: Addis Ababa 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 Addis Ababa

In January, Addis Ababa basks in 279 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for a year where daylight steadily increases. As the months unfold, February and March bring 312 and 349 hours respectively, showcasing the city's transition into a sunnier phase. This delightful trend continues into early spring, with April and May enjoying 336 and 343 hours of radiant sunshine, making them perfect months for outdoor exploration. The warmth peaks in the middle of the year with a consistent range of 325 to 341 hours from June through September, enveloping the city in a golden embrace. As the year winds down, sunlight remains abundant, with November and December providing 333 and 342 hours respectively, ensuring that the charm of Addis Ababa shines bright even in the twilight of the calendar year. This seasonal pattern not only enhances the city’s vibrant culture but also beckons both locals and visitors to embrace the outdoors year-round.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Addis Ababa: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Addis Ababa 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec279h312h349h336h343h325h323h326h321h341h333h342h
Data source: Addis Ababa January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Addis Ababa During January

In January, Addis Ababa enjoys a promising likelihood of sunny weather, with a 65% chance of sunshine that sets the tone for the year. As the rainy season approaches, this percentage stands higher than in February (56%) but slightly below March’s peak of 68%. A noticeable trend emerges as the months progress towards April and May, where the chance of clear skies dips significantly, hitting a low of 36% in May. Following this, the city faces its driest months, particularly from June to July when brightness plummets to a mere 16%. However, the end of the year brings a resurgence, with November and December showcasing impressive sunshine probabilities of 72% and 68%, respectively. Overall, January presents a delightful opportunity to bask in the sun before the wet season takes hold.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Addis Ababa

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Addis Ababa 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 Addis Ababa experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec65%56%68%48%36%37%17%28%30%55%72%68%
Data source: Addis Ababa January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Addis Ababa in January

In Addis Ababa, January marks the beginning of the year with a consistent 11 hours of daylight, a duration that remains unchanged through February. As the months progress into March, the city experiences a gradual increase, reaching 12 hours of daylight that continues through April, May, June, July, August, and September. This steady amount of light creates a vibrant atmosphere for both residents and visitors alike. However, as the year transitions into October, the daylight dips back to 11 hours, a trend that persists through November and December. This cyclical pattern underscores the city's relatively stable daylight hours, providing a balanced rhythm to life in Addis Ababa throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Addis Ababa for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Addis Ababa throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec11h 38m11h 49m12h 3m12h 18m12h 31m12h 37m12h 34m12h 23m12h 9m11h 54m11h 41m11h 35m
Data source: Addis Ababa daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Addis Ababa

In January, the winds in Addis Ababa gently sweep through the city at an average speed of 2.1 m/s (5 mph), setting a tranquil tone for the start of the year. This steady breeze remains consistent into February, maintaining the same speed, but awakens slightly by March as it picks up to 2.9 m/s (6 mph). Following this brief increase, the winds mellow again in April and settle into a pattern of light breezes throughout the warmer months, ranging from 1.7 m/s (4 mph) to 1.4 m/s (3 mph) from May to August. As the year progresses into the latter months, the winds regain their vigor, with both November and December closing the year on a high note at 2.4 m/s (5 mph). This subtle oscillation in wind patterns reflects the dynamic climate of Addis Ababa, creating a serene yet shifting atmosphere for its residents and visitors alike.

Average January Wind Speed in Addis Ababa

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Addis Ababa, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.1 m/s2.12.92.21.71.71.91.41.32.22.42.4
Data source: Addis Ababa January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Addis Ababa Compares to Other Months

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

In January, the weather is generally cooler with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), and it enjoys a relatively dry spell with only 3 mm of precipitation over the month and no rainy days. In contrast, February sees a slight increase in temperature, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and an average of 17°C (62°F), while still peaking at 27°C (81°F). However, February is notably wetter, receiving 22 mm of rainfall across 4 days, and the humidity also drops slightly to 41%. For a detailed overview of February's weather, you can check Addis Ababa weather in February.

In January, the weather is generally cooler with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), averaging around 15°C (59°F). This month experiences very low precipitation, with only 3 mm (0.1 in) over 0 rainy days and a humidity level of 50%. In contrast, March sees a noticeable increase in warmth, with temperatures ranging from 7°C (44°F) to 29°C (84°F) and an average of 18°C (64°F). However, March is also wetter, receiving 37 mm (1.4 in) of rainfall over 8 days, and a drop in humidity to 34%. To learn more about the specific weather patterns in March, visit Addis Ababa weather in March.

In January, the weather in Addis Ababa is fairly mild, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a comfortable maximum of 27°C (81°F), while experiencing minimal precipitation of just 3 mm over 0 rainy days and an average humidity of 50%. In contrast, April brings a significant shift, with temperatures beginning at a higher minimum of 8°C (47°F) and peaking at 29°C (85°F). This month is marked by substantial rainfall, totaling 161 mm over 15 days, and a slightly lower humidity level of 43%. For a more detailed look at the weather during this month, you can visit Addis Ababa weather in April.

In January, the weather in Addis Ababa is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from a chilly 0°C (32°F) at night to a comfortable 27°C (81°F) during the day. The month is quite dry, with only 3 mm of precipitation and no rainy days, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. In stark contrast, May brings a significant increase in rainfall, with a hefty 221 mm (8.7 in) falling over 16 days. The temperatures also rise slightly, with lows of 8°C (47°F) and highs reaching up to 28°C (84°F), accompanied by higher humidity at 66%. For more detailed information about the weather in May, you can visit Addis Ababa weather in May.

January and June in Addis Ababa exhibit contrasting weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), with an average of 15°C (59°F), and the month is characterized by a dry climate, recording only 3 mm of precipitation and no rainy days. In contrast, June experiences a milder temperature range, with a minimum of 9°C (49°F) and a maximum of 28°C (83°F), but it is much wetter, receiving a substantial 329 mm (13.0 in) of rainfall over 24 days. Additionally, humidity levels in January are around 50%, while they increase to 60% in June, highlighting the shift to a more humid environment during the latter month. For more details on the specific weather conditions, you can check Addis Ababa weather in June.

In January, the weather is characterized by a mild range of temperatures, with minimums around 0°C (32°F) and maximums reaching up to 27°C (81°F). It enjoys very little precipitation, averaging just 3 mm and with no rainy days, leading to a relatively low humidity of 50%. In stark contrast, July brings a much cooler average temperature of 15°C (59°F), with maximums capping at 22°C (73°F) and minimums at 10°C (50°F). This month is significantly wetter, with a staggering 386 mm of rainfall spread over 31 days, resulting in high humidity levels at 83%. For a closer look at the conditions in July, you can check Addis Ababa weather in July.

In January, the weather is markedly different from that of August. January boasts a milder climate with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), accompanied by low precipitation of just 3 mm over no rainy days and a humidity level of 50%. In contrast, August experiences much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 10°C (50°F) and a maximum of 22°C (72°F), but it is significantly wetter, seeing 407 mm (16.0 in) of rainfall over 31 days, coupled with a high humidity of 88%. For a closer look at the summer weather, check out Addis Ababa weather in August.

In January, temperatures in Addis Ababa range from a chilly 0°C (32°F) at night to a warm 27°C (81°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 15°C (59°F). The month is characterized by minimal precipitation, averaging just 3 mm (0.1 in) and keeping the humidity at a comfortable 50%. In stark contrast, September experiences milder temperatures, with lows of 9°C (48°F) and highs reaching only 23°C (74°F), while the average remains similar at 15°C (60°F). However, September is notably wetter, receiving 305 mm (12.0 in) of rain over 27 days, leading to a significant increase in humidity levels, rising to 81%. For more details, you can visit Addis Ababa weather in September.

In January, the weather is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from a cool minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a warm maximum of 27°C (81°F), and an average of 15°C (59°F). The month experiences minimal precipitation, with only 3 mm (0.1 in) and no rainy days, resulting in a humidity level of around 50%.

In contrast, October features slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and a maximum of 25°C (77°F), while maintaining an average temperature of 15°C (60°F). However, October is significantly wetter, receiving 65 mm (2.5 in) of rain over about 7 days, and the humidity rises to 78%. For more detailed information, visit Addis Ababa weather in October.

In comparing the weather between January and November, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. January experiences a minimum temperature of 0°C (32°F) and averages 15°C (59°F), with a maximum reaching 27°C (81°F). Notably, it has minimal precipitation, totaling just 3 mm (0.1 in) across 0 rainy days, resulting in a relatively dry month with only 50% humidity. In contrast, November has slightly warmer minimum temperatures at 3°C (38°F) and a similar average of 15°C (60°F), but it cools to a maximum of 25°C (77°F). This month also sees increased rainfall, accumulating 15 mm (0.6 in) over 3 days, contributing to a much higher humidity level of 79%. For more details, you can visit Addis Ababa weather in November.

In January, the weather in Addis Ababa features a minimum temperature of 0°C (32°F) and an average high of 27°C (81°F), offering warm days with low humidity at 50%. The month sees minimal precipitation, with only 3 mm (0.1 in) recorded over zero rainy days. In contrast, December experiences slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (37°F) and an average high of 26°C (78°F). However, the humidity is higher at 67%, contributing to a different feel despite the similar average temperatures and limited precipitation. For more specific details on December weather, you can visit Addis Ababa weather in December.

Compare Addis Ababa's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Addis Ababa

In January, Addis Ababa experiences pleasantly mild weather, with daytime temperatures rising to a comfortable 27°C (81°F) while the nights can dip to as low as 0°C (32°F). This month stands out due to its remarkably low precipitation, boasting zero rainy days, which is quite different from the more humid and wet months that follow. Overall, January provides a unique opportunity to enjoy the city's beautiful landscapes under clear skies and moderate humidity of around 50%. For a more detailed understanding of the city’s weather patterns throughout the year, visit Addis Ababa Climate.