January Weather in Rovaniemi, Finland

Last updated: August 21, 2025

In Rovaniemi, Finland, January presents a striking contrast in temperatures, with maximums reaching 4°C (39°F) but averaging around a chilly -10°C (14°F), plunging to as low as -34°C (-28°F). This winter month is characterized by a relatively high humidity level of 101%, contributing to the crisp, frosty air. Visitors can expect about 10 days of precipitation, totaling 44 mm (1.7 in), which often transitions into a beautiful display of snow. January in Rovaniemi truly encapsulates the enchanting essence of Arctic winter, making it a unique destination for those seeking a winter wonderland experience.

January Temperature in Rovaniemi

In Rovaniemi, Finland, January brings a chilling embrace, with temperatures plunging to a bone-rattling minimum of -34°C (-28°F). The month showcases a stark winter landscape, where average temperatures hover around -10°C (14°F) and can reach a surprisingly mild maximum of 4°C (39°F). This wintry tableau sets the stage for February, which maintains the cold with slightly less severe lows of -30°C (-22°F) and the same average as January. As winter progresses into March, a notable shift occurs as temperatures start to warm, with minimums rising to -23°C (-10°F) and averages settling at -5°C (23°F), hinting at the promise of spring. This gradual warming trend continues into April, where the mercury can finally rise to a pleasant 0°C (33°F), showcasing Rovaniemi’s capacity for dramatic seasonal transformation.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Rovaniemi, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Rovaniemi, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec141422324356615646352720
Data source: Temperature data for Rovaniemi 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 Rovaniemi

January in Rovaniemi, Finland, greets residents and visitors with an average precipitation of 44 mm (1.7 in), spread over approximately 10 days. This marks the month as one of the more humid times of winter, similar in rainfall to March, but notably higher than February's 39 mm. As winter deepens, the precipitation remains steady, showing a slight upward trend compared to the drier months preceding it. This pattern contributes to the enchanting winter landscapes, with snow and occasional rain creating a whimsical atmosphere. Interestingly, precipitation levels begin to rise more prominently in spring, indicating a shift as the region transitions towards the warmer months.

January Precipitation Trends in Rovaniemi

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Rovaniemi, 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 Rovaniemi, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec443944374971758967816159
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Rovaniemi

In Rovaniemi, Finland, January showcases a unique climatic condition with humidity levels peaking at an extraordinary 101%. This extreme moisture often contributes to the city’s enchanting winter landscapes, with snow-laden trees and icy features that sparkle in the cold light. As the year progresses into February and March, humidity begins to drop slightly to 99% and 93%, respectively, signaling the thaw's approach. Notably, as spring arrives, humidity continues to decline, with levels reaching 83% by May and settling around 80% in June. However, a gradual increase resumes in the latter half of the year, peaking again in December, returning to that striking 101%. This cyclical pattern not only highlights the region’s dramatic seasonal shifts but also enhances Rovaniemi's allure as a winter wonderland for visitors.

January Average Humidity in Rovaniemi

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Rovaniemi, 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 Rovaniemi is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec101%99%93%88%83%80%84%88%92%97%98%101%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Rovaniemi

In January, the UV Index in Rovaniemi, Finland is a modest 1, classifying exposure as low with a burn time of 45 minutes. This low UV radiation level remains consistent through February, emphasizing the peaceful winter landscape where sun protection is not a primary concern. As spring approaches, a slight increase in the UV Index to 2 in March signals the gradual return of sunshine, yet it still falls within the low exposure category. By April and May, the UV Index rises to 3 and 4, introducing a moderate exposure level and a shorter burn time of 30 minutes. This trend reaches its peak in June and July, where the UV Index climbs to 6, indicating a high level of exposure, and burn time drops to 25 minutes. As the seasons shift back into autumn, the UV Index decreases again, returning to 1 through October to December, reaffirming that winter remains predominantly low in UV risk. For more detailed information, visit Rovaniemi UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Rovaniemi for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Rovaniemi 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 Rovaniemi typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec112346643111
Data source: Rovaniemi 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 Rovaniemi

In Rovaniemi, January stands out with only 28 hours of sunshine, introducing the long, dark winter season as the region braces for cold. As February rolls in, the days begin to lengthen, bringing a notable increase to 127 hours of daylight, signaling the gradual shift toward spring. By March, the sun's presence expands significantly to 263 hours, hinting at the approaching warmth and the return of vibrant outdoor life. As we transition into April and May, sunshine peaks, providing 343 hours and 448 hours respectively, illuminating the stunning Arctic landscapes. June and July maintain this sunny trend, with consistent 498 hours, perfect for exploring the midnight sun. However, as summer fades into autumn, the hours of sunlight begin to dwindle, dropping to 382 hours in August and further to 252 hours in September. The decline sharpens in October with just 120 hours and continues dramatically into November and December, showcasing the seasonal ebb of daylight, where December sees a mere 12 hours of sunshine. This cyclical dance of sunlight reflects Rovaniemi's enchanting yet stark seasonal contrasts, inviting visitors to experience the magic of the Arctic year-round.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Rovaniemi: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Rovaniemi 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec28h127h263h343h448h498h498h382h252h120h61h12h
Data source: Rovaniemi January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Rovaniemi During January

In Rovaniemi, Finland, January brings a notable chill with a mere 7% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the cloudiest months of the year. As we transition into February, the likelihood of sunshine increases to 24%, hinting at the gradual return of brighter days. This upward trend continues into spring, with March and April showing 35% and 36% chances, respectively, as the sun gains strength and daylight begins to extend. However, the chances sharply contrast with the long summer days, particularly in June and July, where the sun shines nearly half the time. While January may feel bleak, the shift towards sunnier months is just around the corner, as winter gives way to the promise of spring.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Rovaniemi

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Rovaniemi 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 Rovaniemi experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7%24%35%36%22%43%44%23%25%7%19%17%
Data source: Rovaniemi January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Rovaniemi in January

In Rovaniemi, Finland, the month of January marks the depths of winter, offering only 4 hours of daylight, a stark contrast to the subsequent days of February, which see a dramatic increase to 8 hours. As the season transitions into spring, daylight continues to extend, reaching 11 hours in March and 15 hours in April, as the sun starts to reclaim the sky. By May, the days are delightfully long with 19 hours of daylight, leading into the summer peak of 23 hours in June—when the midnight sun illuminates the town. Although July still enjoys substantial light with 21 hours, daylight begins to gradually recede into August’s 16 hours and further into September’s 13 hours. October provides a preview of winter with just 9 hours of daylight, and the decline continues through November with 5 hours before bouncing back slightly to 12 hours in December. This rhythm not only highlights the stark contrast between winter's gloom and summer's glow but also showcases the unique dance of daylight Rovaniemi experiences throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Rovaniemi for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Rovaniemi throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4h 20m8h 6m11h 48m15h 33m19h 39m23h 47m21h 21m16h 48m13h 2m9h 22m5h 34m12h 45m
Data source: Rovaniemi daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Rovaniemi

In January, Rovaniemi experiences a gentle average wind speed of 2.8 m/s (6 mph), setting a calm tone that contrasts with the harsh winter scenery. As the month transitions into February, the winds pick up slightly to 3.1 m/s (7 mph), nudging the chill in the air and hinting at the invigorating changes ahead. This gradual increase continues into March, where the wind reaches 3.4 m/s (8 mph), invigorating the icy landscape. Throughout the spring months—April and May—the wind speed remains relatively stable, hovering around 3.3 m/s and 3.1 m/s respectively, before tapering off to a consistent 3.0 m/s (7 mph) by the summer. Notably, wind patterns become a tad more dynamic again in October, with a peak of 3.6 m/s (8 mph), before closing the year with a return to the earlier winter calm in November and December. Thus, the wind in Rovaniemi reflects a subtle seasonal rhythm, encapsulating the delicate balance between serenity and vibrancy in this enchanting Arctic landscape.

Average January Wind Speed in Rovaniemi

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Rovaniemi, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.8 m/s3.13.43.33.13.03.03.02.93.62.83.0
Data source: Rovaniemi January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Rovaniemi Compares to Other Months

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

In comparing the weather of January and February, both months experience extremely cold temperatures, with January recording a minimum of -34°C (-28°F) and February slightly milder at -30°C (-22°F). The average temperatures remain consistent at -10°C (14°F) for both months, but February sees a slightly warmer maximum of 6°C (43°F) compared to January's 4°C (39°F). Precipitation is somewhat lower in February at 39 mm (1.5 in) over 8 days, while January receives 44 mm (1.7 in) over 10 days. Humidity levels show a slight decrease as well, with January at 101% and February at 99%. For more details on the weather, you can check Rovaniemi weather in February.

In January, the weather is significantly colder, with average temperatures around -10°C (14°F) and minimums plummeting to -34°C (-28°F), making it one of the chilliest months of the year. Despite the cold, January sees a good amount of precipitation at 44 mm over 10 days, along with a high humidity level of 101%. In contrast, March offers a slight reprieve from the extreme winter temperatures, averaging -5°C (23°F) with minimums around -23°C (-10°F) and maximums rising to 8°C (48°F). Similar to January, March also records 44 mm of precipitation, but over an additional day, with humidity dropping to 93%. For more detailed information, you can check out the Rovaniemi weather in March.

In January, the weather in Rovaniemi is characterized by harsh and frigid temperatures, with a minimum temperature plummeting to -34°C (-28°F) and an average of -10°C (14°F). The month sees around 44 mm (1.7 in) of precipitation over 10 days, coupled with an exceptionally high humidity level of 101%. In contrast, April marks a notable transition, with temperatures rising to a minimum of -16°C (4°F) and averaging around 0°C (33°F), peaking at a pleasant 18°C (64°F). Precipitation decreases slightly to 37 mm (1.4 in) over just 7 days, and humidity drops to a more comfortable 88%. For a detailed look at the April weather in Rovaniemi, visit Rovaniemi weather in April.

January and May in Rovaniemi present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures plunge to a minimum of -34°C (-28°F), with average temperatures around -10°C (14°F) and a maximum of just 4°C (39°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 101% and receives about 44 mm (1.7 in) of precipitation over 10 days. In contrast, May brings a notable warm-up, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -8°C (19°F) to a comfortable average of 6°C (43°F), peaking at a maximum of 25°C (77°F). While precipitation slightly increases to 49 mm (1.9 in) over the same number of days, the humidity drops to 83%. For more insights on the pleasant weather in May, you can check out Rovaniemi weather in May.

In January, Rovaniemi experiences harsh winter conditions, with temperatures plummeting to a minimum of -34°C (-28°F) and an average of -10°C (14°F). The weather is characterized by frequent snowfall, with precipitation occurring on 10 days and humidity reaching an astonishing 101%. In stark contrast, June brings a significant warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F) and an average of 13°C (56°F). While June sees slightly more precipitation at 71 mm (2.8 in) over 13 days, the humidity levels are considerably lower at 80%. For a closer look at Rovaniemi's June weather, check out this link: Rovaniemi weather in June.

January and July present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures plunge to an average of -10°C (14°F), with lows reaching as frigid as -34°C (-28°F) and occasional highs of only 4°C (39°F). This month experiences considerable snowfall, with precipitation totaling 44 mm (1.7 in) over about 10 days, creating a winter wonderland. In contrast, July brings warmth and sunshine, boasting average temperatures of 16°C (61°F) and highs that can soar up to 31°C (88°F). Precipitation in July increases to 75 mm (2.9 in) over 11 days, and humidity remains relatively high at 83%. For more detailed information, you can check Rovaniemi weather in July.

In January, the weather in Rovaniemi is characterized by extreme cold, with temperatures ranging from a chilling -34°C (-28°F) to a slightly warmer max of 4°C (39°F) and an average of -10°C (14°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 44 mm (1.7 in) over about 10 days, alongside a high humidity level of 101%. In contrast, August brings a drastic shift, with temperatures rising significantly; the minimum is 1°C (34°F), the average is 13°C (56°F), and the maximum can reach a warm 31°C (87°F). Precipitation in August is notably higher at 89 mm (3.5 in) occurring over 16 days, with humidity levels of 87%. For a closer look at the conditions in August, check out Rovaniemi weather in August.

January and September present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures plunge to a frigid minimum of -34°C (-28°F) with an average of -10°C (14°F) and a maximum reaching just 4°C (39°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 44 mm (1.7 in) over about 10 days, contributing to a humidity level of 101%. In contrast, September offers a much milder climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (21°F) to an average of 8°C (47°F), and a maximum of 21°C (70°F). Precipitation in September is also higher at 67 mm (2.6 in), occurring over 12 days, yet the humidity is lower at 92%. For more detailed information on the specific conditions in September, you can refer to Rovaniemi weather in September.

January and October present strikingly different weather experiences. In January, temperatures plummet to a minimum of -34°C (-28°F), with an average of -10°C (14°F) and a maximum of 4°C (39°F). The month sees about 44 mm of precipitation over approximately 10 days, accompanied by high humidity at 101%. In contrast, October brings milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -18°C (0°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F) and an average of 2°C (36°F). Precipitation increases to 81 mm over about 15 days, while humidity remains high at 97%. For more details on October weather in Rovaniemi, you can visit Rovaniemi weather in October.

January and November present notably different weather conditions in Rovaniemi. In January, temperatures are significantly colder, with a minimum of -34°C (-28°F) and an average temperature of -10°C (14°F), while November experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of -19°C (-1°F) and an average of -3°C (27°F). Precipitation levels are also higher in November, totaling 61 mm (2.4 in) over 12 days, compared to January's 44 mm (1.7 in) over 10 days. Despite the colder temperatures in January, both months boast high humidity levels, with January reaching 101% and November slightly lower at 98%. For more details on November weather specifics, check out Rovaniemi weather in November.

January and December in Rovaniemi exhibit notably cold temperatures, but January is typically the colder month. In January, the temperatures range from a minimum of -34°C (-28°F) to a maximum of 4°C (39°F), with an average of -10°C (14°F). In contrast, December's temperatures are slightly milder, with a minimum of -28°C (-19°F) and an average of -7°C (20°F). Additionally, January experiences less precipitation at 44 mm (1.7 in) over about 10 days, while December sees more precipitation, totaling 59 mm (2.3 in) over 16 days. Both months maintain a high humidity level of 101%, contributing to the cold, wintry atmosphere. For more details on December weather, check Rovaniemi weather in December.

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Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Rovaniemi

As winter deepens in Rovaniemi, January brings a stark contrast to the milder months that precede it. With an average temperature plunging to -10°C, this month showcases the height of Lapland's winter chill, where even the low can dip to a biting -34°C. Accompanied by 44 mm of precipitation over 10 days, the snow-draped landscape transforms into a picturesque winter wonderland, creating a unique experience that sets January apart from other months. The humidity, elevated at 101%, can intensify the cold, making it feel even more biting. For a deeper understanding of how the January weather fits into the broader context, explore Rovaniemi Climate.