January Weather in Helsinki, Finland

Last updated: August 21, 2025

Helsinki in January presents a captivating winter landscape, where temperatures typically range from a maximum of 8°C (46°F) to a minimum plunge of -23°C (-9°F), showcasing the city’s chilly charm. The average temperature hovers around -3°C (28°F), inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace the frosty weather. With 55 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation spread over 11 days, the month witnesses a blend of snow and rain, contributing to the city's enchanting atmosphere. Furthermore, a high humidity level of 97% envelops Helsinki, adding a distinct crispness to the air, perfect for winter exploration and festivities.

January Temperature in Helsinki

In Helsinki, Finland, January presents a striking winter landscape where temperatures typically hover around a chilly -3°C (28°F), with extremes reaching as low as -23°C (-9°F). This month serves as the epitome of winter, with some days offering a brief respite as highs climb to 8°C (46°F). As winter progresses into February, the temperatures show a moderate trend, holding steady at an average low of -3°C (26°F) while highs dip slightly to 6°C (43°F). Notably, the gradual transition from the harshest winter months begins, as March introduces warmer spells, peaking at 10°C (51°F). This consistent pattern highlights a slow ascent toward spring, where Helsinki's temperatures begin to thaw, setting the stage for the balmy months ahead.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Helsinki, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Helsinki, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec272630395061646254453830
Data source: Temperature data for Helsinki 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 Helsinki

In Helsinki during January, the city typically experiences about 55 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation, spread over 11 days. This marks a slight uptick compared to December's totals, indicating a winter that's both dynamic and brisk. The precipitation tends to vary slightly as winter transitions toward spring, with February showing a decrease to 48 mm (1.9 in) yet maintaining a comparable number of rain days. Interestingly, January's precipitation sets the stage for the wetter months ahead, especially as summer approaches with July's average soaring to 91 mm (3.6 in). This seasonal shift reveals that while January remains a relatively wet month, it is merely a prelude to the more abundant rainfall that follows later in the year, with patterns suggesting a gradual increase in precipitation leading into the warm summer months.

January Precipitation Trends in Helsinki

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Helsinki, 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 Helsinki, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec554852485661918376896273
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Helsinki

In Helsinki, January sets the stage for a notably humid winter, with humidity levels soaring to an impressive 97%. This peak marks the highest point in the annual cycle, showcasing the city's characteristic chill and dampness during the heart of winter. As January transitions into February, there's a slight dip to 95%, yet the humidity maintains a remarkable consistency through the colder months. March sees a further reduction to 93%, hinting at the gradual shift towards spring. However, it’s not until April that a more significant drop occurs, as humidity levels ease to 86%. The trend continues as spring unfolds, with May and June showing less moisture at 75%, providing a refreshing contrast to the winter's cling. This pattern of decreasing humidity persists through the summer, peaking again modestly in August at 83%. As fall sets in, humidity levels gradually increase yet remain lower than winter's extremes, averaging around 90% by September. This rhythmic ebb and flow of humidity in Helsinki not only highlights the city's dynamic climate but also contributes to its unique atmospheric charm throughout the year.

January Average Humidity in Helsinki

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Helsinki, 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 Helsinki is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec97%95%93%87%75%75%80%83%90%93%94%95%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Helsinki

In Helsinki, Finland, the UV Index in January hovers at a low 1, indicating minimal risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, with a burn time of 45 minutes. As winter progresses into February, this level remains the same, providing a consistent opportunity for safe outdoor activities without the worry of sunburn. However, as spring approaches, there's a noticeable shift: by March, the UV Index rises to 3, reflecting a moderate exposure category where burn time decreases to 30 minutes. This trend continues into April and May with incremental increases, reaching 5, suggesting a growing awareness for sun protection as sunlight becomes more prevalent. As summer rolls in with June and July, the UV Index peaks at 7, signaling high exposure risk and the need for sunscreen and protective measures, before dipping back down in the fall months. For those navigating Helsinki's seasonal sun challenges, understanding these trends is vital for safe and enjoyable outdoor experiences. For more detailed information, visit the Helsinki UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Helsinki for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Helsinki 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 Helsinki typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec113457754211
Data source: Helsinki 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 Helsinki

In Helsinki, Finland, January can feel quite dim, offering only 55 hours of sunshine, a sharp contrast to the brightness that follows in the coming months. As February rolls in, the daylight begins to multiply, nearly tripling to 154 hours, signaling the slow emergence of spring. By March, the sunlight surge continues, reaching 261 hours, and by April, the days are significantly longer with 362 hours of golden rays to enjoy. This upward trend doesn't stop, peaking in June with 493 hours, providing an invigorating backdrop to the summer months. Although the sunshine gradually fades again from July onwards, the gradual descent remains mellow until December's return to just 58 hours. The progression through the year showcases a beautiful ebb and flow of light, inviting residents to cherish each sun-drenched moment as winter's chill recedes.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Helsinki: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Helsinki 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec55h154h261h362h451h493h485h406h290h190h113h58h
Data source: Helsinki January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Helsinki During January

In Helsinki, Finland, January is notably the month with the lowest likelihood of sunny weather, presenting a stark 5% chance for sunshine. This trend starkly contrasts with subsequent months, where the probability of clear skies climbs significantly. By February, the chance increases to 15%, and as the seasons shift into spring, the likelihood of sunny days rises rapidly, peaking at 56% in July. This progression highlights Helsinki's transition from the depths of winter, characterized by long, dark nights, to the vibrant and sunnier days of summer, underscoring the city's remarkable seasonal contrasts and the anticipation of brighter days ahead.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Helsinki

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Helsinki 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 Helsinki experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5%15%38%44%31%53%56%29%28%19%19%14%
Data source: Helsinki January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Helsinki in January

In Helsinki, January begins with a mere 6 hours of daylight, as the city emerges from the long winter nights. As the month progresses into February, the days noticeably lengthen to 9 hours, signaling the start of the sun's gradual return. This trend continues into March with 11 hours of daylight, setting the stage for a more vibrant spring. By April, daylight increases to 14 hours, and in May, it reaches an impressive 17 hours, allowing residents to enjoy the lush landscapes under the sun. The peak arrives in June with 18 hours of daylight, providing ample opportunity for outdoor activities. However, as summer winds down and July brings 17 hours, there's a gentle reminder that shorter days are on the horizon. This decline continues through August and September, where daylight gradually recedes to 15 and 12 hours, respectively. By the time October arrives, Helsinki is down to 10 hours, and the sun dips further in November to 7 hours. The year closes with December's limited 5 hours of daylight, highlighting the cyclical nature of light in this northern city and the stark contrast between the vibrant summer months and the serene winter days.

Average Daylight Hours in Helsinki for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Helsinki throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec6h 45m9h 7m11h 51m14h 38m17h 14m18h 45m17h 56m15h 31m12h 48m10h 2m7h 27m5h 56m
Data source: Helsinki daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Helsinki

In Helsinki, January ushers in the winter season with a brisk average wind speed of 4.0 m/s (9 mph), making it one of the more blustery months. As we transition through winter into early spring, February experiences a slight dip in wind velocity at 3.5 m/s (8 mph), but the winds pick up again by March, reaching 4.5 m/s (10 mph), hinting at the approach of warmer days. Notably, April remains similar to January with a steady 4.1 m/s (9 mph), while May sees a decrease as winds mellow to 3.7 m/s (8 mph). The summer months show a further decline, with June at 3.0 m/s (7 mph) before winds begin to strengthen again in August to 4.4 m/s (10 mph). As autumn sets in, October's winds peak at 5.2 m/s (12 mph), making it the windiest month of the year, before tapering off in November at 4.4 m/s (10 mph) and December reverting slightly to 4.2 m/s (9 mph). This pattern reveals a dynamic interplay between chillier and more temperate conditions, with winter months exhibiting stronger winds that gradually give way to calmer breezes as spring and summer unfold.

Average January Wind Speed in Helsinki

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Helsinki, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.0 m/s3.54.54.13.73.03.54.44.15.24.44.2
Data source: Helsinki January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Helsinki Compares to Other Months

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

In January, temperatures in the region can dip as low as -23°C (-9°F), with an average temperature around -3°C (28°F) and maximums reaching 8°C (46°F). The month experiences about 55 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over 11 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 97%. In contrast, February also sees minimum temperatures dropping to -23°C (-8°F) but averages slightly lower at -3°C (26°F), with maximum temperatures around 6°C (43°F). Precipitation decreases to 48 mm (1.9 in) over about 10 days, and humidity is slightly lower at 95%. For more specific insights, you can check Helsinki weather in February.

In January, temperatures in Helsinki can plunge to a minimum of -23°C (-9°F) with an average of -3°C (28°F) and a maximum reaching 8°C (46°F). The month experiences about 55 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over 11 days and a high humidity level of 97%. In contrast, March brings slightly milder conditions with minimum temperatures around -22°C (-7°F), an average temperature of -1°C (31°F), and a maximum of 10°C (51°F). While precipitation is similar, at 52 mm (2.0 in) over 12 days, humidity decreases to 93%. For more detailed information, you can visit Helsinki weather in March.

In January, the weather is starkly cold, with average temperatures hovering around -3°C (28°F) and a chilling minimum of -23°C (-9°F). The month experiences high humidity levels at 97%, with precipitation of 55 mm (2.2 in) spread over 11 days. In contrast, April brings a significant tempering of these conditions, as temperatures rise to an average of 4°C (39°F) and can reach up to 19°C (67°F) at times. Although April sees slightly lower precipitation at 48 mm (1.9 in) over 9 days, the humidity drops to a more comfortable 86%. For more details on the weather patterns in April, you can check Helsinki weather in April.

In January, the weather is characterized by frigid temperatures, with lows reaching -23°C (-9°F) and an average of -3°C (28°F). The daytimes are chilly, peaking at just 8°C (46°F), accompanied by high humidity at 97%, which can make the air feel even colder. Precipitation occurs on about 11 days, totaling 55 mm (2.2 in), often falling as snow.

In contrast, May brings a significant shift, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to an average of 10°C (50°F) and maximums soaring to 27°C (80°F). The humidity drops to a more comfortable 75%, creating a pleasant atmosphere. While May also sees around 56 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days, the overall feel is much milder and more inviting. For a detailed forecast and specific conditions, check out Helsinki weather in May.

January and June present stark contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures plummet to a minimum of -23°C (-9°F), with an average around -3°C (28°F) and a maximum reaching only 8°C (46°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 97%, along with 55 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over 11 days. In contrast, June brings warmth, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to an average of 16°C (62°F), and peaks at 30°C (86°F). Although precipitation slightly increases to 61 mm (2.4 in) over 10 days, the humidity drops to a more comfortable 75%. For more specific details, check out the comprehensive overview here: Helsinki weather in June.

January and July in Helsinki present striking contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plunge to a chilling minimum of -23°C (-9°F), with an average of -3°C (28°F) and occasional highs reaching 8°C (46°F). This winter month experiences significant humidity at 97%, accompanied by 55 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over approximately 11 days. In stark contrast, July brings a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to an average of 18°C (65°F), and maximums soaring to 32°C (90°F). The summertime humidity is lower at 80%, and total precipitation increases to 91 mm (3.6 in) over about 13 days. For more details on the summer weather, you can check Helsinki weather in July.

January and August present strikingly different weather patterns. In January, temperatures can plunge as low as -23°C (-9°F), with an average of -3°C (28°F) and a maximum of 8°C (46°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 97% and considerable precipitation of 55 mm (2.2 in) over 11 days. In contrast, August enjoys much milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a comfortable maximum of 29°C (84°F), averaging around 17°C (62°F). While August experiences a slightly higher total precipitation of 83 mm (3.3 in) across 13 days, the humidity is lower at 83%. For a deeper look at what to expect during this warm summer month, you can check out Helsinki weather in August.

January and September in Helsinki showcase stark contrasts in weather. January experiences frigid temperatures, with lows plunging to -23°C (-9°F) and an average of -3°C (28°F), while September enjoys a milder climate with lows around -1°C (31°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F). Precipitation is more frequent in September, with 76 mm (3.0 in) falling across 13 days, compared to January's 55 mm (2.2 in) over 11 days. Additionally, January's humidity reaches a frosty 97%, whereas September's is slightly lower at 90%, allowing for a more comfortable outdoor experience. For more details, you can check Helsinki weather in September.

January and October present striking contrasts in weather patterns. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -23°C (-9°F), with an average around -3°C (28°F), while October experiences milder conditions, with lows of -4°C (25°F) and averages rising to 7°C (45°F). Precipitation is also notable; January sees 55 mm (2.2 in) across 11 days, whereas October is wetter, receiving 89 mm (3.5 in) over 17 days. Additionally, humidity remains high in both months, with January at 97% and October slightly lower at 93%. For more detailed insights, visit Helsinki weather in October.

In January, the weather is significantly colder than in November, with average temperatures hovering around -3°C (28°F) compared to November's milder average of 3°C (38°F). While January sees a minimum temperature plunging to -23°C (-9°F), November's lowest point is a more tolerable -7°C (19°F). Precipitation is similarly frequent; January experiences about 55 mm (2.2 in) across 11 days, while November has slightly more precipitation at 62 mm (2.5 in) over 13 days. Additionally, humidity levels are high in both months, with January at 97% and November slightly lower at 94%. For a detailed look at the weather, check out Helsinki weather in November.

In comparing the weather of January and December, January tends to be slightly colder with average temperatures around -3°C (28°F) compared to December's average of -1°C (31°F). While January experiences a minimum temperature of -23°C (-9°F), December’s lows are milder at -18°C (0°F). Precipitation is also a notable difference, with January receiving less at 55 mm (2.2 in) over 11 days, whereas December has higher precipitation levels of 73 mm (2.9 in) across 15 days. Additionally, January's humidity is slightly higher at 97%, compared to December's 95%. Overall, January feels colder, with less precipitation but more humidity. For more detailed information, you can check Helsinki weather in December.

Compare Helsinki's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Helsinki

January in Helsinki presents a stark contrast to the milder months, characterized by its biting cold and frequent precipitation. With average temperatures hovering around -3°C, the city transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a unique experience for visitors and locals alike. This month often brings the highest humidity levels of the year, making the chill feel even more penetrating. As you navigate through the snow-laden streets, be prepared for the possibility of rain or snow on roughly 11 days, contributing to the city's lush winter scenery. For a deeper dive into how Helsinki's weather varies throughout the year, check out Helsinki Climate.