Last updated: February 26, 2025
In Les Houches, France, January weather is characterized by a chilly embrace, with temperatures ranging from a maximum of 6°C (44°F) to a biting minimum of -25°C (-13°F). The average temperature hovers around a frigid -8°C (19°F), creating a winter wonderland atmosphere. January also sees significant precipitation, averaging 171 mm (6.7 in) over about 10 days, which contributes to the region’s enchanting snowy landscapes. With humidity levels soaring to 91%, the combination of cold and damp makes for a truly crisp winter experience, ideal for snowy adventures and cozy indoor retreats alike.
In Les Houches, France, January brings a crisp and chilly embrace, with temperatures fluctuating between a biting minimum of -25°C (-13°F) and a comfortable maximum of 6°C (44°F). The average temperature hovers around -8°C (19°F), setting the stage for a winter wonderland that entices skiers and snow enthusiasts alike. As the month progresses into February and March, temperatures start to rise slightly, showcasing milder days that reach up to 14°C (58°F) in late winter, while maintaining an invigorating chill at night. This gradual warming trend, coupled with intermittent cold spells, characterizes the enchanting landscape of the French Alps, gradually melting away the thick blanket of snow as spring approaches.
In January, Les Houches experiences significant precipitation, totaling 171 mm (6.7 in) over approximately 10 days of rain, setting the stage for a winter wonderland. This month typically heralds the peak of winter conditions, showcasing a robust start to the year. Compared to the preceding month of December, which sees a staggering 295 mm (11.6 in), January marks a notable decrease in both total rainfall and frequency of precipitation days. However, this dip doesn't diminish the charm of the region, as the consistent snowfall enriches the landscape. As the months progress, precipitation gradually decreases, culminating in April's much lighter 84 mm (3.3 in), before rebounding significantly in the lush month of May, illustrating the dynamic and varied climate of this picturesque corner of the French Alps.
January in Les Houches, France, sees an impressive humidity level of 91%, making it one of the most humid months of the year. As winter transitions to spring, the humidity gradually decreases, dropping to 87% in February and further declining to 84% in March. This trend continues through April and May, where humidity dips below 80% for the first time, reaching 78%. As summer approaches, the air becomes drier, with humidity falling to a low of 72% in July. However, as autumn sets in, humidity levels begin to rise again, peaking at 90% by November, before slightly decreasing to 89% in October. This cyclical pattern highlights the contrast between the crisp, dry summer months and the moist, chilly winter season, characteristic of Les Houches' unique climate.
In January, Les Houches experiences a moderate UV Index of 3, with a burn time of 30 minutes, indicating that while sunlight exposure is manageable, some precautions are advisable. As winter transitions into spring, February sees a slight increase to 4 on the UV Index, maintaining the moderate exposure category. March signals a more significant shift with the UV Index rising to 7, categorized as high, thus reducing the safe exposure time to 25 minutes. The trend continues sharply upward into April and May, where the Index reaches 8 and 9, both marked as very high, necessitating just 15 minutes of sun exposure for sensitive skin. The peak arrives in June and July with a UV Index of 10, making it crucial to adopt protective measures. August sees a slight dip to 9, but the risk remains elevated. As autumn approaches, the UV Index gradually declines, dropping to 7 in September and finally to 3 in November before closing the year at 2 in December, where the burn time stretches to 45 minutes in the low exposure category. This seasonal transition highlights the importance of monitoring UV levels throughout the year. For more details, check out the Les Houches UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In January, Les Houches basks in 173 hours of sunshine, marking the start of the year with bright, crisp winter days. As the seasons progress, a remarkable upward trend emerges, with February welcoming an increase to 237 hours. March continues this sunny ascent, showcasing 306 hours, and by April, the days stretch even longer to 352 hours, signaling the approach of spring. This pattern of accumulating light culminates in June, where residents and visitors can enjoy a dazzling 397 hours of sun, peaking in July with 422 hours. Although the sunshine slightly wanes in the following months, the year maintains a robust foundation of daylight, ensuring that even in the colder months of November and December, with 228 and 202 hours respectively, there’s a reassuring warmth and glow lingering throughout. The sunlight trend in Les Houches not only highlights the beauty of each season but also serves as a gentle reminder of nature's rhythm.
In Les Houches, France, January sees a modest 22% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the cloudier months. As winter progresses into February and March, the likelihood of sunshine increases significantly to 38% and 44%, respectively, hinting at a transitional phase where the days begin to brighten. April maintains this sunny trend with a consistent 44%, before the weather becomes more unpredictable as the year warms up. Interestingly, while May drops to 26%, the summer months offer mixed chances of sun with July and August seeing 33% and 37%, and a notable boost in conditions around October at 45%, suggesting a delightful backdrop for autumn activities. This data reveals a clear upward trajectory in sunny days as winter gives way to spring and summer, setting the stage for a varied yet promising weather experience throughout the year.
In Les Houches, France, January marks the beginning of a gradual but steady increase in daylight, with approximately 9 hours of sunshine illuminating the wintry landscape. As the months progress into February and March, this daylight extends to 10 and 11 hours, respectively, heralding the early signs of spring. April brings a significant leap to 13 hours, while May and June bask in the warmth of 14 and 15 hours of daylight, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. This peak of 15 hours persists into July before a gentle decline begins, with daylight tapering back to 14 hours in August. As autumn sets in, the daylight hours gradually decrease, dropping to 12 hours in September and dipping to 10 by October. The cycle concludes with the short days of November and December, where daylight reaches its yearly low at just 8 hours. This rhythmic pattern of daylight duration not only shapes the seasonal activities of Les Houches but also paints a beautiful portrait of nature’s transitions throughout the year.
In Les Houches, France, January greets visitors with a gentle touch, as the average wind speed hovers at a calm 1.3 m/s (3 mph). This tranquil breeze is typical for the winter months, where the wind remains relatively steady, showcasing a slight increase to 1.4 m/s in February before dipping again in March and April. Notably, the wind speeds exhibit a subtle oscillation throughout the year, with the warm summer months bringing the calmest days, recording 1.1 m/s in June and July. As the seasons transition into autumn and winter, the winds reclaim a bit more vigor, peaking at 1.5 m/s in December. Overall, the wind patterns in Les Houches reflect a serene yet variable climate, inviting both adventurers and those seeking peace to experience its charm.
The weather in Les Houches changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of January's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Les Houches and find detailed weather information for every month.
January and February present distinctly cold yet slightly temperate weather conditions. January sees a minimum temperature of -25°C (-13°F) and an average of -8°C (19°F), while February enjoys milder temperatures with a minimum of -21°C (-5°F) and an average of -4°C (26°F). February also records slightly higher maximum temperatures at 11°C (52°F) compared to January’s maximum of 6°C (44°F). Precipitation levels are notable in both months, with January receiving 171 mm (6.7 in) over 10 days and February totaling 141 mm (5.5 in) across 11 days. The humidity decreases slightly from 91% in January to 87% in February, adding to February's relatively more bearable conditions. For more information on February weather, visit Les Houches weather in February.
January and March present notable contrasts in weather, despite their similarities in minimum temperatures. In January, the average temperature hovers around -8°C (19°F), with a maximum of only 6°C (44°F), while March sees a significant rise to an average of -1°C (31°F) and a maximum of 14°C (58°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in March at 175 mm (6.9 in) over 15 days, compared to January's 171 mm (6.7 in) over 10 days, indicating a wetter month ahead. Humidity remains relatively high in both months, but January feels more damp at 91% compared to March's 84%. Overall, March offers a more temperate climate with the promise of spring just around the corner. For more information on weather in March, visit Les Houches weather in March.
January and April showcase distinct contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures plunge to a minimum of -25°C (-13°F) and typically hover around an average of -8°C (19°F), with a maximum reaching only 6°C (44°F). The month experiences significant precipitation of 171 mm (6.7 in) over approximately 10 days, coupled with high humidity at 91%. In contrast, April brings a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -16°C (3°F) to a more pleasant average of 3°C (38°F), peaking at 17°C (63°F). This month sees less precipitation, totaling 84 mm (3.3 in) over 13 days, and slightly lower humidity at 83%. For those interested in detailed weather patterns, Les Houches weather in April provides additional insights.
January and May present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures plunge to a minimum of -25°C (-13°F) with an average of -8°C (19°F) and a maximum reaching only 6°C (44°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 91%, and significant precipitation totaling 171 mm (6.7 in) over approximately 10 days. In contrast, May brings a more temperate climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -12°C (11°F) to an average of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum of 23°C (74°F). Although May sees more rainfall at 224 mm (8.8 in) over 21 days, the humidity is relatively lower at 78%. For a detailed look at May weather in specific areas, you can check Les Houches weather in May.
January and June present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plummet as low as -25°C (-13°F), with an average temperature around -8°C (19°F) and highs reaching only 6°C (44°F). This month is characterized by high humidity at 91% and substantial precipitation, totaling 171 mm (6.7 in) over approximately 10 days. In comparison, June offers a more temperate climate, with minimum temperatures around -3°C (28°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F), peaking at 28°C (83°F). While June sees a similar amount of precipitation at 167 mm (6.6 in), it falls over more days, totaling about 20, accompanied by lower humidity levels at 75%. For a more detailed understanding of June weather in this region, check out Les Houches weather in June.
January and July present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plummet to a biting low of -25°C (-13°F), with an average of -8°C (19°F) and a maximum of only 6°C (44°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 171 mm (6.7 in) over about 10 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 91%. In contrast, July offers a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a pleasant maximum of 27°C (81°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F). Precipitation is slightly lower at 162 mm (6.4 in), but it occurs over more days, totaling 18. Additionally, humidity drops to 72%, making July feel much more comfortable. For a detailed overview of weather conditions, you can visit Les Houches weather in July.
January and August present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures plunge to a minimum of -25°C (-13°F) and peak at only 6°C (44°F), with an average temperature around -8°C (19°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 171 mm (6.7 in) over roughly 10 days, and high humidity levels at 91%, resulting in a chilly and damp atmosphere. In contrast, August experiences much milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a comfortable maximum of 25°C (77°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F). Precipitation is somewhat lower at 149 mm (5.9 in) across 17 days, and humidity drops to 63%, creating a much more pleasant and summery climate. For insights on what to expect, check out Les Houches weather in August.
In January, the weather is characterized by frigid temperatures, with minimums plunging to -25°C (-13°F) and an average cold of -8°C (19°F), peaking at a mere 6°C (44°F). The month experiences significant precipitation of 171 mm (6.7 in) across approximately 10 days, combined with a high humidity level of 91%. In contrast, September brings a much milder climate, highlighted by temperatures that range from a minimum of -8°C (19°F) to a comfortable average of 10°C (49°F) and a maximum of 21°C (71°F). Although September sees precipitation on 16 days, the total is lower, amounting to 109 mm (4.3 in) and the humidity is notably less, at 73%. For those interested in specific weather patterns, you can find more details here: Les Houches weather in September.
In January, the weather is notably harsher, with temperatures ranging from a frigid minimum of -25°C (-13°F) to a maximum of just 6°C (44°F), resulting in an average temperature of -8°C (19°F). The month is also characterized by high precipitation of 171 mm (6.7 in) over approximately 10 days and an exceptionally high humidity level of 91%.
In contrast, October offers a milder climate, with temperatures that vary from a minimum of -8°C (18°F) to a pleasant maximum of 18°C (65°F), leading to a more moderate average of 5°C (42°F). Although October sees slightly lower precipitation at 133 mm (5.3 in) spread over 13 days, the humidity remains close at 89%. For more insights into October weather, you can refer to Les Houches weather in October.
January and November exhibit striking differences in weather patterns. In January, temperatures plunge to a minimum of -25°C (-13°F), averaging at a chilly -8°C (19°F), with a maximum that barely reaches 6°C (44°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 171 mm (6.7 in), spread over about 10 days, while the high humidity of 91% adds to the overall coldness. In contrast, November experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of -18°C (-1°F) and an average of -1°C (30°F), peaking at a much warmer 15°C (60°F). Precipitation is also lower, with 120 mm (4.7 in) occurring over 13 days, and humidity is slightly less at 90%. For more detailed information on November weather, you can check Les Houches weather in November.
January and December present a striking contrast in weather conditions, though both months are characterized by cold temperatures. In January, average temperatures hover around -8°C (19°F), with a maximum of 6°C (44°F) and a minimum of -25°C (-13°F). Precipitation is relatively lower at 171 mm (6.7 in) over about 10 days, combined with a humidity level of 91%. In comparison, December experiences slightly milder temperatures, with averages at -6°C (22°F) and highs reaching 8°C (46°F), while the minimums stand at -23°C (-8°F). It also sees markedly higher precipitation, totaling 295 mm (11.6 in) across 19 days, and a humidity level of 90%. For further details on the weather during this month, you can check Les Houches weather in December.
January weather in Les Houches presents a striking contrast to the milder months of the year. With average temperatures hovering around -8°C, this is a time when the landscape transforms into a winter wonderland, appealing to snow enthusiasts and skiers alike. The high humidity level of 91% combined with frequent precipitation contributes to dramatic snow accumulation, dramatically enhancing the region's charm. As the month experiences around 10 days of rain or snow, visitors should be prepared for the wintry conditions that define January, distinguishing it starkly from the warmer and drier months ahead. For more detailed climate insights, visit Les Houches Climate.