January Weather in Espelette, France

Last updated: February 26, 2025

In Espelette, France, January brings a dynamic mix of winter chill and occasional mild days, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 20°C (68°F) and average temperatures hovering around 6°C (43°F). However, the month can plunge to a brisk minimum of -4°C (24°F), creating a varied climate. During this time, residents and visitors can expect significant precipitation, totaling 130 mm (5.1 in) over approximately 14 days, contributing to the region's lush landscapes. The air is characterized by high humidity levels at 86%, making for a damp atmosphere that accentuates the winter chill while adding a unique charm to this picturesque Basque village.

January Temperature in Espelette

In January, Espelette experiences a chilly start to the year, with temperatures ranging from a brisk -4°C (24°F) to a more comfortable 20°C (68°F) during the day. The average temperature hovers around 6°C (43°F), reflecting a gradual warming trend as winter progresses into spring. This transition is evident as the temperatures begin to rise in February, where even lower nighttime temperatures of -6°C (21°F) don’t inhibit an overall increase, culminating in maximums that reach up to 24°C (76°F). As January gives way to February, residents can expect the days to gradually lengthen and warm, signaling the approach of milder weather and the blossoming of the region’s vibrant spring landscape.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Espelette, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec434850535864676764574947
Data source: Temperature data for Espelette 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 Espelette

In January, Espelette experiences a significant precipitation amount of 130 mm (5.1 in), falling over an average of 14 days. This sets a precedent for a wet winter, with precipitation levels stabilizing as the season progresses. Surprisingly, the rainfall is quite consistent, mirroring the 130 mm seen again in June, suggesting that the region maintains a steady rhythm of moisture. Notably, November and December peak with 167 mm (6.6 in) and 200 mm (7.9 in) respectively, indicating the potential for heavy rains as winter deepens. Overall, January stands as a central moment in Espelette's climatic calendar, providing essential hydration to the lush landscapes that characterize the area as it transitions into the warmer months ahead.

January Precipitation Trends in Espelette

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Espelette, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec13011512111313213010110091117167200
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Espelette

In January, Espelette experiences notably high humidity levels at 86%, setting the tone for a winter season rich in moisture. As the months progress into February and March, humidity remains relatively stable, only dipping slightly to 85% and 82% respectively. The spring sees a gradual decrease, with April and May maintaining humidity around 81% and 80%, suggesting a shift towards drier conditions. However, this trend reverses in the fall, as November and December revisit higher humidity levels of 85% and 87%. Overall, the data reveals a seasonal pattern where January marks the peak, followed by a slow descent through spring, before oscillating back up in the colder months, creating a climate that is consistently humid throughout the year, with noticeable fluctuations between peak and calmer seasons.

January Average Humidity in Espelette

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Espelette, with January's data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, allowing you to see how January's humidity levels compare to other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec86%85%83%81%80%81%80%76%75%81%85%87%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Espelette

In January, Espelette, France, experiences a modest UV Index of 2, indicating a low exposure risk, with a burn time of about 45 minutes. This tranquil winter month sets the stage for a gradual increase in UV exposure as the year progresses. By February, the UV Index climbs to 4, moving into the moderate category, while March and April see a notable uptick to high levels of 6 and 7, respectively, both with a burn time of just 25 minutes. The trend continues into the warmer months, reaching a peak in May and June with a very high index of 9 and 10, where protective measures become essential with burn times dropping to just 15 minutes. As summer fades, the UV Index recedes to 7 in September and further decreases to 5 and 3 in October and November, landing back at a low 2 in December. This seasonal shift underscores the importance of sun safety as we navigate varying UV levels throughout the year. For more detailed information on UV levels, visit Espelette UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Espelette for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Espelette 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec24679101097532
Data source: Espelette 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 Espelette

In Espelette, France, January greets the year with a modest 171 hours of sunshine, setting a tranquil tone for the winter months. As the days lengthen, February sees a welcome increase to 239 hours, hinting at the impending warmth of spring. By March, the sun's presence strengthens significantly, offering 302 hours of brilliant rays, while April bursts forth with 330 hours as the landscape begins to bloom. The sunshine continues to flourish in May and June, peaking in July at 401 hours, where the vibrant summer days shine the brightest. However, as August transitions to September, a gentle decline in daylight hours becomes apparent, which continues into the autumn months. By October, the sunlight recedes to 290 hours, gradually returning to the winter's embrace with November and December showcasing 225 and 206 hours, respectively. This noticeable seasonal ebb and flow paints a vivid picture of Espelette's climate, where the sun plays a pivotal role in the changing rhythms of life throughout the year.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Espelette: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Espelette 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec171h239h302h330h368h382h401h385h335h290h225h206h
Data source: Espelette January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Espelette During January

In Espelette, France, the likelihood of sunny weather in January is relatively low at 21%, making it one of the cloudier months of the year. This trend of limited sunshine continues into February, with a slight increase to 22%. However, as spring approaches, the chances of clear skies rise significantly, reaching 43% in March, followed by a healthy 40% in April. Notably, the sunny percentages drop again in May and June to 27%, suggesting a fluctuating pattern. Overall, while January may not promise abundant sun, the gradual increase through the early months hints at the brighter days awaiting later in the year.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Espelette

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Espelette 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 Espelette experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec21%22%43%40%27%27%29%34%26%36%18%34%
Data source: Espelette January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Espelette in January

In January, Espelette basks in approximately 9 hours of daylight, signaling the depths of winter. As the month progresses towards February, daytime lengthens to 10 hours, offering a hint of the approaching spring. This gradual increase continues into March with 11 hours of sunlight, as nature begins to awaken. April and May see a delightful surge, providing 13 and 14 hours respectively, inviting outdoor activities and blooming floral displays. The longest days occur in June, with a splendid 15 hours of daylight, allowing residents to fully embrace the joys of summer. However, as July yields to August, daylight gently wanes, slipping back to 14 and 13 hours, a reminder of the cyclic nature of the seasons. September offers 12 hours, before the daylight diminishes further in October and returns to 10 hours in November. As the year concludes, December sees daylight dip back to 9 hours, wrapping up a year of fluctuating light that reflects the captivating rhythm of life in Espelette.

Average Daylight Hours in Espelette for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Espelette throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 23m10h 31m11h 57m13h 25m14h 40m15h 18m14h 58m13h 51m12h 27m10h 59m9h 41m9h 1m
Data source: Espelette daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Espelette

In January, the charming town of Espelette, France, experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 2.8 m/s (6 mph), setting a serene tone for the start of the year. As the months unfold, this tranquility gradually gives way to slightly stronger winds, peaking in February at 3.5 m/s (8 mph). However, by March and April, the winds settle back to more moderate levels, hovering around 2.6 m/s (6 mph). A notable decline occurs in the summer months, where the wind speed dips to lows of 2.1 m/s (5 mph), creating a calm atmosphere, perfect for the harvest season that the region is famous for. Interestingly, as autumn approaches, the winds pick up again, with a slight rise back to 2.5 m/s (6 mph) in October. Overall, the wind patterns in Espelette exhibit a gentle undulation through the year, providing a balance of calmness and bracing breezes, embodying the region's enchanting charm.

Average January Wind Speed in Espelette

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Espelette, 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/s3.52.62.62.42.22.22.12.12.52.43.3
Data source: Espelette January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Espelette Compares to Other Months

The weather in Espelette 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 Espelette and find detailed weather information for every month.

January and February exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. January typically sees a minimum temperature of -4°C (24°F) with an average of 6°C (43°F) and a maximum of 20°C (68°F). Precipitation during this month is substantial, averaging 130 mm (5.1 in) over 14 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 86%. In contrast, February brings slightly colder temperatures with a minimum of -6°C (21°F) and an average of 9°C (48°F), but the maximum can reach up to 24°C (76°F). Precipitation decreases slightly to 115 mm (4.5 in) across 13 days, while humidity remains only marginally lower at 85%. For a deeper look at February conditions, check out Espelette weather in February.

January and March both present cool temperatures, but March shows a notable increase in average warmth. In January, the temperature varies from a chilly -4°C (24°F) at its lowest to a comfortable 20°C (68°F) at its highest, while March's temperatures range from -3°C (26°F) to a warmer 25°C (77°F). Precipitation is also prevalent in both months, with January seeing 130 mm (5.1 in) over 14 days compared to March's 121 mm (4.8 in) across 16 days. Additionally, January's humidity is slightly higher at 86%, dropping to 82% in March. For more details on specific weather patterns, you can check this link: Espelette weather in March.

In January, the weather is characterized by colder temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (24°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), while it can reach a maximum of 20°C (68°F) on warmer days. The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 130 mm (5.1 in) over 14 days, and high humidity levels at 86%. In contrast, April brings a notable rise in temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (30°F) and an average of 12°C (53°F), peaking at 27°C (81°F). Although April experiences slightly less precipitation at 113 mm (4.4 in) over the same number of days, humidity decreases to 81%, making it feel more comfortable. For more insights on April weather, you can visit Espelette weather in April.

January and May exhibit quite distinct weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a chilly -4°C (24°F) to a mild max of 20°C (68°F), with an average of 6°C (43°F). The month experiences considerable rainfall, with about 130 mm (5.1 in) spread across 14 wet days, coupled with high humidity levels at 86%. In contrast, May welcomes warmer conditions, featuring a minimum of 1°C (34°F) and soaring up to a pleasant maximum of 31°C (88°F), with an average temperature of 15°C (59°F). Although May sees slightly more precipitation at 132 mm (5.2 in) over 17 days, the humidity is lower at 80%. For a closer look at May weather specifics, visit Espelette weather in May.

In January, Espelette experiences cold temperatures, with a minimum dipping down to -4°C (24°F) and an average around 6°C (43°F). The weather is characterized by high humidity at 86% and around 130 mm of precipitation spread over 14 days. In contrast, June brings warmer conditions with minimum temperatures starting at 7°C (45°F) and an average of 18°C (64°F), reaching a maximum of 35°C (95°F). Although June also sees similar precipitation levels at 130 mm, it is distributed across 15 days, and humidity decreases slightly to 81%. For a more detailed look at weather conditions in June, you can check Espelette weather in June.

In January, temperatures can dip as low as -4°C (24°F) with an average of 6°C (43°F) and a peak of 20°C (68°F), accompanied by 130 mm (5.1 in) of precipitation over approximately 14 days, resulting in high humidity levels of 86%. In contrast, July boasts a milder climate with minimum temperatures around 10°C (51°F), averages of 19°C (67°F), and highs reaching up to 37°C (100°F). The summer month sees lower precipitation at 101 mm (4.0 in) over just 13 days and slightly decreased humidity at 80%. For more details on July weather, check out Espelette weather in July.

January and August present contrasting weather in Espelette. In January, temperatures range from a chilly -4°C (24°F) at night to a mild 20°C (68°F) during the day, with an average of 6°C (43°F). The month also experiences significant precipitation of 130 mm (5.1 in) over 14 days and high humidity at 86%. In contrast, August boasts warmer temperatures, with minimums of 10°C (50°F), daily averages of 20°C (68°F), and maximums reaching 35°C (95°F). The precipitation in August is lower at 100 mm (3.9 in) over 12 days, accompanied by a more comfortable humidity level of 76%. For more details on August weather, you can check out Espelette weather in August.

January and September exhibit contrasting weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a chilly -4°C (24°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), with an average of 6°C (43°F). This month sees significant precipitation, totaling 130 mm (5.1 in) over approximately 14 rainy days, accompanied by high humidity at 86%. In contrast, September experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (44°F), an average of 18°C (64°F), and a peak of 33°C (92°F). The month is drier, receiving only 91 mm (3.6 in) of rainfall across 13 days, and the humidity drops to a more comfortable 75%. For more specific details about weather in September, you can check Espelette weather in September.

In January, the weather is generally colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (24°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), and an average temperature of 6°C (43°F). This month also sees significant precipitation, totaling 130 mm (5.1 in) over 14 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 86%. In contrast, October offers much milder conditions, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F) and an average temperature of 14°C (58°F). Precipitation is slightly lower at 117 mm (4.6 in) across 13 days, and humidity is also lower at 81%. For those interested in more detailed weather information, check out Espelette weather in October.

In comparing the weather of January and November, we can observe some notable differences. January tends to be colder with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (24°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), while November sees slightly milder conditions, with average temperatures fluctuating between -1°C (31°F) and 24°C (75°F). Additionally, November generally experiences more precipitation, totaling 167 mm (6.6 in) over 17 days, compared to January's 130 mm (5.1 in) spread over 14 days. Humidity levels remain similar, with January at 86% and November at 85%. For more detailed information on November conditions, you can check Espelette weather in November.

In comparing the weather of January and December, January tends to be slightly colder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (24°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), while December sees a milder range with minimum temperatures at -3°C (27°F) and maximums reaching 19°C (67°F). Rainfall is more prevalent in December, with total precipitation at 200 mm (7.9 in) across 15 days, compared to January's 130 mm (5.1 in) over 14 days. Both months experience high humidity, hovering around 86% in January and 87% in December. For further details on December weather specifics, you can check out Espelette weather in December.

Compare Espelette's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Espelette

In January, Espelette experiences a significant chill compared to the milder months that precede and follow it. The average temperature hovers around a brisk 6°C, with maximums reaching just 20°C, distinctly cooler than spring and summer. This month is also characterized by higher humidity levels at 86% and notable precipitation, accumulating about 130 mm over 14 days, providing a stark contrast to the drier conditions often seen during the summer months. As you wrap up your winter stay, you'll find that January provides a unique perspective on this vibrant region, underscoring its diverse climate. For more details about the weather in Espelette, visit Espelette Climate.