January Weather in Karlsruhe, Germany

Last updated: February 26, 2025

In Karlsruhe, Germany, January brings a crisp, wintry charm characterized by average temperatures around 3°C (37°F), with maximums reaching up to 14°C (57°F) and minimums plunging as low as -12°C (10°F). As the year begins, the city experiences about 75 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation spread over 12 days, contributing to a chilly yet atmospheric landscape. With a humidity level of 91%, the air feels particularly brisk, making it a quintessential winter month that invites locals and visitors alike to warm up indoors or enjoy the seasonal beauty in the heart of Germany's Baden-Württemberg region.

January Temperature in Karlsruhe

In January, Karlsruhe experiences a chill that sets the tone for winter, with temperatures dipping to a brisk -12°C (10°F) at night and averaging around 3°C (37°F) during the day. The maximum daytime temperatures can reach a moderate 14°C (57°F), offering a slight respite from the cold. This month marks the start of a gradual transition towards warmer temperatures, as evidenced by the rising average in February to 5°C (40°F), leading into March, which sees a further increase to 7°C (45°F). The general trend indicates a slow yet steady climb, promising milder days ahead as winter gives way to spring. As January comes to a close, the promise of a slowly warming climate becomes more tangible, paving the way for the joyous blossoms of spring that follow.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Karlsruhe, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec374045515868696961544339
Data source: Temperature data for Karlsruhe 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 Karlsruhe

In January, Karlsruhe experiences a precipitation total of 75 mm (2.9 in), marking a significant start to the year. Rainfall visits the city on approximately 12 days, providing a steady supply of moisture as winter lingers. This sets a nuanced trend for the winter months, with precipitation gradually tapering as the year progresses—February sees a slight decrease to 68 mm, while March nudges back up to 76 mm. January’s relatively high levels foreshadow the wetter month of December, which tops the charts with 108 mm (4.2 in), hinting at a cycle where winter's chill often brings more frequent showers. Overall, the month establishes a foundation for the region’s climatic rhythm, balancing wetter spells with the impending arrival of spring.

January Precipitation Trends in Karlsruhe

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Karlsruhe, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7568763684796760486853108
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Karlsruhe

In January, Karlsruhe experiences a notable humidity level of 91%, making it one of the year's wettest months. This high humidity sets the tone for a winter that is consistently damp, as humidity gradually decreases to 89% in February and further to 87% in March. As spring arrives, levels continue to decline, hitting 83% in April and dropping to 79% by May, heralding a drier season. However, the transition to summer brings a slight uptick, with humidity rising again to 82% in June and fluctuating between 83% and 84% during the peak months of July and August. As autumn approaches, humidity gradually climbs back to 88% in October and stabilizes at 89% in November, before returning to its January high of 91% in December. This cyclical pattern underscores a year marked by significant humidity fluctuations, with winter and late fall showcasing the most moisture-laden air.

January Average Humidity in Karlsruhe

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Karlsruhe, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec91%89%87%83%79%82%83%84%86%88%89%91%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Karlsruhe

In January, Karlsruhe experiences a low UV Index of 2, meaning sun protection is typically not a priority, with a burn time of 45 minutes. As the month progresses toward spring, the UV Index begins to climb steadily, reaching 3 in February and hitting 4 by March, both categorized as moderate levels of exposure where taking precautions becomes more important. The rise continues into April, with the UV Index soaring to 6, indicating high exposure risk. This trend peaks in summer when May through July sees very high levels of UV intensity, remaining at 8, where quick sunburn can occur in just 15 minutes. As summer fades into autumn, the UV Index gradually decreases, returning to low by November and December. To better understand UV trends throughout the year, visit Karlsruhe UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Karlsruhe for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Karlsruhe 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec234688876421
Data source: Karlsruhe 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 Karlsruhe

In Karlsruhe, Germany, January begins with a modest 127 hours of sunshine, a stark contrast to the vibrant 415 hours basked in during July. As winter transitions to spring, the sunlight gradually increases each month, peaking in May with 390 hours, where the city truly begins to flourish. The summer months maintain this sunny momentum, but by fall, the light begins to wane, dropping to 263 hours in October and further decreasing to 144 hours in December. This seasonal rhythm showcases how Karlsruhe unfolds its warmth and brightness, inviting both residents and visitors to appreciate the delightful shifts from one month to the next.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Karlsruhe: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Karlsruhe 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec127h206h280h348h390h395h415h384h322h263h191h144h
Data source: Karlsruhe January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Karlsruhe During January

In Karlsruhe, Germany, January is characterized by a relatively low 12% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the least bright months of the year. This grim outlook improves significantly as winter transitions into spring, with February witnessing a leap to 40%, and March further enhancing the odds to 45%. As spring unfolds, the likelihood of sunshine continues to rise, peaking in April at 49%. Interestingly, while May drops to 32%, the overall trend shows a steady increase in sunshine as the year progresses, especially when compared to the gloomier winter months. Thus, if you're seeking warmer and sunnier days in Karlsruhe, it's best to hold off until later in the season!

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Karlsruhe

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Karlsruhe 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 Karlsruhe experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec12%40%45%49%32%33%39%33%47%35%25%18%
Data source: Karlsruhe January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Karlsruhe in January

In Karlsruhe, Germany, the shift in daylight duration throughout the year is a captivating dance of the seasons. January begins with a modest 8 hours of daylight, gradually increasing to 10 hours in February. As spring approaches, daylight expands further, reaching 11 hours in March and a vivid 13 hours by April, inviting the blooming flowers of May, which enjoys 15 hours of bright daylight. The peak of summer shines through with 16 hours in June, providing ample time for outdoor activities. However, as the days wane, a gradual decline begins; July retains 15 hours, followed by a gentle descent to 14 hours in August and 12 hours in September. The transition to autumn sees October dropping to 10 hours and November further diminishing to 9 hours, before the cycle completes itself back at 8 hours in December. This rhythmic pattern beautifully illustrates nature’s ebb and flow, marking the passage of time in Karlsruhe.

Average Daylight Hours in Karlsruhe for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Karlsruhe throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 43m10h 9m11h 55m13h 44m15h 19m16h 7m15h 41m14h 17m12h 32m10h 44m9h 7m8h 16m
Data source: Karlsruhe daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Karlsruhe

In January, Karlsruhe greets the new year with an average wind speed of 3.5 m/s (8 mph), marking it as one of the windiest months of the year. This briskness sets the tone for winter, as the wind speeds dip slightly in February and March to 3.0 m/s (7 mph). As the seasons transition into spring, the winds begin to soften, reaching their calmest in April with an average of 2.7 m/s (6 mph). Interestingly, May witnesses a resurgence in wind activity, peaking again at 3.7 m/s (8 mph), before descending into the quieter summer months. By June, the winds drop further to 2.1 m/s (5 mph), displaying a significant seasonal pattern where the winds generally weaken as temperatures rise. From July through September, these milder conditions prevail, hinting at a serene summer atmosphere, while autumn sees a slight uptick in wind speeds again, culminating in a December return to 3.1 m/s (7 mph). This rhythmic ebb and flow of wind throughout the year subtly reflects Karlsruhe's changing seasons, providing a dynamic backdrop to the city’s winter months.

Average January Wind Speed in Karlsruhe

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Karlsruhe, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.5 m/s3.03.02.73.72.12.42.62.12.62.63.1
Data source: Karlsruhe January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Karlsruhe Compares to Other Months

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

January and February present a noticeable shift in weather conditions. While both months can experience a minimum temperature of -12°C (10°F), February offers a slightly warmer average temperature of 5°C (40°F) compared to January's average of 3°C (37°F). Additionally, February sees a maximum temperature rising to 20°C (69°F), significantly higher than January's peak of 14°C (57°F). Precipitation is relatively similar, with January receiving 75 mm (2.9 in) over 12 days, and February having 68 mm (2.7 in) over 11 days. Humidity also declines slightly from 91% in January to 89% in February. For more detailed insights, you can check Karlsruhe weather in February.

When comparing the weather in January and March, we can see notable differences in temperature and precipitation. January typically features colder temperatures, with a minimum of -12°C (10°F) and an average of 3°C (37°F), while March sees a significant increase, with an average of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum reaching 23°C (73°F). Precipitation in January is slightly less than in March, with 75 mm (2.9 in) over 12 days compared to 76 mm (3.0 in) on 14 days in March, suggesting March is a bit wetter despite the overall warmer conditions. Additionally, humidity levels are marginally lower in March at 87%, compared to January’s 91%. For more detailed information on March weather, visit Karlsruhe weather in March.

In January, the weather is notably colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -12°C (10°F) to a mild maximum of 14°C (57°F), while April presents a more temperate climate, boasting an average of 11°C (52°F) and maximum highs reaching 28°C (82°F). Precipitation is higher in January, totaling 75 mm (2.9 in) over 12 days, compared to April's 36 mm (1.4 in) over just 8 days, indicating a drier spring. Additionally, humidity levels in January are higher at 91%, while April's humidity is relatively lower at 83%. For more detailed information on weather trends, you can check Karlsruhe weather in April.

In January, the weather is much colder, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -12°C (10°F) to a mild 14°C (57°F), and an average temperature of just 3°C (37°F). The month sees significant precipitation, amounting to 75 mm (2.9 in) over 12 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 91%. In contrast, May brings a dramatic warming trend, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), resulting in a more pleasant average of 14°C (58°F). While precipitation increases slightly to 84 mm (3.3 in) over 13 days, the humidity drops to a more comfortable 79%. For more details, you can check Karlsruhe weather in May.

In January, the weather is quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a frigid minimum of -12°C (10°F) to a mild maximum of 14°C (57°F) and an average of 3°C (37°F). The month experiences significant humidity at 91% and sees around 75 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 12 days. In contrast, June brings a much warmer climate, featuring temperatures that vary from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a scorching maximum of 36°C (96°F), with an average temperature of 20°C (68°F). Although precipitation is slightly higher at 79 mm (3.1 in) over just 11 days, the humidity drops to 82%. This stark contrast highlights the shift from the cold of winter to the warmth of summer in Karlsruhe. For more details, visit Karlsruhe weather in June.

When comparing the weather in January and July, a stark contrast is evident. In January, temperatures range from a chilling minimum of -12°C (10°F) to a mild maximum of 14°C (57°F), with an average of about 3°C (37°F). The month experiences significant humidity at 91% and receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 12 days. Conversely, July boasts much warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a scorching maximum of 38°C (101°F) and an average of 21°C (70°F). While July sees slightly less precipitation at 67 mm (2.6 in), it maintains a relatively lower humidity of 83%, also over 12 days. For a closer look at the specifics of July weather, check out this Karlsruhe weather in July.

January and August present stark contrasts in weather patterns. In January, temperatures can dip as low as -12°C (10°F), with an average of 3°C (37°F) and a maximum of 14°C (57°F), while humidity hovers around a chilly 91%. There is also a higher chance of precipitation, with about 75 mm (2.9 in) falling over approximately 12 days. In contrast, August boasts a milder climate, featuring a minimum temperature of 8°C (47°F) and an average of 21°C (69°F), reaching highs of 35°C (95°F). The summer month experiences slightly less precipitation at 60 mm (2.4 in) across the same number of days, but with lower humidity at 84%. For more details, you can check Karlsruhe weather in August.

January and September present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can drop as low as -12°C (10°F), with an average of 3°C (37°F) and a maximum reaching 14°C (57°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 91% and significant precipitation, totaling 75 mm (2.9 in) over about 12 days. In contrast, September enjoys much milder temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (40°F), an average of 16°C (62°F), and a high of 32°C (90°F). This month sees less rainfall, with only 48 mm (1.9 in) across 8 days, and slightly lower humidity at 85%. For more details, you can visit Karlsruhe weather in September.

January and October present stark contrasts in weather conditions. January experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -12°C (10°F) and an average of only 3°C (37°F), while October is milder, showcasing a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F). Precipitation levels are similar, with January receiving 75 mm (2.9 in) over 12 days and October recording slightly less at 68 mm (2.7 in) over 13 days. Additionally, January's high humidity of 91% gives it a damp chill, whereas October's humidity of 88% still feels crisp but more comfortable. For a closer look at the climate specifics, you can refer to Karlsruhe weather in October.

January and November exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. While January experiences colder temperatures with a minimum of -12°C (10°F) and an average of 3°C (37°F), November is milder, showcasing a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F). January also tends to be wetter, receiving 75 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 12 days, compared to November's 53 mm (2.1 in) over 10 days. However, both months have high humidity levels, with January at 91% and November slightly lower at 89%. For a more detailed look at November weather, you can visit Karlsruhe weather in November.

In comparing the weather of January and December, January tends to be colder, with minimum temperatures dropping to -12°C (10°F), compared to December's milder minimum of -5°C (24°F). Both months have similar maximum temperatures, peaking at around 14°C (57°F) for January and 14°C (58°F) for December. Notably, January experiences less precipitation overall, with 75 mm (2.9 in) over 12 days, whereas December sees greater precipitation at 108 mm (4.2 in) across 18 days. Both months maintain a high humidity level of 91%. For more details, you can check Karlsruhe weather in December.

Compare Karlsruhe's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Karlsruhe

As winter deepens in Karlsruhe, January brings a notable chill that sets it apart from other months. While temperatures can reach a maximum of 14°C, the average hovers around 3°C, and nighttime can see lows plummet to -12°C. The higher humidity levels at 91% combined with 75 mm of precipitation over approximately 12 days create a damp and often overcast atmosphere, contrasting sharply with the warmer and sunnier months ahead. For those intrigued by the seasonal shifts and their effects on the region, more detailed insights can be found at Karlsruhe Climate.