January Weather in Kiel, Germany

Last updated: February 26, 2025

In January, Kiel, Germany experiences a significant chill, with temperatures ranging from a mild maximum of 13°C (55°F) to a brisk minimum of -9°C (16°F). The average temperature hovers around 3°C (38°F), making it a month suitable for bundling up. Residents and visitors can expect 56 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation falling on approximately 11 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 90%. This combination of cool temperatures and moisture creates a crisp, wintry atmosphere, showcasing the unique character of Kiel in the heart of winter.

January Temperature in Kiel

In Kiel, Germany, January temperatures present a chilly start to the year, with averages around 3°C (38°F), and a range that spans from -9°C (16°F) to a mild 13°C (55°F). As January progresses, residents experience the distinct chill of winter, but the occasional warmer day offers a refreshing contrast. This month serves as a precursor to the slightly colder February, which dips down to a minimum of -11°C (12°F) yet retains a steady average of 3°C (38°F). It's notable how the temperatures gradually warm up as spring approaches, hinting at a pattern where the coldest days are closely followed by a slow ascent towards milder conditions. The transition from winter's harsh grip to spring's embrace becomes increasingly apparent as the months go by, making January a pivotal month in Kiel's climate narrative.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Kiel, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec373840465463646458524439
Data source: Temperature data for Kiel 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 Kiel

January in Kiel, Germany, ushers in a cool, damp start to the year, recording 56 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over 11 days. This marks a slight increase compared to February, which sees 53 mm (2.1 in), suggesting that while winter may linger, the transition towards milder, wetter months is on the horizon. As spring approaches, March brings a notable uptick with 64 mm (2.5 in), highlighting a trend where precipitation tends to increase as temperatures rise. The pattern continues into the summer months, peaking in July at 80 mm (3.1 in), before tapering off in the fall. Overall, January serves as a reminder of the steady precipitation that characterizes Kiel's climate, paving the way for the wetter months ahead.

January Precipitation Trends in Kiel

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Kiel, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec565364406961807854814663
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Kiel

In January, Kiel, Germany experiences an impressive humidity level of 90%, marking it as one of the most humid months of the year. This high humidity gradually decreases over the next few months, with February and March following closely at 89% and 88%, respectively. As the spring approaches, humidity trends downwards, reaching 85% in April and continuing to drop to 80% in May. The summer months bring a stable and comfortable 77% humidity from June to August, showcasing a more temperate climate. However, as autumn sets in, the humidity begins to rise once again, with September seeing an increase to 83% and peaking back to 89% in November. By the end of the calendar year, December brings a slight decline to 88%, rounding out the year's fluctuation in moisture levels. This trend highlights a distinct cycle, where winter and early spring host the highest humidity, while mid-summer offers a refreshing break.

January Average Humidity in Kiel

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Kiel, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec90%89%88%85%80%77%77%77%84%87%89%88%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Kiel

In Kiel, Germany, January sees a low UV Index of 1, indicating minimal risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, with a burn time of 45 minutes. As winter transitions into spring, the UV Index gradually increases, peaking at 6 in May, where the exposure risk shifts to high, requiring more caution under the sun. The peaks continue through June and July, showcasing very high levels of UV radiation, where the burn time drops significantly to just 15 minutes. Interestingly, as summer wanes, the UV Index begins to retreat, returning to moderate levels by September and reducing back to low by winter’s end in December. This steady ebb and flow highlights the cyclical nature of UV exposure throughout the year, emphasizing the importance of staying informed about sun safety. For a detailed month-by-month breakdown, visit Kiel UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Kiel for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Kiel 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec123568775321
Data source: Kiel 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 Kiel

As the chilly fingers of winter retreat, January in Kiel experiences a modest 100 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for a gradual increase in light as the year unfolds. By February, the sun starts to shine brighter, offering 180 hours, a signal that spring is just around the corner. March brings even more brightness with 255 hours, hinting at the awakening of nature. The steady climb continues into April with 361 hours, peaking in the summer months when July delights with a generous 429 hours of sunlight. The trend shifts subtly as autumn descends, seeing a gradual decline to 244 hours in October, eventually leading to 114 hours in December. This annual dance of sunlight not only illuminates Kiel but also reflects the changing rhythms of the seasons, inviting residents and visitors alike to bask in the sun's embrace throughout the year.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Kiel: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Kiel 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec100h180h255h361h414h424h429h398h316h244h154h114h
Data source: Kiel January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Kiel During January

In Kiel, Germany, the likelihood of sunny weather in January stands at a modest 15%, making it one of the cloudier months of the year. As winter transitions to spring, there's a notable increase in sunshine probability, with February seeing a rise to 26% and March further climbing to 36%. The warmth of April brings about a significant jump to 47%, indicating a welcomed trend towards brighter days. However, this sunny disposition doesn’t last, as the percentages fluctuate throughout the spring and summer months, with May, July, and August hovering around the mid-20s to low-30s. Interestingly, as winter re-emerges in November and December, the chances of sunshine dip back down to 15% and 19% respectively, reinforcing January's reputation as a particularly overcast month. Overall, while January may not offer much in the way of sunshine, the gradual increase in light throughout the following months offers a hopeful glimpse into the brighter days ahead.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Kiel

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Kiel 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 Kiel experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec15%26%36%47%25%35%30%33%28%29%15%19%
Data source: Kiel January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Kiel in January

In Kiel, Germany, January ushers in the year with about 7 hours of daylight, a stark contrast to the light-filled days of summer. As the months progress, a steady increase in daylight unfolds, reaching 9 hours in February and blossoming to 11 hours by March. This uplifting trend continues as April basks in 14 hours, while May dazzles with 16 hours of sunshine. The peak arrives in June, offering a generous 17 hours of daylight, which gradually begins to recede after July, revealing a harmonious ebb and flow of natural light. By the time autumn rolls around, August sees a decline to 14 hours, followed by 12 hours in September, and then 10 hours in October. As winter returns, daylight dwindles to 8 hours in November before settling back to 7 hours in December, bringing the cycle full circle. This rhythm of daylight beautifully mirrors the changing seasons, creating a unique backdrop for life in Kiel.

Average Daylight Hours in Kiel for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Kiel throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7h 58m9h 44m11h 54m14h 6m16h 3m17h 5m16h 32m14h 46m12h 38m10h 27m8h 28m7h 23m
Data source: Kiel daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Kiel

In January, Kiel, Germany experiences a brisk average wind speed of 4.4 m/s (10 mph), setting the tone for the winter months. The wind tends to be slightly stronger in February, reaching 4.6 m/s, but thereafter it dips slightly in March before stabilizing around 4.3-4.1 m/s from April to August. This pattern indicates a gradual ebb in wind strength as spring transitions into summer, with June experiencing a noticeable low of 3.0 m/s (7 mph), the calmest of the year. However, by October, the winds pick up again to 4.6 m/s and maintain a consistent pace as the cooler months return, suggesting a seasonal rhythm in Kiel's blustery climate. Overall, the data reveals a dynamic interplay of wind patterns, where January's chill is just the beginning of a captivating annual cycle.

Average January Wind Speed in Kiel

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Kiel, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.4 m/s4.64.24.34.13.03.54.13.64.64.14.4
Data source: Kiel January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Kiel Compares to Other Months

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

January and February exhibit similar average temperatures, but February tends to have slightly colder minimum temperatures, dropping to -11°C (12°F) compared to January's -9°C (16°F). While both months experience comparable average highs, with February reaching up to 17°C (62°F) and January peaking at 13°C (55°F), the precipitation levels are quite close, with January receiving 56 mm (2.2 in) over 11 days and February receiving 53 mm (2.1 in) across 10 days. Overall, both months maintain high humidity levels, hovering around 90%. For more specific details about February weather, you can check Kiel weather in February.

In comparing the weather of January and March, January typically experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -9°C (16°F) and an average of 3°C (38°F), while March sees a slightly higher average of 5°C (41°F) and a maximum reaching up to 18°C (64°F). Precipitation levels in March are also a bit higher, totaling 64 mm (2.5 in) compared to January's 56 mm (2.2 in), although both months have around 11 days of precipitation. Humidity is relatively similar, with January at 90% and March slightly lower at 88%. For a closer look at the specifics of March weather, visit Kiel weather in March.

January weather is characterized by much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -9°C (16°F) and an average of only 3°C (38°F), while April brings a significant warming trend, with average temperatures rising to 8°C (46°F) and highs reaching up to 26°C (78°F). Precipitation is relatively similar, with January experiencing 56 mm (2.2 in) over 11 days, compared to April's 40 mm (1.6 in) across 9 days, suggesting a slightly drier month. Additionally, humidity levels are notably high in January at 90%, although April isn't far behind with 85%. For more detailed information on the weather patterns in April, you can visit Kiel weather in April.

January and May present contrasting weather conditions. In January, the temperatures range from a chilly -9°C (16°F) to a mild 13°C (55°F), accompanied by high humidity levels at 90%. The month sees an average precipitation of 56 mm (2.2 in) over 11 days. In stark contrast, May features a more moderate climate with temperatures ranging from 0°C (31°F) at night to a warm 27°C (81°F) during the day. Although May has slightly higher precipitation at 69 mm (2.7 in) across 12 days, the humidity is more comfortable at 80%. For a detailed look at May weather, you can refer to Kiel weather in May.

In January, the weather is cold and brisk, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -9°C (16°F) to a maximum of 13°C (55°F), and an average of around 3°C (38°F). The month sees significant precipitation of 56 mm (2.2 in) over approximately 11 days, accompanied by a high humidity of 90%. In contrast, June brings much warmer conditions, with temperatures fluctuating between 6°C (42°F) and a peak of 32°C (89°F), averaging around 17°C (63°F). While precipitation slightly increases to 61 mm (2.4 in) over the same number of days, the humidity drops to a more comfortable 77%. For more detailed information, you can check Kiel weather in June.

In January, the weather is significantly colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -9°C (16°F) to a maximum of 13°C (55°F), averaging around 3°C (38°F). It is also quite humid at 90%, and precipitation occurs on about 11 days, totaling 56 mm (2.2 in). In stark contrast, July brings warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (46°F) and a maximum of 32°C (89°F), averaging 18°C (64°F). Despite being the peak of summer, July experiences slightly more precipitation with 80 mm (3.1 in) over about 13 days, but the humidity is lower at 77%. For more information on weather conditions during this month, you can check Kiel weather in July.

In January, the weather can be quite harsh, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -9°C (16°F) to a moderate high of 13°C (55°F). Humidity levels are notably high at 90%, leading to a damp and cold atmosphere, with precipitation occurring on about 11 days of the month. In contrast, August brings a much warmer climate, with temperatures varying from a comfortable 8°C (46°F) to a sizzling 33°C (92°F). Although the month sees slightly more rainfall, with precipitation on 13 days totaling 78 mm (3.1 in), the humidity drops to 77%, making the summer weather feel more pleasant. For more detailed insights on summer conditions, check out Kiel weather in August.

In January, the weather is significantly colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -9°C (16°F) to a maximum of 13°C (55°F), while September boasts a much milder climate, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F). Both months see similar levels of precipitation, with January receiving 56 mm (2.2 in) and September slightly less at 54 mm (2.1 in), although both months experience rain on about 11 days. Humidity is higher in January at 90%, compared to September's 83%, indicating a more damp and chilly atmosphere at the start of the year. For more detailed information on September weather, check out Kiel weather in September.

In January, the weather is characterized by colder temperatures, with a minimum of -9°C (16°F) and an average of 3°C (38°F), while October experiences milder conditions, with a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in October at 81 mm (3.2 in), compared to 56 mm (2.2 in) in January, and it rained on more days (14 days in October versus 11 in January). Additionally, while January boasts a high humidity level of 90%, October is only slightly lower at 87%. For those curious about what to expect in October, you can check out Kiel weather in October.

In January, the weather tends to be colder, with average temperatures around 3°C (38°F) and minimums dropping as low as -9°C (16°F). This month also sees higher humidity levels at 90% and a bit more precipitation, averaging 56 mm (2.2 in) over 11 days. In contrast, November offers milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (30°F) to a maximum of 19°C (66°F) and an average of 7°C (44°F). Precipitation is slightly lower in November, with 46 mm (1.8 in) over 10 days, and humidity remains high at 89%. For more detailed insights, check out Kiel weather in November.

In January, temperatures range from a minimum of -9°C (16°F) to an average of 3°C (38°F) and reach a maximum of 13°C (55°F). This month experiences about 56 mm (2.2 inches) of precipitation over 11 days, with humidity levels at a high 90%. In contrast, December has similar minimum temperatures of -9°C (16°F) but features a slightly higher average of 4°C (39°F) and a maximum of 11°C (53°F). Precipitation in December is also higher, totaling 63 mm (2.5 inches) over 13 days and with a humidity of 88%. For more details on December weather, visit Kiel weather in December.

Compare Kiel's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Kiel

As January rolls into Kiel, the landscape transforms under the chill of winter, distinctly different from the milder months of the year. With an average temperature hovering around freezing, the days are often cloaked in a blanket of grey skies and dampness, making it one of the more challenging months for outdoor enthusiasts. The higher humidity level adds to the crispness in the air, while the sporadic precipitation can catch you off guard. Compared to other months, January serves as a reminder of the depth of winter in Kiel, urging residents and visitors alike to embrace indoor activities. For a broader perspective on the seasonal changes, check out Kiel Climate.