Last updated: August 21, 2025
In January, Kangerlussuaq, Greenland experiences a striking range of temperatures, with a maximum of 5°C (41°F) and a chilling minimum plunging to -35°C (-30°F). The average hovers around -18°C (-1°F), setting the stage for a truly wintry landscape. During this month, the region sees a modest 14 mm (0.5 in) of precipitation spread over just 4 days, contributing to the 92% humidity that permeates the air. This unique combination of extreme cold and occasional precipitation offers a fascinating glimpse into the resilient climate of the Arctic, making January a month of stark beauty and harsh conditions in Kangerlussuaq.
In Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, January is characterized by its frigid temperatures, with minimums plunging to a biting -35°C (-30°F) and an average hovering around -18°C (-1°F). The highs barely break above freezing at 5°C (41°F). This consistently cold climate marks the peak of winter, contrasting sharply with the gradual warming that follows in February and March, where temperatures still remain well below freezing but begin to show slight variations, including occasional peaks near 5°C (40°F). As winter gives way to spring, April brings a notable shift, with temperatures rising significantly, moving towards more moderate highs of 15°C (60°F), indicating the transition into a milder season. This trend continues into the spring months, where May and June see average temperatures climb, ultimately resulting in a refreshing summer climate where highs can reach 23°C (74°F) in June. Thus, January serves as a stark reminder of the extreme cold that defines Kangerlussuaq's winter, while the approaching months suggest a welcome respite from the icy grip of winter.
In January, Kangerlussuaq experiences a relatively dry start to the year, with only 14 mm (0.5 in) of precipitation spread across just 4 days. This slight uptick in moisture is consistent with a pattern observed in the preceding months, where January’s precipitation is slightly higher than February's 9 mm (0.4 in), but notable lower than the spring months that follow. As winter yields to spring, precipitation gradually increases, peaking in the summer months of June and July with 51 mm (2.0 in) and 54 mm (2.1 in), respectively. This trend emphasizes a seasonal cycle where the accumulation of moisture intensifies significantly as the year progresses, mirroring the shifting climatic conditions in this unique Arctic environment.
In January, Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, experiences a strikingly high humidity level of 92%, marking it as one of the dampest months of the year. This substantial moisture lingers through the winter months, peaking again in November with the same 92%. Following January, February sees a slight dip to 89%, but the humidity remains consistently high across these winter months, hovering around 90% through March and October. As spring arrives, humidity begins to decrease, with April and May showcasing a gradual slide to 85% and 83%, respectively. The warm summer months bring a slight reprieve with humidity levels dropping to the 77-78% range in June and July. However, August sees a resurgence as humidity climbs back to 89%, maintaining a trend of elevated moisture levels that persist into the fall. This cyclical pattern underscores Kangerlussuaq's unique climate, characterized by high humidity for the majority of the year.
In January, Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, experiences a low UV Index of 1, indicating minimal risk from sun exposure, with a burn time of 45 minutes for unprotected skin. This trend continues into February, where the UV Index remains steady at 1, ensuring that residents and visitors can enjoy the winter landscape without significant sunburn risk. As spring approaches in March, there is a slight increase to a UV Index of 2, still categorized as low, yet it serves as a reminder that the sun’s strength is on the rise. Notably, starting in April, the UV Index climbs to 4—an indication of moderate exposure risk—and continues at that level through August, highlighting a seasonal increase in sun intensity. This positive shift peaks in May and June, where the UV remains consistently at 5, requiring extra precaution for sun seekers. By September, the Index begins to taper off, landing at 3, before returning to lower levels in the subsequent months. For a detailed look at uv trends throughout the year, visit Kangerlussuaq UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, January offers a mere 31 hours of sunshine, a stark contrast to the vibrant light that follows in the months to come. As February rolls in, sunlit hours surge to 147, signaling the gradual return of longer days. March brings even greater relief with 245 hours, hinting at the approaching spring. This upward trend continues through April and May, peaking at 393 hours of sunshine as the landscape awakens. However, this bright spell starts to wane in the summer months, with June and July seeing slightly less sunlight, at 363 and 389 hours, respectively. Come August, the decline becomes more pronounced, leading into the shorter days of autumn and winter, where October dips to 170 hours, and November offers just 67. By December, the dark winter envelops the town with a mere 4 hours of sunlight, creating a cycle of stark contrasts that defines the unique charm of Kangerlussuaq's seasons.
In Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, January brings a 35% chance of sunny weather, setting a somewhat subdued tone as the year begins. While this likelihood is considerably lower compared to February's more optimistic 51%, it surpasses the subsequent months of March and April, which see chances drop to 25% and 31% respectively. The trend suggests that while winter holds its grip on the region, there is a glimmer of brightness ahead, particularly as February transitions into spring. As the sun begins to re-emerge, residents and visitors alike can anticipate a gradual increase in sunshine, with peak chances peaking in the warmer months, providing a striking contrast to the chilled winter air.
In Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, daylight undergoes a dramatic metamorphosis throughout the year. January, with its mere 6 hours of light, ushers in the long, dark winter months, but as the sun begins to climb higher in the sky, February sees an increase to 8 hours, hinting at the approaching spring. By March, daylight expands to 11 hours, and with each passing month, the length continues to grow, reaching an impressive 24 hours in June, where the sun never sets. This period of perpetual daylight is soon followed by a gradual decline: July still offers a generous 21 hours, but by August, it shrinks to 16 hours. The rhythm of the seasons continues, leading to September’s 13 hours and then a swift descent into the darker months of October and November, with just 9 hours and 5 hours respectively. Interestingly, December surprises with a rebound to 19 hours, hinting at the promise of returning light as the cycles repeat. This dynamic transformation of daylight not only defines the year but also shapes the daily lives and rhythms of those who call Kangerlussuaq home.
In Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, the January winds offer a gentle introduction to the year, with average speeds hovering around a calm 1.4 m/s (3 mph). This tranquility is characteristic of the winter months, as both January and February maintain the same soothing breeze. As spring approaches, there's a noticeable uptick, with March and April seeing incremental increases to 1.5 m/s (3 mph) and 1.9 m/s (4 mph), respectively. This gradual rise in wind speed continues into late spring and summer, peaking at 2.6 m/s (6 mph) in May, signaling the onset of warmer weather and more dynamic atmospheric conditions. The winds remain relatively consistent throughout the summer months, settling between 2.1 m/s (5 mph) and 2.3 m/s (5 mph), before tapering off again in the fall. By December, the average wind speed returns to a more placid 2.2 m/s (5 mph), wrapping up the year much like it began—calm and serene. This pattern of gradual increase and decrease reflects the gentle rhythms of the seasons in this stunning Arctic landscape.
Weather in Kangerlussuaq varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares January’s weather to other months in Kangerlussuaq, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In January, temperatures in Kangerlussuaq can reach as low as -35°C (-30°F), with an average of -18°C (-1°F) and a maximum of 5°C (41°F). The month typically experiences around 14 mm (0.5 in) of precipitation over four days, while the humidity hovers at a high 92%. In contrast, February brings even colder conditions, with temperatures dropping to a minimum of -37°C (-34°F), an average of -21°C (-6°F), and a maximum of only 1°C (34°F). Precipitation decreases slightly to 9 mm (0.4 in) over just two days, and humidity decreases to 89%. For a more detailed look at February weather, check out Kangerlussuaq weather in February.
In January, temperatures in Kangerlussuaq can drop to a minimum of -35°C (-30°F) and average around -18°C (-1°F), while highs can reach up to 5°C (41°F). The month sees about 14 mm (0.5 in) of precipitation over approximately 4 days, with humidity levels averaging 92%. In contrast, March experiences even colder conditions, with a minimum temperature of -37°C (-34°F) and an average of -16°C (4°F), although it shares the same maximum temperature of 5°C (40°F). Precipitation remains consistent at 14 mm (0.5 in), but occurs over just 3 days, and humidity levels are slightly lower at 90%. This comparison highlights the ongoing chill of winter in both months, despite the gradual transition toward spring. For more details, check out Kangerlussuaq weather in March.
January and April present a striking contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures plummet to an average of -18°C (1°F), with minimums reaching a chilling -35°C (-30°F) and a maximum of only 5°C (41°F). The month sees about 14 mm (0.5 in) of precipitation over 4 days, accompanied by high humidity at 92%. In comparison, April experiences a notable warming trend, with average temperatures rising to -6°C (22°F) and maximums soaring to 15°C (60°F). Precipitation slightly increases to 20 mm (0.8 in) over 5 days, although humidity decreases to a milder 85%. For a closer look at the April climate specifics, check out Kangerlussuaq weather in April.
In January, Kangerlussuaq experiences harsh winter conditions, with temperatures plummeting to a minimum of -35°C (-30°F) and averaging around -18°C (-1°F). The maximum temperature barely reaches 5°C (41°F), and the region sees about 14 mm (0.5 in) of precipitation over 4 days, coupled with a high humidity level of 92%. In contrast, May brings a significant shift in weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -16°C (3°F) to a pleasant average of 3°C (38°F) and a maximum reaching 19°C (67°F). While May has slightly more precipitation at 15 mm (0.6 in) over 5 days, the humidity drops to 83%. This transition highlights the dramatic changes in climate that occur from the depths of winter to the early signs of summer. For more details about the weather in May, visit Kangerlussuaq weather in May.
January and June in Kangerlussuaq present starkly contrasting weather patterns. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -35°C (-30°F), with an average around -18°C (-1°F) and a maximum reaching only 5°C (41°F). This month experiences high humidity levels at 92% and minimal precipitation, with only 14 mm (0.5 in) over just 4 days. In contrast, June ushers in a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures hovering around 0°C (32°F), an average of 9°C (48°F), and highs of 23°C (74°F). This month sees increased precipitation of 51 mm (2.0 in) across 11 days, alongside lower humidity at 77%. The changes from the frigid conditions of January to the relatively warm June highlight the dramatic seasonal shifts in Kangerlussuaq. For more details, you can check out the Kangerlussuaq weather in June.
In January, the weather is exceptionally frigid, with temperatures typically ranging from a frigid -35°C (-30°F) at night to a somewhat milder maximum of 5°C (41°F) during the day. With an average temperature of -18°C (-1°F), the month experiences low humidity at 92% and minimal precipitation, totaling just 14 mm (0.5 in) over an average of 4 days.
In contrast, July brings a dramatic transformation, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) at night to a pleasant maximum of 22°C (72°F) during the day. The average temperature rises to 11°C (52°F), and humidity decreases to 78%. July also sees a significant increase in precipitation, accumulating 54 mm (2.1 in) over about 9 days. For more details on the climate, you can check Kangerlussuaq weather in July.
In January, Kangerlussuaq experiences frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -35°C (-30°F) and an average of -18°C (-1°F), while the maximum only reaches 5°C (41°F). The month sees limited precipitation of 14 mm (0.5 in) over 4 days, coupled with high humidity at 92%. In contrast, August brings a significant warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F) and an average of 9°C (49°F). Precipitation also increases to 43 mm (1.7 in) over 9 days, along with slightly lower humidity at 89%. For more details, you can check out Kangerlussuaq weather in August.
January and September in Kangerlussuaq present stark contrasts in weather. January experiences frigid conditions, with average temperatures plummeting to around -18°C (1°F) and minimums reaching a chilling -35°C (-30°F). The month sees limited precipitation, with only 14 mm (0.5 in) falling over just 4 days and humidity remaining high at 92%. In contrast, September offers a milder climate, with an average temperature of 2°C (36°F) and maximums reaching 13°C (56°F). This month also experiences more rainfall, totaling 34 mm (1.3 in) spread over 8 days, while humidity decreases slightly to 88%. For a deeper look into September's weather specifically, visit Kangerlussuaq weather in September.
January and October present quite a contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures plummet to a minimum of -35°C (-30°F) and average around -18°C (-1°F), making it the coldest month of the year. Although there is less precipitation, with only 14 mm (0.5 in) over 4 days, the high humidity of 92% exacerbates the biting cold. In contrast, October experiences a milder climate, with minimum temperatures reaching -18°C (-1°F) and an average of -3°C (27°F), while the maximum can go up to 11°C (51°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 17 mm (0.7 in), also occurring over 4 days, and the humidity stands at a lower 90%. For a closer look at October conditions, you can visit Kangerlussuaq weather in October.
In comparing the weather between January and November, both months display frigid temperatures but with notable differences. January has a harsher cold with a minimum temperature of -35°C (-30°F) and an average of -18°C (-1°F), while November is slightly milder, with a minimum of -29°C (-19°F) and an average of -11°C (12°F). January experiences a maximum temperature of only 5°C (41°F), whereas November reaches up to 8°C (47°F). In terms of precipitation, November sees more rainfall at 22 mm (0.9 in) over five days, compared to January's 14 mm (0.5 in) over four days. Interestingly, both months share the same high humidity level of 92%, contributing to the chilly feel in the air. For more details on November weather, you can check Kangerlussuaq weather in November.
In comparing the weather between January and December, January tends to be colder overall, with average temperatures reaching around -18°C (1°F) compared to December's average of -14°C (7°F). While both months experience low minimum temperatures, January sees a more extreme low of -35°C (-30°F) compared to December’s -29°C (-21°F). Precipitation levels are relatively similar, with January receiving 14 mm (0.5 in) and December just slightly more at 15 mm (0.6 in), both occurring over four days. Despite these similarities, January has a slightly higher humidity level at 92%, compared to December’s 89%. For a detailed look at December weather, you can check this link: Kangerlussuaq weather in December.
As the heart of winter descends upon Kangerlussuaq, January showcases a stark contrast to the milder months, with temperatures often plummeting to chilling lows and creating a crisp, frosty atmosphere. This month not only experiences some of the coldest temperatures of the year but also sees a modest amount of precipitation, making the landscape a serene, snow-covered wonderland. The high humidity adds an extra layer of cold, intensifying the winter chill. With its extreme conditions, January stands out as a time of stark beauty and resilience in this remote corner of Greenland. For a deeper understanding of what to expect throughout the year, visit Kangerlussuaq Climate.