Last updated: March 17, 2025
January in Reykjavik, Iceland presents a unique blend of chilly temperatures and damp weather. With maximum highs reaching 10°C (50°F) and average lows plunging to -13°C (8°F), this month embodies the heart of winter. Visitors should brace for 113 mm (4.5 in) of precipitation over approximately 16 days, creating a predominantly wet and humid atmosphere, with humidity levels soaring to 96%. Embrace the crisp air and stunning landscapes, where every snowfall transforms the city into a winter wonderland, making it a captivating destination for those adventurous enough to explore its frosty charm.
In January, Reykjavik experiences a wide temperature range that sets the tone for the winter season, with lows plunging to -13°C (8°F) and highs reaching up to 10°C (50°F). The average hovers around 0°C (32°F), providing a chill that is characteristic of Iceland's frigid winter months. As the season progresses into February, temperatures dip even lower with minimums of -18°C (-1°F), while the maximums slightly decline to 8°C (47°F). However, by March, temperatures show signs of gradual warming, featuring a return to a minimum of -13°C (9°F) and an average rise to 1°C (34°F). The transition into spring is marked by even milder conditions in April, where temperatures can reach up to 14°C (57°F). This trend of increasing averages and maximums continues into the subsequent months, offering a promising shift from the harsh cold, ultimately leading to the pleasant warmth of summer.
In January, Reykjavik experiences a significant amount of rainfall, with 113 mm (4.5 inches) accumulated over 16 days of precipitation. This sets the tone for a generally wet winter, though February takes the lead with even higher levels at 125 mm (4.9 inches) across 18 days, hinting at a persistent moisture trend. As spring approaches, March sees a slight decrease in both precipitation amount and rainy days, dropping to 103 mm (4.1 inches), but April rebounds to 121 mm (4.8 inches). Interestingly, May mirrors January's figures, underscoring the variability in early summer. The summer months show a clear trend towards drier conditions, particularly in July, where precipitation falls to its lowest at 75 mm (3.0 inches). However, as autumn sets in, September brings a dramatic uptick with the year's highest rainfall of 164 mm (6.5 inches) over 20 days, illustrating Reykjavik's transition to wetter, cooler months. This pattern of fluctuating precipitation not only marks seasonal changes but also highlights the pervasive influence of Iceland's unique climate.
In January, Reykjavik experiences a peak in humidity at a striking 96%, setting the tone for a winter characterized by damp, chilly air. As the months progress into February and March, humidity levels remain high but gradually decline to 95% and 94% respectively, hinting at a slow transition towards spring. By April, the humidity dips further to 87%, allowing for a breath of fresh air as winter's grip begins to loosen. This trend of decreasing humidity continues into the late spring and early summer months, with May and June recording 85% and 81% respectively. However, the humidity then sees a slight resurgence during the warmer months of July and August, rising to 86% and 88%. As autumn approaches, levels stabilize somewhat, fluctuating around 92% in September and remaining above 90% through to November. December sees a slight uptick again to 95%, as the cold returns, reminding residents that the cycle of Icelandic weather is relentless and ever-changing. Overall, the January humidity sets a rich atmospheric stage for the months ahead, blending the chill of winter with the eventual promise of spring.
In Reykjavik, Iceland, the UV index during January is notably low, sitting at 1, which means that sun exposure poses minimal risk, allowing for a burn time of 45 minutes. This trend of low UV levels continues into February, maintaining the same index of 1. As spring approaches, the UV index begins to rise gradually; by March, it reaches 2, still categorized as low, while April sees a jump to 3, marking the start of a moderate exposure category where burn time decreases to 30 minutes. The UV index peaks during the summer months, particularly in June and July, where it escalates to 6, indicating a high exposure risk and a more urgent need for sun protection. Overall, January’s low UV index serves as a reassuring reminder for residents and visitors alike that the winter sun in Iceland is relatively gentle, making it the perfect time to enjoy the stunning landscapes without the worry of quick sunburn. For more details on UV levels throughout the year, visit Reykjavik UV Index.
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In Reykjavik, Iceland, January brings a mere 32 hours of sunshine, a stark contrast to the invigorating 85 hours found in February as daylight begins to return. As the months progress, the city basks in an ever-increasing glow, with 186 hours in March and 211 hours in April, heralding the arrival of spring. May marks a significant shift, boasting 337 hours of sunlight, while the summer months of June and July maintain a generous 312 and 308 hours, respectively. However, as the year transitions into autumn, the sunny days start to dwindle, plummeting to 134 hours by October and a meager 24 hours in December. This predictable ebb and flow of sunlight not only shapes Reykjavik’s stunning landscapes but also highlights the island's enchanting seasonal contrasts.
January in Reykjavik, Iceland, offers a 30% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the brighter months in the early winter season. Following January, the likelihood of sunshine takes a noticeable dip in February, plummeting to 17%, and continues to decline, reaching a mere 14% in March. As spring approaches, the sun's presence begins to revive, with April showing a more promising 25% likelihood. Interestingly, the peak opportunity for sunlight emerges in May, with a substantial 46% chance, highlighting the gradual transition towards longer and brighter days. This trend illustrates the stark contrast between the harsh winter months and the increasingly cheerful spring, setting the stage for Iceland’s captivating natural beauty to shine through.
In Reykjavik, Iceland, January brings a modest 5 hours of daylight, a stark reminder of the long winter nights. As the year progresses into February, daylight begins to steadily increase, reaching 8 hours, hinting at the impending spring. By March, the sun rises earlier and sets later, providing 11 hours of light, while April sees a notable leap to 15 hours, revealing the vibrant transformation of the landscape. May ushers in almost 18 hours of daylight, culminating in the nearly perpetual twilight of June with a remarkable 20 hours. This summer peak slowly wanes, with July experiencing a slight decrease to 19 hours. As autumn approaches, daylight gradually diminishes, falling to 16 hours in August and tapering down to 4 hours in December. This cyclical rhythm paints a captivating picture of the shifting seasons in Iceland, where the dramatic variations in daylight profoundly influence daily life and the natural world.
In Reykjavik, January greets residents and visitors with an average wind speed of 4.7 m/s (11 mph), marking it as one of the breezier months of the year. As winter progresses into February and March, the winds slightly subside, dropping to 4.4 m/s (10 mph) and 4.6 m/s (10 mph), respectively. This pattern of gentle yet persistent breezes continues through the spring months, with April seeing a dip to 4.1 m/s (9 mph). Interestingly, the winds begin to wane in late spring and summer, reaching their lowest point in August at 3.2 m/s (7 mph). However, as autumn approaches, a noticeable uptick occurs, with September and October returning to more robust gusts averaging 4.8 m/s (11 mph) and 4.3 m/s (10 mph). This cyclical trend of fluctuating winds not only shapes the climate but also enhances Reykjavik's unique charm during the winter and autumn months, inviting adventure amid the captivating landscapes.
The weather in Reykjavik 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 Reykjavik and find detailed weather information for every month.
January and February in Reykjavik showcase distinctly cold and wet winter conditions. While January experiences a milder range of temperatures, with a minimum of -13°C (8°F) and a maximum of 10°C (50°F), February sees even colder temperatures, dropping to a minimum of -18°C (-1°F) and a slightly lower maximum of 8°C (47°F). Precipitation is notable in both months; January records 113 mm (4.5 in) over 16 days, whereas February has a bit more rain at 125 mm (4.9 in) spread over 18 days. Humidity levels remain high, hovering around 96% in January and slightly lower at 95% in February. For further insights into February's weather patterns, you can refer to Reykjavik weather in February.
January and March exhibit notable differences in weather despite their proximity in the calendar year. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of -13°C (8°F) to a maximum of 10°C (50°F), with an average of 0°C (32°F) and a high level of humidity at 96%. This month also sees significant precipitation, with 113 mm (4.5 in) falling over 16 days. In contrast, March offers slightly milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from -13°C (9°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F), and an average temperature of 1°C (34°F). The precipitation is slightly less at 103 mm (4.1 in) over 18 days, and humidity is a bit lower at 94%. This transition from January to March indicates a gradual warming as winter begins to yield to spring. For more details, you can check Reykjavik weather in March.
January and April in Reykjavik present a stark contrast in weather, reflecting the transition from winter to early spring. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -13°C (8°F) and an average of 0°C (32°F), while April sees milder conditions with a minimum of -8°C (17°F) and an average of 4°C (40°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in April, with a total of 121 mm (4.8 in) over 18 days, compared to January's 113 mm (4.5 in) across 16 days. Additionally, the humidity in January remains high at 96%, dropping to 87% by April, indicating a gradual shift towards drier conditions as the season progresses. For more details, you can check out Reykjavik weather in April.
In January, Reykjavik experiences harsh winter conditions, with average temperatures hovering around 0°C (32°F) and lows plunging to -13°C (8°F). The city sees significant precipitation over 16 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 96%. In contrast, May brings milder temperatures, with an average of 7°C (44°F) and a minimum of -3°C (27°F). Although precipitation levels remain similar at 113 mm (4.4 in), the rain is spread over 18 days, and humidity drops to a more comfortable 85%. For more detailed insights, you can check Reykjavik weather in May.
In January, the weather is much colder, with temperatures ranging from a chilling -13°C (8°F) at night to a maximum of 10°C (50°F) during the day. This month experiences significant precipitation, averaging 113 mm (4.5 in) over 16 days, along with high humidity levels reaching 96%. In stark contrast, June ushers in milder temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F), an average of 9°C (49°F), and a maximum of 18°C (65°F). While it still sees precipitation on 16 days, the total is lower at 92 mm (3.6 in), and the humidity drops to a more comfortable 81%. For more details about the weather in June, check out Reykjavik weather in June.
January and July present strikingly different weather patterns. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -13°C (8°F), with an average of 0°C (32°F) and a maximum of 10°C (50°F). This month also sees considerable precipitation, totaling 113 mm (4.5 in) over 16 wet days, accompanied by high humidity at 96%. In contrast, July brings much milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (40°F) to a pleasant maximum of 21°C (71°F). The average temperature in July is around 11°C (53°F), and rainfall decreases to 75 mm (3.0 in) over the same number of rainy days, with humidity slightly lower at 86%. For a detailed look at weather patterns, visit Reykjavik weather in July.
January and August present stark contrasts in weather patterns. In January, temperatures reach a minimum of -13°C (8°F), with an average of 0°C (32°F) and a maximum of 10°C (50°F). This winter month is characterized by high humidity at 96% and significant precipitation, totaling 113 mm (4.5 in) over 16 days. In contrast, August offers a milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), and an average of 11°C (52°F). While still experiencing some rainfall, August sees less precipitation at 83 mm (3.3 in) over 15 days and lower humidity at 88%. For more detailed insights into the weather during this summer month, check out Reykjavik weather in August.
In January, the weather is much colder, with minimum temperatures dropping to -13°C (8°F) and an average of 0°C (32°F), while the maximum reaches just 10°C (50°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 113 mm (4.5 in) across 16 days, along with high humidity levels averaging 96%. In contrast, September brings milder conditions, with minimum temperatures around -2°C (29°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F), peaking at 15°C (60°F). This month also sees increased rainfall, totaling 164 mm (6.5 in) over 20 days, with humidity hovering around 92%. For more detailed information about September weather specifically, you can check Reykjavik weather in September.
In January, Reykjavik experiences a chilly climate with temperatures ranging from a frigid -13°C (8°F) to a maximum of 10°C (50°F), resulting in an average temperature of 0°C (32°F). This month sees significant precipitation, totaling 113 mm (4.5 in) across 16 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 96%. In contrast, October brings milder conditions, with temperatures between -4°C (25°F) and 13°C (56°F), and an average of 5°C (42°F). Precipitation is slightly lower at 96 mm (3.8 in) over the same number of days, and humidity remains high at 93%. For more details on the weather in October, visit Reykjavik weather in October.
When comparing the weather in January and November, January tends to be colder, with average temperatures hovering around 0°C (32°F) and nighttime lows dipping to -13°C (8°F). In contrast, November sees slightly milder conditions, with average temperatures around 2°C (35°F) and a minimum of -10°C (15°F). Both months experience significant precipitation, with January receiving slightly more at 113 mm (4.5 in) over 16 days, compared to November's 105 mm (4.1 in) over 15 days. Additionally, humidity levels are high in both months, though January is a bit more humid at 96% compared to November’s 94%. For more detailed information, you can refer to Reykjavik weather in November.
In comparing the weather of January and December, both months exhibit similar temperature ranges, with minimums around -13°C (8°F), average temperatures of approximately 0°C (32°F), and maximums peaking at 10°C (50°F). However, January tends to be slightly wetter, recording 113 mm (4.5 in) of precipitation over 16 days, compared to December's 106 mm (4.2 in) across 17 days. Additionally, humidity levels are marginally higher in January at 96%, compared to December's 95%. For a more detailed look at December conditions, you can visit Reykjavik weather in December.
January in Reykjavik is a month of stark contrasts, where temperatures can plummet to chilling lows, showcasing the heart of winter in Iceland. With an average temperature hovering around freezing and frequent precipitation over half the days of the month, it stands out from other seasons. The high humidity adds to the brisk atmosphere, making it feel even colder. This month serves as a reminder of the wild beauty of Icelandic winters, inviting adventurous souls to embrace the unpredictable yet enchanting winter landscape. For a deeper dive into what to expect throughout the year, check out Reykjavik Climate.