January Weather in Selfoss, Iceland

Last updated: March 17, 2025

January in Selfoss, Iceland presents a unique winter landscape, with temperatures ranging from a maximum of 10°C (50°F) to a minimum of -14°C (7°F), averaging around 0°C (32°F). This month sees considerable precipitation, totaling 142 mm (5.6 in) over approximately 15 days, creating a distinctive atmosphere. The humidity level remains elevated at 84%, contributing to the chilly and often misty conditions characteristic of this captivating region. Whether you're experiencing the serenity of the snow-covered countryside or the dramatic winter skies, January in Selfoss offers a truly enchanting experience for all who visit.

January Temperature in Selfoss

In Selfoss, Iceland, January marks the heart of winter, with temperatures exhibiting a chilly spectrum typical of this season. The month sees a minimum dip to -14°C (7°F), while the average temperature hovers around the freezing point at 0°C (32°F), peaking at a maximum of 10°C (50°F). This sets the stage for an icy environment, but as the months progress into February and March, the chill deepens, with February reaching its coldest low of -16°C (3°F). However, by April, the landscape begins to thaw, revealing a trend of gradually rising temperatures, with averages climbing to 4°C (39°F). This transition continues into the spring and summer months, where Selfoss transforms into a vibrant hub of moderate warmth, culminating in July's highs of 24°C (76°F). Overall, January showcases the stark beauty of Icelandic winters, while hinting at the promise of a more temperate climate just around the corner.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Selfoss, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec323234394449535247413533
Data source: Temperature data for Selfoss 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 Selfoss

In January, Selfoss experiences a significant amount of precipitation, with 142 mm (5.6 in) falling over the month, marking it as one of the wetter periods in the year. Rain graces the town on 15 days, indicating a relatively consistent occurrence of wet weather. This month sets the tone for a generally moist winter, easily transitioning into February's even higher average of 158 mm (6.2 in) over 19 days of rainfall. The pattern suggests not only that January is critical for the region's water cycle but also that a trend of increasing precipitation continues into the following month, reflecting the typical Icelandic climate's variability and the onset of spring's rainy season. The fluctuations in precipitation throughout the first few months of the year illustrate the dynamic nature of Selfoss's weather, as it balances between heavy rains and milder conditions, ultimately contributing to the region’s unique landscape.

January Precipitation Trends in Selfoss

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Selfoss, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec142158121140128898696194113128137
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Selfoss

In January, Selfoss, Iceland, experiences a notable average humidity of 84%, setting the stage for the month ahead. This relatively high level persists through the winter months, as February dips slightly to 82% before rising again in March to 85%. As spring approaches, humidity remains consistent, with April at 81% and May at 83%. The summer months bring a noticeable increase, peaking in July at 86% and reaching 87% in both August and September. Interestingly, as autumn rolls in, humidity continues to rise, culminating in October's highest reading of 88% before settling back to 85% in November and returning to 84% in December. This consistent pattern indicates that while winter and spring maintain a stable humidity, the transition to summer and fall sees a marked escalation, emphasizing Iceland's unique climatic rhythms.

January Average Humidity in Selfoss

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Selfoss, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec84%82%85%81%83%82%86%87%87%88%85%84%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Selfoss

In January, Selfoss, Iceland, experiences a low UV Index of 1, allowing for a comfortable and safe outdoor experience with a burn time of 45 minutes. This trend continues into February, maintaining the same index and exposure category. However, as March arrives, the UV Index slightly increases to 2, still within the low exposure zone but hinting at the gradual transition to sunnier months ahead. By the time spring rolls around in April, the index rises to 3, indicating moderate exposure and a reduced burn time of 30 minutes. The upward trend continues into May, reaching a 5 on the UV scale, where caution becomes essential, even as summer draws near. June and July peak with a high UV Index of 6, shortening safe sun exposure to just 25 minutes. The fall leads to a decrease, with August and September returning to moderate levels, and finally, the UV Index settles back to 1 by November and December. For a detailed look at the UV Index in Selfoss throughout the year, you can check this link: Selfoss UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Selfoss for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Selfoss 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec112356643211
Data source: Selfoss 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 Selfoss

In January, the sun graces Selfoss, Iceland with a modest 39 hours of daylight, reflecting the serene stillness of winter. However, as February approaches, sunlight nearly doubles to 88 hours, hinting at the gradual return of spring. The steady climb continues through March and April, where light intensifies to 193 hours and 212 hours respectively, infusing the landscape with rejuvenating energy. By May, the days stretch delightfully, offering 334 hours of sunshine, reaching their peak in June with 329 hours. Following this radiant crescendo, the days begin to wane, with July and August providing a generous 310 and 298 hours of light. As autumn encroaches, the sun retreats more rapidly, leaving September with 194 hours, and dwindling further to a mere 29 hours by December. This clear seasonal progression not only showcases the dramatic shifts in daylight but also heralds the cyclical beauty of Iceland's natural landscape.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Selfoss: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Selfoss 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec39h88h193h212h334h329h310h298h194h142h74h29h
Data source: Selfoss January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Selfoss During January

In Selfoss, Iceland, January brings a 33% chance of sunny weather, marking it as one of the more promising months for sun seekers during the winter season. This likelihood significantly outshines February and March, where the chances dip to 15% and 17%, respectively. As the year progresses into spring, sunlight becomes more abundant, peaking in May at an optimistic 42%. However, by the time summer arrives, the probability of sunny days dwindles again, dropping to around 15% from June through August. Overall, while January offers a glimmer of sunshine amidst the winter gloom, it's just the beginning of a gradual trend towards brighter days as the seasons change.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Selfoss

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Selfoss 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 Selfoss experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec33%15%17%26%42%15%15%11%13%25%22%18%
Data source: Selfoss January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Selfoss in January

In Selfoss, Iceland, January heralds the depths of winter with a mere 5 hours of daylight, a stark contrast to the 20 hours at the height of summer in June. As the year progresses, daylight steadily increases, reaching 8 hours in February and 11 hours by March, heralding the arrival of spring. The transformation is striking as the days lengthen, peaking in May with a generous 18 hours of light. Following the summer solstice in June, daylight begins its gradual decline, yet remains abundant until August, when it slips to 16 hours. As autumn settles in, the light dwindles more notably, with November offering just 6 hours and December close behind at only 4 hours. This cycle of fluctuating daylight not only marks the changing seasons but also shapes the vibrant life and activities in Selfoss throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Selfoss for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Selfoss throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5h 35m8h 35m11h 50m15h 8m18h 25m20h 40m19h 22m16h 11m12h 55m9h 40m6h 29m4h 26m
Data source: Selfoss daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Selfoss

In January, the wind in Selfoss, Iceland whistles at an average speed of 3.9 m/s (9 mph), mirroring February’s conditions, indicating a consistent breeziness that blankets the winter landscape. As the season transitions into March, a slight decline to 3.7 m/s (8 mph) marks the beginning of spring's influence, with winds softening gradually through April at 3.4 m/s (8 mph). The trend continues into the warmer months, with May experiencing the gentlest breezes at 2.9 m/s (6 mph). As summer approaches, wind speeds slightly increase again, peaking at 4.1 m/s (9 mph) by September. This uptick hints at autumn's return, as wind speeds stabilize around 3.5 to 3.9 m/s (8-9 mph) in the final months of the year, creating a rhythmic dance of air that characterizes Selfoss's ever-changing climate.

Average January Wind Speed in Selfoss

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Selfoss, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.9 m/s3.93.73.42.93.33.02.74.13.83.73.5
Data source: Selfoss January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Selfoss Compares to Other Months

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

January and February exhibit similar average temperatures, both hovering around 0°C (32°F). However, February experiences slightly colder minimum temperatures, dipping to -16°C (3°F) compared to January's -14°C (7°F). Additionally, February tends to be wetter, with 158 mm (6.2 in) of precipitation over 19 days, surpassing January's 142 mm (5.6 in) over 15 days. Interestingly, humidity levels remain quite close, with January at 84% and February at 82%. For more detailed information, you can check Selfoss weather in February.

In comparing the weather between January and March, we see that both months are characterized by low temperatures and significant precipitation. January has an average temperature around 0°C (32°F), with a minimum of -14°C (7°F) and a maximum of 10°C (50°F), while March experiences slightly milder conditions with an average temperature of 1°C (34°F), ranging from a minimum of -15°C (5°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F). Precipitation is relatively high in both months, with January receiving 142 mm (5.6 in) over 15 days and March slightly less at 121 mm (4.8 in) over 18 days. Additionally, humidity remains quite constant, with January at 84% and March edging up to 85%. For more specifics on March weather, you can check Selfoss weather in March.

In January, the weather tends to be quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -14°C (7°F) to a maximum of 10°C (50°F) and an average of 0°C (32°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 142 mm (5.6 in) over approximately 15 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 84%. In contrast, April brings slightly warmer conditions, with temperatures varying from -12°C (11°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F), and an average of 4°C (39°F). Precipitation is nearly similar at 140 mm (5.5 in), but it occurs over 18 days, and the humidity decreases slightly to 81%. For a more detailed view of the weather in April, you can check Selfoss weather in April.

January and May present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plunge as low as -14°C (7°F), with an average of 0°C (32°F) and a maximum of only 10°C (50°F). The month is also marked by substantial precipitation, totaling 142 mm (5.6 in) over 15 days, and high humidity levels at 84%. In comparison, May offers a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures around -3°C (27°F) and an average of 7°C (44°F), peaking at 16°C (61°F). Although May sees a slightly lower total precipitation of 128 mm (5.0 in), it occurs over more days, totaling 18, and maintains a similar humidity level of 83%. For more specific details on the weather during this time, you can refer to Selfoss weather in May.

In January, the weather is predominantly cold, with temperatures ranging from a brisk -14°C (7°F) at night to a maximum of 10°C (50°F) during the day. This month sees significant precipitation, totaling 142 mm (5.6 in) spread over 15 days, resulting in a high humidity level of 84%. In contrast, June brings a milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (37°F) to a comfortable maximum of 19°C (67°F). Precipitation decreases to 89 mm (3.5 in) over the same number of days, and humidity is slightly lower at 82%. To explore more about the weather in June, you can visit Selfoss weather in June.

In January, the weather is significantly colder with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -14°C (7°F) to a maximum of 10°C (50°F), and an average of 0°C (32°F). This month experiences a higher precipitation level of 142 mm (5.6 in) spread over 15 days, accompanied by high humidity at 84%. In contrast, July brings much milder temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (39°F), an average of 11°C (53°F), and a maximum of 24°C (76°F). The precipitation in July is lower at 86 mm (3.4 in), also over 15 days, with humidity remaining relatively high at 86%. For a closer look at the conditions during July, you can visit Selfoss weather in July.

In January, the weather in Selfoss can be quite harsh, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -14°C (7°F) to a maximum of 10°C (50°F), while the average hovers around freezing at 0°C (32°F). Precipitation is frequent, occurring over 15 days and totaling 142 mm (5.6 in), accompanied by high humidity at 84%. In contrast, August offers a milder climate, with temperatures starting from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and reaching a maximum of 19°C (66°F), averaging 11°C (52°F). Precipitation is also less intense at 96 mm (3.8 in) over 13 days, coupled with slightly higher humidity at 87%. For more details, visit Selfoss weather in August.

In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -14°C (7°F), averaging around 0°C (32°F) and reaching a maximum of 10°C (50°F). During this month, precipitation is fairly significant, with 142 mm (5.6 in) over roughly 15 days, contributing to a humidity level of 84%.

Conversely, September presents a milder climate, where temperatures range from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to an average of 8°C (47°F) and a maximum of 16°C (61°F). Although September sees higher precipitation at 194 mm (7.7 in) over 21 days, the humidity rises slightly to 87%. For more detailed weather information, check Selfoss weather in September.

January and October present contrasting weather patterns. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -14°C (7°F), with an average around 0°C (32°F) and a maximum reaching 10°C (50°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation totaling 142 mm (5.6 in) over 15 days, coupled with high humidity levels of 84%. Conversely, October experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of -5°C (23°F), an average of 5°C (42°F), and a maximum of 13°C (55°F). Although October sees slightly less precipitation at 113 mm (4.4 in) over 16 days, the humidity remains high at 88%. For those interested in more detailed information, you can check Selfoss weather in October.

In January, the weather is notably colder, with average temperatures hovering around 0°C (32°F) and minimums reaching as low as -14°C (7°F), while November sees slightly milder conditions with an average of 2°C (35°F) and minimums of -8°C (17°F). Although both months experience similar levels of precipitation—142 mm (5.6 in) in January and 128 mm (5.0 in) in November—the humidity remains quite high at around 84% in January and slightly higher at 85% in November. For more detailed insights on the conditions during this time, you can check out Selfoss weather in November.

In January, the weather is characterized by slightly colder temperatures compared to December, with minimums dropping to -14°C (7°F) and maximums reaching up to 10°C (50°F), while December experiences a milder range of -11°C (12°F) to 9°C (49°F). Both months see similar humidity levels at 84%, but January typically has a bit more precipitation, totaling 142 mm (5.6 in) over 15 days, compared to December's 137 mm (5.4 in) over 16 days. For a detailed look at the December weather, you can visit Selfoss weather in December.

Compare Selfoss's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Selfoss

January weather in Selfoss stands out with its wintry chill and notable precipitation, as the landscape is often blanketed in snow. Unlike the milder summer months, where temperatures soar and sunshine prevails, January brings a maximum of just 10°C and dips to -14°C at night, making it one of the coldest times of the year. The high humidity levels also contribute to that biting cold, while the frequent drizzle with an average of 15 snowy days adds an extra layer of moisture to the air. For those planning to visit, the contrast between January and other seasons highlights the unique beauty and serenity of this Icelandic winter wonderland. Explore more about the region's weather throughout the year at Selfoss Climate.