January Weather in Keflavik, Iceland

Last updated: March 17, 2025

January in Keflavik, Iceland, presents a cold yet captivating landscape. With maximum temperatures reaching 9°C (49°F) and an average of 2°C (36°F), the month showcases the chill of winter, dipping to a minimum of -6°C (22°F). Humidity levels hover around 80%, contributing to the feeling of an icy embrace. The region experiences significant precipitation, totaling 117 mm (4.6 in) over 17 days, making it essential for visitors to prepare for frequent snow and rain. Despite the gray skies, the unique beauty of Keflavik's winter charm is undeniable, promising a magical experience for those willing to brave the elements.

January Temperature in Keflavik

In Keflavik, Iceland, January temperatures vary significantly, with a minimum of -6°C (22°F) and a maximum reaching 9°C (49°F). The average temperature hovers around 2°C (36°F), marking it as a month on the cusp of winter's chill and early signs of change. As the seasons progress into February and March, the minimum temperatures dip further to -9°C (16°F) and -6°C (21°F) respectively, yet the averages remain steady at 2°C (36°F). This trend indicates a consistent winter chill that lingers, with temperatures gradually climbing as spring approaches in April, where it shifts to a more mild 5°C (41°F) on average. By late January, the lingering cold hints at the transition ahead, setting the stage for an eventual thaw as winter gives way to the budding warmth of spring.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Keflavik, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec353636404448525248433836
Data source: Temperature data for Keflavik 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 Keflavik

In Keflavik, Iceland, January ushers in a notable amount of precipitation, averaging 117 mm (4.6 inches) over 17 days. This trend sets the stage for a winter season characterized by moist conditions, although January's precipitation is slightly lower than that of February, which sees 126 mm (5.0 inches) spread across 19 days. As winter progresses, precipitation remains fairly consistent, peaking in September with 171 mm (6.7 inches), while July experiences the driest conditions at just 78 mm (3.1 inches). Overall, the data reveals a pattern of variable precipitation throughout the year, with winter months often bringing more rain and snow compared to the summer, showcasing the dynamic and shifting climate of this unique coastal region.

January Precipitation Trends in Keflavik

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Keflavik, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec117126110133115877889171119119119
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Keflavik

In Keflavik, Iceland, January ushers in a notably high humidity level of 80%, setting the tone for the colder months. As winter wanes, February sees a slight dip to 77%, but the trend quickly shifts upward again, peaking in August with a humid 88%. Interestingly, the summer months of June and July maintain a consistent humidity of 85% and 87%, respectively, suggesting a ripe, moist atmosphere typical of Iceland's lush landscapes during this time. As the year progresses towards fall, humidity remains relatively stable, hovering between 80% and 85%, before returning to 80% in December. This pattern highlights a balanced and persistent humidity presence throughout the Icelandic year, influencing both climate and character of this unique coastal region.

January Average Humidity in Keflavik

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Keflavik, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec80%77%82%80%85%85%87%88%85%85%81%80%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Keflavik

In Keflavik, Iceland, the UV Index remains consistently low during January, peaking at 1, which indicates a safe environment for outdoor activities with a burn time of approximately 45 minutes. This trend of minimal UV exposure continues into February, maintaining the same index and burn time. As March approaches, however, there's a slight increase to a UV Index of 2, marking the beginning of a gradual escalation in UV exposure as spring unfolds. Following March, April and May see the UV Index rise to 3 and 5, respectively, signaling the need for more caution as burn time shortens to 30 minutes. This upward trend peaks in the summer months of June and July, where the index reaches 6, categorized as high, and burn time decreases to 25 minutes. As summer transitions to fall, the UV Index gently recedes, with values returning to moderate and low levels from August through December. For more information, visit the comprehensive Keflavik UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Keflavik for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Keflavik 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: Keflavik 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 Keflavik

In Keflavik, Iceland, January heralds the start of the year with a modest 42 hours of sunshine, making it one of the least sunny months. However, as winter gives way to spring, a noticeable shift occurs: February nearly doubles January's sunshine with 90 hours, and by March, the daylight significantly expands to 195 hours. April continues this upward trend, reaching 214 hours, paving the way for the vibrant late spring and summer months. May dazzles residents and visitors alike with 344 hours of sunshine, a peak that is only slightly eclipsed in June with 338 hours. As summer wanes, the sun's presence gradually diminishes, reflected in the decline to 312 hours in July and 294 hours in August. By the onset of autumn, sunshine continues to decrease, yielding 207 hours in September before plunging to a mere 28 hours by December. This gradual ebb and flow of daylight underscores the rhythmic beauty of the Icelandic seasons, inviting reflection and appreciation of each unique moment in the sun.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Keflavik: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Keflavik 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec42h90h195h214h344h338h312h294h207h146h79h28h
Data source: Keflavik January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Keflavik During January

In January, Keflavik, Iceland witnesses a 29% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the more promising months for sunlight during the winter season. While this percentage is a bit higher than February's 18%, it still faces stiff competition from the spring months. As the year progresses, the likelihood of sunshine rises dramatically, peaking in May with a robust 49%. Notably, January stands out as a month where the struggle between cold and warmth begins to shift, hinting at the approaching spring. This pattern of oscillating sunlight showcases the resilience of Icelandic weather, where even in the depths of winter, there are brief moments of brightness to be cherished.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Keflavik

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Keflavik 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 Keflavik experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec29%18%15%26%49%18%13%12%15%26%22%20%
Data source: Keflavik January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Keflavik in January

In Keflavik, Iceland, January marks the beginning of a gradual ascent into longer daylight hours, with the sun gracing the sky for about 5 hours each day. As winter gives way to spring, February brings an increase to 8 hours, and by March, daylight extends to a welcoming 11 hours. The real transformation occurs in April, when the sun emerges for 15 hours, heralding the vibrant energy of longer days. This upward trend peaks in June, boasting an impressive 20 hours of daylight, inviting locals and tourists alike to revel in the seemingly endless sun. However, as mid-summer transitions to autumn, the hours slowly wane—July still enjoys 19 hours, but by August, daylight dips to 16 hours. September, with its 12 hours, signals the onset of shorter days, leading into the darker months of October and November, where light retreats to 9 and 6 hours respectively. Finally, December, the darkest month, offers only 4 hours of daylight. This cyclical dance of daylight is a captivating reminder of nature's rhythms in this unique, northern landscape.

Average Daylight Hours in Keflavik for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Keflavik throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5h 34m8h 35m11h 50m15h 8m18h 26m20h 42m19h 24m16h 11m12h 55m9h 40m6h 28m4h 24m
Data source: Keflavik daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Keflavik

In Keflavik, Iceland, January is characterized by its brisk winds, boasting an average speed of 7.8 m/s (18 mph), making it one of the windiest months of the year. As winter progresses into February and March, the winds decrease slightly to 7.2 m/s (16 mph), providing a subtle respite from the harsher gusts. By April, a notable drop occurs to 6.2 m/s (14 mph), signaling the transition toward milder spring conditions. As the months roll into summer, the winds calm further, reaching their lowest point in August at 4.8 m/s (11 mph), before gradually picking up strength again in the fall. Interestingly, September and November both see a resurgence in wind speed at 7.2 m/s (16 mph) and 7.1 m/s (16 mph), while December wraps up the year with a moving average of 6.5 m/s (15 mph). This cyclical trend highlights Iceland's dynamic climate, where the winter's intensity gives way to calmer summer breezes, only to return as the seasons shift once more.

Average January Wind Speed in Keflavik

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Keflavik, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7.8 m/s7.27.26.25.05.85.14.87.26.87.16.5
Data source: Keflavik January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Keflavik Compares to Other Months

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

January and February present similar average temperatures, both hovering around 2°C (36°F). However, February experiences slightly colder conditions with a minimum temperature dropping to -9°C (16°F), compared to January's minimum of -6°C (22°F). Precipitation is also more pronounced in February, with 126 mm (5.0 in) occurring over 19 days, surpassing January's 117 mm (4.6 in) across 17 days. Additionally, February brings a marginally lower humidity level at 77% compared to January's 80%. For a detailed look at weather conditions specifically in February, you can visit Keflavik weather in February.

In January, temperatures in Keflavik typically range from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F), with an average of 2°C (36°F). The month experiences about 117 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation over 17 days, with humidity hovering around 80%. In contrast, March offers similar temperature ranges, with a minimum of -6°C (21°F) and a maximum of 8°C (47°F), and an average temperature of 2°C (37°F). Precipitation slightly decreases to 110 mm (4.3 in) across 18 days, while humidity sees a slight increase to 82%. For a more detailed look at March weather in Keflavik, visit Keflavik weather in March.

In comparing the weather between January and April, we can see some notable differences. January typically has a minimum temperature of -6°C (22°F) and an average of 2°C (36°F), while April sees slightly milder conditions with a minimum of -7°C (20°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F). Both months experience high levels of humidity at 80%, but precipitation in April slightly increases to 133 mm (5.2 in) over 18 days compared to January's 117 mm (4.6 in) across 17 days. This shift suggests a transition towards more spring-like weather in April. For more detailed insights, visit Keflavik weather in April.

In January, temperatures are notably colder with a minimum of -6°C (22°F) and an average of 2°C (36°F), creating a chilly and brisk atmosphere. The month also experiences a fair amount of precipitation at 117 mm (4.6 in) spread across 17 days, alongside high humidity levels of 80%. In contrast, May ushers in milder weather; temperatures rise to a minimum of 0°C (33°F) and an average of 7°C (44°F), peaking at a maximum of 12°C (54°F). Precipitation levels remain similar at 115 mm (4.5 in) over 16 days, but humidity increases slightly to 85%. For a closer look at the delightful weather in May, check out this link: Keflavik weather in May.

In January, the weather is significantly colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F), and an average of 2°C (36°F). The month is characterized by higher precipitation, with 117 mm (4.6 in) falling over 17 days at a humidity level of 80%. In contrast, June sees a milder climate, with temperatures that vary from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 15°C (60°F) and an average of 9°C (48°F). Precipitation decreases to 87 mm (3.4 in) over 15 days, and humidity remains relatively high at 85%. This illustrates a transition from the cold, damp winter of January to the cooler, yet more temperate and less rainy conditions of June. For more information on June weather, check Keflavik weather in June.

In comparing the weather between January and July, significant differences are apparent. January experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (22°F) and an average of 2°C (36°F), while July boasts milder conditions, featuring a minimum of 6°C (43°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F). Precipitation levels are also noteworthy; January sees 117 mm (4.6 in) over 17 days, compared to July's 78 mm (3.1 in) across 18 days, indicating slightly less rainfall during the summer month. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in July at 87%, compared to 80% in January. Overall, while both months have their unique weather characteristics, July offers a more temperate climate compared to the chill of January. For more detailed information, you can visit Keflavik weather in July.

January and August present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plummet to a chilly minimum of -6°C (22°F), with an average temperature of 2°C (36°F) and a maximum of 9°C (49°F). This month also experiences significant precipitation, with 117 mm (4.6 in) falling over 17 days and humidity levels around 80%. In contrast, August offers a milder climate, with minimum temperatures of 7°C (45°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F), reaching a maximum of 16°C (62°F). Precipitation is lower at 89 mm (3.5 in) over 13 days, while humidity rises slightly to 88%. For a more detailed insight into the weather during this summer month, you can check out Keflavik weather in August.

In comparing the weather between January and September, January presents a chillier scene with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F), while September offers milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from 1°C (34°F) to 13°C (56°F). Precipitation is relatively abundant in both months, but September sees higher rainfall at 171 mm (6.7 in) over 21 days compared to January's 117 mm (4.6 in) over 17 days. Additionally, humidity levels remain high in both months, with January at 80% and September slightly higher at 85%. For more detailed information, check out Keflavik weather in September.

In January, temperatures typically range from a chilly -6°C (22°F) at night to a mild 9°C (49°F) during the day, with an average of around 2°C (36°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 117 mm (4.6 in) over 17 days, and humidity levels hover around 80%. In contrast, October presents slightly milder conditions, with daytime highs reaching 12°C (53°F) and nighttime lows settling at -1°C (30°F), leading to an average temperature of 6°C (44°F). The precipitation is similar, with October receiving 119 mm (4.7 in) over 18 days, and humidity levels at 85%. For a closer look at the weather in October, you can refer to this link: Keflavik weather in October.

January and November in Keflavik exhibit relatively similar weather patterns, though January tends to be slightly colder. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F), averaging around 2°C (36°F). November, on the other hand, has temperatures ranging from -4°C (25°F) to 10°C (51°F), with an average of 4°C (39°F). Both months experience significant precipitation, with January receiving 117 mm (4.6 in) over approximately 17 days, while November has 119 mm (4.7 in) across 18 days. Humidity levels are fairly consistent as well, with January at 80% and November at 81%. For more details on November weather specifically, you can check Keflavik weather in November.

When comparing January and December weather, we see that both months exhibit similar temperature ranges, with minimum temperatures around -6°C (22°F) and maximum temperatures reaching 9°C (49°F). The average temperature for both months is approximately 2°C (36°F) to 2°C (37°F). Precipitation levels are also quite close, with December experiencing 119 mm (4.7 in) over 18 days and January slightly lower at 117 mm (4.6 in) over 17 days. The humidity remains consistent at around 80% for both months, creating a similar feel to the winter weather. For more detailed information, you can check Keflavik weather in December.

Compare Keflavik's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Keflavik

January in Keflavik presents a unique blend of chilly temperatures and a significant amount of precipitation, making it distinct from the milder months that precede and follow it. The average temperature hovers around a brisk 2°C (36°F), offering a stark contrast to the relatively warmer conditions of late spring and summer. With an average of 17 days of rainfall, the month sees more dampness than many others, combined with 80% humidity that often permeates the air. This weather creates a dynamic winter atmosphere, setting January apart as a time of both harsh beauty and cozy enchantment in Keflavik. For more insights into the variations throughout the year, check out the comprehensive overview at Keflavik Climate.