January Weather in Erbil, Iraq

Last updated: August 21, 2025

January in Erbil, Iraq welcomes the winter season with a dynamic range of temperatures, peaking at a comfortable 21°C (71°F) and dipping to a brisk -5°C (23°F). The month sees an average temperature of 8°C (46°F), making it one of the cooler times of the year. With 78 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation scattered across 9 days, January tends to be moderately wet, contributing to a humidity level of 74% that adds a distinct chill to the air. This combination of temperatures and humidity presents a unique atmosphere, with lush greenery emerging from the winter rains, inviting both locals and visitors to explore the city’s rich culture and landscapes.

January Temperature in Erbil

In January, Erbil, Iraq experiences a winter chill, with minimum temperatures dipping to -5°C (23°F), reflecting the coldest point of the year. The average temperature hovers around 8°C (46°F), providing a brisk respite on cooler days, while the maximum can reach a mild 21°C (71°F), hinting at the transition towards spring. As the month progresses into February, temperatures rise slightly, indicating a gradual warming trend that continues through the months. This trend is marked by a significant leap into March, where temperatures begin to embrace warmer days with highs reaching 30°C (85°F), showcasing Erbil's diverse climate shifts as winter gives way to spring's embrace.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Erbil, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Erbil, January typically has an average temperature of {2}°C ({3}°F), with highs reaching up to {4}°C ({5}°F) and lows dropping to around {6}°C ({7}°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec465057667789959487756051
Data source: Temperature data for Erbil 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 Erbil

In January, Erbil experiences a significant start to the year, receiving 78 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation over approximately 9 days. This marks a transition from the typically dry summer months, as the frequency of rainfall begins to increase with the arrival of winter. Following January, February sees an even higher precipitation total of 95 mm (3.8 in), continuing the trend of wet winter conditions. As spring approaches, March peaks with 118 mm (4.7 in), but the rainfall begins to taper off in April, dropping to 74 mm (2.9 in). This gradual decrease signals the transition into the arid summer months, where rainfall is scarce, often resulting in dry conditions that persist until the later part of the year. Overall, January's precipitation sets a vital stage for the wetter winter season in Erbil, highlighting a clear seasonal pattern that contrasts sharply with the prolonged dryness that follows.

January Precipitation Trends in Erbil

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Erbil, 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. In Erbil, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7895118752410001647108
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Erbil

In Erbil, Iraq, January brings a relatively high humidity level of 74%, establishing a trend that continues into the colder months, peaking again in December at 78%. As winter rolls into spring, the humidity gradually declines, with February and March seeing slight decreases to 73% and 71%, respectively. By April, the atmosphere starts to dry out noticeably, dropping to 59%. This downward trend continues into the warmer months, reaching an annual low of just 24% in August. As the year progresses into autumn, there’s a gradual increase in humidity, climbing back to 61% in November. Overall, January serves as a pivotal month in Erbil's climatic journey, marking the transition from the wet chill of winter to the arid heat of summer.

January Average Humidity in Erbil

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Erbil, with January’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In January, average humidity in Erbil is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec74%73%71%59%54%39%27%24%29%45%61%78%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Erbil

In January, Erbil, Iraq, experiences a moderate UV Index of 4, indicating that while sun exposure is manageable, precautions are still encouraged, particularly since the burn time is around 30 minutes. This level of UV exposure is relatively mild compared to the following months, which see a noticeable increase. By March, the index rises to 7, signaling a shift to high exposure with a shorter burn time of 25 minutes. As the temperatures climb in April and reach a peak in May, the UV Index escalates dramatically to an extreme 11, cutting burn time down to just 10 minutes. The trend continues with other summer months showing similar values, urging residents and visitors to take extra care. As September rolls around, UV levels decrease, yet remain significant at 8, before tapering off in the cooler months. This seasonal fluctuation highlights the importance of monitoring the UV Index throughout the year to enjoy the sun safely. For more detailed information, visit Erbil UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Erbil for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Erbil 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. In January, the maximum UV index in Erbil typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4578111111108743
Data source: Erbil 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 Erbil

In Erbil, Iraq, January marks the beginning of a gradual climb toward sunnier days, with 207 hours of sunshine lighting up the start of the year. As winter fades into spring, sunshine hours steadily increase, reaching a peak of 341 hours in April. This trend continues into the summer months, with July basking in an impressive 406 hours of glorious sun. However, as August rolls in, a slight decline begins, although the city enjoys a solid 389 hours. The downward trend continues into autumn, with sunshine hours tapering off to 244 by December. This yearly cycle highlights Erbil's vibrant transition from winter's cool embrace to summer's warm radiance, inviting residents and visitors alike to bask in its ever-growing light.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Erbil: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Erbil 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec207h252h303h341h387h399h406h389h343h313h268h244h
Data source: Erbil January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Erbil During January

In Erbil, Iraq, the likelihood of experiencing sunny weather begins to rise noticeably as the year progresses. In January, there's a moderate 53% chance of sunshine, setting the stage for a gradual increase in brightness as we move into the spring months. By February, this chance jumps to 68%, and the trend continues upwards, peaking with a remarkable 99% in September. As the seasons shift, the sun's presence becomes more pronounced, particularly from late spring through summer, with June and July boasting an impressive 98% and 97% likelihood, respectively. This sunny journey culminates in the warmer months, making Erbil a delightful retreat for sun-seekers.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Erbil

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Erbil 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 Erbil experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec53%68%57%66%80%98%97%93%99%77%62%57%
Data source: Erbil January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Erbil in January

In Erbil, Iraq, the daylight duration begins its annual journey at a modest 9 hours in January, slowly lengthening as winter gives way to spring. By February, days grow longer to 10 hours, heralding the gradual approach of warmth and vitality. March ushers in a notable increase, with daylight reaching 11 hours, and this upward trend continues into April and May, where 13 and 14 hours of sunlight invigorate the region. The peak of daylight is sustained through the summer months of June and July, maintaining a bright 14 hours, before beginning a gentle decline. As summer wanes into autumn, daylight hours decline to 13 hours in August and drop to 12 hours in September, gradually tapering down to 10 hours in November and back to 9 hours in December. This rhythmic cycle of daylight captures the essence of each season, reflecting the vibrant transformation of Erbil's landscape throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Erbil for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Erbil throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 59m10h 51m11h 58m13h 7m14h 5m14h 33m14h 19m13h 28m12h 22m11h 13m10h 14m9h 43m
Data source: Erbil daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Erbil

In January, Erbil experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 2.4 m/s (5 mph), setting a serene tone for the winter month. This calm pattern stands in contrast to the slightly stronger breezes that follow; from March onwards, wind speeds increase progressively, peaking at 2.8 m/s (6 mph) in the early summer months of May and July. Interestingly, the trend indicates a seasonal rhythm, where spring nudges the winds to pick up speed just before the sizzle of summer arrives, after which it stabilizes to a moderate pace lasting until fall. As the year closes, the wind slowly settles back into the calmer range, reminiscent of the soft January winds that welcomed the year, marking a comforting cycle of nature in Erbil.

Average January Wind Speed in Erbil

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Erbil, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.4 m/s2.12.62.62.82.72.82.62.32.42.12.2
Data source: Erbil January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Erbil Compares to Other Months

Weather in Erbil varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares January’s weather to other months in Erbil, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

January and February show a gradual warming trend, with February boasting a slightly higher average temperature of 10°C (50°F) compared to January's 8°C (46°F). The maximum temperatures also rise, peaking at 24°C (75°F) in February versus 21°C (71°F) in January. Both months experience similar humidity levels, around 74% in January and 73% in February, while February sees an increase in precipitation, with totals of 95 mm (3.8 in) over 10 days, compared to January's 78 mm (3.1 in) over 9 days. For more details on February’s weather patterns, check out Erbil weather in February.

In January, the weather is notably colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a maximum of 21°C (71°F) and an average of 8°C (46°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation of 78 mm (3.1 in) over about 9 days, paired with a humidity level of 74%. In contrast, March witnesses a significant warming trend, where temperatures vary from a minimum of 2°C (35°F) to a maximum of 30°C (85°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F). The precipitation in March increases to 118 mm (4.7 in) spread over 13 days, while humidity slightly decreases to 71%. For more detailed insights on the weather conditions in March, you can visit Erbil weather in March.

In January, the weather is much colder with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a maximum of 21°C (71°F), while April brings significantly warmer conditions with lows of 7°C (44°F) and highs soaring to 38°C (100°F). Despite both months experiencing around 9 days of precipitation, January sees slightly more rain with a total of 78 mm (3.1 in), compared to April's 74 mm (2.9 in). Additionally, January's humidity level is higher at 74%, while April enjoys a more comfortable 59% humidity. For more detailed insights, check out Erbil weather in April.

In comparing the weather between January and May, it's clear that there is a significant shift in temperature and conditions. January experiences much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -5°C (23°F) and an average of 8°C (46°F), while May boasts a much warmer climate, with a minimum of 10°C (51°F) and an average of 25°C (78°F). The maximum temperature in May can soar up to 43°C (109°F), contrasting sharply with January’s maximum of 21°C (71°F). Additionally, January sees more precipitation, with 78 mm (3.1 in) over 9 days, compared to May's lighter rainfall of 24 mm (0.9 in) over just 5 days. The humidity also decreases in May to 54%, down from January's 74%, contributing further to the perception of warmth. For more detailed insights, check out Erbil weather in May.

In January, the weather is generally cold, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a maximum of 21°C (71°F) and an average temperature of 8°C (46°F). This month also experiences relatively high humidity at 74% and receives about 78 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation over approximately 9 days, contributing to a damp chill in the air.

In stark contrast, June brings significantly warmer conditions, with temperatures soaring from a minimum of 17°C (62°F) to a scorching maximum of 46°C (114°F) and an average of 32°C (89°F). The humidity drops to a comfortable 39%, and rainfall is almost nonexistent, with just 1 mm (0.0 in) of precipitation on no days, making it a dry and sweltering month. For more detailed information, you can visit Erbil weather in June.

In January, the weather is notably cooler, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -5°C (23°F) at night to a maximum of 21°C (71°F) during the day. The month sees an average temperature of 8°C (46°F) and experiences a fair amount of precipitation, with 78 mm (3.1 in) spread across about 9 days, contributing to a relatively high humidity level of 74%. In contrast, July brings intense heat, with minimum temperatures of 23°C (74°F) and averages soaring to 35°C (96°F), reaching highs of 47°C (118°F). This month is characterized by complete dryness, with no recorded precipitation and humidity levels dropping to a mere 27%. The stark difference between these months highlights the extreme seasonal shifts in Erbil's climate. For more details, check out Erbil weather in July.

The weather in January is characterized by much cooler temperatures, with averages around 8°C (46°F) and a maximum of 21°C (71°F), along with relatively high humidity at 74%. In contrast, August experiences sweltering heat, where the average temperature soars to 35°C (94°F) and can even peak at a scorching 47°C (117°F). Rainfall is also significantly different; January sees about 78 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation over 9 days, while August has no recorded rainfall, resulting in dry conditions with just 24% humidity. For more details on the conditions in August, you can check Erbil weather in August.

In January, the weather is quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a maximum of 21°C (71°F) and an average of 8°C (46°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 78 mm (3.1 in) over approximately 9 days, contributing to a relatively high humidity level of 74%. In contrast, September brings significantly warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 16°C (61°F) to a scorching maximum of 45°C (113°F) and an average of 31°C (87°F). Notably, September is dry, with no precipitation recorded and a much lower humidity of 29%. For more information on the weather in Erbil during September, you can visit Erbil weather in September.

January and October present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures range from a chilly -5°C (23°F) at night to a mild 21°C (71°F) during the day, with an average of 8°C (46°F). The month experiences significant precipitation of 78 mm (3.1 in) over about 9 days, coupled with a high humidity level of 74%. In contrast, October offers warmer temperatures, with nighttime lows of 10°C (50°F) and daytime highs soaring up to 39°C (102°F), averaging around 24°C (75°F). With only 16 mm (0.6 in) of precipitation over just 2 days and a lower humidity of 45%, October stands in sharp relief to the wintry conditions of January. For more information on October weather, visit Erbil weather in October.

In January, temperatures range significantly from a chilly minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a pleasant maximum of 21°C (71°F), averaging around 8°C (46°F). This month also sees higher humidity levels at 74%, with approximately 78 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation over 9 days. In contrast, November offers milder temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (37°F) and an average of 16°C (60°F), peaking at a warm 31°C (87°F). The month experiences less rainfall at 47 mm (1.9 in) over just 6 days and lower humidity at 61%. For more detailed weather information, you can check Erbil weather in November.

In January, the weather tends to be slightly colder than in December, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a maximum of 21°C (71°F). In contrast, December sees milder temperatures, with lows of -2°C (29°F) and highs reaching 23°C (74°F). January also experiences a bit less precipitation, accumulating 78 mm (3.1 inches) over approximately 9 days, while December has more significant rainfall totaling 108 mm (4.3 inches) and occurring over 10 days. Additionally, humidity remains fairly constant between the two months, with January at 74% and December slightly higher at 78%. For more details, you can visit Erbil weather in December.

Compare Erbil's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Erbil

In January, Erbil experiences a unique blend of cool temperatures and notable precipitation that sets it apart from other months of the year. With an average temperature around 8°C (46°F), residents and visitors alike can expect a brisk chill, especially during the evenings and early mornings when temperatures can drop below zero. Humidity levels hover around 74%, contributing to a damp feel, while approximately 9 days of the month bring rainfall, totaling around 78 mm (3.1 in). This combination of cool weather and periodic rain contrasts sharply with the hotter, drier conditions prevalent in the summer months, making January a time of refreshment amid the region's typically arid climate. To explore more about the distinct weather patterns throughout the year, check out Erbil Climate.