January Weather in Sligo, Ireland

Last updated: March 17, 2025

January in Sligo, Ireland is marked by a cool and variable climate, where maximum temperatures can reach a mild 14°C (57°F), while the average hovers around 6°C (42°F), dipping to a chilly minimum of -3°C (27°F). This month sees significant precipitation, totaling 88 mm (3.4 in) over the course of approximately 15 days, contributing to the region's lush landscapes. With an average humidity level of 84%, residents and visitors can expect a crisp atmosphere, often accompanied by the soft sound of rain, making January a quintessentially wintry yet enchanting time in Sligo.

January Temperature in Sligo

In January, Sligo, Ireland, experiences chilly temperatures, with a minimum of -3°C (27°F) and a comfortable average of 6°C (42°F). The month can see highs reaching up to 14°C (57°F), offering a gentle reprieve from the winter chill. As winter deepens, these temperatures set the stage for a transition towards milder conditions in the following months. February drops slightly colder, but the average temperature remains steady at 6°C (43°F), hinting at the arrival of early spring. Interestingly, as the year progresses into March, a gradual increase is noted with maximum temperatures reaching 17°C (63°F), indicating that the cold grip of winter is loosening. This trend continues into spring, as Sligo's temperatures steadily rise, reflecting a shift from winter's chill to the warmer days ahead.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Sligo, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec424244475256595855504643
Data source: Temperature data for Sligo 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 Sligo

In Sligo, Ireland, January typically ushers in a moderate precipitation level of 88 mm (3.4 in) over approximately 15 days of rainfall, marking the beginning of the wetter months ahead. As winter fades into spring, February sees a notable jump in precipitation to 131 mm (5.2 in) and an increase to 17 rainy days. This upward trend continues into March, with 119 mm (4.7 in) over 18 days, indicating a consistent pattern of wet weather. Notably, the late spring months, such as April, offer some respite with reduced rainfall, but the pattern quickly shifts back to higher precipitation levels as summer approaches, peaking in August at a remarkable 158 mm (6.2 in) across 22 days. Throughout the year, Sligo showcases a distinct ebb and flow in rainfall, with the winter months serving as a prelude to the verdant, rain-soaked beauty of the Irish summer.

January Precipitation Trends in Sligo

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Sligo, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec881311196586117109158106131115119
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Sligo

In January, Sligo, Ireland experiences a robust humidity level of 84%, mirroring the moisture-laden conditions of February and April. This consistent humidity trend continues, with March and May dipping slightly to 83%. As the year progresses into the warmer summer months, July and August see a notable uptick to 86%, creating a lush, vibrant atmosphere. However, the month-to-month variations remain minimal, as September, October, and November witness even higher levels, peaking at 88% in November. While the humidity levels fluctuate slightly throughout the year, the winter months maintain a relatively steady grip on the damp climate, highlighting Sligo's characteristic maritime influence that persists well into the year's end. December returns to 84%, concluding the year on a familiar note.

January Average Humidity in Sligo

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

January UV Index in Sligo

In Sligo, Ireland, January welcomes a low UV Index of 1, indicating minimal sun exposure risk with a burn time of approximately 45 minutes. This trend of low UV levels continues into February, reinforcing the idea that winter months are generally safe for outdoor activities without significant sun protection. As we transition into spring, however, the UV Index begins to rise; by March, it reaches 4, showing a shift to a moderate exposure category and a reduced burn time of 30 minutes. This gradual increase continues through April, emphasizing the need for awareness as sunnier days approach. It's essential for residents and visitors alike to recognize these patterns, as protective measures become increasingly important leading into the sunnier months ahead. For more detailed insights, visit Sligo UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Sligo for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Sligo 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec124578875321
Data source: Sligo 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 Sligo

In Sligo, Ireland, January begins the year with only 62 hours of sunshine, casting a subdued light over the landscape as winter lingers. However, as February transitions in, the days begin to brighten noticeably, doubling the sunshine to 127 hours. This upward trend continues into March, where 163 hours of sun hint at the approaching spring. The surge continues dramatically in April, culminating in 275 hours of sunlight, and May stands proudly at a remarkable 365 hours, marking the peak of brightness in Sligo. As summer unfolds, the sunshine remains plentiful with 335 and 336 hours in June and July respectively, before beginning a gradual descent. While August still boasts a respectable 287 hours, September and October signal a shift towards shorter days, with 257 and 202 hours respectively. By November and December, daylight dwindles to 102 and 71 hours, wrapping the year in a cozy embrace once more. Thus, Sligo’s sunshine patterns tell a vivid story of seasonal transformation, where each month contributes to the rich tapestry of light and shadow.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Sligo: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Sligo 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec62h127h163h275h365h335h336h287h257h202h102h71h
Data source: Sligo January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Sligo During January

In Sligo, Ireland, January brings a moderate 26% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the brighter months during the winter season. As the year progresses, the likelihood of sun dips in February to 19% and further declines to a mere 12% in March, suggesting that the start of spring is often quite dreary. However, as temperatures rise, April showers a rejuvenating 36% chance of sunshine, paving the way for May's 33%. Interestingly, the summer months appear less favorable for clear skies, with July and August dropping to 21% and 16%, respectively. As autumn sets in, the chances of sunny days wane again, settling between 14% and 18% from September to November. Overall, though January may kick off the year with reasonable sun, it is the spring that truly welcomes brighter days in Sligo.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Sligo

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Sligo 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 Sligo experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec26%19%12%37%33%15%21%16%14%15%18%13%
Data source: Sligo January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Sligo in January

In Sligo, Ireland, January marks the beginning of the year with just 7 hours of daylight, setting a tone of cozy introspection as winter lingers. As the month transitions into February, the daylight extends to 9 hours, hinting at the gradual return of light and warmth. This trend continues into March with 11 hours, offering an early taste of spring. With each passing month, daylight increases, peaking in June at a vibrant 17 hours, creating long, sun-drenched days perfect for exploring the stunning landscapes. However, as summer fades, the hours gradually diminish, with August at 14 hours and descending back to 7 hours by December, completing the cycle. This ebb and flow of daylight captures the essence of Sligo’s seasonal rhythm, inviting both reflection and celebration of nature’s changes.

Average Daylight Hours in Sligo for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Sligo throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7h 58m9h 45m11h 54m14h 6m16h 3m17h 5m16h 31m14h 46m12h 38m10h 27m8h 28m7h 24m
Data source: Sligo daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Sligo

In Sligo, Ireland, January welcomes the year with a gentle average wind speed of 3.5 m/s (8 mph), setting a tranquil tone for the month. This relatively calm start contrasts with the following weeks, as February sees a notable increase to 5.4 m/s (12 mph), marking the windiest month in this early part of the year. March and April offer a slight dip, with speeds of 4.4 m/s (10 mph) and 3.4 m/s (8 mph) respectively, before stabilizing around 3.7 m/s (8 mph) through late spring and early summer. As temperatures rise, July brings the calmest winds of all at just 2.4 m/s (5 mph), creating a serene atmosphere perfect for enjoying Sligo’s stunning landscapes. However, as autumn approaches, the winds begin to pick up again, peaking once more in November at 4.4 m/s (10 mph), while lingering around moderate speeds through December. This pattern illustrates a distinctive seasonal rhythm, where vibrant winds initially invigorate the landscape, gradually retreating before returning with renewed energy as the year winds down.

Average January Wind Speed in Sligo

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Sligo, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.5 m/s5.44.43.43.73.72.43.13.24.24.44.7
Data source: Sligo January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Sligo Compares to Other Months

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

In January, the weather in Sligo experiences a minimum temperature of -3°C (27°F) and an average of 6°C (42°F), reaching a maximum of 14°C (57°F). With 88 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation over approximately 15 days, the humidity remains high at 84%. In comparison, February sees a slight dip in the minimum temperature to -4°C (25°F), but the average remains similar at 6°C (43°F), peaking at a slightly warmer 15°C (59°F). Precipitation increases to 131 mm (5.2 in) and occurs over 17 days, while the humidity stays consistent at 84%. For a closer look at the February weather patterns, check out Sligo weather in February.

In January, the weather is generally cool, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), and an average temperature of 6°C (42°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 88 mm (3.4 in) over 15 days, alongside a high humidity level of 84%.

As March arrives, temperatures slightly improve, with a minimum of -4°C (24°F) and a maximum of 17°C (63°F), maintaining an average of 6°C (44°F). However, the month sees an increase in precipitation to 119 mm (4.7 in), occurring over 18 days, while humidity remains relatively stable at 83%. This transition highlights the gradual warming trend as winter gives way to spring. For more detailed insights, check out Sligo weather in March.

When comparing January and April weather, January tends to be colder with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F). The month also experiences more rainfall, totaling 88 mm (3.4 in) over approximately 15 days, paired with a consistent humidity level of 84%. In contrast, April brings milder temperatures, with an average low of -2°C (29°F) and a high of 21°C (70°F), indicating a significant warming trend. Additionally, April sees less precipitation at 65 mm (2.6 in) over 13 days but maintains the same humidity of 84%. This shift reflects the transition from winter to spring. For more details on the specific weather conditions, you can refer to Sligo weather in April.

January and May in Sligo present distinct contrasts in weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a chilling -3°C (27°F) to a milder 14°C (57°F), with an average of 6°C (42°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 88 mm (3.4 in) over 15 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 84%. In contrast, May boasts a warmer climate with temperatures ranging from -1°C (31°F) to a pleasant 25°C (77°F), averaging 11°C (53°F). Precipitation remains similar at 86 mm (3.4 in) over 15 days, while humidity slightly decreases to 83%. For more specifics on the weather during this month, check out Sligo weather in May.

In comparing the weather between January and June, January features cooler temperatures with a minimum of -3°C (27°F) and an average of 6°C (42°F), while June offers milder conditions with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a warm maximum of 29°C (84°F). January experiences more significant chill and higher humidity at 84%, compared to June’s slightly lower humidity of 83%. Precipitation is also notable, with January receiving 88 mm (3.4 in) over 15 days, while June sees a bit more rain, totaling 117 mm (4.6 in) across 17 days. For a detailed overview of June weather, check out Sligo weather in June.

When comparing the weather between January and July, a striking contrast is evident. In January, temperatures range from a chilly -3°C (27°F) to a mild 14°C (57°F), with an average of 6°C (42°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 88 mm (3.4 in) over 15 days, accompanied by high humidity at 84%. In contrast, July brings warmer conditions with temperatures ranging from 8°C (46°F) to a pleasant maximum of 28°C (83°F), averaging around 15°C (59°F). Precipitation slightly increases to 109 mm (4.3 in) over 16 days, accompanied by a marginally higher humidity of 86%. For more details on July weather in Sligo, you can visit Sligo weather in July.

January and August present contrasting weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a chilly -3°C (27°F) to a mild max of 14°C (57°F), accompanied by significant precipitation of 88 mm (3.4 in) over 15 days and high humidity at 84%. In contrast, August enjoys a warmer climate with temperatures starting at 6°C (43°F), reaching an average of 15°C (59°F) and peaking at 24°C (75°F). Although August sees more precipitation at 158 mm (6.2 in) across 22 days, the humidity remains relatively high at 86%. For more details, check Sligo weather in August.

In January, the weather in Sligo is quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F) and an average of 6°C (42°F). The month sees around 88 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation spread over 15 days, and the humidity is a notable 84%. In contrast, September offers milder temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F), an average of 13°C (55°F), and a maximum of 24°C (76°F). The precipitation increases slightly to 106 mm (4.2 in) over 18 days, and humidity remains high at 87%. Overall, while January is marked by colder temperatures and frequent precipitation, September provides a warmer and slightly wetter environment. For more details on September's weather, you can check Sligo weather in September.

In January, the weather is typically colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), averaging around 6°C (42°F). This month sees around 88 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation over approximately 15 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 84%. In contrast, October experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and a maximum of 20°C (68°F), averaging 10°C (51°F). Precipitation increases in October to 131 mm (5.2 in), spread over about 20 days, and humidity levels rise slightly to 87%. For more details on October weather in Sligo, you can check this link: Sligo weather in October.

In January, the weather tends to be slightly cooler, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), while November offers a more moderate climate, with averages between -3°C (27°F) and 15°C (59°F). Despite both months experiencing similar minimum temperatures, January has a lower average and maximum, making it feel chillier overall. Precipitation is also notable in both months, with January receiving 88 mm (3.4 in) over 15 days compared to November's higher total of 115 mm (4.5 in) across 19 days, indicating that November tends to be wetter. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly higher in November at 88% compared to January's 84%, contributing to a damp atmosphere typical of late autumn. For a detailed overview, check Sligo weather in November.

In comparing the weather of January and December, both months exhibit similar average temperatures, with January featuring a minimum of -3°C (27°F) and an average of 6°C (42°F), while December has a slightly warmer minimum of -2°C (29°F) and the same average. December sees higher precipitation, measuring 119 mm (4.7 in) over 20 days, compared to January's 88 mm (3.4 in) across 15 days. Notably, humidity remains consistent at 84% for both months, contributing to the overall dampness characteristic of winter. For more detailed insights on December weather, you can visit Sligo weather in December.

Compare Sligo's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Sligo

January in Sligo brings a notable chill that sets it apart from other months, with temperatures hovering around a brisk average of 6°C and dipping to frosty lows. With over half the month experiencing precipitation, expect a damp and humid atmosphere, which is characteristic of winter in this coastal town. The frequent rain showers and high humidity levels create a captivating winter landscape, offering a stark contrast to the milder, sunnier months ahead. Embrace the beauty of winter by exploring Sligo's unique climate this January and learn more about what to expect throughout the year at Sligo Climate.