January Weather in Bologna, Italy

Last updated: March 24, 2025

In January, Bologna, Italy experiences a captivating mix of winter weather, with average temperatures hovering around 4°C (39°F) and maximums reaching 15°C (59°F). As the city welcomes the new year, chilly nights can plunge to a brisk -6°C (22°F). Rain is not uncommon, with precipitation totaling 24 mm (1.0 in) over four days, creating a vibrantly fresh atmosphere. Additionally, humidity levels linger around 87%, enhancing the crisp winter air while inviting locals and visitors alike to explore Bologna’s historical charm through cozy cafes and picturesque streets.

January Temperature in Bologna

In Bologna, Italy, January presents a chilly winter landscape, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a mild maximum of 15°C (59°F). The month typically averages around 4°C (39°F), hinting at the cold snap that grips the city during this time. Interestingly, while the early part of the year can feel quite stark, the transition into February witnesses a slight dip, particularly with low temperatures reaching -9°C (16°F). As winter wanes, Bologna gradually shakes off the frost, with March ushering in a warming trend as temperatures begin to rise. Despite the cold, the charm of Bologna's historic streets and vibrant culture remains irresistible, making January a unique yet inviting time to explore the city.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Bologna, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec394549576575797969605042
Data source: Temperature data for Bologna generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

January Precipitation in Bologna

January in Bologna, Italy, presents a relatively dry start to the year, with only 24 mm (1.0 in) of precipitation over just 4 days. This sets a stark contrast to the following months, particularly February, which sees a significant increase in rainfall, accumulating 73 mm (2.9 in) across 9 days. As winter transitions to spring, precipitation continues to rise, peaking in May with 112 mm (4.4 in) over 14 days, marking the wettest month. This trend highlights a gradual shift from January's mild conditions to a much wetter and more dynamic climate in the spring months, illustrating how Bologna’s weather evolves from a crisp start to a lush, rain-saturated landscape.

January Precipitation Trends in Bologna

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Bologna, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec24734859112486049866511874
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Bologna

In January, Bologna experiences its peak humidity at 87%, setting the stage for a month that feels quite damp and chilly. This high level of moisture in the air transitions into a noticeable decline in February, where the humidity drops to 79%. As winter gives way to early spring, the air continues to dry out, reaching a comfortable 69% in March and stabilizing around 70% in May. The summer months bring further relief, with humidity levels dipping below 65% from June to July. However, as autumn re-emerges in October, humidity levels rise again to 83%, reflecting the return of the dampness characteristic of winter. Interestingly, November and December see humidity levels climbing back up, peaking at 88% and 85%, respectively, echoing January's mugginess and completing the cycle of Bologna’s atmospheric trends throughout the year.

January Average Humidity in Bologna

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Bologna, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec87%79%69%71%70%65%61%54%66%83%88%85%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Bologna

In January, Bologna experiences a low UV Index of 2, allowing for a safer outdoor experience with a burn time of approximately 45 minutes. As the months progress, the UV Index gradually increases, peaking in the summer months (May to July) with values reaching up to 10, indicating a very high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. This trend highlights a significant shift in exposure categories, moving from moderate in February and October to high in the spring, before skyrocketing to very high levels in late spring and summer. Interestingly, the UV Index wanes again towards the end of the year, dropping back to a low level by December, which mirrors January's conditions. For more details, visit Bologna UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Bologna for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Bologna 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2367810987532
Data source: Bologna 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 Bologna

Bologna welcomes the new year with a modest 180 hours of sunshine in January, gradually paving the way for brighter days ahead. As winter fades into spring, the city enjoys a steady increase in sunlight, peaking at 427 hours in July, the sunniest month of the year. This upward trend continues until August, when the warmth begins to recede slightly to 397 hours. By the time autumn rolls in, the days shorten, dropping to 336 hours in September before further diminishing in the cooler months of October through December, where sunshine hovers around 209 to 211 hours. Overall, Bologna's sunshine shows a delightful progression from the chill of January to the vibrant energy of summer, ultimately reflecting the rhythmic dance of the seasons.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Bologna: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Bologna 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec180h220h310h339h381h419h427h397h336h297h209h211h
Data source: Bologna January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Bologna During January

In Bologna, Italy, January's likelihood of sunny weather stands at a modest 37%, making it one of the cloudier months of the year. As winter fades into spring, the chance of sun rises dramatically, with February reaching 46% and March enjoying a notable 69%. This trend highlights the gradual transition from cool, overcast days to sunnier, more vibrant conditions. Interestingly, while April and May see only slight variations, the summer months of June and July significantly boost the optimism for sunshine, with probabilities of 60% and 54% respectively. Overall, January may feel dreary compared to the following months, yet it sets the stage for the sun-drenched days that await as spring approaches.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Bologna

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Bologna 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 Bologna experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec37%46%69%47%48%60%54%62%55%46%30%45%
Data source: Bologna January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Bologna in January

In Bologna, Italy, the ebb and flow of daylight reveals a captivating rhythm throughout the year. January starts with a modest 9 hours of daylight, gradually increasing as February rises to 10 hours. As spring approaches, March welcomes 11 hours, paving the way for longer days ahead. By April, the sun bathes the city for 13 hours, and May pushes that further to 14 hours, signaling the delightful warmth of summer on the horizon. Peak daylight is reached in June and July, where the sun shines brightly for 15 hours, creating perfect conditions for outdoor activities. However, as summer wanes, daylight begins to retreat, with August bringing 13 hours and September 12 hours. The descent continues into autumn, with October and November receiving 10 and 9 hours respectively, before the cycle concludes in December with just 8 hours of daylight. This rhythmic pattern showcases not only the changing seasons but also the enduring beauty of Bologna's natural light.

Average Daylight Hours in Bologna for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Bologna throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 14m10h 26m11h 56m13h 29m14h 48m15h 28m15h 7m13h 57m12h 28m10h 56m9h 34m8h 52m
Data source: Bologna daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Bologna

In Bologna, Italy, the January winds gently whisk through the city at an average speed of 2.1 m/s (5 mph), mirroring the conditions of both March and October. This steady breeze offers a refreshing embrace as the new year unfolds, setting the tone for the months to come. As the seasons transition, February cools slightly to 2.0 m/s, while the arrival of spring in April sees a gradual uptick to 2.2 m/s. Interestingly, May brings the strongest gusts of late spring at 2.6 m/s, hinting at the seasonal change ahead. The wind speeds then ease into summer, dipping to 1.9 m/s in July, before rising again in August, creating a rhythmic pattern influenced by the warmth of the Mediterranean climate. Overall, January's winds lay the groundwork for a dynamic year, characterized by mild breezes that delight both locals and visitors alike.

Average January Wind Speed in Bologna

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Bologna, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.1 m/s2.02.12.22.62.01.92.21.72.12.01.6
Data source: Bologna January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Bologna Compares to Other Months

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

In January, the weather typically presents a chilly atmosphere, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a maximum of 15°C (59°F). The month experiences around 24 mm (1.0 in) of precipitation over just 4 days, along with high humidity levels at 87%.

In contrast, February brings slightly warmer temperatures, with an average ranging from -9°C (16°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F). However, it also sees a significant increase in precipitation, totaling 73 mm (2.9 in) across 9 days, and a slight decrease in humidity to 79%.

For more detailed information, you can explore Bologna weather in February.

January and March in Bologna showcase distinct shifts in weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a chilly -6°C (22°F) to a mild 15°C (59°F) with an average of 4°C (39°F), accompanied by high humidity at 87%. Precipitation is relatively low, with about 24 mm (1.0 in) falling over just four days. In contrast, March brings a more significant temperature variation, with lows of -13°C (9°F) and highs reaching 25°C (77°F), averaging at 10°C (50°F). This month also sees increased precipitation of 48 mm (1.9 in) spread over seven days, though humidity drops to 69%. For more detailed weather insights, check this link: Bologna weather in March.

In January, the weather is quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a maximum of 15°C (59°F), and an average temperature of 4°C (39°F). The month sees a total precipitation of 24 mm (1.0 in) over about 4 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 87%. In contrast, April brings a significant warming trend, with temperatures ranging from -1°C (31°F) at night to an inviting maximum of 27°C (81°F) during the day, averaging 14°C (57°F). The month also experiences increased precipitation, totaling 59 mm (2.3 in) over 8 days, but with a noticeable drop in humidity to 71%. This shift from the cold, damp conditions of January to the milder and wetter days of April highlights the transition into spring. For more detailed insights, check out Bologna weather in April.

In January, the weather is characterized by cold temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (22°F) and an average of just 4°C (39°F), making it quite chilly, especially compared to May. During this month, rainfall is limited, with only 24 mm (1.0 in) of precipitation over approximately 4 days, and humidity levels are high at 87%. In contrast, May brings a noticeable warmth, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (43°F) to a maximum of 32°C (90°F) and an average temperature of 18°C (65°F). However, May is also wetter, featuring 112 mm (4.4 in) of precipitation spread over about 14 days, while humidity decreases to a more comfortable 70%. For more details on the weather during this vibrant spring month, check out Bologna weather in May.

In January, the weather is quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a maximum of 15°C (59°F) and an average of 4°C (39°F). The month experiences about 24 mm (1.0 in) of precipitation over four days, accompanied by high humidity at 87%. In contrast, June brings significantly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (55°F) and a maximum soaring to 39°C (102°F), averaging around 24°C (75°F). This month sees increased precipitation at 48 mm (1.9 in) over seven days, but the humidity drops to a more comfortable 65%. For more detailed insights on weather patterns, check out Bologna weather in June.

The weather in January and July presents a stark contrast. In January, temperatures range from a chilly -6°C (22°F) to a mild 15°C (59°F), with an average of 4°C (39°F). The month experiences 24 mm (1.0 in) of precipitation over about 4 days, coupled with high humidity at 87%. Conversely, July showcases significantly warmer weather, with temperatures soaring from a minimum of 15°C (60°F) to a sweltering maximum of 38°C (100°F), averaging 26°C (79°F). The month sees increased precipitation of 60 mm (2.3 in) spread over 8 days, but with considerably lower humidity at 61%. For more details on July's climate, you can check out Bologna weather in July.

January and August present stark contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures can drop as low as -6°C (22°F), with an average of 4°C (39°F) and a maximum of 15°C (59°F). The month is typically wet, experiencing 24 mm (1.0 in) of precipitation over about four days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 87%. In contrast, August boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 13°C (55°F), an average of 26°C (79°F), and peaks reaching up to 40°C (105°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 49 mm (1.9 in) but occurs over eight days, while humidity drops to a more comfortable 54%. For more details on August weather, visit Bologna weather in August.

January weather in Bologna is characterized by colder temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (22°F) and an average of around 4°C (39°F). The month sees relatively low precipitation levels of 24 mm (1.0 in) over about 4 days, accompanied by high humidity at 87%. In contrast, September experiences much milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F) and an average of 21°C (70°F). However, it is also a wetter month, receiving 86 mm (3.4 in) of rainfall over about 10 days, with humidity dropping to 66%. For more details on Bologna's September weather, you can visit Bologna weather in September.

When comparing the weather between January and October, a significant shift in temperatures and conditions is evident. In January, the temperatures range from a chilly -6°C (22°F) at night to a mild 15°C (59°F) during the day, with an average of 4°C (39°F). The month experiences low precipitation at 24 mm (1.0 in) across just 4 days, alongside relatively high humidity at 87%. In contrast, October brings much warmer temperatures, with nighttime lows around 5°C (41°F) and highs peaking at 27°C (82°F), averaging 15°C (60°F). Precipitation increases to 65 mm (2.5 in) over 7 days, while humidity remains fairly stable at 83%. Overall, October offers a more pleasant and warmer climate compared to the cold and damp January. For more details, check out Bologna weather in October.

January and November present strikingly different weather conditions. In January, temperatures typically range from a chilly -6°C (22°F) at night to a mild 15°C (59°F) during the day, with an average of 4°C (39°F). This month sees relatively low precipitation of 24 mm (1.0 in) over just 4 days, and humidity levels are high at 87%. In contrast, November features warmer temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and a maximum reaching 20°C (68°F), averaging at 10°C (51°F). However, it also has significantly higher precipitation, totaling 118 mm (4.6 in) over 12 days, and slightly higher humidity at 88%. For further insights on November weather specifics, check out Bologna weather in November.

January tends to be slightly cooler than December, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a maximum of 15°C (59°F), compared to December's slightly warmer average of -6°C (22°F) to 16°C (61°F). While both months experience similar minimum temperatures, December sees higher average and maximum temperatures, indicating a trend of gradually cooling into the new year. Precipitation levels also differ significantly; January receives only 24 mm (1.0 in) of rain over about 4 days, while December has a heftier 74 mm (2.9 in) across approximately 10 days. Despite the slight difference in average humidity, with January at 87% and December at 85%, both months maintain a similar damp feel typical of winter. For more detailed insights into December weather in Bologna, visit Bologna weather in December.

Compare Bologna's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Bologna

January in Bologna sets itself apart from other months with cool temperatures that range dramatically, often seeing chilly nights dip into the negatives. With an average of 4°C, this month experiences a noticeable drop compared to the mildness of spring and summer. Although precipitation is relatively low with only a handful of rainy days, the high levels of humidity at 87% can make the air feel quite damp, adding to the briskness of the winter air. If you're curious about how Bologna's climate unfolds throughout the year, make sure to explore Bologna Climate.