January Weather in Almaty, Kazakhstan

Last updated: August 21, 2025

January in Almaty, Kazakhstan presents a cold and crisp atmosphere, with temperatures ranging from a maximum of 7°C (44°F) to a biting minimum of -28°C (-19°F). The average temperature hovers around -8°C (17°F), punctuated by 82% humidity that adds a brisk chill to the air. Visitors can expect 20 mm (0.8 in) of precipitation, occurring over about 5 days, offering a glimpse of winter's beauty amidst the snow-laden landscape. Whether exploring the city or the stunning surrounding mountains, January in Almaty promises a unique and refreshing experience.

January Temperature in Almaty

January in Almaty, Kazakhstan is characterized by its bitterly cold temperatures, with minimums plummeting to a frigid -28°C (-19°F). The average temperature hovers around a chilling -8°C (17°F), while the highs barely reach 7°C (44°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. As winter progresses into February, temperatures gradually rise, indicating a subtle shift towards milder conditions, with average lows at -18°C (0°F) and highs reaching 10°C (50°F). This trend continues into March, where the city experiences more moderate weather, with temperatures inching up closer to 1°C (34°F) on average. The transition from January to March highlights a gradual thaw, setting the stage for the spring months ahead, where temperatures rise significantly, with April and May showcasing more agreeable averages that signal the end of winter’s grasp.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Almaty, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Almaty, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec172334465460676455412720
Data source: Temperature data for Almaty 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 Almaty

In January, Almaty, Kazakhstan, experiences relatively low precipitation, with only 20 mm (0.8 in) spread over just 5 days. This minimal rainfall marks the start of the year, creating a stark contrast to the wetter months that follow. As February rolls in, precipitation more than doubles to 53 mm (2.1 in) across 9 days, hinting at a gradual increase in winter moisture. The trend continues into March and April, where precipitation peaks at 88 mm (3.5 in) and 141 mm (5.6 in) respectively, reflecting the transition towards spring and the higher likelihood of rain. This trajectory suggests that while January is generally dry, it sets the stage for a wetter, more saturated environment in the months ahead, ultimately leading to the lush landscapes typical of late spring and early summer.

January Precipitation Trends in Almaty

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Almaty, 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 Almaty, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec20538814113276387250635030
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Almaty

In January, Almaty, Kazakhstan, experiences a relatively high average humidity level of 82%, setting the tone for a winter characterized by dampness and cool air. This humidity begins to slightly decrease in February and March, stabilizing at 81%, yet it remains noticeably high compared to the drier months of spring and summer that follow. As temperatures rise, we see a gradual decline in humidity, plunging to 60% by June and reaching a low of 53% from August through September. However, as autumn approaches, humidity levels rebound, climbing to 75% in October and peaking again at 80% in both November and December. This cycle highlights Almaty's intriguing transition from winter's moisture-laden chill to the comparatively arid warmth of summer, before shifting back to a more humid environment in the fall.

January Average Humidity in Almaty

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Almaty, 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 Almaty is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec82%82%81%72%67%60%58%53%53%75%80%80%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Almaty

In January, Almaty experiences a UV Index of 2, indicating a low exposure category with a safe burn time of 45 minutes. This relatively mild UV exposure sets the stage for a noticeable increase in February, where the index rises to 4 (moderate), reducing the burn time to 30 minutes. As spring approaches, the UV levels escalate dramatically, peaking in late spring and early summer months. By March, the index jumps to 8 (very high), demanding vigilance with only 15 minutes of exposure safe enough to prevent burns. The trend continues, hitting maximum intensity with 11 (extreme) in both May and June, where sun safety becomes critical, requiring sun protection within just 10 minutes. This intense exposure gradually tapers off as summer ends, leading to a drop back to 5 in October and further declining to 2 by December. Such seasonal fluctuations in UV levels highlight the importance of sun precautions throughout the year in Almaty, especially as the days grow brighter and longer in the warmer months. For more detailed information, you can visit Almaty UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Almaty for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Almaty 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 Almaty typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2481011111098532
Data source: Almaty 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 Almaty

In Almaty, Kazakhstan, January heralds the impending end of winter with its 198 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for a gradual increase in daylight as the year progresses. By the time February rolls in, the city bathes in a more generous 248 hours of sunlight, signaling the approach of spring. As temperatures rise, so too does the sunshine, peaking in summer months with July boasting an impressive 412 hours. However, the trend takes a turn as the days begin to shorten in fall, leading to a decrease in sunlight to 343 hours in September and dropping further to 231 hours by December. This natural rhythm showcases Almaty's distinct seasons and offers residents a vibrant transition from the chilly depths of winter to the warmth of summer.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Almaty: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Almaty 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec198h248h311h334h387h382h412h390h343h293h245h231h
Data source: Almaty January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Almaty During January

In Almaty, Kazakhstan, January offers a notable 57% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the brighter months of winter. While the sunniest period occurs later in the year, with a peak of 78% in September, January stands out against the backdrop of the subsequent winter months, where February and March see a significant drop in sunshine, at 34% and 33% respectively. This trend highlights the gradual transition toward clearer conditions in the early spring months, with a slight improvement to 46% in April and 42% in May. As the year progresses, sunshine becomes more prevalent, illustrating a clear seasonal shift that Almaty residents can look forward to after the chill of winter.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Almaty

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Almaty 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 Almaty experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec57%34%33%46%42%51%53%48%78%49%61%47%
Data source: Almaty January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Almaty in January

In January, Almaty experiences a modest 9 hours of daylight, setting the stage for a gradual transition as winter gives way to spring. By February, daylight increases to 10 hours, signaling a slow but steady awakening of the region. March brings an uptick to 11 hours, and as April arrives, the days grow even brighter, stretching to 13 hours. The warmth of May is further enhanced by 14 hours of sunlight, culminating in June, where Almaty basks in a generous 15 hours of daylight. The trend begins to reverse in July as daylight decreases to 14 hours, followed by a gradual decline through the late summer and early autumn months, landing back at 12 hours in September. The descent continues into October with 10 hours and returns to the wintry 9 hours in both November and December, highlighting a distinct seasonal rhythm in daylight that shapes life in this vibrant city.

Average Daylight Hours in Almaty for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Almaty throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 22m10h 30m11h 56m13h 25m14h 40m15h 19m14h 59m13h 52m12h 27m10h 59m9h 41m9h 1m
Data source: Almaty daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Almaty

In January, the wind in Almaty, Kazakhstan, dances at an average speed of 2.3 m/s (5 mph), setting a brisk tone for the year. This marks one of the higher readings, contrasting with the subsequent months where the wind tends to whisper more softly. As February approaches, the wind slightly calms to 2.1 m/s, and it continues this trend, dipping to 1.9 m/s by March and remaining consistent through April and May. The summer months see a gentle resurgence, hovering around 2.1 m/s in June, while July and August maintain a serene 1.8 m/s. Overall, the year’s progression reveals a fascinating ebb and flow, with winter bringing a lively breeze that gradually transitions into the calmer whispers of spring and summer before tapering off to the softest winds in October. As November and December arrive, a brief revival occurs, with speeds returning to the 2 m/s range, reminding us of the wind’s subtle yet dynamic presence throughout the seasons.

Average January Wind Speed in Almaty

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Almaty, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.3 m/s2.11.91.91.82.11.81.81.71.52.12.4
Data source: Almaty January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Almaty Compares to Other Months

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

January and February present contrasting yet cold winter climates. In January, temperatures can plummet as low as -28°C (-19°F), with an average of -8°C (17°F) and a maximum reaching 7°C (44°F). The month features relatively low precipitation, totaling 20 mm (0.8 in) over five days, and maintains a high humidity level of 82%. In comparison, February sees a slight rise in temperatures, with a minimum of -18°C (0°F) and an average of -5°C (23°F), while peaking at 10°C (50°F). However, February also experiences increased precipitation, accumulating 53 mm (2.1 in) over nine days, with humidity slightly dropping to 81%. For those interested in more detailed insights, you can visit Almaty weather in February.

In January, the weather is characterized by bitterly cold temperatures, with averages around -8°C (17°F) and lows plunging to -28°C (-19°F). The month receives about 20 mm (0.8 in) of precipitation over just five days, with high humidity levels at 82%. In contrast, March sees a significant warming trend, with average temperatures rising to 1°C (34°F) and maximums reaching 17°C (63°F). Precipitation also increases considerably to 88 mm (3.5 in), occurring over 14 days, while the humidity remains relatively stable at 81%. For a closer look at the March weather in Almaty, check out Almaty weather in March.

January and April display a stark contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures plummet, with minimums reaching as low as -28°C (-19°F) and an average of -8°C (17°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. The precipitation level is relatively low at 20 mm (0.8 in) over just 5 days, accompanied by high humidity at 82%. In sharp contrast, April experiences a significant warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -9°C (16°F) to a maximum of 25°C (76°F) and an average of 8°C (46°F). However, April is also wetter, receiving 141 mm (5.6 in) of precipitation over 15 days, though the humidity decreases to 72%. For a detailed overview of what to expect in April, please visit Almaty weather in April.

In January, the weather is characterized by frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -28°C (-19°F) and an average of -8°C (17°F), peaking at just 7°C (44°F). The month sees about 20 mm (0.8 in) of precipitation over approximately 5 days, accompanied by high humidity at 82%. In stark contrast, May ushers in a significant warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a comfortable average of 12°C (55°F) and reaching a maximum of 27°C (81°F). However, May also boasts higher precipitation levels at 131 mm (5.2 in) over 14 days and lower humidity at 67%. For a closer look at the weather particulars in May, you can visit Almaty weather in May.

The weather in January contrasts sharply with that of June. In January, temperatures plummet to a frigid minimum of -28°C (-19°F), with an average of -8°C (17°F) and a maximum reaching just 7°C (44°F). The month sees limited precipitation, totaling only 20 mm (0.8 in) over just 5 days, but the humidity remains high at 82%. In stark comparison, June experiences a much warmer climate, featuring a minimum temperature of 4°C (39°F), an average of 16°C (61°F), and a maximum soaring to 29°C (84°F). June is also wetter, with 76 mm (3.0 in) of precipitation spread over 13 days, and the humidity drops to a more comfortable 60%. For more detailed information, visit Almaty weather in June.

In January, the weather in Almaty is characterized by biting cold, with average temperatures hovering around -8°C (17°F) and extreme lows reaching -28°C (-19°F). The region experiences minimal precipitation, with just 20 mm (0.8 in) over about five days, and high humidity at 82%, creating a crisp, frosty atmosphere. In stark contrast, July brings a warm reprieve, with average temperatures of 19°C (67°F) and highs peaking at 31°C (88°F). Precipitation slightly increases to 38 mm (1.5 in) over six days, but humidity drops to a more comfortable 58%. For more detailed insights on summer weather, you can check Almaty weather in July.

January and August in Almaty present a stark contrast in weather. In January, temperatures can plunge to a frigid minimum of -28°C (-19°F), with an average of -8°C (17°F) and occasional peaks at 7°C (44°F). The month typically experiences around 20 mm of precipitation over 5 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 82%. In sharp contrast, August brings a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures around 5°C (40°F), an average of 18°C (64°F), and a maximum of 30°C (86°F). This summer month sees an increase in precipitation, totaling 72 mm (2.8 in) over roughly 10 days, while humidity drops to a more comfortable 53%. For more detailed insights, check out Almaty weather in August.

In January, Almaty experiences frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -28°C (-19°F) and an average of -8°C (17°F), while the maximum reaches only 7°C (44°F). The month sees precipitation of about 20 mm (0.8 in) over approximately 5 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 82%. In stark contrast, September brings a more temperate climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (30°F) to a pleasant average of 13°C (56°F), peaking at a comfortable 28°C (82°F). This month is also wetter, with precipitation totaling 50 mm (2.0 in) over 9 days and lower humidity at 53%. For more detailed insights into the weather patterns, you can check Almaty weather in September.

In January, the weather is characterized by bitter cold, with temperatures ranging from a chilling minimum of -28°C (-19°F) to an average of -8°C (17°F) and a maximum of 7°C (44°F). With only 20 mm (0.8 in) of precipitation over about 5 days, the humidity remains high at 82%, adding to the frigid feel. In contrast, October presents a more moderate climate, with temperatures varying from a minimum of -13°C (8°F) to a comfortable average of 5°C (42°F), peaking at 21°C (69°F). This month experiences significantly higher precipitation, totaling 63 mm (2.5 in) over approximately 10 days, and the humidity decreases to 75%. The contrast between January's extreme cold and October's milder, wetter conditions is striking. For further insights into how the weather conditions unfold in October, you can check Almaty weather in October.

January and November present contrasting weather patterns in terms of temperature and precipitation. In January, the average temperature hovers around -8°C (17°F), with minimum extremes plummeting to -28°C (-19°F) and a relatively mild maximum of 7°C (44°F). This month experiences low precipitation of 20 mm (0.8 in) over about 5 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 82%. In contrast, November sees a more mild average temperature of -3°C (27°F), with minimums of -19°C (-3°F) and maximums soaring up to 21°C (69°F). Precipitation increases significantly to 50 mm (2.0 in) across 8 days, while humidity remains slightly lower at 80%. For a more detailed look at the weather in November, you can visit Almaty weather in November.

In January, the weather in Almaty is quite cold, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -28°C (-19°F) to a maximum of 7°C (44°F), resulting in an average temperature of -8°C (17°F). In contrast, December experiences slightly milder conditions, with temperatures usually between -18°C (-1°F) and 8°C (46°F), yielding an average of -7°C (20°F). January also sees less precipitation, with 20 mm (0.8 in) over about 5 days, compared to December's 30 mm (1.2 in) across 6 days. Humidity levels remain high in both months, hovering around 82% in January and 80% in December. For a more detailed look at December's weather, you can check out Almaty weather in December.

Compare Almaty's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Almaty

January in Almaty presents a stark contrast to the milder months, enveloping the city in a chilly embrace. With a sharply reduced average temperature, reaching lows of -28°C, residents and visitors alike experience a brisk environment characterized by higher humidity levels and a moderate amount of precipitation. While January may be one of the coldest months, it offers a unique atmosphere that highlights the city's stunning winter landscapes and invites outdoor activities. For a deeper understanding of what to expect in this intriguing month, check out Almaty Climate.