January Weather in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

Last updated: October 30, 2025

In January, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan experiences a chill that shapes the city's winter character. The maximum temperature hovers around 6°C (43°F), while the average dips to a brisk -7°C (20°F). On particularly cold nights, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -26°C (-15°F), reminding residents of the region's harsh winter climate. During this month, precipitation is relatively modest, accumulating to 33 mm (1.3 in) over approximately 7 days, often falling as light snow. With humidity levels reaching 79%, the air feels crisp, accentuating the beauty of Bishkek's winter landscape.

January Temperature in Bishkek

In January, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, experiences some of its coldest temperatures, with minimums plunging to -26°C (-15°F) and an average of -7°C (20°F). The crisp air brings a stark beauty to the city, emphasized by the occasional max of 6°C (43°F). As winter progresses into February, temperatures begin to improve slightly, but the chill lingers, maintaining a minimum of -19°C (-3°F) and an average of -5°C (24°F). By March, the transition towards spring becomes evident, raising averages to 1°C (34°F) and welcoming milder highs of 17°C (62°F). This upward trend continues through April and May, where temperatures steadily climb, showcasing a dramatic shift with averages reaching 12°C (54°F) by late spring. The progression from the deep winter freeze towards more temperate conditions is a hallmark of Bishkek’s climate, preparing the city for the vibrant and warmer months ahead.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Bishkek, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Bishkek, January typically has an average temperature of -7°C (20°F), with highs reaching up to 6°C (43°F) and lows dropping to around -26°C (-15°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec192434465460666354402722
Data source: Temperature data for Bishkek 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 Bishkek

In Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, January marks the beginning of the year with a relatively sparse precipitation total of 33 mm (1.3 in), spread across 7 rainy days. This modest amount is a precursor to a significant uptick in rain and snow during the following months, as both February and March witness a steady increase in precipitation, culminating in March's peak at 130 mm (5.1 in). The trend continues into spring, where April alone can receive 188 mm (7.4 in), showcasing a dramatic shift from the quieter January. This gradual escalation signals the transition from winter chill to the more humid and active weather patterns that characterize the following months of May through June, underscoring Bishkek’s dynamic climate. As the year progresses, precipitation days also rise, highlighting a seasonal rhythm that reflects the region's diverse meteorological conditions.

January Precipitation Trends in Bishkek

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Bishkek, 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 Bishkek, January typically receives around 33 mm (1.3 inches) of precipitation spread over approximately 7 days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec33791301881361199511886746354
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Bishkek

January in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, brings a notable humidity level of 79%, which remains consistent as we move into February. This high moisture content in the winter months creates a unique atmosphere, often lending a crisp quality to the cold air. However, as spring approaches, we see a gradual decline in humidity, dropping to 66% in April and further down to 57% by May. The air becomes more comfortable during the warmer months, hitting a low of 39% in August. Yet, as autumn sets in, humidity starts to rise again, reaching 70% in October and mirroring January's levels by the end of the year. This rhythmic pattern reveals how Bishkek's humidity ebbs and flows throughout the seasons, shaping the city's climate experience as the year unfolds.

January Average Humidity in Bishkek

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Bishkek, 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 Bishkek is approximately 79%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec79%79%78%66%57%50%43%39%44%70%77%77%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Bishkek

In January, Bishkek experiences a moderate UV Index of 3, indicating that while sun exposure is not overly intense, it’s wise to stay protected with a burn time of about 30 minutes. As the months progress into February, the UV Index increases slightly to 4, maintaining the same exposure category. A noticeable shift occurs in March when the UV Index skyrockets to 8, heralding the arrival of a much higher risk of sunburn in just 15 minutes. This very high UV trend continues through April and May, reaching its peak in June and July with an extreme rating of 11, where just 10 minutes of exposure can lead to burns. As summer gives way to autumn, the UV Index gradually tapers off, with a moderate 5 in October and returning to 3 in November before dropping to a low level of 2 in December, where one can enjoy 45 minutes of sun safely. This evolving pattern highlights the importance of sun safety measures in Bishkek throughout the year. For detailed insights on UV levels, check out Bishkek UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Bishkek for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Bishkek 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 Bishkek typically reaches 3, which falls under the moderate exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec348910111198532
Data source: Bishkek 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 Bishkek

In January, Bishkek basks in 202 hours of sunlight, setting the stage for a gradual increase as the year unfolds. As February arrives, solar exposure climbs to 244 hours, hinting at the approaching warmth of spring. By March, the city sees a significant boost with 314 hours of sunlight, igniting the landscape with vibrant energy. This upward trend continues into April and May, where daylight reaches 342 hours and 393 hours, respectively, capturing the essence of spring's full bloom. As summer arrives in June, sunlight peaks at 395 hours, with July shining even brighter at 419 hours, making it the sunniest month. The sunny days linger into August, before gradually tapering off in September with 345 hours, and October still offers a generous 306 hours. As the year winds down, November and December bring shorter days, with 254 and 248 hours of sunshine respectively, reminding us that the cycle of the seasons continues in this picturesque Kyrgyz city.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Bishkek: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Bishkek 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec202h244h314h342h393h395h419h395h345h306h254h248h
Data source: Bishkek January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Bishkek During January

In Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, January stands out with a 62% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the brighter months of the year. This likelihood is significantly higher compared to the following month, February, which drops to 35%. As the seasons transition, March sees this probability decrease further to 26%, indicating that the sunny skies are more of a rarity. However, as winter gives way to spring, April experiences a resurgence with a 55% chance, followed by fluctuating percentages throughout the summer months. Notably, September emerges as the sunniest month at 75%, creating a vibrant contrast to the winter months. Overall, January sets the tone for a weather pattern that fluctuates through the year, with a promising mid-winter brightness that beckons for outdoor activities before the clouds take over in spring.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Bishkek

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Bishkek 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 Bishkek experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec62%35%26%55%45%52%50%51%75%50%64%45%
Data source: Bishkek January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Bishkek in January

In January, Bishkek experiences a modest 9 hours of daylight, signaling the depths of winter. As the month progresses, daylight begins to steadily increase, reaching 10 hours by February and 11 hours in March, heralding the approach of spring. By April, the increase becomes more pronounced, with a brightening 13 hours that invites outdoor activities. May further enhances the daylight experience with 14 hours, peaking in June at a vibrant 15 hours—the sun graces the city longer than any other month. However, as summer wanes, daylight starts to recede, dropping to 14 hours in July and gently tapering off to 13 hours in August. The gradual decline continues through the fall, with 12 hours in September and settling at 11 hours in October. Finally, the cycle returns to the winter rhythm, with 9 hours of daylight in both November and December, underlining Bishkek's distinct seasonal shifts and the ever-changing embrace of light throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Bishkek for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Bishkek throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 24m10h 31m11h 56m13h 24m14h 38m15h 16m14h 57m13h 51m12h 27m11h9h 43m9h 3m
Data source: Bishkek daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Bishkek

In January, Bishkek experiences an average wind speed of 2.2 m/s (5 mph), making it one of the brisker months of the year. This relatively higher wind speed sets the tone for the winter, as the winds begin to taper down to 1.9 m/s (4 mph) in February and March. As spring approaches, the winds calm even further, reaching their lowest point at 1.7 m/s (4 mph) from April through May. The trend of lighter breezes continues through the summer months, where even in June, the wind picks up slightly but remains mild at 2.0 m/s (4 mph). As the seasons transition towards autumn, wind speeds fluctuate slightly but generally hover around 1.6 to 2.0 m/s (4 to 5 mph), creating a gentle breeze that complements the changing landscapes of this beautiful city. The patterns of wind in Bishkek showcase a clear seasonal rhythm, embracing both the refreshing vigor of winter and the serene calm of late summer.

Average January Wind Speed in Bishkek

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Bishkek, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.2 m/s1.91.91.71.72.01.81.61.71.62.02.0
Data source: Bishkek January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Bishkek Compares to Other Months

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

January and February present notable differences in weather conditions. January experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -26°C (-15°F) and an average of -7°C (20°F), while February sees milder temperatures, peaking at 14°C (58°F) during the day. Precipitation also increases in February, accumulating 79 mm (3.1 in) over 12 days compared to January's 33 mm (1.3 in) over 7 days. Interestingly, both months maintain a consistent humidity level of 79%. For more detailed information, you can check Bishkek weather in February.

In comparing the weather between January and March, there are notable differences in temperature and precipitation. January features significantly colder temperatures, with a minimum of -26°C (-15°F) and an average of -7°C (20°F), while March sees a more moderate climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -17°C (1°F) to an average of 1°C (34°F). Additionally, March experiences a substantial increase in precipitation, totaling 130 mm (5.1 in) over 16 days compared to January’s 33 mm (1.3 in) over just 7 days. Despite the higher levels of rainfall in March, both months maintain similar humidity levels, hovering around 78-79%. For more details, you can visit Bishkek weather in March.

In January, the weather in Bishkek is quite harsh, with temperatures ranging from a frigid minimum of -26°C (-15°F) to an average of -7°C (20°F) and a maximum of 6°C (43°F). Despite relatively low precipitation of 33 mm (1.3 in) over seven days, the humidity levels remain high at 79%, creating a biting cold atmosphere.

In contrast, April sees a significant shift, with temperatures rising dramatically. The minimum is still chilly at -14°C (6°F), but the average climbs to a much more comfortable 8°C (46°F), peaking at a pleasant 23°C (74°F). However, April also brings increased rainfall, with precipitation totaling 188 mm (7.4 in) across 18 days, and humidity dropping to 66%. This change heralds the arrival of spring, making it a more dynamic month weather-wise. For more details, check out Bishkek weather in April.

January and May present a striking contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -26°C (-15°F), with an average around -7°C (20°F) and a maximum of just 6°C (43°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 79% and limited precipitation of 33 mm over 7 days. In contrast, May brings a significant warm-up, where temperatures range from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), averaging 12°C (54°F). However, May is considerably wetter, with precipitation totaling 136 mm over 17 days and a lower humidity level of 57%. For more information, you can check Bishkek weather in May.

January and June present stark contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -26°C (-15°F), with an average of -7°C (20°F) and a maximum of only 6°C (43°F). The month sees about 33 mm (1.3 in) of precipitation across 7 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 79%, contributing to a chilly and damp atmosphere.

Conversely, June enjoys milder temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (33°F), an average of 15°C (60°F), and a maximum reaching 27°C (81°F). Precipitation increases significantly to 119 mm (4.7 in) over 23 days, yet humidity drops to a more comfortable 50%. This transformation signals the arrival of summer, making June a vibrant contrast to the harsh winter of January. For more details, you can visit Bishkek weather in June.

In January, temperatures plummet to a minimum of -26°C (-15°F), with an average of -7°C (20°F) and a maximum of 6°C (43°F). The month experiences 33 mm (1.3 in) of precipitation over 7 days and a high humidity level of 79%, creating a frigid and damp environment. In contrast, July offers a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures at 7°C (45°F), an average of 19°C (67°F), and a maximum soaring up to 30°C (87°F). This summer month sees significantly more rainfall, totaling 95 mm (3.7 in) across 17 days, but the humidity drops to 43%, contributing to a much more pleasant atmosphere. For more detailed weather information, you can check Bishkek weather in July.

January and August present a stark contrast in weather patterns. In January, temperatures can plummet to a chilling minimum of -26°C (-15°F), with an average of -7°C (20°F) and a maximum of 6°C (43°F). The month sees about 33 mm (1.3 in) of precipitation over 7 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 79%. In comparison, August boasts much milder temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F), an average of 17°C (63°F), and a maximum reaching 29°C (85°F). The warmer month also experiences significantly more precipitation, totaling 118 mm (4.6 in) over 20 days, but with much lower humidity at 39%. For more detailed insights on August weather, check out Bishkek weather in August.

Comparing the weather between January and September reveals stark contrasts in both temperature and precipitation patterns. In January, temperatures plummet, averaging around -7°C (20°F) with lows reaching as low as -26°C (-15°F), while September enjoys much milder conditions with an average of 12°C (55°F) and highs peaking at 26°C (79°F). Precipitation in January is relatively low at 33 mm (1.3 in) over about 7 days, but by September, it increases significantly to 86 mm (3.4 in) over 17 days, indicating a much wetter month. Additionally, humidity levels drop from a chilly 79% in January to a more comfortable 44% in September, contributing to the overall feel of the seasons. For more details on September weather, you can check Bishkek weather in September.

January and October present stark contrasts in weather, reflecting the shift from the depths of winter to the crispness of autumn. In January, temperatures can plummet to a frigid minimum of -26°C (-15°F), with an average temperature of -7°C (20°F) and a maximum of 6°C (43°F). The month sees a total of 33 mm (1.3 in) of precipitation, occurring over 7 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 79%. In contrast, October reveals a milder climate where temperatures range from a minimum of -14°C (7°F) to a comfortable average of 5°C (40°F) and rise to a maximum of 20°C (68°F). Precipitation increases to 74 mm (2.9 in) over 11 days, while humidity dips to 70%. This transition highlights a significant warming trend and a noticeable increase in rainfall leading into winter. For more detailed information, refer to Bishkek weather in October.

In January, the weather is notably colder than in November, with minimum temperatures plummeting to -26°C (-15°F) and an average of -7°C (20°F), compared to November's minimum of -18°C (-1°F) and average of -3°C (27°F). While January experiences a maximum temperature of only 6°C (43°F), November can reach up to 20°C (68°F). Additionally, January sees about 33 mm (1.3 in) of precipitation over 7 days, whereas November has higher precipitation at 63 mm (2.5 in) spread across 10 days, reflecting a trend of increased moisture as winter progresses. Humidity remains relatively consistent, with January at 79% and November slightly lower at 77%. For more details on the November climate, visit Bishkek weather in November.

January typically features colder temperatures compared to December, with average highs reaching only 6°C (43°F) while enduring lows that can plummet to -26°C (-15°F). The month experiences precipitation on about 7 days, totaling 33 mm (1.3 in), and maintains a humidity level of 79%. In contrast, December sees slightly milder conditions, with an average high of 10°C (50°F) and lows around -20°C (-4°F). This month is also wetter, with precipitation occurring over 10 days, accumulating to 54 mm (2.1 in) and a humidity of 77%. For more details on the December climate in this region, check out Bishkek weather in December.

Compare Bishkek's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Bishkek

As winter fully envelops Bishkek in January, the city experiences a notable shift from the milder conditions of the preceding months. This time of year is characterized by significantly colder temperatures, with average lows plunging into the negatives, creating a crisp atmosphere that's perfect for enjoying the season's charm. While precipitation is relatively low, the 79% humidity contributes to a cold that often feels more biting than the thermometer suggests. January stands in stark contrast to the warmer months, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace winter activities and cozy indoor pursuits. To explore the weather throughout the year and how January fits into the larger climate picture, check out Bishkek Climate.