January Weather in Riga, Latvia

Last updated: August 21, 2025

In January, Riga, Latvia, experiences a chilly climate characterized by an average temperature of -1°C (31°F), with maximums reaching 8°C (47°F) and minimums plummeting to -19°C (-1°F). This winter month sees 12 days of precipitation, totaling approximately 48 mm (1.9 in), contributing to a notable humidity level of 93%. As the city transforms into a winter wonderland, visitors can expect crisp air and frequent snowfall, setting the stage for a picturesque yet frosty experience.

January Temperature in Riga

January in Riga, Latvia, marks the heart of winter, where temperatures can plummet as low as -19°C (-1°F), showcasing the region's chill. While the month averages around -1°C (31°F), it brims with stark beauty, and a rare high of 8°C (47°F) can momentarily break the icy spell. As the city transitions into February and March, slightly milder temperatures prevail, yet cold remains a constant companion. The average temperature hovers around -1°C (30°F) in February and dips just below freezing in March, indicating the slow retreat of winter. Notably, January's frigid air gives way to milder days in April, where average temperatures soar to 6°C (43°F), heralding the arrival of spring. This gradual warming trend sets the stage for the vibrant growth and life that follows, but January undeniably retains its chilly charm, capturing the essence of Latvian winters.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Riga, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Riga, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec313035435263666457494133
Data source: Temperature data for Riga 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 Riga

In January, Riga, Latvia, experiences a brisk winter climate characterized by an average precipitation of 48 mm (1.9 in) over approximately 12 days. This marks the season's subtle shift, as the city's snowfall and rain combine, resulting in a distinct chill in the air. While January's precipitation is slightly higher than February's 39 mm, it sets the stage for a gradual increase in rainfall leading into the spring months, with March bringing an uptick to 50 mm. Overall, this month mirrors a transitional period where lingering winter greets the anticipation of shifting weather patterns, keeping the city vibrant yet frosty.

January Precipitation Trends in Riga

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Riga, 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 Riga, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec483950405358848692926959
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Riga

In January, Riga, Latvia, experiences its peak humidity at an impressive 93%, setting a trend for the winter months where moisture levels are typically high. This saturating environment continues into February with a slight dip to 91%, and March sees a further gradual decline to 90%. As spring approaches, the humidity begins to ease, dropping to 87% in April and further to 72% in May, signaling the arrival of drier conditions. However, as summer unfolds, levels stabilize at 76% in both June and July, before rising again to 80% in August. The rhythm resumes in the fall, with humidity climbing back to 87% in September, and remaining above 90% through the late autumn months, highlighting a recurrent high moisture trend as the year closes with 93% humidity in December. This cyclical pattern underlines Riga's characteristic climate, where high humidity persists throughout winter and fluctuates with the changing seasons.

January Average Humidity in Riga

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Riga, 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 Riga is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec93%91%90%87%72%76%76%80%87%91%92%93%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Riga

In January, Riga experiences a low UV Index of 1, indicating minimal risk for sunburn, with a generous exposure time of 45 minutes before skin damage may occur. This trend continues into February, retaining the same index and burn time. However, as spring approaches, the UV Index begins to rise; in March, it reaches 3, which falls under the moderate category, reducing burn time to 30 minutes. The surge continues into April with a UV Index of 5, indicating a growing need for sun protection as outdoor activities increase. By May and June, the index escalates to 6 and 7 respectively, classified as high risk, where a mere 25 minutes of unprotected sun exposure could lead to a burn. The trend remains steadfast in July and August before tapering off into the autumn months. Notably, September sees a moderate index of 4, and the winter months return to low levels, with January's readings mirroring those of October, November, and December. This seasonal fluctuation highlights the importance of monitoring the UV Index throughout the year in Riga. For more details on UV exposure throughout the year, visit Riga UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Riga for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Riga 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 Riga typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec123567764211
Data source: Riga 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 Riga

In Riga, Latvia, January marks a calm beginning to the year with only 81 hours of sunshine, a stark contrast to the brighter months that follow. As the winter chill gives way to the burgeoning spring, February brings a notable increase to 169 hours, hinting at the longer, lighter days ahead. March accelerates this trend further, with 269 hours, as the promise of blooming flowers and warming temperatures looms. By April, sunshine reaches 356 hours, making it a delightful time for outdoor enthusiasts. The month of May continues this upward trajectory, basking in 444 hours of sun, which peeks in early summer. June and July maintain this sunny momentum, offering 463 and 460 hours respectively, before a gentle decline sets in from August through October. The golden glow gradually wanes, as autumn approaches with 311 hours in September and 232 hours in October, leading back into the darker, quieter months of November and December, which see just 124 and 79 hours of sunshine. Overall, Riga’s weather reveals a clear seasonal rhythm, with January's muted light giving way to the vibrant embrace of summer, before retreating into the stillness of winter once more.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Riga: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Riga 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec81h169h269h356h444h463h460h394h311h232h124h79h
Data source: Riga January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Riga During January

In Riga, Latvia, the probability of experiencing sunny weather in January is quite low, with a mere 7% chance. This dismal outlook marks the peak of winter gloom, significantly contrasting the brighter months ahead. As we transition into February, the likelihood of sun begins to rise, reaching 23%, and continues its upward trend throughout early spring. By March, residents can expect a 33% chance of sunshine, escalating further to a 39% probability in April. This gradual increase highlights the arrival of longer and brighter days as Riga shakes off the chill of winter, culminating in the 60% chance of sun during the balmy summer months. Thus, while January might feel dreary, the shift towards sunnier weather is just around the corner!

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Riga

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Riga 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 Riga experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7%23%33%39%35%60%50%29%29%36%20%19%
Data source: Riga January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Riga in January

In Riga, Latvia, January marks the start of the year with a modest 7 hours of daylight, but as the month progresses into February, the sun begins to stretch its rays, providing an additional 2 hours for a total of 9 hours. This gradual increase continues into March with 11 hours, leading to a significant leap in April as daylight extends to 14 hours, foreshadowing the abundant sunshine of summer. By May, the days grow even longer, offering 16 hours of light, peaking in June and July at 17 hours. As summer fades, however, a steady decline unfolds, with August dropping to 15 hours, and September further reducing to 12 hours. This downward trend persists into the cooler months, with daylight waning to just 6 hours by December. Overall, the daylight hours in Riga exhibit a clear seasonal rhythm, reflecting the beauty of nature's cycles and the anticipation of brighter days ahead.

Average Daylight Hours in Riga for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Riga throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7h 30m9h 29m11h 52m14h 19m16h 30m17h 43m17h 4m15h 4m12h 42m10h 17m8h 4m6h 50m
Data source: Riga daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Riga

January in Riga, Latvia, welcomes a consistently brisk environment with an average wind speed of 4.9 m/s (11 mph). This marks the beginning of the year with a slight edge in windiness compared to February, which sees a minor drop to 4.7 m/s (11 mph). As winter transitions into spring, March picks up the pace slightly, reaching 5.1 m/s (11 mph), while April holds steady with 5.0 m/s (11 mph). The trend shows a gradual ebb as warmer months approach; both May and June exhibit lower speeds of 4.5 m/s (10 mph) and 3.4 m/s (8 mph), respectively, highlighting the calming influence of the summer season. Yet, the winds regain strength in the latter half of the year, peaking in October at 5.7 m/s (13 mph) before tapering off again in December, showcasing Riga's dynamic climate where winter's chill gives way to a delightful variety of breezes throughout the year.

Average January Wind Speed in Riga

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Riga, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.9 m/s4.75.15.04.53.43.94.85.15.75.55.3
Data source: Riga January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Riga Compares to Other Months

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

In January, the weather is characterized by colder temperatures, with a minimum reaching -19°C (-1°F) and an average temperature of -1°C (31°F). Precipitation is relatively high, totaling 48 mm (1.9 in) over 12 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 93%. In contrast, February sees a slight warming trend, with the minimum temperature at -17°C (1°F) and an average of -1°C (30°F), while the maximum climbs to 11°C (52°F). Precipitation decreases to 39 mm (1.5 in) over 9 days, and humidity slightly drops to 91%. For more detailed information, you can check the Riga weather in February.

In January, temperatures in Riga can be quite frigid, with a minimum of -19°C (-1°F) and an average of -1°C (31°F), peaking at 8°C (47°F). The month experiences about 48 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation over 12 days, coupled with high humidity at 93%. In contrast, March brings slightly milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -18°C (0°F) to an average of 1°C (35°F) and a maximum of 12°C (54°F). Precipitation remains consistent at 50 mm (2.0 in) for the month, also falling on 12 days, but with a slightly lower humidity level of 90%. Overall, March shows a gradual transition towards warmer spring weather compared to the deep winter chill of January. For more details about the weather in March, you can visit Riga weather in March.

January and April present a striking contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can reach a frigid minimum of -19°C (-1°F), with an average hovering around -1°C (31°F) and a maximum of 8°C (47°F). The month sees a considerable amount of precipitation, totaling 48 mm (1.9 in) over 12 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 93%. In contrast, April brings a more temperate climate, with minimum temperatures of -5°C (23°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), peaking at a pleasant 22°C (71°F). This month has slightly less precipitation, totaling 40 mm (1.6 in) over 9 days, and humidity decreases to 87%. For a closer look at the specific weather patterns, check out Riga weather in April.

In January, the weather is characterized by frigid temperatures, with minimums dropping to -19°C (-1°F) and an average around -1°C (31°F). The month experiences significant humidity at 93% and typically sees 12 days of precipitation, totaling 48 mm (1.9 in). In stark contrast, May brings a welcome warmth, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (33°F) to a pleasant maximum of 26°C (79°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F). Although May has slightly higher precipitation at 53 mm (2.1 in) over 10 days, the humidity is much lower at 72%. For more details about the weather during this bright spring month, check out Riga weather in May.

January and June present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plummet to a chilly minimum of -19°C (-1°F), with an average hovering around -1°C (31°F) and a maximum reaching just 8°C (47°F). The month experiences considerable humidity at 93%, alongside 48 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation over 12 days. Conversely, June brings a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), and an average of 17°C (64°F). The humidity drops to a more comfortable 76%, with slightly higher precipitation at 58 mm (2.3 in) over just 10 days. For a detailed look at what to expect in June, you can check Riga weather in June.

January and July in Riga present a striking contrast in weather. In January, temperatures can plummet as low as -19°C (-1°F) with an average of -1°C (31°F), while July enjoys much milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (52°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F). Precipitation is relatively consistent, with January experiencing 48 mm (1.9 in) over 12 days, compared to July's 84 mm (3.3 in) across 13 days. Additionally, January's humidity sits at a high 93%, making the cold feel even more biting, while July sees a more comfortable 76% humidity. For more details on July weather, you can check Riga weather in July.

In January, temperatures in Riga can drop to a chilling minimum of -19°C (-1°F), with an average of -1°C (31°F) and a maximum of 8°C (47°F). The month is characterized by high humidity levels of 93% and a total precipitation of 48 mm (1.9 in) over approximately 12 days. In contrast, August brings milder weather, featuring a minimum temperature of 9°C (48°F), an average of 18°C (65°F), and a peak of 30°C (86°F). The humidity decreases to 80%, and precipitation rises to 86 mm (3.4 in) over about 13 days. For those interested in more detailed August weather patterns, you can find additional information here: Riga weather in August.

January and September present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures plummet to a minimum of -19°C (-1°F) and hover around an average of -1°C (31°F), with a maximum of 8°C (47°F). The month experiences significant humidity at 93% and receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation over 12 days. Conversely, September welcomes milder temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (40°F) and an average of 14°C (58°F), peaking at 26°C (79°F). This month sees a higher total precipitation of 91 mm (3.6 in) spread across 14 days, while humidity remains relatively lower at 87%. For more details, check out Riga weather in September.

January and October present stark contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -19°C (-1°F), with an average around -1°C (31°F) and a maximum of just 8°C (47°F). This frigid month also sees a high level of precipitation, totaling 48 mm (1.9 in) over about 12 days, coupled with a humidity of 93%.

In contrast, October enjoys milder conditions, featuring minimum temperatures of -1°C (31°F), an average of 9°C (49°F), and maximums reaching 19°C (66°F). The rainfall in October is higher, at 92 mm (3.6 in) over 16 days, although the humidity remains relatively consistent at 91%. The overall climate shift from the bitter cold of January to the more moderate and occasionally rainy October can significantly impact daily life and activities. For more details about the October weather, you can refer to Riga weather in October.

January and November present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -19°C (-1°F), with average highs only reaching up to 8°C (47°F). The month typically experiences significant cold and frequent precipitation, totaling 48 mm (1.9 in) over about 12 days, accompanied by high humidity at 93%. In comparison, November offers milder temperatures, with minimums of -7°C (20°F) and average highs around 14°C (57°F). Although November experiences more precipitation at 69 mm (2.7 in) across 15 days, the humidity remains relatively high at 92%. For a detailed look at month-specific conditions, check out Riga weather in November.

In January, temperatures in Riga drop further, with a minimum of -19°C (-1°F) and an average of -1°C (31°F), compared to December's milder minimum of -13°C (9°F) and average of 1°C (33°F). Precipitation is slightly lower in January at 48 mm (1.9 in) over 12 days, while December sees 59 mm (2.3 in) over 15 days. Both months exhibit high humidity levels at 93%, but overall, January is colder and marked by a more pronounced chill compared to the relatively warmer December. For more detailed information, you can check Riga weather in December.

Compare Riga's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Riga

January in Riga offers a stark contrast to other months, as the city experiences its coldest temperatures and highest humidity levels. With an average temperature hovering around -1°C (31°F), the wintry chill permeates the air, making it essential for visitors and residents alike to bundle up. While the precipitation is relatively modest at 48 mm, the 12 days of snowfall add to the seasonal charm, creating a picturesque winter landscape. As you explore the city's sights, you'll find that the serene beauty of Riga in January is a unique experience that sets it apart from the warmer, more vibrant months. To gain a deeper understanding of how January fits into Riga's overall weather patterns, visit Riga Climate.