January Weather in Ulan Bator, Mongolia

Last updated: August 28, 2025

In Ulan Bator, Mongolia, January presents a stark winter landscape characterized by bitterly cold temperatures. The maximum hovers around -5°C (23°F), while the average temperature plummets to a frigid -22°C (-8°F), and extreme lows can reach a chilling -42°C (-44°F). Despite the severe cold, January sees minimal precipitation, with only 2 mm (0.1 in) recorded and no precipitation days, contributing to a rather dry atmosphere. The humidity level, however, remains high at 92%, adding a layer of crispness to the air.

January Temperature in Ulan Bator

In Ulan Bator, Mongolia, January is characterized by its biting cold, marked by bone-chilling temperatures that plummet as low as -42°C (-44°F). The average temperature hovers around -22°C (-8°F), providing a stark reminder of the harsh winter climate. The month sees a marginal rise, with a maximum temperature reaching -5°C (23°F), but this still feels frigid compared to other regions. As one transitions into February, the cold persists, albeit slightly milder, with lows around -38°C (-36°F) and averages of -18°C (0°F). The trend of gradually increasing temperatures begins in March, hinting at the onset of spring, with significant changes as the season progresses. However, January stands out as one of the coldest months, exemplifying Ulan Bator's reputation for severe winters.

January Weather in Ulan Bator: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Ulan Bator, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Ulan Bator, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec-8-1203648596358483011-6
Data source: Temperature data for Ulan Bator 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 Ulan Bator

In Ulan Bator, January marks the peak of Mongolia's frigid winter with minimal precipitation, registering just 2 mm (0.1 in) over the month. Interestingly, no significant rain or snow falls during this time, as the city experiences zero precipitation days. This stark dryness sets the stage for a gradual increase in moisture, as February sees a slight uptick with 5 mm (0.2 in) from just one day of precipitation. The patterns evolve dramatically by mid-year; from March to August, precipitation steadily escalates, culminating in July and August with 72 mm (2.9 in) and 83 mm (3.3 in) respectively. These summer months, characterized by the highest rainfall and numerous precipitation days, contrast sharply with the parched conditions of January, illustrating a significant seasonal shift that gives life to the otherwise arid landscape.

January Precipitation Trends in Ulan Bator

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Ulan Bator, 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 Ulan Bator, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec25715264472835121103
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Ulan Bator

In January, Ulan Bator experiences a high humidity level of 92%, making it the most humid month of the year. As winter progresses into February, humidity drops to a still elevated 84%, indicating a gradual easing of moisture in the air. With the onset of spring in March, humidity continues to decrease more significantly, falling to 64%, and further declines are noted in the following months. By April, it reaches 59%, and come May, the days feel considerably drier with humidity at just 50%. Throughout the summer months, humidity remains relatively stable, ranging from 55% to 58%. As autumn approaches, levels start to inch upwards again, with September and October both at 65%, followed by a slight increase to 67% in November. The year concludes with a notable rise in humidity in December, reaching 89%, reminiscent of the peak conditions in January, thus highlighting Ulan Bator's characteristic shift from a humid winter to a drier summer.

January Average Humidity in Ulan Bator

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Ulan Bator, 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 Ulan Bator is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec92%84%64%59%50%55%57%58%65%65%67%89%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Ulan Bator

In Ulan Bator, Mongolia, the UV Index in January stands at 2, indicating a low exposure category, where the skin can begin to burn after approximately 45 minutes of direct sunlight. This is a stark contrast to the peak months of summer, where the UV Index soars to 9, classified as very high, and the burn time drastically decreases to just 15 minutes. Interestingly, as the seasons transition from winter to spring, the index gradually climbs, reaching 7 in April and then peaking in the summer months of May through August. Following this high, the index starts to decline again, settling at 3 by November and dropping to 1 in December, returning to low exposure levels. The fluctuation in UV levels throughout the year highlights the importance of sun protection in the warmer months. For a detailed look at the UV trends in Ulan Bator, check out Ulan Bator UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Ulan Bator for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Ulan Bator 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 Ulan Bator typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec235799996431
Data source: Ulan Bator 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 Ulan Bator

In Ulan Bator, January greets the year with a modest 203 hours of sunshine, setting a stark contrast to the vibrant rays that emerge in the following months. As winter gives way to spring, sunlight gradually increases, reaching 265 hours in February and surging to 327 hours in March. This upward trend culminates in April, where the city enjoys 333 hours of basking light. The sun continues to shine brightly through May and June, peaking at 376 hours in May before slightly declining in July and August. By September, the days shorten with 311 hours of sun, leading to a gradual retreat as autumn approaches—with only 263 hours in November and 250 hours in December. This progression illustrates a dynamic seasonal rhythm, capturing the essence of Mongolia's contrasting sunlight patterns throughout the year.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Ulan Bator: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Ulan Bator 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec203h265h327h333h376h369h373h346h311h294h263h250h
Data source: Ulan Bator January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Ulan Bator During January

In Ulan Bator, January sees a 44% chance of sunny weather, marking the start of the year with a moderate likelihood of sunshine. This percentage is notably lower than the sunnier months that follow, specifically February at 58% and March at 55%, indicating a gradual increase in sunny days as winter transitions to spring. Interestingly, the sunniest conditions occur in October, boasting a remarkable 69% chance, while December also enjoys a healthy 75% likelihood, suggesting a unique trend of bright days later in the year. As winter continues, Ulan Bator's weather patterns reveal not only the city's cold climate but also its capacity for sunny intervals amidst the chill.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Ulan Bator

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Ulan Bator 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 Ulan Bator experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec44%58%55%53%45%41%41%44%51%69%65%75%
Data source: Ulan Bator January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Ulan Bator in January

In Ulan Bator, January heralds the deep winter, with only 8 hours of daylight gracing the city. As the month progresses towards spring, the sunlight slowly increases, culminating in 10 hours by February and 11 hours by March. By April, the days continue to lengthen, reaching 13 hours, and May brings a vibrant 15 hours, marking the peak of daylight that remains consistent through June and July. As summer fades, daylight begins to recede, dropping to 14 hours in August and gradually decreasing to 12 hours by September. The trend continues as autumn settles in, with daylight dwindling to 10 hours in October and tapering to 9 hours in November, before returning to the 8 hours of January, completing the cyclical dance of daylight that defines life in this remarkable city.

Average Daylight Hours in Ulan Bator for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Ulan Bator throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 51m10h 12m11h 54m13h 39m15h 9m15h 56m15h 32m14h 12m12h 32m10h 48m9h 15m8h 26m
Data source: Ulan Bator daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Ulan Bator

In Ulan Bator, January brings a gentle breath of winter with an average wind speed of 2.6 m/s (6 mph). As the cold season deepens, February sees a slight dip to 2.4 m/s (5 mph), but the winds pick up again in March, rising to 3.1 m/s (7 mph) as spring approaches. This trend of increasing wind continues, peaking at 3.8 m/s (9 mph) in May, before shifting into a gradual decline through the summer months. By July, the pace slows again to 2.3 m/s (5 mph), and the trend persists with similar gentle gusts in August and into the fall. The winds settle back down to 2.5 m/s (6 mph) by October and November, showcasing a seasonal rhythm that reflects Ulan Bator’s unique climate.

Average January Wind Speed in Ulan Bator

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Ulan Bator, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.6 m/s2.43.13.43.83.32.32.92.62.52.52.4
Data source: Ulan Bator January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Ulan Bator Compares to Other Months

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

In January, the weather in Ulan Bator is characterized by extreme cold, with temperatures plummeting to a minimum of -42°C (-44°F) and an average of -22°C (-8°F), while only reaching a maximum of -5°C (23°F). The month is mostly dry, with just 2 mm (0.1 in) of precipitation and a constant humidity level of 92%. In contrast, February brings a slight reprieve from the bitter cold, with minimum temperatures of -38°C (-36°F) and an average of -18°C (0°F). The maximum temperature rises to 4°C (39°F), and precipitation increases to 5 mm (0.2 in) over the course of one day, accompanied by a decrease in humidity to 84%. For more detailed information, you can visit Ulan Bator weather in February.

In January, Ulan Bator experiences harsh winter conditions, with temperatures plummeting to a minimum of -42°C (-44°F) and an average of -22°C (-8°F), while the maximum only reaches -5°C (23°F). The month is characterized by minimal precipitation, with just 2 mm (0.1 in) recorded over the entire month, and an oppressive humidity level of 92%. In contrast, March brings a noticeable shift as temperatures rise, with a minimum of -29°C (-20°F) and an average of -7°C (20°F), peaking at a much warmer 16°C (61°F). This month sees an increase in precipitation to 7 mm (0.3 in) across two days, along with a lower humidity of 64%. For more detailed insights, you can check the full report here: Ulan Bator weather in March.

In January, the weather in Ulan Bator is characterized by frigid temperatures, with an average of -22°C (-8°F) and a maximum that barely reaches -5°C (23°F). The humidity is quite high at 92%, although there is little precipitation, averaging only 2 mm over the entire month. In contrast, April brings a significant transition, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -16°C (4°F) to a pleasant maximum of 25°C (77°F) and an average of 2°C (36°F). This month sees an increase in precipitation to 15 mm, occurring over about 4 days, and a notable drop in humidity to 59%. For more detailed information, you can check Ulan Bator weather in April.

In January, the weather in Ulan Bator is frigid, with temperatures plummeting to a minimum of -42°C (-44°F) and averaging around -22°C (-8°F). The conditions are extremely dry, with no precipitation recorded and humidity lingering at a high 92%. In stark contrast, May brings a dramatic shift in climate, featuring milder temperatures that range from a minimum of -8°C (18°F) to a maximum of 30°C (87°F), culminating in an average of 9°C (48°F). Additionally, May experiences increased precipitation, with 26 mm (1.0 in) over about 5 days and humidity levels dropping to a comfortable 50%. For more detailed insights, check out Ulan Bator weather in May.

In January, the weather in Ulan Bator is characterized by extreme cold, with temperatures plunging to a chilling minimum of -42°C (-44°F) and averaging around -22°C (-8°F). The month sees virtually no precipitation and high humidity at 92%, creating a stark and frigid atmosphere. In contrast, June brings a dramatic transformation with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (28°F) to a warm maximum of 32°C (90°F), resulting in a comfortable average of 15°C (59°F). This month experiences more precipitation at 44 mm (1.7 in) over the course of 7 days and a significantly lower humidity level of 55%, contributing to a lively, refreshing summer climate. For more details, you can check Ulan Bator weather in June.

In January, Ulan Bator experiences frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -42°C (-44°F) and an average of -22°C (-8°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. The region sees minimal precipitation, receiving only 2 mm (0.1 in) throughout the month, and remains shrouded in high humidity at 92%. In contrast, July brings a dramatic shift in climate, with temperatures ranging from a comfortable minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 32°C (91°F) and an average of 17°C (64°F). Precipitation significantly increases to 72 mm (2.9 in) over approximately 12 days, and humidity drops to a more moderate 57%, creating a vibrant summer atmosphere. For more details, visit Ulan Bator weather in July.

In January, Ulan Bator experiences harsh winter conditions, with temperatures plummeting to a minimum of -42°C (-44°F) and averaging -22°C (-8°F). The days are starkly dry, with hardly any precipitation and humidity levels reaching a chilling 92%. In stark contrast, August brings a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F). The warmth is accompanied by an increase in precipitation, totaling 83 mm (3.3 in) over about 13 days, and a noticeable drop in humidity to 58%. For more details on the pleasant summer weather, check out Ulan Bator weather in August.

January and September weather in Ulan Bator exhibit stark contrasts, showcasing the extremes of a continental climate. In January, temperatures plummet, with lows reaching a frigid -42°C (-44°F) and average highs barely touching -5°C (23°F). The air is exceedingly dry, with precipitation virtually nonexistent and humidity at a chilling 92%. In sharp contrast, September brings a significant warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -9°C (16°F) to a pleasant maximum of 27°C (81°F). This month also sees increased precipitation, totaling 51 mm (2.0 in) over about 8 days, while humidity drops to a more comfortable 65%. For a detailed view of September weather patterns, you can check Ulan Bator weather in September.

When comparing the weather in January and October, there is a stark contrast in temperatures and conditions. January is characterized by extreme cold, with minimum temperatures plummeting to -42°C (-44°F) and an average of -22°C (-8°F), while October experiences much milder weather, with average temperatures hovering around -1°C (30°F) and maximums reaching up to 22°C (72°F). Precipitation is minimal in January, with no recorded days of rain, whereas October sees a more active weather pattern with 21 mm (0.8 in) of precipitation over four days. Additionally, humidity levels drop significantly from January's 92% to October's 65%, contributing to a noticeably different atmosphere. For more detailed information, check out Ulan Bator weather in October.

In comparing the weather of January and November, January stands out with its extremely low temperatures, featuring a chilling minimum of -42°C (-44°F) and an average of -22°C (-8°F). In contrast, November offers somewhat milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -35°C (-32°F) to a maximum of 9°C (49°F), showcasing a significant difference in everyday comfort. Precipitation levels also differ markedly; January receives a mere 2 mm (0.1 in) of precipitation over the course of the month, while November sees a higher precipitation total of 10 mm (0.4 in) within just two days. Additionally, the humidity in January is notably high at 92%, compared to November's relatively lower humidity of 67%. For more details on November weather, you can visit Ulan Bator weather in November.

The weather in January is characterized by slightly colder temperatures compared to December, with average lows of -22°C (-8°F) and rare max highs of -5°C (23°F), while December experiences a min of -39°C (-38°F) and an average of -21°C (-5°F). Precipitation levels are minimal in both months, with January receiving 2 mm (0.1 in) compared to December's 3 mm (0.1 in), and there are no significant precipitation days in either month. Interestingly, January has a slightly higher humidity level at 92%, compared to December's 89%. For more detailed insights, you can explore Ulan Bator weather in December.

Compare Ulan Bator's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Ulan Bator

January in Ulan Bator stands out as the coldest month of the year, delivering a stark contrast to the milder temperatures typical of other seasons. With frigid averages dipping to excruciatingly low levels, the city experiences a notable absence of precipitation, allowing for clear, crisp days under a shimmering winter sky. Coupled with a high humidity level, the air feels even chillier, making it essential for visitors to bundle up. As the winter season reaches its peak, many are left in awe of Ulan Bator's breathtaking but biting beauty. For more information on the unique climate patterns throughout the year, explore Ulan Bator Climate.