January Weather in Leeuwarden, Netherlands

Last updated: August 27, 2025

January weather in Leeuwarden, Netherlands presents a mix of chilly temperatures and moisture-laden days. With a maximum temperature reaching 12°C (54°F) and an average of 4°C (40°F), residents can expect brisk conditions, particularly as lows can dip to a frigid -5°C (23°F). The month brings a notable precipitation total of 59 mm (2.3 in), distributed over 13 days, which contributes to the region's characteristic 88% humidity. It's a time when warm layers and indoor coziness become essential, as the city navigates the cold, damp climate typical of winter in this northern Dutch locale.

January Temperature in Leeuwarden

In Leeuwarden, January ushers in the coldest temperatures of the year, with nightly lows dipping to a brisk -5°C (23°F), while the daytime average hovers around a chilly 4°C (40°F) and peaks at a mild 12°C (54°F). This month marks a transition from the harsher winter months, hinting at the gradual warming that follows. As we move into February, the city experiences its coldest stretch, with lows reaching -9°C (17°F), but daytime temperatures climb slightly, remaining consistent at an average of 4°C (40°F). By March, the arrival of spring is anticipated, as temperatures slowly rise, showcasing a minimum of -9°C (17°F) but averaging around 6°C (43°F)—a clear indication that the end of winter is near. The changing seasons are also illustrated by April's more temperate readings, where the mercury can soar to as high as 25°C (77°F), inviting the first days of warmth and sunlight after the chill.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Leeuwarden, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Leeuwarden, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec404043485462646559544642
Data source: Temperature data for Leeuwarden 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 Leeuwarden

January in Leeuwarden, Netherlands, typically ushers in a damp start to the year, with precipitation totaling 59 mm (2.3 in) across 13 rainy days. This sets a trend that slightly intensifies in February, where precipitation nudges upwards to 61 mm (2.4 in), and remains consistent throughout the early spring months. March sees a further increase, reaching 66 mm (2.6 in), contributing to the persistent, wet atmosphere. However, as winter transitions to spring, the precipitation begins to ease, with April experiencing a notable drop to 38 mm (1.5 in), showcasing the gradual fading of the winter rains. This fluctuation underscores the seasonal patterns typical of this coastal region, where January's wetness is part of a broader climate narrative shifting from the depths of winter towards the clearer days of spring.

January Precipitation Trends in Leeuwarden

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Leeuwarden, 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 Leeuwarden, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5961663862758710081895383
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Leeuwarden

In January, Leeuwarden experiences a high humidity level of 88%, continuing a consistent pattern that sees the city wrapped in moisture. This elevated humidity remains through February, maintaining the same percentage, before gradually tapering off in March to 86%. As the days grow longer and temperatures rise in the spring, humidity levels begin a slow decline, reaching 84% in April and dropping to 80% by May. The onset of summer brings a slight reprieve, with humidity stabilizing at 75% from June to August. However, as autumn sets in, the air regains its dampness, with humidity rising again to 83% by September and fluctuating between 86% and 88% in the final months of the year. This trend highlights Leeuwarden's distinctive climate pattern, where the chill of winter and the warmth of summer create a fascinating interplay of moisture levels throughout the year.

January Average Humidity in Leeuwarden

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Leeuwarden, 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 Leeuwarden is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec88%88%86%84%80%75%75%75%83%86%87%86%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Leeuwarden

In Leeuwarden, Netherlands, January presents a low UV Index of 1, indicating that sun exposure poses minimal risk, with a burn time of about 45 minutes. As winter progresses into February, the UV Index slightly increases to 2, maintaining the low exposure category. However, with the arrival of March, residents notice a shift, as the UV Index rises to 3, indicating moderate exposure with a reduced burn time of 30 minutes. This trend continues into April, where the index reaches 5, reflecting a growing importance of sun protection. The peak of spring and summer sees UV levels climb further, peaking at 8 in both June and July, categorizing exposure as very high and necessitating careful sun management as burn times drop to just 15 minutes. As summer wanes into August and transitions to September, the UV Index begins to recede, reflecting a shift back to moderate levels. This cyclical pattern emphasizes the need for seasonal awareness regarding sun safety and skin protection. For detailed daily forecasts, visit the Leeuwarden UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Leeuwarden for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Leeuwarden 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 Leeuwarden typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec123578875321
Data source: Leeuwarden 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 Leeuwarden

In January, the quaint city of Leeuwarden experiences its sunniest moments with a modest 108 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for a gradual increase as winter edges towards spring. By February, this figure rises significantly to 201 hours, hinting at the promise of brighter days ahead. As March rolls in, the sun makes its presence felt even more, boasting 290 hours of glorious rays. The trend continues upward through spring, with April basking in 359 hours and May radiating with an impressive 413 hours. This sunshine crescendo peaks in the height of summer, with July delivering 420 hours of splendid sunlight, followed closely by August's 398 hours. As autumn approaches, the hours start to wane, but September still holds onto 329 hours, before settling back into a cooler rhythm with 245 hours in October and further diminishing through November to 195 hours and December with 140 hours. The cyclic nature of sunshine in Leeuwarden not only marks the changing seasons but also invites residents and visitors alike to revel in the vibrant transformations of this charming city.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Leeuwarden: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Leeuwarden 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec108h201h290h359h413h410h420h398h329h245h195h140h
Data source: Leeuwarden January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Leeuwarden During January

In Leeuwarden, the likelihood of sunny weather takes a seasonal swing, with January presenting the least promise at just 21%. As winter fades into early spring, there's a noticeable uptick, with February slightly improving to 25%. The trend continues to evolve, peaking in April at 43%, showcasing the Netherlands' transition to brighter, longer days. By the time summer arrives, sunny days remain relatively stable, hovering around the 30% mark through the warmer months before dipping again in late autumn. Thus, while January may offer limited sunshine, the gradual shift towards sunnier months is a herald of hope for those craving daylight.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Leeuwarden

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Leeuwarden 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 Leeuwarden experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec21%25%34%43%33%41%33%35%31%28%21%21%
Data source: Leeuwarden January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Leeuwarden in January

In Leeuwarden, Netherlands, January ushers in a modest 8 hours of daylight, marking the start of a gradual increase in sunlight as the year progresses. By February, days lengthen to 9 hours, setting the stage for a pronounced shift. March brings a leap to 11 hours, as the promise of spring begins to emerge. The daylight peaks in the summer months, with both June and July basking in 16 hours of sunshine, perfect for outdoor activities and exploration. As autumn approaches, daylight starts to wane, dropping to 12 hours in September and further declining to 8 hours by November. This cyclical dance of light not only highlights the changing seasons but also invites residents and visitors alike to savor the longer days of summer and embrace the cozy, shorter days of winter.

Average Daylight Hours in Leeuwarden for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Leeuwarden throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 8m9h 50m11h 54m14h 1m15h 53m16h 52m16h 20m14h 39m12h 37m10h 31m8h 37m7h 35m
Data source: Leeuwarden daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Leeuwarden

In Leeuwarden, January greets its residents with a brisk average wind speed of 5.3 m/s (12 mph), setting a tone of refreshment as the year begins. This month is just a notch below the slightly breezier conditions of both February and March, which see winds of 5.6 m/s (13 mph). As spring approaches, the winds remain relatively steady, with April witnessing a slight dip to 5.4 m/s (12 mph) before a gradual decline in speeds through the summer months, reaching a low of 4.0 m/s (9 mph) in June. However, the winds pick up again in October, peaking at 6.2 m/s (14 mph), hinting at the transitional nature of the seasons in this charming Dutch city. Overall, January’s crisp winds represent the beginning of a dynamic year, characterized by seasonal fluctuations that keep the air alive with energy.

Average January Wind Speed in Leeuwarden

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Leeuwarden, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5.3 m/s5.65.65.45.14.04.45.24.26.25.05.5
Data source: Leeuwarden January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Leeuwarden Compares to Other Months

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

In comparing the weather between January and February, we observe a slight drop in minimum temperatures, with January averaging a minimum of -5°C (23°F) while February sees a colder minimum of -9°C (17°F). Despite this, the average temperature remains steady for both months at 4°C (40°F). February experiences slightly warmer maximum temperatures, reaching up to 15°C (59°F) compared to January's maximum of 12°C (54°F). Precipitation levels are comparable, with January receiving 59 mm (2.3 in) over 13 days and February having a marginally higher total of 61 mm (2.4 in) over 12 days. Both months maintain a consistent humidity level of 88%. For further details, check out Leeuwarden weather in February.

When comparing the weather in January and March, January generally presents colder temperatures with a minimum of -5°C (23°F) and an average of 4°C (40°F), whereas March features slightly milder conditions with a minimum of -9°C (17°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F). Despite the cold, March has a maximum temperature reaching 17°C (63°F), which is noticeably warmer than January's maximum of 12°C (54°F). Precipitation levels are also comparable, with January recording 59 mm (2.3 in) over 13 days and March experiencing slightly more at 66 mm (2.6 in), while both months maintain high humidity levels around 86-88%. For a detailed look at the specifics, you can check Leeuwarden weather in March.

In January, Leeuwarden experiences cold temperatures, with a minimum of -5°C (23°F) and an average of 4°C (40°F), while the maximum reaches only 12°C (54°F). The month is characterized by high precipitation at 59 mm (2.3 in) over about 13 days, coupled with considerable humidity at 88%. In contrast, April brings a milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a comfortable maximum of 25°C (77°F) and an average of 9°C (48°F). Rainfall decreases to 38 mm (1.5 in) over only 8 days, and humidity slightly drops to 84%. For a more detailed look at the April weather in Leeuwarden, visit Leeuwarden weather in April.

In January, Leeuwarden experiences a chilly climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a maximum of 12°C (54°F). The month sees an average temperature of around 4°C (40°F) and is characterized by high humidity at 88%, along with precipitation on 13 days totaling 59 mm (2.3 inches).

In contrast, May brings a much milder atmosphere, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 2°C (37°F) to a pleasant maximum of 28°C (83°F). The average temperature rises to 12°C (55°F), humidity decreases to 80%, and while precipitation remains similar at 62 mm (2.4 inches), it occurs over fewer days, totaling just 11. This transition from winter to spring showcases a significant warming trend and a shift towards more favorable weather conditions. For more details, check out Leeuwarden weather in May.

In January, Leeuwarden experiences significantly colder weather, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a maximum of 12°C (54°F). The city sees about 59 mm (2.3 in) of precipitation over 13 days, coupled with a high humidity level of 88%. In stark contrast, June brings much warmer temperatures, with minimums around 8°C (46°F) and maximums soaring to 31°C (89°F), resulting in an average of 17°C (62°F). The month records approximately 75 mm (3.0 in) of precipitation spread over 11 days, but humidity drops to a more comfortable 75%. For more detailed information, you can check Leeuwarden weather in June.

January and July present contrasting weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a chilly -5°C (23°F) at their lowest to a maximum of 12°C (54°F), with an average temperature of 4°C (40°F). The humidity is notably high at 88%, and the month sees about 59 mm (2.3 in) of precipitation over 13 days. In stark contrast, July experiences much warmer weather, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 10°C (51°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F), and an average of 18°C (64°F). Precipitation in July totals around 87 mm (3.4 in), also spread over 13 days, but with significantly lower humidity at 75%. This dramatic shift highlights the stark seasonal differences in weather. For more information, check out Leeuwarden weather in July.

In Leeuwarden, January brings chilly weather with temperatures ranging from a brisk -5°C (23°F) to a mild 12°C (54°F), averaging around 4°C (40°F). The month experiences a significant amount of precipitation, with 59 mm (2.3 in) spread over 13 days and a high humidity level of 88%, contributing to a cold and damp atmosphere.

In contrast, August showcases a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a comfortable 11°C (52°F) to a sweltering 31°C (89°F), resulting in an average of 18°C (65°F). While August sees a higher total precipitation of 100 mm (3.9 in) across 16 days, the humidity drops to 75%, offering a more pleasant and less oppressive summer feel. For more details on the weather in Leeuwarden during this month, visit Leeuwarden weather in August.

In January, the weather in Leeuwarden is quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a maximum of 12°C (54°F), accompanied by high humidity at 88%. This month experiences 13 days of precipitation totaling 59 mm (2.3 in), creating a wintry feel. In contrast, September ushers in milder temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum of 27°C (80°F), averaging around 15°C (59°F). Although September sees a slightly higher total precipitation of 81 mm (3.2 in) over the same number of rainy days, the lower humidity at 83% can make the weather feel more comfortable. For more detailed information, check out Leeuwarden weather in September.

In January, the weather tends to be quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a maximum of 12°C (54°F) and an average of around 4°C (40°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 59 mm (2.3 in) over approximately 13 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 88%. In contrast, October offers a much milder climate, with temperatures swinging from a minimum of 2°C (35°F) to a pleasant maximum of 24°C (75°F), averaging 12°C (54°F). Though October sees slightly more precipitation at 89 mm (3.5 in) across about 17 days, the humidity is slightly lower at 86%. For more detailed information on weather specifics in October, you can visit Leeuwarden weather in October.

January and November present distinct differences in weather patterns. In January, temperatures drop to a minimum of -5°C (23°F) and can reach a maximum of 12°C (54°F), with an average temperature of 4°C (40°F). The month is characterized by higher precipitation, totaling 59 mm (2.3 in) over about 13 days, alongside a high humidity level of 88%. In contrast, November enjoys milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 17°C (62°F), with an average of 8°C (46°F). Precipitation is slightly less at 53 mm (2.1 in) over 12 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 87%. For more details on November weather, you can visit Leeuwarden weather in November.

In comparison to December, January experiences slightly milder temperatures, with an average of 4°C (40°F) compared to December's average of 6°C (42°F). Both months share similar maximum temperatures, capped at 12°C (54°F). However, January tends to be colder at its minimum, with temperatures dipping to -5°C (23°F) compared to December's -6°C (22°F). Precipitation is higher in December, accumulating 83 mm (3.3 in) over 16 days, while January sees 59 mm (2.3 in) across 13 days, indicating a drier month. Humidity remains quite consistent, with January at 88% and December at 86%. For a closer look at December's weather patterns, you can visit Leeuwarden weather in December.

Compare Leeuwarden's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Leeuwarden

As winter envelops Leeuwarden in January, the city experiences notably colder temperatures, with averages significantly lower than the mild months that precede it. The chill is complemented by increased humidity, reaching around 88%, contributing to a brisk atmosphere that can feel much harsher. While precipitation is a common feature this month, with several rainy days, January sets itself apart with its maximum temperatures rarely climbing above a crisp 12°C. This stark difference in weather conditions invites both locals and visitors to embrace the cozy charm of the city during this wintry season. For a deeper understanding of Leeuwarden's overall weather patterns, explore Leeuwarden Climate.