January Weather in Rotterdam, Netherlands

Last updated: August 27, 2025

January in Rotterdam, Netherlands, brings a chilly climate characterized by a maximum temperature of 14°C (58°F), an average of 5°C (41°F), and an occasional dip to a minimum of -8°C (19°F). Visitors can expect moderate precipitation, totaling around 57 mm (2.3 in) over 12 days of the month, contributing to the city's famously high humidity levels of 91%. This combination of cool temperatures and frequent rain creates a unique atmosphere, perfect for exploring the city's vibrant culture while staying warm and dry.

January Temperature in Rotterdam

In January, Rotterdam experiences a chilly embrace as temperatures dip to a minimum of -8°C (19°F). The average hovers around 5°C (41°F), offering a crisp backdrop for winter adventures, while the highs reach up to a mild 14°C (58°F), hinting at the gradual warming trend that will follow. As the month progresses, the city transitions towards February, where the minimum temperature slightly drops further to -9°C (15°F), yet sustains an average of 5°C (42°F). This steady pattern of temperatures below freezing underscores the essence of Dutch winters, characterized by brisk air and the potential for both icy days and the occasional warm spell. As March approaches, temperatures begin to rise, signaling the arrival of spring, but the stark contrast in January establishes a compelling narrative of transition and adaptability in Rotterdam's climate.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Rotterdam, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Rotterdam, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec404144495663656559544643
Data source: Temperature data for Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam

January in Rotterdam sees a moderate precipitation amount of 57 mm (2.3 in), spread over approximately 12 rainy days. This marks the beginning of the year with a steady wetness that subtly transitions into February, which increases to 65 mm. As winter gives way to spring, rainfall tends to escalate, peaking in October at 92 mm over the course of 16 days. Overall, the trend indicates a gradual rise in both precipitation and rainy days from January to the late autumn months, suggesting that while January might be relatively damp, it sets the stage for a much wetter and busier weather pattern as the year progresses.

January Precipitation Trends in Rotterdam

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Rotterdam, 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 Rotterdam, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec576569446572688575925690
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Rotterdam

In January, Rotterdam experiences a high humidity level of 91%, setting the tone for a month often characterized by chill and dampness. This trend of elevated humidity continues into February, though it slightly dips to 89%, hinting at a gradual transition as winter wanes. As the city steps into spring with March and April, humidity gently decreases, reaching a comfortable 85%. By May and June, the readings stabilize at 82%, indicating a mild and pleasant atmosphere as summer approaches. However, a slight downward shift occurs through July and August, where humidity drops to 80% and then 76%, providing a refreshing respite. This trend reverses in the autumn, with September seeing a rise back to 82%, peaking again in the colder months of October and November at 89% and 92% respectively, as the cycle culminates with another humid close to the year in December. Overall, Rotterdam’s January humidity sets the stage for both winter's embrace and spring's promising ease ahead.

January Average Humidity in Rotterdam

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Rotterdam, 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 Rotterdam is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec91%89%87%85%82%82%80%76%82%89%92%92%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Rotterdam

In January, the UV Index in Rotterdam is a mild 1, indicating a low exposure category with a burn time of 45 minutes. As winter unfolds into February, the UV Index remains steady at 2, maintaining a low risk for sunburn. A noticeable shift occurs in March when the Index rises to 4, signifying a moderate exposure level and reducing the burn time to 30 minutes. This trend continues into April with the Index at 5, suggesting that sun safety precautions should be taken. By May, the UV Index escalates to 7, indicating a high exposure category and cutting the burn time to 25 minutes. The summer months of June and July reach a peak UV Index of 8, classified as very high, with a critical burn time of just 15 minutes. This high level persists into August with a slight drop back to 7, while the burn time increases to 25 minutes. As fall approaches, the UV Index gradually declines, falling back to moderate in September and October before returning to low levels in November and December. For more detailed insights on UV exposure, visit Rotterdam UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Rotterdam for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec124578875321
Data source: Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam

January in Rotterdam experiences a modest 118 hours of sunshine, marking the beginning of the year with a gentle embrace of light. As winter transitions into spring, the city gradually brightens, with February seeing a notable increase to 201 hours. By March, the days lengthen significantly, providing 282 hours of sun, while April bursts into warmth with 363 hours, a clear signal that spring has fully emerged. The sunshine peaks in the summer months, reaching a radiant 425 hours in July, creating the perfect atmosphere for outdoor activities. As summer wanes, August still enjoys generous sunlight at 398 hours, but the hours begin to dwindle, dropping to 329 in September and further to 243 in October. The trend reveals a natural ebb and flow of sunlight throughout the year, with the colder months, such as November at 195 hours and December with just 144 hours, a stark contrast to the vibrant summer. This cyclical rhythm not only shapes the weather but also the spirit of the city and its inhabitants.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Rotterdam: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Rotterdam 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec118h201h282h363h411h419h425h398h329h243h195h144h
Data source: Rotterdam January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Rotterdam During January

In Rotterdam, January brings a modest 16% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the cloudier months of the year. As winter gives way to spring, the likelihood of sunshine gradually increases, jumping to 28% in February and continuing its ascent through March and April. This upward trend highlights the seasonal shift that occurs as the days lengthen and temperatures rise. By April, the chance of sunny weather reaches a more promising 40%, setting the stage for brighter days ahead. Overall, while January may be dominated by gray skies, the improving outlook in the following months paints a more optimistic picture for sun seekers.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Rotterdam

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec16%28%36%41%33%38%35%33%32%29%22%17%
Data source: Rotterdam January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Rotterdam in January

In January, Rotterdam experiences about 8 hours of daylight, which marks the start of a gradual increase as winter fades away. By February, the days extend to 9 hours, setting the stage for spring's arrival. As March awakens the city, daylight stretches to 11 hours, and by April, it reaches 13 hours, allowing for more outdoor enjoyment. The peak of daylight is in the summer months, with both June and July boasting an impressive 16 hours, perfect for long summer evenings. However, as August approaches its end, daylight begins to recede to 14 hours, and the transition back to shorter days starts. September offers 12 hours before the sunset begins to creep earlier, ultimately leading to 10 hours in October and dropping back to 8 hours by November. December, with just 7 hours of daylight, reminds us that the cycle of seasons continually affects our environment, bringing light and warmth in rhythmic waves.

Average Daylight Hours in Rotterdam for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Rotterdam throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 20m9h 56m11h 55m13h 55m15h 41m16h 36m16h 7m14h 32m12h 35m10h 35m8h 47m7h 49m
Data source: Rotterdam daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Rotterdam

In Rotterdam, the January winds offer a brisk start to the year, averaging 4.7 m/s (10 mph), which sets the tone for the months ahead. This wind speed remains steady into February, suggesting a consistency in the winter weather patterns. As spring approaches, March sees a slight dip to 4.6 m/s, while April and May experience gentle breezes of 4.2 m/s and 4.4 m/s respectively, reflecting the transition into milder conditions. The winds begin to mellow further by June, dropping to 3.2 m/s (7 mph), and remain on the calmer side through the summer months. Interestingly, as autumn arrives, October picks up again to 4.8 m/s, demonstrating the region's unpredictable nature. This pattern showcases how January not only ushers in the new year but also sets the backdrop for fluctuating wind dynamics that define Rotterdam's climate throughout the seasons.

Average January Wind Speed in Rotterdam

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Rotterdam, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.7 m/s4.74.64.24.43.23.74.13.44.83.84.5
Data source: Rotterdam January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Rotterdam Compares to Other Months

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

January and February present a notable comparison in weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of -8°C (19°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), with an average temperature of 5°C (41°F) and total precipitation of 57 mm (2.3 in) over 12 days. The humidity level is relatively high at 91%. In contrast, February experiences slightly colder minimum temperatures, dipping to -9°C (15°F), but averages a consistent 5°C (42°F) with a maximum of 18°C (65°F). Precipitation increases to 65 mm (2.6 in) over the same 12 days, and humidity decreases slightly to 89%. For more detailed insights, you can check out Rotterdam weather in February.

In January, temperatures in Rotterdam typically range from a minimum of -8°C (19°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F). The month experiences about 57 mm (2.3 in) of precipitation across approximately 12 days, while humidity levels remain high at 91%. In contrast, March brings slightly warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from -8°C (18°F) to a high of 21°C (71°F) and an average temperature of 7°C (45°F). While precipitation increases to 69 mm (2.7 in) over about 14 days, humidity decreases slightly to 87%. This shift heralds the transition from the chill of winter to milder spring weather. For more detailed information, visit Rotterdam weather in March.

In January, the weather is markedly cold, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -8°C (19°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F). The month experiences considerable humidity at 91%, along with substantial precipitation totaling 57 mm (2.3 in) over 12 days. In contrast, April brings a significant shift towards milder conditions, featuring minimum temperatures of -1°C (30°F) and maximums reaching 27°C (81°F), with an average of 10°C (50°F). Precipitation in April is lighter at 44 mm (1.7 in) over just 9 days, and the humidity is slightly lower at 85%. For a detailed look at what to expect, visit Rotterdam weather in April.

In January, the weather is characterized by cold temperatures, with a minimum of -8°C (19°F) and an average of just 5°C (41°F), while maximum temperatures reach up to 14°C (58°F). The month experiences around 57 mm (2.3 in) of precipitation over 12 days, accompanied by high humidity at 91%. In contrast, May sees a significant rise in temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (35°F) and an average of 13°C (56°F), peaking at a warm 31°C (87°F). Though May has slightly more precipitation at 65 mm (2.5 in) over the same number of days, the humidity drops to 82%. For more details on the weather patterns in May, you can check Rotterdam weather in May.

In January, the weather is typically cold, with temperatures ranging from a frigid minimum of -8°C (19°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F) and an average temperature of around 5°C (41°F). This month experiences high humidity at 91% and sees precipitation on about 12 days, totaling 57 mm (2.3 in).

In contrast, June brings much milder temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F), an average of 17°C (63°F), and a peak of 32°C (89°F). Although precipitation is slightly higher at 72 mm (2.8 in), it occurs less frequently over only about 10 days, and the humidity drops to 82%. For a closer look at June weather specifics, check out Rotterdam weather in June.

January and July showcase a stark contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of -8°C (19°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F), creating a chilly atmosphere accompanied by high humidity levels of 91%. Precipitation is relatively moderate, with about 57 mm (2.3 in) falling over 12 days.

In contrast, July experiences much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (47°F), an average of 18°C (65°F), and a peak of 38°C (101°F). The humidity decreases to 80%, while precipitation slightly increases to 68 mm (2.7 in) over 13 days. For more details, check out Rotterdam weather in July. Overall, the two months epitomize the seasonal extremes, with January's cold and dampness giving way to July's warmth and vibrant summer days.

January and August present a stark contrast in weather. In January, temperatures typically range from a chilly -8°C (19°F) to a mild 14°C (58°F), with an average temperature of 5°C (41°F). The month experiences high humidity at 91% and around 57 mm (2.3 in) of precipitation over approximately 12 days. In contrast, August brings warmer conditions with temperatures spanning from a minimum of 8°C (48°F) to a scorching maximum of 33°C (93°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F). Although August sees more precipitation at 84 mm (3.3 in), it occurs over 14 days and with a more comfortable humidity of 76%. For more detailed information on weather variations, you can check Rotterdam weather in August.

In comparing the weather between January and September, a notable contrast emerges. January experiences much colder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -8°C (19°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), while September enjoys milder temperatures, peaking at 31°C (87°F) and averaging 15°C (60°F). Precipitation levels are slightly higher in September at 75 mm (3.0 in) over 11 days, compared to January's 57 mm (2.3 in) over 12 days. Additionally, January maintains a high humidity level of 91%, which is somewhat reduced to 82% in September. For more information about September weather in Rotterdam, visit Rotterdam weather in September.

In January, the weather tends to be much colder, with temperatures ranging from a frigid minimum of -8°C (19°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), and an average of 5°C (41°F). The month experiences around 57 mm (2.3 in) of precipitation over 12 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 91%. In contrast, October offers a milder climate, with temperatures fluctuating between a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and a maximum of 25°C (78°F), averaging 12°C (55°F). However, October is characterized by more rainfall, totaling 92 mm (3.6 in) across 16 days, while the humidity remains slightly lower at 89%. For more details on the weather patterns in October, you can visit Rotterdam weather in October.

In comparing the weather of January and November, January typically experiences lower temperatures, with a minimum of -8°C (19°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F), while November's temperatures are milder, ranging from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to an average of 8°C (46°F). Both months see similar levels of precipitation, with January receiving 57 mm (2.3 in) and November slightly less at 56 mm (2.2 in), both spread over approximately 12 days. The humidity levels are also comparable, hovering around 91% in January and 92% in November. For a more detailed look at November weather, you can visit Rotterdam weather in November.

In comparing the weather between January and December, January experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -8°C (19°F) compared to December's minimum of -4°C (25°F). The average temperatures in both months are similar, hovering around 5°C (41°F) in January and 6°C (43°F) in December. Precipitation is more frequent in December, occurring over 17 days with a total of 90 mm (3.5 in) compared to January's 57 mm (2.3 in) across 12 days. Additionally, humidity levels remain high in both months, with January at 91% and December slightly higher at 92%. For further details on December weather, you can visit Rotterdam weather in December.

Compare Rotterdam's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Rotterdam

As winter settles in, January in Rotterdam offers a distinct contrast to the milder months, showcasing a blend of chilly temperatures and frequent precipitation. With occasional highs reaching 14°C and lows dipping to -8°C, residents and visitors alike experience a month characterized by its crisp air and high humidity levels. Rainfall is common, with about 12 days of steady showers adding to the damp atmosphere. It’s a time when the city’s vibrant life takes on a different rhythm, encouraging warm gatherings and cozy indoor activities. For more insights into how January fits into the annual cycle, explore Rotterdam Climate.