January Weather in Rabaul, Papua New Guinea

Last updated: August 31, 2025

In January, Rabaul, Papua New Guinea experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall. The maximum temperature reaches a balmy 30°C (86°F), while the average hovers around 27°C (82°F), providing a comfortable yet humid atmosphere. With a minimum temperature of 25°C (78°F), this month attracts both locals and visitors seeking warmth. However, nature leaves its mark with precipitation totaling 216 mm (8.5 in), occurring over 21 days, resulting in a humidity level of 78%. Despite the wet conditions, Rabaul's vibrant landscapes and cultural richness remain a captivating draw for adventurers.

January Temperature in Rabaul

In January, Rabaul, Papua New Guinea, basks in warm tropical temperatures, with lows around 25°C (78°F) and averages at 27°C (82°F). The daytime highs reach a comfortable 30°C (86°F), providing an inviting climate for outdoor activities. This trend of consistent warmth continues throughout the year, as monthly temperatures remain largely unchanged, with only slight variations. Barring minor fluctuations, January’s climate mirrors that of February to March, where the minimum, average, and maximum temperatures hold remarkably steady. This stable tropical weather pattern makes Rabaul an appealing destination for sun-seekers year-round, ensuring that the charm of its climate is both predictable and pleasant.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Rabaul, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Rabaul, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec818181818181808080818181
Data source: Temperature data for Rabaul 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 Rabaul

January in Rabaul, Papua New Guinea, welcomes the new year with a notable precipitation total of 216 mm (8.5 in), falling mainly across 21 rainy days. This sets the stage for a wetter season ahead, as February and March notably ramp up, with precipitation peaking in March at 407 mm (16.0 in) over 28 days. The trend reveals a consistent pattern of increased rainfall as the year progresses, with January's rain serving as an early foretaste of the heavier downpours to come. By April, precipitation remains substantial, at 336 mm (13.2 in), before tapering off in the drier months of June and July. Ultimately, Rabaul’s rainfall is a vivid reminder of its tropical climate, where the lush landscapes thrive amidst the abundant, albeit variable, waters of the wet season.

January Precipitation Trends in Rabaul

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Rabaul, 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 Rabaul, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec216299407336204119179191178171227339
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Rabaul

In Rabaul, Papua New Guinea, the month of January experiences a humidity level of 78%, setting the tone for a generally humid tropical climate. As the year progresses, humidity fluctuates slightly, with February and March maintaining similar levels at 77% and 78%, respectively. This moderate start transitions into a significant increase during the middle of the year, peaking dramatically in July at 86%, and reaching an even higher mark of 89% in August. As the humidity begins to taper off towards the end of the year, October records 85%, gradually lowering to 81% in November, and returning to 78% in December. Overall, the trend highlights a distinct mid-year surge in humidity, creating a lush and moist environment characteristic of Rabaul, making it a hotspot for tropical vegetation.

January Average Humidity in Rabaul

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Rabaul, 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 Rabaul is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec78%77%78%78%77%82%86%89%88%85%81%78%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Rabaul

In January, Rabaul, Papua New Guinea, experiences an extreme UV Index of 15, which means sunbathers and outdoor enthusiasts need to be particularly cautious, as direct exposure can lead to skin damage in just 10 minutes. This month sets the stage for a year of high UV levels, with February and March peaking at 17, showing a consistent trend of harsh sunlight during the early months. As the year progresses, the UV Index slightly dips but remains high, reflecting an ongoing need for protective measures. While April through June sees a slight decrease, the exposure category remains extreme, indicating that residents and tourists alike must stay vigilant year-round. For an in-depth look at the UV conditions throughout the year, including tips for safe sun exposure, visit Rabaul UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Rabaul for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Rabaul 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 Rabaul typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec151717161312121315141414
Data source: Rabaul 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 Rabaul

January in Rabaul, Papua New Guinea, welcomes the year with 225 hours of sunshine, setting a vibrant tone for the months ahead. As the days progress into February, sunshine increases modestly to 242 hours, hinting at the island's consistent warmth. The trend continues to rise through March, boasting 261 hours, and reaches its peak in June at an impressive 265 hours. Following this sunny zenith, the rest of the year showcases slight fluctuations, with the sun shining its brightest in October with 277 hours. Overall, Rabaul captivates with its generous sunlight, especially from mid-year onward, making it a delightful destination for sun-seekers and adventurers alike.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Rabaul: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Rabaul 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec225h242h261h241h256h265h257h273h263h277h257h263h
Data source: Rabaul January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Rabaul During January

In Rabaul, Papua New Guinea, January offers a 32% chance of sunny weather, making it a decent option for those seeking some tropical sunshine. Although February plummets to a mere 5%, the odds gradually improve as the year progresses, peaking in October with a remarkable 41% likelihood of clear skies. This trend suggests that while January can provide enjoyable weather, visitors should take advantage of the sunnier months ahead, particularly from August onwards, when the likelihood of sunshine rises significantly to 38%. Thus, if basking in the sun is on your agenda, planning your visit for later in the year might yield more reliable weather.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Rabaul

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Rabaul 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 Rabaul experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec32%5%18%16%21%33%31%38%17%41%27%10%
Data source: Rabaul January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Rabaul in January

In Rabaul, Papua New Guinea, January welcomes an abundance of daylight, boasting 12 hours of sunshine—a trend that continues through February and March. As the year unfolds, daylight duration subtly shifts, dipping to 11 hours from April to August. However, this slight decrease in sunlight is temporary; by September, the days lengthen once again, returning to the 12-hour mark that characterizes the beginning of the year. This rhythmic fluctuation creates a predictable yet delightful cycle of light, making Rabaul a place where the sun's presence feels both consistent and ever-changing throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Rabaul for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Rabaul throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec12h 19m12h 13m12h 6m11h 59m11h 54m11h 52m11h 53m11h 57m12h 4m12h 11m12h 17m12h 20m
Data source: Rabaul daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Rabaul

In January, Rabaul, Papua New Guinea, experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 2.7 m/s (6 mph). This marks the beginning of a noticeable seasonal shift as the months progress. Following January, February sees a slight uptick in wind activity, reaching 3.4 m/s (8 mph), hinting at the approach of the drier months. As summer unfolds into August and September, the winds peak at 3.9 m/s (9 mph) and 4.1 m/s (9 mph), contributing to a vibrant atmosphere shaped by cooler breezes. However, as the year draws to a close, the wind speeds subside once more to levels similar to those of January, with October and November measuring 2.3 m/s (5 mph) and 2.1 m/s (5 mph), respectively. This cyclical pattern accentuates Rabaul's unique climate rhythm, blending serene starting winds with a lively crescendo midway through the year.

Average January Wind Speed in Rabaul

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Rabaul, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.7 m/s3.42.42.52.93.23.23.94.12.32.12.7
Data source: Rabaul January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Rabaul Compares to Other Months

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

Comparing the weather in January and February reveals some similarities and notable differences. Both months maintain a consistent temperature range, with minimum temperatures at 25°C (78°F), average temperatures around 27°C (82°F), and maximum temperatures reaching 30°C (86°F). However, February experiences significantly higher precipitation, with 299 mm (11.8 in) over 26 days, compared to January's 216 mm (8.5 in) across 21 days. Despite the increased rainfall in February, humidity remains relatively stable at 77%, slightly lower than January's 78%. For more detailed insights, check out Rabaul weather in February.

In both January and March, the temperatures in Rabaul remain quite consistent, with minimums around 25°C (78°F), average highs of 27°C (81°F), and maximums reaching up to 30°C (86°F). However, March experiences significantly more rainfall, with 407 mm (16.0 in) of precipitation spread across 28 days, compared to January's 216 mm (8.5 in) over 21 days. Despite the similar temperature ranges, the increased rainfall and number of wet days in March contribute to a distinctly wetter atmosphere. For a detailed look at the weather patterns, you can refer to Rabaul weather in March.

In comparing the weather between January and April, both months feature similar temperature ranges, with minimums around 25°C (78°F), maximums peaking at 30°C (86°F), and average temperatures hovering around 27°C (82°F). However, April experiences significantly higher precipitation, totaling 336 mm (13.2 in) spread over 27 days, compared to January's 216 mm (8.5 in) over 21 days. Humidity levels are relatively consistent, with January at 78% and April slightly lower at 77%. For more detailed information on April weather, you can visit Rabaul weather in April.

In comparing the weather between January and May, both months share similar temperature patterns, with minimums around 25°C (78°F), averages close to 27°C (81°F), and maximums peaking at 30°C (86°F) in January and slightly lower in May at 30°C (85°F). Rainfall is slightly higher in January, with 216 mm (8.5 in) spread over 21 days, compared to May's 204 mm (8.0 in) over 23 days. Humidity levels are comparable as well, with January at 78% and May just a touch lower at 77%. For more detailed insights, you can check Rabaul weather in May.

In January, the weather is characterized by slightly higher temperatures, with a minimum of 25°C (78°F), an average of 27°C (82°F), and a maximum of 30°C (86°F). This month also experiences significant precipitation, totaling 216 mm (8.5 in) over 21 days, combined with high humidity levels at 78%. In contrast, June sees similar temperatures, with a minimum of 25°C (77°F), an average of 27°C (81°F), and a maximum of 29°C (85°F). However, June has notably less rainfall, with 119 mm (4.7 in) spread over 19 days, and slightly higher humidity at 82%. For a detailed overview of weather conditions during this month, visit Rabaul weather in June.

In January, the weather in Rabaul features consistently warm temperatures, with a minimum of 25°C (78°F), an average of 27°C (82°F), and a maximum of 30°C (86°F). The month experiences high humidity at 78% and a significant amount of rainfall, totaling 216 mm (8.5 in) over 21 days. In contrast, July maintains a similar temperature range, with the same minimum and average temperatures, but a slightly lower maximum of 30°C (85°F). July sees slightly less precipitation, totaling 179 mm (7.1 in) over 20 days, along with higher humidity at 86%. For more details on the weather conditions during this month, you can explore Rabaul weather in July.

January and August in Rabaul showcase similar warm temperatures, with both months featuring a minimum temperature of around 25°C (77°F) and an average temperature of about 27°C (80°F). However, January tends to be slightly warmer on average, reaching a maximum of 30°C (86°F), compared to August's peak of 29°C (85°F). Precipitation also plays a significant role; January experiences more rainfall with 216 mm (8.5 in) over 21 days, compared to August's 191 mm (7.5 in) across 18 days. Humidity is notably higher in August at 89%, compared to January's 78%, contributing to a more muggy atmosphere. For more detailed information, you can check Rabaul weather in August.

In January, the weather is characterized by slightly higher temperatures, with an average of 27°C (82°F) and maximums reaching up to 30°C (86°F). The month sees substantial rainfall, totaling 216 mm (8.5 in) over 21 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 78%. In contrast, September displays similar minimum and average temperatures, but with a slightly lower maximum of 29°C (85°F). Precipitation decreases to 178 mm (7.0 in) over 19 days, and humidity rises to 88%. This comparison illustrates a transition from the wetter and slightly warmer January conditions to the still warm but less rainy September weather. For more detailed information, visit Rabaul weather in September.

January and October share similar temperature ranges, with both months averaging around 27°C (81°F) and maintaining a consistent high of 30°C (86°F). However, January experiences slightly more precipitation, totaling 216 mm (8.5 in) across 21 days, compared to October’s 171 mm (6.7 in) over 22 days. Notably, October tends to have higher humidity at 85%, compared to January’s 78%. For more detailed information, you can check Rabaul weather in October.

In comparing the weather of January and November, both months exhibit similar temperature ranges with minimums around 25°C (78°F), averages of 27°C (81°F), and maximums reaching 30°C (86°F). However, November tends to have slightly higher precipitation, with 227 mm (8.9 in) over 24 days compared to January's 216 mm (8.5 in) across 21 days. Additionally, November is characterized by increased humidity at 81%, surpassing January's humidity level of 78%. For more specific insights into November's weather patterns, you can refer to Rabaul weather in November.

In both January and December, temperatures remain consistent, with minimums around 25°C (78°F), averages of 27°C (81°F), and maximums reaching 30°C (86°F). However, December experiences significantly higher precipitation at 339 mm (13.3 in) over 28 days compared to January's 216 mm (8.5 in) over 21 days. Both months maintain high humidity levels at 78%, creating a tropical climate. For more details on December's weather, visit Rabaul weather in December.

Compare Rabaul's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Rabaul

As January rolls into Rabaul, weather patterns take on a distinct character, standing out from the rest of the year. The temperatures are typically warm, with average highs maintaining a comfortable 30°C (86°F), combined with high humidity levels that create a tropical feel. However, what truly sets January apart is its substantial rainfall, with nearly two-thirds of the month witnessing precipitation, making it one of the wettest months. This abundance of rain contributes to the lush landscapes the region is known for. For those planning to explore, understanding this January weather is crucial for making the most of your visit. Dive deeper into the nuances of Rabaul's climate by visiting Rabaul Climate.