January Weather in Bucharest, Romania

Last updated: August 27, 2025

In January, Bucharest, Romania experiences a striking range of temperatures, with a maximum of 15°C (59°F) and an average hover around 0°C (32°F), while the minimum can plummet to a chilling -23°C (-9°F). The month also sees approximately 40 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation over 7 days, contributing to the city's wintery ambiance. As humidity levels soar to a notable 88%, residents and visitors alike can expect a crisp and often damp atmosphere, setting the stage for beautifully frosted landscapes and cozy indoor moments throughout the season.

January Temperature in Bucharest

In January, Bucharest experiences a striking range of temperatures, with minimums plunging to an icy -23°C (-9°F), contrasting sharply with the month's maximum of 15°C (59°F). This volatility results in an average temperature of 0°C (32°F), marking the heart of winter in Romania's vibrant capital. The chilly air often gives way to warmer spells, hinting at the gradual transition to spring as February approaches, where temperatures rise notably by several degrees. Notably, the January cold frames the city in a winter wonderland, attracting both locals and travelers seeking the charm of snow-dusted streets and cozy cafes, fostering a unique atmosphere that only a Bucharest winter can provide.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Bucharest, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Bucharest, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec323743546371747767554537
Data source: Temperature data for Bucharest 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 Bucharest

In January, Bucharest experiences a moderate precipitation level of 40 mm (1.6 in) spread over approximately 7 days. This marks the beginning of the year with relatively low rainfall compared to the wetter months ahead, such as June, which averages 115 mm (4.5 in) over 15 days. Notably, January's precipitation sets a trend of increasing rainfall as the seasons transition, peaking in the summer before tapering off in the cooler months like September, which records a mere 23 mm (0.9 in) over just 3 days. Overall, January serves as a precursor to the seasonal shifts, indicating a gradual buildup toward the wetter spring and summer months.

January Precipitation Trends in Bucharest

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Bucharest, 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 Bucharest, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4043614469115903323704363
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Bucharest

In January, Bucharest experiences a high humidity level of 88%, setting a tone for the winter months characterized by dampness and chill. As February rolls in, humidity slightly decreases to 85%, but the air remains heavy. By March, there's a gradual easing, with humidity dropping to 82%. This trend continues into spring, as April sees a more noticeable drop to 73%, and May and June maintain relatively comfortable levels at 71% and 70% respectively. The summer months bring further relief, with July's humidity dipping to 66% and August plummeting to 48%, making them the driest times of the year. As autumn approaches, humidity begins to rise again, starting at 57% in September and climbing back to 79% by October. The year closes with a return to high humidity, as November and December once again measure at 87% and 88%. This cyclical pattern underscores Bucharest's seasonal climate, oscillating between humid winters and drier summer months.

January Average Humidity in Bucharest

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Bucharest, 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 Bucharest is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec88%85%82%73%71%70%66%48%57%79%88%88%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Bucharest

In January, the UV Index in Bucharest stands at 2, classified as a low exposure category, allowing for a relatively safe burn time of 45 minutes under the sun. As the months progress, a notable trend emerges; by February, the index rises to 3, shifting to a moderate exposure level, and this gradual increase continues into March with a UV Index of 5. The transition from winter to spring brings a sharp uptick in UV exposure, peaking at 8 in May and 9 in the summer months of June and July, where burn times shrink to just 15 minutes due to the heightened risk. This pattern clearly illustrates the importance of monitoring UV levels throughout the year, especially as warmer months approach. To stay informed on how to protect yourself from UV radiation, visit Bucharest UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Bucharest for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Bucharest 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 Bucharest typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec235789987532
Data source: Bucharest 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 Bucharest

In January, Bucharest experiences a modest 169 hours of sunshine, a stark contrast to the brighter months ahead. As winter fades into spring, the city welcomes an increase in daylight, with February bringing 231 hours and March rising further to 293 hours. The sun shines more generously as April blossoms with 346 hours, culminating in the vibrant May that boasts 398 hours of golden rays. As summer approaches, the sun reaches its zenith, with June, July, and August offering an impressive 405, 425, and 406 hours respectively. However, as autumn sets in, daylight begins to wane, dropping to 343 hours in September and continuing to decline through October and November. By December, Bucharest wraps up the year with 191 hours of sunshine, reflecting a seasonal shift that invites warmth and light back into the city. This sunlit journey not only highlights the dynamic weather of Bucharest but also sets the stage for its vibrant culture and outdoor activities as the days grow longer.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Bucharest: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Bucharest 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec169h231h293h346h398h405h425h406h343h288h215h191h
Data source: Bucharest January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Bucharest During January

In January, Bucharest experiences a modest 27% chance of sunny weather, marking it as one of the cloudier months of the year. Interestingly, this trend of limited sunshine is followed by a gradual increase as we move into February, where the sunny days rise to 36%. March further boosts optimism, with a 42% likelihood of sunshine, hinting that spring is on the horizon. As we transition into April and May, the chances stabilize around 41%, demonstrating a consistent improvement in sunny days. The summer months showcase a stark contrast; by the time July and August arrive, the likelihood of sunny weather skyrockets to an impressive 70%. Overall, Bucharest’s January is generally a gray month, yet it paves the way for brighter days ahead as the seasons change.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Bucharest

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Bucharest 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 Bucharest experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec27%36%42%41%41%43%70%70%59%39%38%23%
Data source: Bucharest January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Bucharest in January

In Bucharest, Romania, January heralds the new year with 9 hours of daylight, providing a subtle glow as the city shakes off the winter chill. As the month of February unfolds, daylight gradually increases to 10 hours, hinting at the approach of spring. March continues this uplifting trend, adding an extra hour of light to reach 11 hours, invigorating both nature and the city's inhabitants. By April, the days stretch further, offering 13 hours of sunshine, while May and June peak at 14 and 15 hours, respectively, embracing the warmth of summer. After July, sunlight begins to wane slightly, falling to 13 hours in August, then tapering down through the autumn months, with October and November having 10 and 9 hours respectively. Finally, December whispers winter’s return with just 8 hours, reminding residents of the seasonal cycles and the gradual return of longer days ahead. This rhythmic dance of daylight reflects not only the changing seasons but also the vibrant life that flourishes under Bucharest's sky.

Average Daylight Hours in Bucharest for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Bucharest throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 14m10h 26m11h 56m13h 29m14h 48m15h 29m15h 7m13h 57m12h 28m10h 56m9h 34m8h 52m
Data source: Bucharest daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Bucharest

In January, Bucharest welcomes winter with an invigorating average wind speed of 3.0 m/s (7 mph), making it one of the breeziest months of the year. As the cold grip of winter begins to wane into February and March, the winds gently settle to around 2.7 m/s (6 mph), creating a crisp yet manageable chill. Interestingly, this trend of diminishing wind speed continues into the spring months with April and May hovering close at 2.6 m/s and 2.7 m/s (6 mph) respectively. The summer months, however, witness a further drop, with June recording the calmest winds at 2.0 m/s (4 mph). As the seasons transition into autumn, wind speeds gradually climb back to 3.0 m/s (7 mph) in October, indicating a seasonal resurgence before they settle back into a gentle rhythm during November and December. Overall, Bucharest's wind patterns reveal a dynamic interplay between the bracing gales of winter and the tranquil breezes of summer, reflecting the city's charming seasonal diversity.

Average January Wind Speed in Bucharest

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Bucharest, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.0 m/s2.72.72.62.72.02.42.32.63.02.42.7
Data source: Bucharest January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Bucharest Compares to Other Months

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

January and February experience notably different weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of -23°C (-9°F) to a maximum of 15°C (59°F), with an average temperature of 0°C (32°F). The month sees about 40 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation over 7 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 88%. In contrast, February witnesses milder temperatures, with a minimum of -14°C (6°F) and a maximum of 21°C (69°F), averaging 3°C (37°F). Precipitation slightly increases to 43 mm (1.7 in) over 8 days, and humidity hovers around 85%. Despite the similarities in precipitation, February offers a more temperate and pleasant climate overall. For more details, check out Bucharest weather in February.

January and March exhibit quite distinct weather patterns. January experiences frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -23°C (-9°F) and an average around 0°C (32°F), while March brings a significant warming trend, showcasing an average of 6°C (44°F) and a maximum that can reach up to 25°C (77°F). Precipitation levels are higher in March, totaling 61 mm (2.4 in) over 9 days compared to January’s 40 mm (1.6 in) across 7 days. Additionally, March has slightly lower humidity at 82%, compared to January's 88%. For a detailed look at the weather dynamics, you can check out Bucharest weather in March.

January and April showcase a stark contrast in weather patterns. In January, temperatures are frigid, with a minimum of -23°C (-9°F) and an average around 0°C (32°F), while the maximum reaches only 15°C (59°F). This month experiences high humidity at 88% and receives about 40 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation over 7 days. In comparison, April brings a noticeable warmth, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (30°F) to a pleasant average of 12°C (54°F) and maximums soaring to 29°C (84°F). Although April has a slightly higher precipitation at 44 mm (1.7 in) over the same number of days, the humidity drops to a comfortable 73%. For more detailed information about April's weather, you can check Bucharest weather in April.

January and May present strikingly different weather patterns. In January, temperatures can plummet as low as -23°C (-9°F), with an average of 0°C (32°F) and maximum reaching 15°C (59°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 88% and relatively low precipitation of 40 mm (1.6 in) over 7 days. In contrast, May welcomes warmer weather, with minimum temperatures of 4°C (39°F), an average of 17°C (63°F), and peaks of 31°C (88°F). Precipitation increases to 69 mm (2.7 in) over 11 days, and the humidity drops to a more comfortable 71%. For more details on the delightful weather in May, check out Bucharest weather in May.

In January, the weather is characterized by frigid temperatures, with lows plummeting to -23°C (-9°F) and an average of around 0°C (32°F), while highs barely reach 15°C (59°F). The month experiences considerable humidity at 88%, along with about 40 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation over approximately 7 days. In stark contrast, June brings much warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (46°F) to a maximum of 37°C (99°F), and an average temperature of 22°C (71°F). Although June is also wet, with 115 mm (4.5 in) of precipitation across 15 days, the humidity drops to a more comfortable 70%. For more detailed insights, you can check Bucharest weather in June.

In January, temperatures can plunge as low as -23°C (-9°F), with an average around 0°C (32°F), making it the coldest month of the year. The high can reach 15°C (59°F) and the month experiences around 40 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation over about 7 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 88%. In stark contrast, July boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (54°F) and an average of 24°C (75°F), peaking at a scorching 38°C (100°F). Precipitation increases to 90 mm (3.5 in) over roughly 10 days, but humidity drops to a more comfortable 66%. For a closer look at the weather specifics in July, check out Bucharest weather in July.

January and August present starkly contrasting weather patterns. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -23°C (-9°F) with an average of around 0°C (32°F) and maximums reaching 15°C (59°F). This month is characterized by high humidity at 88% and receives about 40 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation over 7 days. In contrast, August boasts a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (52°F) to a scorching maximum of 38°C (101°F), and an average temperature of 25°C (77°F). The humidity drops to a more comfortable 48%, and the month sees slightly less precipitation at 33 mm (1.3 in) over just 6 days. To learn more about August weather in Bucharest, visit Bucharest weather in August.

January and September present starkly contrasting weather patterns. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -23°C (-9°F), with an average of 0°C (32°F) and occasional highs reaching 15°C (59°F). This month sees substantial precipitation, totaling 40 mm (1.6 in) over about 7 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 88%. In contrast, September boasts a much milder climate, where temperatures typically range from a minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a comfortable average of 20°C (68°F), with maximums soaring up to 36°C (97°F). Precipitation is lighter, measuring just 23 mm (0.9 in) over 3 days, and humidity drops significantly to 57%. For a more detailed look, check out Bucharest weather in September.

In January, the weather in Bucharest is significantly colder, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -23°C (-9°F) to a maximum of 15°C (59°F), averaging around 0°C (32°F). The precipitation is relatively low at 40 mm (1.6 in) over seven days, and the humidity is quite high at 88%. In stark contrast, October experiences milder conditions, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 1°C (33°F) to a maximum of 31°C (87°F) and averaging 13°C (56°F). Although October sees more precipitation at 70 mm (2.8 in) over the same number of days, the humidity is noticeably lower at 79%. For a detailed overview of the weather in October, check out Bucharest weather in October.

When comparing the weather in January and November, a stark contrast emerges in temperature and overall conditions. January experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -23°C (-9°F) and an average of 0°C (32°F), while November offers milder weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (24°F) to an average of 7°C (45°F). Precipitation levels are relatively similar, with January receiving 40 mm (1.6 in) over about 7 days, compared to November's 43 mm (1.7 in) spread over 8 days. Additionally, humidity remains high in both months, with January at 88% and November slightly lower at 87%. Overall, November's temperate climate makes it far more pleasant than the frigid conditions typical of January. For more details, you can visit Bucharest weather in November.

January weather can be significantly colder than December, with average temperatures dropping to 0°C (32°F), compared to December's average of 3°C (37°F). January also sees a minimum temperature that can plummet to -23°C (-9°F), whereas December has a milder minimum of -9°C (16°F). Precipitation is lower in January at 40 mm (1.6 in) over 7 days, compared to December's 63 mm (2.5 in) spread over 11 days. Despite the chill, both months maintain a consistent humidity level of 88%. For more details about December weather in Bucharest, check out Bucharest weather in December.

Compare Bucharest's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Bucharest

January in Bucharest presents a striking contrast to the milder months of spring and summer, offering a unique blend of chilly temperatures and notable humidity. With an average temperature hovering around freezing, the city often experiences a stark drop to well below zero, creating a true winter atmosphere. Although precipitation is relatively low, the persistent dampness, with humidity levels reaching an impressive 88%, can make the cold feel even more penetrating. In comparison to the more vibrant and lively weather of other seasons, January exudes a calm, crispness that beckons those who embrace winter's chill. For a deeper insight into what to expect year-round, explore Bucharest Climate.