January Weather in Murmansk, Russian Federation

Last updated: August 27, 2025

January in Murmansk, Russian Federation, presents a harsh winter landscape characterized by a striking temperature range. The month typically sees maximum temperatures reaching 5°C (41°F), an average of -10°C (14°F), and chilling minimums plummeting to -30°C (-21°F). With 32 mm (1.2 in) of precipitation spread over 9 days, residents experience a moist and frigid environment, highlighted by an impressive humidity level of 98%. This combination results in a captivating yet challenging atmosphere, where the beauty of winter is juxtaposed with the realities of extreme cold.

January Temperature in Murmansk

In January, Murmansk endures some of its coldest temperatures of the year, with minimums plummeting to -30°C (-21°F) and an average hovering around -10°C (14°F). The chilly weather does see occasional warmer days, peaking at a maximum of 5°C (41°F), but the biting cold remains prevalent throughout the month. This trend of harsh winter conditions continues into February, where temperatures mirror January's, suggesting a steadfast grip of winter over the region. As the landscape transitions into March, there's a slight relief with average temperatures climbing to -5°C (23°F), while April marks a noticeable thaw, leading to more moderate averages around 0°C (32°F). As spring approaches, temperatures gradually rise, indicating an exciting shift from the intense cold of winter towards a milder climate by late spring, setting the stage for warmer months ahead.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Murmansk, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Murmansk, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec141523324150595346352619
Data source: Temperature data for Murmansk 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 Murmansk

In January, Murmansk experiences a moderate level of precipitation, measuring 32 mm (1.2 in) over approximately 9 days. This pattern sets the tone for the winter months, with precipitation slightly increasing in February to 33 mm (1.3 in), yet remaining consistent in frequency. As the region transitions into spring, March sees a notable rise to 41 mm (1.6 in), foreshadowing a seasonal uptick. The trend continues into April and May, where amounts swell to 46 mm (1.8 in) and 68 mm (2.7 in), respectively. The snowfall during these early months typically gives way to rain as the year progresses, culminating in the wettest period represented by June at 83 mm (3.3 in). Overall, January's precipitation hints at a gradually intensifying rhythm, with each month building upon the last, characteristic of Murmansk's dynamic climate.

January Precipitation Trends in Murmansk

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Murmansk, 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 Murmansk, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec323341466883568157554634
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Murmansk

In January, Murmansk experiences an extraordinary humidity level of 98%, setting the stage for a winter cloaked in moisture. This trend persists into February, where humidity remains unchanged, creating a consistently damp atmosphere. However, as spring approaches in March, a slight dip to 94% provides a hint of relief. The months that follow gradually show a decline in humidity, with April at 89% and May at 83%, indicating the slow transition towards a more temperate climate. Interestingly, the summer months see a slight uptick in humidity, peaking at 90% in August before descending again toward autumn. As the year closes, humidity spikes once more, culminating in December with a staggering 99%, a reminder of Murmansk's uniquely humid climate that wraps the city in a perpetual embrace of moisture throughout the year.

January Average Humidity in Murmansk

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Murmansk, 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 Murmansk is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec99%98%94%90%83%84%87%90%92%95%97%99%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Murmansk

In Murmansk, January brings a UV Index of 1, indicating low exposure levels, with a burn time of 45 minutes for unprotected skin. This trend of minimal UV exposure continues into February, maintaining the same category and burn time. As spring approaches, the UV Index gradually starts to rise, reaching a moderate level of 3 in April, which corresponds to a shorter burn time of 30 minutes. This upward trend continues through the summer months, peaking at 5 in June and July before tapering back down to 4 in August. The drop in UV levels returns as autumn settles in, with indices falling back to 1 by late fall and winter, emphasizing a cyclical pattern uniquely characteristic of this northern region. For additional details on UV levels throughout the year, be sure to explore Murmansk UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Murmansk for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Murmansk 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 Murmansk typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec112345542110
Data source: Murmansk 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 Murmansk

In Murmansk, the transitional light of January casts a muted glow with only 8 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for a gradual increase as winter wanes. February brings a slight lift to 107 hours, hinting at the longer days to come. By March, the sun significantly returns, flooding the region with 255 hours of brightness, and this upward trend continues into April with 312 hours basking the landscape in warmth. May and June reach their peak at 388 hours and 396 hours, respectively, drawing locals outdoors to embrace the vibrant summer days. However, as summer fades, sunshine declines, dipping to 282 hours in August and further to 246 hours in September. The months of October and November offer a stark contrast, with 131 hours and a mere 29 hours of sunlight, before the heavens close entirely in December as the region braces for the polar night with 0 hours of sun. This cyclical pattern of illumination and darkness illustrates Murmansk's unique relationship with the changing seasons, capturing both the essence of its stark winters and the joy of its fleeting summer light.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Murmansk: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Murmansk 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h107h255h312h388h396h465h282h246h131h29h0h
Data source: Murmansk January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Murmansk During January

In Murmansk, the likelihood of basking in sunny weather during January stands at a modest 15%, which is relatively higher than the overcast conditions expected in February, where the chances drop to 12%. As winter progresses, the probability of sunshine gradually improves, with March seeing a notable uptick to 27%. This trend reinforces the idea that while January is characterized by limited sunlight, the onset of spring begins to brighten the forecast. The subsequent months show even more promise, especially with April at 23% and May at 16%, hinting at a gradual shift towards sunnier days as the region transitions into the warmer months. Thus, while January may not be the sunniest of months in Murmansk, the overall trajectory suggests that brighter days await just around the corner.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Murmansk

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Murmansk 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 Murmansk experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec15%12%27%23%17%32%33%23%25%14%10%9%
Data source: Murmansk January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Murmansk in January

In January, Murmansk experiences a mere 5 hours of daylight, setting the stage for a gradual yet striking transformation as the months unfold. By February, the light increases to 7 hours, hinting at the forthcoming spring. March brings a notable surge with 11 hours, as the region shakes off the winter's gloom. Moving into April, daylight extends to 16 hours, paving the way for the long, sunny days of May at 21 hours. June is a remarkable month, showcasing a stunning 24 hours of continuous daylight, allowing residents to revel in the midnight sun. This abundance of light begins to wane in July, with 23 hours, and continues its decline through August at 17 hours. As autumn approaches, September offers a cozy 13 hours, before dipping further to 9 hours in October. The cycle continues into the darkening days of November with 7 hours, finally culminating in December, when the sun disappears completely, providing 0 hours of daylight. This striking contrast from light to dark vividly illustrates the unique rhythms of life in Murmansk, a city that dances with the sun’s return through the seasons.

Average Daylight Hours in Murmansk for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Murmansk throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5h 40m7h 30m11h 46m16h 4m21h 41m24h23h 13m17h 37m13h 11m9h7h 49m
Data source: Murmansk daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Murmansk

In Murmansk, the January wind presents a gentle yet persistent breeze, with an average speed of 2.9 m/s (7 mph). This tranquil start to the year sets the stage for a slight increase in wind intensity come February, where speeds edge up to 3.0 m/s. As winter progresses into March and April, the winds gain momentum, reaching a peak of 3.6 m/s (8 mph), providing a refreshing chill that characterizes the early spring transition. Throughout the year, the wind speeds fluctuate modestly, but an overall trend toward slightly stronger gusts in the spring and autumn months becomes evident, yielding a dynamic atmosphere in this Arctic city. By the end of the year in December, the wind returns to a calmer 3.1 m/s, reminding residents of the serene breeziness that defines their unique northern climate.

Average January Wind Speed in Murmansk

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Murmansk, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.9 m/s3.03.63.63.12.93.02.73.23.53.13.1
Data source: Murmansk January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Murmansk Compares to Other Months

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

January and February share remarkably similar weather patterns, with January typically experiencing minimum temperatures around -30°C (-21°F) and average highs reaching 5°C (41°F). In contrast, February sees a slightly colder minimum of -30°C (-22°F) and a maximum temperature of 4°C (39°F). Both months average about -10°C (14°F for January and 15°F for February) and experience high humidity levels of 98%. Precipitation is also comparable, with January recording 32 mm (1.2 in) over 9 days and February slightly increasing to 33 mm (1.3 in) over 10 days. For a more detailed look at February weather conditions, you can explore Murmansk weather in February.

January and March exhibit notable differences in weather conditions. In January, temperatures reach a frigid low of -30°C (-21°F) and maintain an average of -10°C (14°F), with a maximum of just 5°C (41°F). Humidity is exceptionally high at 98%, contributing to the severe chill, while precipitation occurs on 9 days, totaling 32 mm (1.2 in). In contrast, March shows a slight increase in temperatures, with a minimum of -26°C (-14°F) and an average of -5°C (23°F), peaking at 8°C (47°F). The month also experiences more precipitation, accumulating 41 mm (1.6 in) across 12 days, and a slightly lower humidity level of 94%. Overall, while both months remain cold, March signals a gradual transition towards milder weather. For more details, check out Murmansk weather in March.

In January, the weather is characterized by frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -30°C (-21°F) and an average around -10°C (14°F), while max temperatures barely reach 5°C (41°F). The month experiences a high humidity level of 98% and records around 32 mm of precipitation over approximately 9 days. In contrast, April brings a more moderate climate, where the minimum temperature rises to -15°C (5°F) and the average climbs to 0°C (32°F), with maximums reaching 16°C (60°F). While precipitation increases slightly to 46 mm over 12 days, the humidity decreases to 89%, marking a significant shift as the region transitions toward spring. For more detailed information, you can view Murmansk weather in April.

January weather is characterized by significantly colder temperatures, with minimums reaching as low as -30°C (-21°F) and an average around -10°C (14°F). The month sees about 32 mm (1.2 in) of precipitation over 9 days, coupled with high humidity levels averaging 98%. In contrast, May experiences a dramatic shift in climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 22°C (73°F). The average temperature rises to 5°C (41°F) and precipitation increases to 68 mm (2.7 in) across 15 days, while humidity drops to 83%. For more details on the weather in May, you can check Murmansk weather in May.

In January, the weather is frigid, with temperatures plummeting to a minimum of -30°C (-21°F) and averaging around -10°C (14°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. Precipitation is relatively low at 32 mm (1.2 in), falling over approximately 9 days, and the humidity sits at a striking 98%, contributing to a sharp chill in the air.

In contrast, June brings a significant warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F) and an average of 10°C (50°F). Although June experiences higher precipitation at 83 mm (3.3 in) spread over about 15 days, the humidity drops to 84%, providing a more comfortable atmosphere for outdoor activities. For a closer look at the weather patterns in June, visit Murmansk weather in June.

In January, temperatures can plummet to a chilling minimum of -30°C (-21°F), with an average around -10°C (14°F) and a maximum reaching just 5°C (41°F). The month sees about 32 mm (1.2 in) of precipitation over 9 days, accompanied by a high humidity of 98%. In stark contrast, July experiences significantly milder weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a comfortable average of 15°C (59°F), and highs can soar to 31°C (89°F). July also sees increased precipitation at 56 mm (2.2 in) over 11 days, but the humidity is more manageable at 86%. For those interested in exploring this summer season, more details can be found at Murmansk weather in July.

In comparing the weather of January and August, the stark contrasts are immediately apparent. January is characterized by frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -30°C (-21°F) and an average around -10°C (14°F), while August experiences significantly warmer conditions, ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F). Precipitation also varies, with January receiving 32 mm (1.2 in) over just 9 days, whereas August has a higher total of 81 mm (3.2 in) spread over 16 days. Humidity levels remain relatively high throughout the year, but January sees a chilling 98% compared to August's 90%. For more detailed insights on August weather, you can visit Murmansk weather in August.

In January, the weather is bitterly cold, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -30°C (-21°F) to a maximum of just 5°C (41°F), resulting in an average of -10°C (14°F). The month experiences high humidity at 98%, with precipitation occurring on 9 days totaling 32 mm (1.2 in). In contrast, September brings a much milder climate, featuring temperatures that fluctuate between a minimum of -3°C (28°F) and a maximum of 22°C (72°F), leading to an average temperature of 8°C (47°F). Although September sees slightly higher precipitation at 57 mm (2.3 in) spread over 11 days, the humidity is relatively lower at 92%. For more detailed insights into September's weather, check out Murmansk weather in September.

In January, temperatures can plunge to a frigid minimum of -30°C (-21°F), with an average temperature around -10°C (14°F) and a maximum of 5°C (41°F). The month sees about 32 mm (1.2 in) of precipitation spread over 9 days and is characterized by a high humidity of 98%. In contrast, October experiences a milder climate, where the minimum temperature is -16°C (3°F), the average rises to 2°C (35°F), and the maximum peaks at 13°C (55°F). This month also has increased precipitation, totaling 55 mm (2.2 in), occurring on 13 days, while the humidity remains high at 95%. For a more detailed look at conditions in October, you can visit Murmansk weather in October.

In January, the weather can be quite harsh, with temperatures ranging from a chilling minimum of -30°C (-21°F) to an average of -10°C (14°F), peaking at a maximum of 5°C (41°F). The month experiences about 32 mm (1.2 in) of precipitation over approximately 9 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 98%. In contrast, November presents a slightly milder climate with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -23°C (-10°F) and an average of -3°C (26°F), reaching a maximum of 7°C (45°F). Precipitation in November is higher at 46 mm (1.8 in) over about 11 days, with humidity slightly lower at 97%. For more detailed insights into the November weather, you can refer to Murmansk weather in November.

January and December in Murmansk present a frigid winter atmosphere, albeit with slight variations. January exhibits a min temperature of -30°C (-21°F) and an average of -10°C (14°F), with a maximum of 5°C (41°F). In contrast, December features slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of -26°C (-14°F) and an average of -7°C (19°F). Precipitation in both months is fairly similar, with January receiving 32 mm (1.2 in) over 9 days and December slightly higher at 34 mm (1.4 in) for the same number of days. Humidity remains high throughout the winter, peaking at 98% in January compared to 99% in December. For more detailed insights, check out Murmansk weather in December.

Compare Murmansk's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Murmansk

As January blankets Murmansk in a harsh winter embrace, it stands out as one of the coldest months of the year. With an average temperature significantly lower than other months, the city experiences brief highs that barely reach above freezing, creating a stark contrast to the milder temperatures of late spring and summer. The near-constant humidity, coupled with precipitation on 9 days, contributes to a chilly, damp feel that permeates the air. If you're looking to delve deeper into the weather patterns that shape this unique Arctic city, don't miss our detailed overview at Murmansk Climate.