January Weather in Vologda, Russian Federation

Last updated: August 27, 2025

In January, the weather in Vologda, Russia can be quite stark, with temperatures ranging from a maximum of 4°C (40°F) to an average of -8°C (18°F), and dipping as low as -39°C (-38°F). The city experiences significant precipitation, recording about 44 mm (1.7 in) over approximately 12 days, contributing to a humidity level that often hovers around an impressive 98%. This cold and moist climate shapes the winter landscape, making January a particularly chilly yet fascinating month in Vologda.

January Temperature in Vologda

In Vologda, Russia, January is characterized by its deep winter chill, where temperatures plummet to a staggering minimum of -39°C (-38°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. The average temperature hovers around -8°C (18°F), while the mercury can occasionally rise to a maximum of 4°C (40°F). This persistent cold begins to ease in February, with temperatures gradually increasing to a minimum of -34°C (-29°F) and a maximum of 5°C (41°F), although the average remains unchanged. As winter transitions into spring in March, Vologda witnesses a notable rise in temperatures, with minimums climbing to -31°C (-24°F) and an average of -3°C (26°F). This trend of warming continues into April, where milder weather brings averages up to 4°C (39°F), ultimately signaling the end of the long, frigid winter.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Vologda, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Vologda, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec181826385060636051413121
Data source: Temperature data for Vologda 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 Vologda

In January, Vologda experiences moderate precipitation, with an average of 44 mm (1.7 in) falling over 12 days. This sets the tone for winter's grip, contributing to a consistent pattern where precipitation remains fairly steady in the early months of the year. Following January, February sees a slight increase to 46 mm (1.8 in), while in March, the total dips to 42 mm (1.6 in). Interestingly, as spring approaches, the precipitation tends to fluctuate but generally remains in a similar range through April. This trend hints at a gradual transition, with late spring and summer bringing a significant uptick, culminating in July's peak at 113 mm (4.4 in). It's clear that while January offers a relatively stable start to the year, Vologda's climate transforms dramatically as it moves toward the warmer months.

January Precipitation Trends in Vologda

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Vologda, 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 Vologda, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4446424469631139391746650
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Vologda

In Vologda, Russian Federation, January stands out with a striking average humidity of 98%, making it the wettest month of the year. This high level of moisture lingers into February at 97%, creating a consistently damp winter atmosphere. As spring approaches, humidity begins to drop, with March at 93% and continuing to decrease through April to 88%. The trend shifts again as summer arrives; humidity levels slightly rise in the warmer months, peaking in July at 84% before varying between 78% and 86% for May and August, respectively. As autumn sets in, humidity stabilizes, hovering around the 90s from September through November. This cyclical pattern highlights Vologda’s climate, where the cold winter months are defined by intense moisture, paving the way for a more moderate yet humid summer.

January Average Humidity in Vologda

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Vologda, 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 Vologda is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec98%97%93%88%78%79%84%87%92%93%92%93%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Vologda

In Vologda, January's UV Index stands at a mild 1, indicating a low exposure category, which means residents can safely spend about 45 minutes outdoors without worry of sunburn. This low UV exposure is consistent throughout the winter months, with February maintaining the same level, gradually rising to a moderate 3 by March as the days start to lengthen. As the seasons transition into spring and summer, the UV Index climbs, peaking at 7 in June, where caution becomes necessary after just 25 minutes in the sun. This upward trend signifies an important shift that encourages both locals and visitors to be mindful of sun safety as they enjoy Vologda’s warm months. For more detailed insights, check the Vologda UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Vologda for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Vologda 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 Vologda typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec123457664211
Data source: Vologda 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 Vologda

In Vologda, January is characterized by a modest 33 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for the winter months. As the year progresses, the sun begins to shine more brightly, with February seeing a jump to 118 hours, signaling the start of gradual light return. By March, the days grow longer, culminating in 247 hours of sunlight that invigorate the city. This upward trend continues into spring, with April delivering 340 hours, and May showcasing a vibrant 420 hours of sun. As summer unfolds, June peaks with 451 hours, providing the warmest and sunniest days. However, Vologda's twilight returns by July as sunshine slightly dips to 432 hours, followed by a gradual decrease in subsequent months. The days shorten dramatically by November, plunging to just 79 hours, and finally, December brings a mere 46 hours of sunshine, enveloping the city in the depths of winter's embrace. This cyclical dance of light and shadow illustrates the stark yet beautiful contrast between the vibrant summers and the serene, snow-laden winters in Vologda.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Vologda: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Vologda 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec33h118h247h340h420h451h432h383h261h149h79h46h
Data source: Vologda January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Vologda During January

In Vologda, the chances of enjoying sunny weather in January are notably low, with only a 3% likelihood of clear skies. This trend of limited sunlight continues through winter, with February only marginally improving to 17%. As spring approaches, a significant shift occurs; by March, the chances of sunshine rise to 33%, setting the stage for a more vibrant April at 41%. The transition into late spring and summer brings even greater promise, with May boasting a 47% chance of sun, peaking in June at 63%. However, as summer fades into autumn, the likelihood of sunny weather diminishes once more, underscoring Vologda's notable seasonal fluctuations in sunshine. The cycle reflects a classic pattern, where winter's starkness gives way to brighter days, only to retreat into the cooler months again.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Vologda

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Vologda 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 Vologda experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3%17%33%41%47%63%59%33%15%25%7%6%
Data source: Vologda January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Vologda in January

In January, Vologda experiences a limited daylight duration of just 6 hours, casting long shadows and enveloping the city in a wintry embrace. As the month transitions into February, the sun's presence gradually strengthens, with daylight extending to 9 hours. This trend continues into March, where daylight reaches 11 hours, hinting at the approaching spring. By April, the days lengthen further to 14 hours, and in May, Vologda basks in 17 hours of daylight, welcoming the warmth of summer. The peak arrives in June, boasting an impressive 18 hours of sunlight per day. However, as summer wanes, daylight begins to recede, returning to 17 hours in July and gradually tapering off to 15 hours in August. The progression continues into autumn, where daylight falls to 12 hours in September and 10 hours in October, before dipping again to 7 hours in November and back to 6 hours by December. This cyclical ebb and flow of daylight not only marks the changing seasons but also influences the rhythms of life in this quaint Russian city.

Average Daylight Hours in Vologda for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Vologda throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec6h 59m9h 14m11h 51m14h 32m17h18h 25m17h 39m15h 23m12h 46m10h 7m7h 39m6h 13m
Data source: Vologda daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Vologda

In Vologda during January, the wind whispers gently at an average speed of 3.3 m/s (7 mph), setting a tranquil scene amid the winter chill. As the year progresses, the winds become slightly bolder, reaching 3.4 m/s (8 mph) in February before picking up momentum in March and April, where it gusts confidently at 4.0 m/s (9 mph). However, by mid-year, the winds soften again, dipping to a mild 2.7 m/s (6 mph) in July, offering a calm reprieve during the warmest days. As autumn approaches, the winds start to gather strength once more, particularly in November, where they peak at 4.4 m/s (10 mph), just before the cycle begins anew in December at a steady 3.7 m/s (8 mph). This pattern highlights the seasonal ebb and flow of Vologda's winds, showcasing their dynamic nature throughout the year.

Average January Wind Speed in Vologda

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Vologda, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.3 m/s3.44.04.03.72.92.73.23.73.74.43.7
Data source: Vologda January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Vologda Compares to Other Months

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

In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -39°C (-38°F), with an average temperature of -8°C (18°F) and a maximum of 4°C (40°F). This month experiences around 44 mm (1.7 in) of precipitation over 12 days, accompanied by high humidity at 98%. In contrast, February sees milder conditions, with minimum temperatures of -34°C (-29°F), while maintaining the same average of -8°C (18°F) and a slightly warmer maximum of 5°C (41°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 46 mm (1.8 in) over the same 12 days, and humidity remains just a touch lower at 97%. For a detailed look at February's conditions, check out Vologda weather in February.

January and March exhibit stark differences in weather, with January marked by extreme cold and higher humidity levels. The minimum temperature in January plunges to -39°C (-38°F), averaging -8°C (18°F), while March brings a milder minimum of -31°C (-24°F) and an average of -3°C (26°F). Furthermore, March can reach a maximum temperature of 15°C (60°F), offering a notable contrast to January's maximum of only 4°C (40°F). Precipitation levels in both months are fairly similar, with January receiving 44 mm and March slightly less at 42 mm, but the humidity also decreases from January's 98% to March's 93%. For more information on the weather specifics in March, you can visit Vologda weather in March.

January and April weather present a stark contrast. In January, temperatures plummet, with minimums reaching a frigid -39°C (-38°F) and an average of -8°C (18°F), while April witnesses a significant rise, with minimums around -17°C (2°F) and average temps climbing to 4°C (39°F). January is characterized by its heavy humidity at 98%, while April's humidity decreases to 88%, making the air feel slightly more comfortable. Interestingly, both months receive the same amount of precipitation—44 mm (1.7 in)—but January has more rainy days, totaling 12, compared to April’s 9 days of precipitation. For more detailed information, you can check Vologda weather in April.

January and May present starkly different weather conditions. In January, temperatures are frigid, ranging from a chilling minimum of -39°C (-38°F) to a maximum of just 4°C (40°F), with an average of -8°C (18°F). The month sees significant precipitation at 44 mm (1.7 in) over 12 days, and humidity reaches a high of 98%. In contrast, May ushers in milder temperatures, with lows of -6°C (21°F) and highs soaring up to 31°C (88°F), averaging 10°C (51°F). Precipitation slightly increases to 69 mm (2.7 in) across 14 days, but humidity drops to 78%. For a closer look at the pleasant conditions in May, check out Vologda weather in May.

The comparison between January and June weather reveals a dramatic shift in conditions. In January, temperatures plummet to a chilling minimum of -39°C (-38°F), with average highs reaching just 4°C (40°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. Additionally, January experiences high humidity at 98% and sees precipitation for about 12 days, totaling 44 mm (1.7 in). In stark contrast, June brings a significant warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (28°F) to a maximum of a scorching 34°C (94°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F). While June features more precipitation at 63 mm (2.5 in), it occurs over fewer days, approximately 10, and the humidity drops to a more comfortable 79%. For further details, check out Vologda weather in June.

January and July in Vologda present striking contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures plummet to a minimum of -39°C (-38°F), with an average high of only 4°C (40°F), making it the coldest month of the year. The cold is accompanied by high humidity at 98% and precipitation occurring over 12 days, totaling 44 mm (1.7 in). In stark contrast, July boasts a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 31°C (89°F) and an average of 17°C (64°F). This month also experiences more precipitation, 113 mm (4.4 in), but over 16 days, and relative humidity drops to 84%. For a deeper look into what July weather is like in Vologda, you can check out Vologda weather in July.

January and August present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures plunge to an average of -8°C (18°F), with minimums reaching as low as -39°C (-38°F) and only peaking at 4°C (40°F). The month sees high humidity at 98%, with around 44 mm (1.7 in) of precipitation over 12 days. Conversely, August brings a much milder climate, with average temperatures around 16°C (60°F) and maximums soaring to 31°C (87°F). Despite being the rainiest month, August experiences lower humidity at 86% and receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation over 14 days. For more details on the weather in August, check out Vologda weather in August.

In January, Vologda experiences frigid temperatures with a frigid minimum of -39°C (-38°F) and an average of -8°C (18°F), while September brings a significant warmth with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (28°F) to a pleasant average of 10°C (51°F) and a maximum of 24°C (76°F). January also sees light precipitation of 44 mm (1.7 in) over 12 days, whereas September has nearly double the precipitation at 91 mm (3.6 in) across 14 days. Despite the increase in rainfall during September, humidity remains relatively high, at 92%, compared to the frigid January humidity of 98%. For more details on September weather in Vologda, check out Vologda weather in September.

January and October exhibit stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures plunge to a minimum of -39°C (-38°F) and struggle to reach a max of just 4°C (40°F), averaging around -8°C (18°F) with nearly constant humidity at 98%. The month experiences approximately 44 mm (1.7 in) of precipitation over 12 days. In contrast, October showcases a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -9°C (17°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), averaging 5°C (41°F). Precipitation increases to 74 mm (2.9 in) over 14 days, while humidity remains relatively high at 93%. For more details on October weather, you can check Vologda weather in October.

In January, the weather exhibits frigid conditions, with temperatures plummeting to a minimum of -39°C (-38°F) and averaging -8°C (18°F), while the maximum rarely exceeds 4°C (40°F). In contrast, November experiences milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -16°C (3°F) to an average of -1°C (31°F), peaking at 10°C (50°F). Additionally, November sees a higher level of precipitation at 65 mm (2.6 in) over 13 days, compared to January's 44 mm (1.7 in) across 12 days. While January boasts a higher humidity of 98%, November is not far behind at 92%. For more detailed information, you can check out Vologda weather in November.

January typically experiences colder weather than December, with average temperatures dropping to -8°C (18°F) compared to December's average of -6°C (21°F). The minimum temperature in January can plummet to -39°C (-38°F), significantly colder than December’s minimum of -32°C (-25°F). While both months witness similar maximum temperatures of 4°C (40°F), January exhibits slightly more precipitation at 44 mm (1.7 in) over about 12 days, in contrast to December's 50 mm (2.0 in) over 13 days. Additionally, January has higher humidity levels at 98%, compared to December's 93%. For a detailed look at the weather patterns, check out Vologda weather in December.

Compare Vologda's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Vologda

In January, Vologda transforms into a winter wonderland, marked by its bitterly cold temperatures that starkly contrast with the milder conditions of other months. This depth of winter brings heavy humidity and an average temperature that plummets below freezing, making January one of the harshest months of the year. With nearly half of the month experiencing precipitation, the landscape is often blanketed in snow, creating a picturesque yet challenging environment. For those interested in understanding the nuances of Vologda's climate throughout the year, check out Vologda Climate for more insights.