January Weather in Bilbao, Spain

Last updated: February 6, 2025

In January, Bilbao, Spain, experiences a diverse range of temperatures, with maximums reaching 19°C (66°F) and minimums dropping to -1°C (30°F). The average temperature hovers around 8°C (46°F), providing a cool but temperate climate. This month is characterized by high humidity levels at 85%, making the air feel brisk. Rain is also a recurring aspect, with 117 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation spread across 13 rainy days. Overall, January in Bilbao offers a mix of chilly weather and occasional rain, ideal for those who appreciate the beauty of a winter landscape.

January Temperature in Bilbao

In January, Bilbao, Spain, showcases a winter chill with temperatures ranging from a crisp -1°C (30°F) at night to a mild 19°C (66°F) during the day, averaging around 8°C (46°F). This month marks the transition from cooler days into the gradual warming trend that unfolds throughout the year. Notably, early months like January and February experience lower night temperatures, dipping down to -2°C (30°F), while the averages begin to climb as spring approaches, hinting at the city's gradual shift towards a warmer climate. As the transition into late winter and spring occurs, temperatures steadily increase, paving the way for even higher averages and maximums in the following months, suggesting a vibrant seasonal change ahead.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Bilbao, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec465051545863666764595350
Data source: Temperature data for Bilbao generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

January Precipitation in Bilbao

In January, Bilbao experiences a pronounced wet spell, with an average precipitation of 117 mm (4.6 in) spread over 13 days. This sets the tone for the city's rainy winter months, as January's rainfall is the highest within the quarter, notably surpassing February and March, which follow with 103 mm (4.0 in) and 98 mm (3.9 in) respectively. The trend shows that as winter deepens, the precipitation begins to taper off, particularly in the subsequent spring months, where average rainfall drops significantly. Despite the rainy days in January creating a cozy, atmospheric backdrop, they also foreshadow the wetter conditions of late autumn, with November peaking at 158 mm (6.2 in), maintaining Bilbao's reputation for being among the wetter regions in Spain.

January Precipitation Trends in Bilbao

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Bilbao, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec117103989282104656281105158154
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Bilbao

In January, Bilbao experiences its highest humidity at a notable 85%, setting the tone for a winter season characterized by moist air. This level of humidity begins to dip slightly to 83% in February and continues to decrease gradually through March and April, where it stabilizes at 81%. Interestingly, as the warmer months approach, humidity starts to rise again, peaking at a balmy 87% in July. Following the summer, a slight decline occurs, especially noticeable in September when humidity drops to 77%, before climbing back up to 83% in November. The year wraps up with humidity returning to 85% in December, illustrating a seasonal cycle where winter and summer present the most significant moisture, while spring and early autumn offer a brief respite.

January Average Humidity in Bilbao

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Bilbao, with January's data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, allowing you to see how January's humidity levels compare to other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec85%83%82%81%81%83%87%82%77%80%83%85%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Bilbao

In January, Bilbao enjoys a low UV Index of 2, allowing for safer outdoor activities with a burn time of 45 minutes before the sun's rays become a concern. As the year progresses, the UV Index gradually increases, peaking at a very high level of 10 in both June and July, when the burn time decreases dramatically to just 15 minutes. This trend highlights the growing intensity of the sun as spring transitions into summer. By February, residents can expect a moderate increase with a UV index of 4, reducing the safe exposure time, while March and April bring high levels of UV with corresponding shorter burn times. As the months roll on, the UV Index dips again in the later months, signaling a return to more moderate conditions, with a notable low of 2 in both December and January. For more detailed information, check out the Bilbao UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Bilbao for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Bilbao 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec24679101097532
Data source: Bilbao 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 Bilbao

In Bilbao, Spain, January welcomes the year with 172 hours of sunshine, laying the foundation for an impressive upward trend in daylight as winter gives way to spring. By February, the sun shines brighter with 241 hours, and this increase accelerates through the months, peaking in the summer with 400 hours in July. As the days grow longer and the warmth settles in, the sunshine gradually tapers off, transitioning to 375 hours in August and then aligning with the autumn months. Interestingly, while October sees a healthy 293 hours, the shorter days return in November and December, with 232 and 226 hours respectively. This recurring cycle of vibrant sunshine illustrates Bilbao’s dynamic climate, delighting residents and visitors alike as each month unfolds.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Bilbao: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Bilbao 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec172h241h313h332h375h376h400h381h332h293h232h226h
Data source: Bilbao January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Bilbao During January

In January, Bilbao experiences a modest likelihood of sunny weather, with only a 23% chance of sunshine gracing its skies. This is slightly higher than February’s 22%, but the trend is clear: as winter gives way to spring, the probability of sunny days notably increases, reaching up to 40% in March. The city sees a fluctuating pattern throughout the spring months, with April and May offering 34% and 28% chances of sunshine, respectively. While winter might not offer the sun-drenched days that will arrive later in the year, January's weather lays the groundwork for a gradual warming trend, hinting at the sunnier days ahead as the year unfolds.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Bilbao

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Bilbao 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 Bilbao experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec23%22%40%34%28%32%37%37%27%36%18%39%
Data source: Bilbao January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Bilbao in January

In Bilbao, Spain, January kicks off the year with just 9 hours of daylight, but as winter gives way to spring, there's a noticeable increase in sunlight. By February, the days stretch to 10 hours, and by March, we enjoy a full 11 hours of daylight. This upward trend continues into April and May, where 13 and 14 hours respectively invite residents to bask in the burgeoning warmth. The longest days peak in June with 15 hours of daylight, making summer a vibrant time. However, as July and August roll in, daylight begins to wane slightly to 14 and 13 hours. The gradual transition continues into autumn with 12 hours in September, diminishing to 10 hours by October, before concluding the year with shorter days in November and December, each marked by just 9 hours of light. This natural rhythm of increasing and decreasing daylight beautifully follows the cycle of the seasons, shaping the daily lives of the people in Bilbao.

Average Daylight Hours in Bilbao for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Bilbao throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 21m10h 30m11h 57m13h 26m14h 41m15h 19m14h 59m13h 52m12h 27m10h 58m9h 40m9h
Data source: Bilbao daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Bilbao

In Bilbao, January welcomes visitors with a refreshing average wind speed of 3.8 m/s (9 mph), setting a brisk tone for the month. This transitional period sees wind speeds slightly lower than December's peak, which reaches 4.6 m/s (10 mph), and prepares the way for the more blustery days of February at 4.3 m/s (10 mph). As winter progresses, the winds tend to mellow, peaking again towards year’s end but averaging lower in the warmer months, hovering around 2.4 to 3.2 m/s. This pattern highlights a clear seasonal trend, with January often bringing a lively chill that invigorates the atmosphere before the softer breezes of spring approach, perfect for those who enjoy the dynamic essence of a coastal city.

Average January Wind Speed in Bilbao

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Bilbao, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.8 m/s4.33.43.22.82.82.62.42.62.93.84.6
Data source: Bilbao January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Bilbao Compares to Other Months

The weather in Bilbao changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of January's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Bilbao and find detailed weather information for every month.

In January, temperatures in the region vary from a chilly minimum of -1°C (30°F) to a pleasant maximum of 19°C (66°F), with an average of 8°C (46°F). The month experiences around 117 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation over 13 days and maintains a high humidity level of 85%. In contrast, February brings slightly colder nights, with temperatures dropping to a minimum of -2°C (30°F), but averages a bit warmer at 10°C (50°F) and reaches a higher maximum of 22°C (72°F). Precipitation decreases slightly to 103 mm (4.0 in) over the same number of days, and humidity remains relatively stable at 83%. For more detailed insights, you can check Bilbao weather in February.

In comparing the weather of January and March, we notice a gradual warming trend as winter shifts into spring. January experiences a minimum temperature of -1°C, an average of 8°C, and a maximum of 19°C, while March sees slightly higher averages, with a minimum of -1°C, an average of 10°C, and a peak of 21°C. Although January receives more precipitation at 117 mm over 13 days, March is not far behind, with 98 mm spread over 17 days. Humidity levels also remain relatively close, with January at 85% and March at 82%. For a more detailed look at what to expect, check out Bilbao weather in March.

In January, Bilbao experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (30°F) and an average of 8°C (46°F), while April sees a slightly milder range, starting at 1°C (34°F) and averaging 12°C (54°F). The maximum temperature in January reaches 19°C (66°F), compared to a warmer 23°C (74°F) in April. Precipitation is more abundant in January, totaling 117 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days, whereas April has a lower total of 92 mm (3.6 in) spread over 15 days. Despite this, humidity levels remain relatively high in both months, with January at 85% and April slightly lower at 81%. For more detailed information, you can check Bilbao weather in April.

In January, the weather is notably cooler with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (30°F) to a maximum of 19°C (66°F), resulting in an average of 8°C (46°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 117 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days, and a high humidity level of 85%. In contrast, May brings a noticeable warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 26°C (80°F) and an average of 14°C (58°F). Although May sees precipitation for slightly more days (15) than January, it accumulates less, at 82 mm (3.2 in), and maintains a slightly lower humidity of 81%. For more detailed insights on the weather in May, you can visit Bilbao weather in May.

In January, the weather in Bilbao is notably cooler, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (30°F) to a maximum of 19°C (66°F), while June sees a much warmer climate with temperatures fluctuating between 9°C (48°F) and 32°C (89°F). January experiences higher precipitation, totaling 117 mm (4.6 in) over approximately 13 days, compared to June's 103 mm (4.1 in) across 14 days. Additionally, January's humidity level is slightly higher at 85%, whereas June has a humidity of 83%. For a more detailed look at June's climate, you can check Bilbao weather in June.

January and July present stark contrasts in weather patterns. In January, the temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (30°F) to a mild maximum of 19°C (66°F), with an average of 8°C (46°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 117 mm (4.6 in) over approximately 13 days, alongside high humidity at 85%. Conversely, July enjoys much warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a high of 33°C (91°F), averaging 19°C (67°F). Precipitation drops to 65 mm (2.6 in) over 12 days, while humidity slightly increases to 87%. For a closer look at July’s weather specifics, visit Bilbao weather in July.

In January, the weather features cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (30°F) and an average of 8°C (46°F), reaching a maximum of 19°C (66°F). The month experiences significant precipitation of 117 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days, and a relatively high humidity level of 85%. In contrast, August offers more warmth, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to a maximum of 33°C (93°F), and an average of 20°C (67°F). Precipitation is less frequent, totaling 62 mm (2.5 in) over 12 days, coupled with slightly lower humidity at 82%. For further details on the summer conditions, check out Bilbao weather in August.

January and September exhibit quite different weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (30°F) to a milder maximum of 19°C (66°F), with an average of 8°C (46°F). The month is relatively wet, receiving 117 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation over 13 days, accompanied by high humidity at 85%. In contrast, September welcomes warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 10°C (50°F) and a maximum that can reach 30°C (86°F), averaging 18°C (65°F). Rainfall is lighter at 81 mm (3.2 in) over just 12 days, and humidity decreases to 77%. For a closer look at September weather specifics, you can check Bilbao weather in September.

January and October present contrasting weather patterns, reflecting the transition between winter and autumn. In January, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (30°F) to an average of 8°C (46°F), peaking at a mild 19°C (66°F), while the month experiences significant rainfall of 117 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days and high humidity at 85%. Conversely, October enjoys milder temperatures with a minimum of 5°C (41°F), an average of 15°C (59°F), and a maximum of 27°C (81°F). Precipitation slightly decreases to 105 mm (4.1 in) over the same number of days, and humidity is also lower at 80%. For a closer look at the specifics of October weather, you can check out Bilbao weather in October.

January and November present distinct weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (30°F) to a maximum of 19°C (66°F), averaging around 8°C (46°F). The month experiences relatively high humidity at 85%, with precipitation occurring on about 13 days and totaling 117 mm (4.6 in). In contrast, November is milder, with temperatures starting at 4°C (39°F) and peaking at 22°C (72°F), averaging 11°C (53°F). This month also has more precipitation, with 158 mm (6.2 in) over 18 days, and slightly lower humidity at 83%. For more details, visit Bilbao weather in November.

In comparing January and December weather, both months exhibit mild temperatures with average highs reaching 19°C (66°F). However, January tends to be slightly cooler, with minimum temperatures dipping to -1°C (30°F) compared to December's minimum of 2°C (36°F). Precipitation levels are also notable; January experiences 117 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days, while December sees a higher total of 154 mm (6.1 in) spread across 17 days. Humidity levels remain consistent at 85% in both months. For more detailed information, visit Bilbao weather in December.

Compare Bilbao's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Bilbao

As January blankets Bilbao in its winter embrace, the weather contrasts sharply with the milder months that precede and follow it. With temperatures dipping to a chilly average of 8°C (46°F) and occasional frosts that may bring the mercury down to -1°C (30°F), this month is distinctively cooler. Rain is also a frequent guest, contributing to 117 mm of precipitation over 13 days, which adds to the city's lush green landscape but requires residents and visitors to prepare for wet conditions. The high humidity, hovering around 85%, can make the cold feel more biting than in other seasons. For those seeking a deeper understanding of Bilbao's atmospheric quirks, explore more about its year-round climate in our detailed guide on Bilbao Climate.