Last updated: August 27, 2025
January in Bern, Switzerland, presents a captivating blend of winter's chill and occasional warmth. With average temperatures hovering around 1°C (34°F), residents can expect maximum highs of 17°C (63°F), offering a surprising contrast to the minimum lows reaching -14°C (6°F). This month witnesses a moderate precipitation total of 91 mm (3.6 in) spread over 12 days, contributing to the city's characteristic winter ambiance. The humidity level remains notably high at 91%, enveloping Bern in a damp, cool atmosphere that enhances the charm of its historic landscapes.
In Bern, Switzerland, January presents a unique blend of winter’s chill and surprising warmth, with temperatures ranging from a brisk -14°C (6°F) at night to a surprisingly moderate 17°C (63°F) during the day. The average temperature hovers around 1°C (34°F), offering a refreshing, if frosty, start to the year. As the month progresses, a gradual warming trend emerges, with February seeing minimums of -11°C (13°F) and averages reaching 4°C (39°F), hinting that winter is beginning to loosen its grip. This transition into early spring sets the stage for increasing warmth in March, where temperatures can push as high as 21°C (70°F), showcasing the dramatic fluctuations typical of this enchanting Swiss city.
In January, Bern experiences a notable 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over approximately 12 days, setting a brisk tone for the winter months. This volume is consistent with the city's overall precipitation patterns, where wet conditions can be expected at the start of the year, reminiscent of similar levels seen in March. As the seasons shift into spring, rainfall generally begins to moderate; for instance, April sees a drop to 61 mm (2.4 in). The month of May marks a noticeable increase to 126 mm (5.0 in), indicating a trend of rising precipitation as temperatures warm. This seasonal variation underscores Bern's dynamic climate, transitioning from the damp chill of January to the more vibrant and wetter conditions of late spring. With precipitation persisting throughout the year, the city maintains its lush greenery and picturesque landscapes that are particularly alive by summer.
January in Bern, Switzerland, typically ushers in a high humidity of 91%, setting the tone for the winter months. This peak in moisture lingers through to December, suggesting a consistent dampness prevalent around this time of year. As winter transitions into early spring, humidity levels gradually decline, reaching 87% in March and continuing to trend downward until May, when it touches 80%. This drop corresponds with rising temperatures and the onset of blossoming nature. However, the humidity experiences a mild resurgence in the fall months, returning to 89% by October and staying relatively high into the winter. Overall, Bern's humidity illustrates a dynamic seasonal rhythm, fluctuating with the changing climate yet consistently high during the colder months.
In January, Bern experiences a UV Index of 2, classified as a low exposure category, which allows for a burn time of 45 minutes before sun protection becomes essential. This trend of low UV readings continues into February, where the index rises slightly to 3, signaling a moderate exposure level and a reduced burn time of 30 minutes. As winter transitions to spring, March sees an increase to 5, maintaining the moderate classification but mirroring the earlier reduction in safe exposure time. Notably, the UV Index escalates dramatically in late spring and summer months, peaking at 9 in both June and July, where only 15 minutes of unprotected sun exposure is safe. This evolution highlights the shifting sun intensity as Bern's seasons change. For more details on the UV Index trends throughout the year, check out Bern UV Index.
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In January, Bern basks in 161 hours of sunshine, a modest start to the year as the city emerges from winter's embrace. However, as February rolls in, the days brighten significantly, boasting 226 hours of sunlight, heralding the approach of spring. This trend continues with March reaching 298 hours, setting the stage for a vibrant April, which nearly doubles January's tally with 357 hours of radiant sunshine. Momentum builds into May, where daylight peaks at 370 hours, followed closely by an impressive 388 hours in June, enriching the long, warm days that characterize the season. The summer months peak in July with 417 hours, showcasing Bern's sunniest side. Although August sees a slight decline to 385 hours, the sun remains a joyful companion. As autumn unfolds, sunshine begins to taper, with September at 325 hours and October diminishing further to 282 hours. November and December witness shorter days, wrapping up the year with 224 hours and 185 hours of sunlight, respectively. This cyclical dance of light highlights Bern's seasonal ebb and flow, inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace each unique climate chapter.
In January, Bern, Switzerland experiences a modest 14% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the sunniest months in the year. This trend sharply contrasts with the increasing likelihood of sunshine as winter transitions into spring. By February, the chance of sunny days rises to 34%, and by March, it reaches an optimistic 44%. The gradual shift hints at the arrival of brighter days, as April further enhances the sunshine probability to 47%. Overall, January marks the beginning of this upward trend, laying the groundwork for a more promising weather outlook in the coming months.
In Bern, Switzerland, January marks the beginning of a gradual ascent in daylight hours, starting with a modest 8 hours of sunlight. As the month transitions into February, there's a noticeable increase, with daylight extending to 10 hours. This trend continues into March and April, where the days stretch further to 11 and 13 hours, respectively, signaling the approach of spring. By May, the days reach a delightful 15 hours, peaking in June and holding steady through July. However, as summer wanes, daylight begins its descent, gracefully tapering off to 14 hours in August and then drifting down to 12, 10, and finally back to 8 hours by December. This rhythm of longer and shorter days encapsulates the seasonal shifts, painting a vivid picture of Bern's dynamic daylight experience throughout the year.
In January, the winds in Bern, Switzerland blow gently at an average speed of 2.2 m/s (5 mph), setting a tranquil tone for the winter landscape. The breezes remain consistent in February and March, maintaining the same gentle pace, before slightly increasing to 2.4 m/s (5 mph) in May as spring breathes new life into the surroundings. Interestingly, the summer months see a noticeable drop, with wind speeds falling to 1.5-1.7 m/s (3-4 mph) from June to September, creating a stillness that complements the warmer temperatures. As the year transitions back into autumn and winter, wind speeds rise slightly again, peaking at 2.1 m/s (5 mph) in December. This cyclical pattern of soft winds reflects the serene atmosphere that defines Bern's climate throughout the year.
Weather in Bern varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares January’s weather to other months in Bern, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In January, the weather tends to be colder with a minimum temperature of -14°C (6°F) and an average of 1°C (34°F), while February shows a slight warming trend with an average temperature of 4°C (39°F) and a minimum of -11°C (13°F). Both months see relatively high humidity, with January at 91% and February slightly lower at 89%. Precipitation is somewhat more pronounced in January, with 91 mm (3.6 in) over 12 days compared to February's 74 mm (2.9 in) over 11 days. For more detailed insights into February weather, check out Bern weather in February.
In January, temperatures in Bern are much colder, with a minimum of -14°C (6°F) and an average of just 1°C (34°F), while March brings a noticeable increase, featuring an average temperature of 6°C (43°F) and a maximum that can reach 21°C (70°F). Both months experience similar levels of precipitation, at 91 mm (3.6 in), but January sees this spread over 12 days compared to March's 15 days, indicating that March might have slightly more extended periods of precipitation. Additionally, January's humidity is notably higher at 91%, while March levels off at a relatively comfortable 87%. For more insights into what March weather looks like, you can check Bern weather in March.
January and April exhibit a noticeable shift in weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -14°C (6°F) to a more moderate maximum of 17°C (63°F), with an average temperature of around 1°C (34°F). The month sees significant precipitation at 91 mm (3.6 inches) over 12 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 91%. In contrast, April offers a welcoming transition with minimum temperatures at -5°C (23°F) and maximums climbing to 25°C (78°F), resulting in a more comfortable average of 10°C (50°F). Rainfall decreases to 61 mm (2.4 inches) across 10 days, along with a slight drop in humidity to 84%. For those seeking more information on the weather in April, Bern weather in April provides detailed insights.
January weather is characterized by frigid temperatures, with minimums reaching as low as -14°C (6°F) and an average of just 1°C (34°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 91 mm (3.6 in) over approximately 12 days, contributing to the high humidity of 91%. In contrast, May experiences a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (28°F) to a pleasant average of 13°C (56°F) and maximums soaring to 30°C (86°F). Although May has higher overall precipitation at 126 mm (5.0 in) over about 16 days, the humidity is slightly lower at 80%. For a closer look at what to expect during this transitional month, visit Bern weather in May.
January and June present a striking contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plummet as low as -14°C (6°F), though they typically rise to an average of 1°C (34°F) and can peak at 17°C (63°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 91% and about 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over approximately 12 days. In contrast, June offers much milder temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (42°F), an average of 18°C (65°F), and a maximum that can reach 34°C (94°F). The precipitation remains similar at 93 mm (3.7 in), but this occurs over a slightly longer span of about 15 days, accompanied by a lower humidity level of 82%. For a deeper look into June weather, you can check Bern weather in June.
January and July present stark contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures can dip as low as -14°C (6°F), with an average of around 1°C (34°F) and a maximum reaching 17°C (63°F). This winter month is marked by heavy precipitation, totaling 91 mm (3.6 inches) across about 12 days, coupled with high humidity at 91%. In contrast, July enjoys milder conditions with a minimum temperature of 9°C (49°F), an average of 20°C (68°F), and maximums soaring to 36°C (97°F). Precipitation slightly increases to 104 mm (4.1 inches) over about 14 days, but humidity remains lower at 82%. For those interested in more about weather conditions in July, check out Bern weather in July.
January and August present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In January, the temperatures can plunge as low as -14°C (6°F), with an average around 1°C (34°F) and highs reaching 17°C (63°F). The month experiences high humidity at 91% and receives about 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 12 days. In contrast, August boasts a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to an average of 19°C (67°F) and highs up to 34°C (93°F). While the total precipitation in August is slightly higher at 98 mm (3.8 in), it too falls over 12 days, but with a more comfortable humidity level of 77%. For those interested in the specifics of August's climate, you can find more information here: Bern weather in August.
January and September present contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures can dip as low as -14°C (6°F), with an average of around 1°C (34°F) and a maximum reaching 17°C (63°F). The month is marked by significant precipitation, totaling 91 mm (3.6 in) over about 12 days, accompanied by high humidity at 91%. In stark contrast, September features much milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to an average of 15°C (60°F), with maximums climbing to 29°C (84°F). Precipitation in September is less, totaling 61 mm (2.4 in) over 11 days and with a lower humidity of 81%. For a detailed look at weather conditions during this month, check out Bern weather in September.
January and October present stark contrasts in weather, reflecting the transition from winter to autumn. In January, temperatures can drop to a chilling minimum of -14°C (6°F) and rarely rise above an average of 1°C (34°F), while October offers a milder range, with temperatures starting at -2°C (29°F) and peaking at an average of 11°C (51°F). Both months experience a similar amount of precipitation, with January receiving 91 mm (3.6 in) over 12 days, and October slightly more at 95 mm (3.7 in) across 13 days. Humidity levels remain high throughout both months, with January at 91% and October close behind at 89%. For a deeper understanding of October’s climate, you can explore Bern weather in October.
January weather is marked by colder temperatures, with minimum lows reaching -14°C (6°F) and an average around 1°C (34°F). In contrast, November tends to be milder, with minimum temperatures around -4°C (25°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F). Both months experience similar precipitation levels, with January receiving 91 mm (3.6 in) and November slightly less at 72 mm (2.8 in), though they both have precipitation on about 12 days. Humidity remains high in both months, with January at 91% and November at 89%. For more detailed information, you can check Bern weather in November.
January and December present a notable contrast in weather patterns. In January, temperatures reach a minimum of -14°C (6°F) and can peak at 17°C (63°F), with an average hovering around 1°C (34°F). The month sees about 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 12 days, maintaining a consistent humidity level of 91%. In comparison, December experiences milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), with an average of 2°C (37°F). This month is slightly wetter, with 125 mm (4.9 in) of precipitation spanning 18 days, yet humidity remains steady at 91%. For more insights on December weather, check out Bern weather in December.
As winter grips Bern in January, the city experiences a stark contrast to the milder months that precede and follow it. With an average temperature hovering around 1°C (34°F) and occasional lows dipping to -14°C (6°F), residents and visitors alike must brace for the season’s chill. Precipitation is frequent, averaging 91 mm (3.6 in) over 12 days, contributing to a notably humid atmosphere at 91%. This combination of low temperatures and high humidity creates a uniquely crisp environment, setting January apart from the more temperate months of spring and autumn. For more insights into Bern's climate throughout the year, check out Bern Climate.