January Weather in Lausanne, Switzerland

Last updated: August 27, 2025

January in Lausanne, Switzerland brings a chilly mix of winter weather, with average temperatures hovering around 3°C (37°F). Daily highs can reach a pleasant 14°C (57°F), while nighttime lows plunge to a brisk -7°C (20°F). This month is characterized by high humidity at 91%, contributing to a damp ambiance, with around 116 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation spread over 11 days. Residents and visitors can expect a quintessential Swiss winter experience, showcasing both the serene beauty and crisp air of January in this picturesque city.

January Temperature in Lausanne

In January, Lausanne experiences a chilly embrace as winter holds its grip on the city. With temperatures dipping to a brisk -7°C (20°F) at night and peaking at a mild 14°C (57°F) during the day, the month showcases an average of around 3°C (37°F). This blend of frosty nights and moderately warm afternoons invites residents and visitors to savor the beauty of winter. As the month progresses into February, temperatures drop further, hinting at a gradual transition toward spring with a slight increase in averages. The following months, from March through May, reveal a steady warming trend, where the landscape transforms and the charm of Lausanne shines through blooming colors, reminding us that the harshness of winter is merely a precursor to the blossoms of spring.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Lausanne, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Lausanne, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec374043485463676761534539
Data source: Temperature data for Lausanne 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 Lausanne

January in Lausanne, Switzerland, brings a notable average precipitation of 116 mm (4.6 in), making it one of the wetter months of the year. With precipitation occurring on about 11 days, residents often experience a mix of persistent overcast skies and intermittent rainfall. This trend slightly contrasts with the heavier downpour found in December, which peaks at 186 mm (7.3 in), but January still delivers significant moisture. As winter transitions into spring, the total rainfall in January tends to set the stage for the wetter, yet milder months ahead, particularly May, which sees an increase to 142 mm (5.6 in). The consistent rainfall in early months suggests a well-distributed precipitation pattern throughout the year, supporting the lush landscapes that Lausanne is known for.

January Precipitation Trends in Lausanne

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Lausanne, 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 Lausanne, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec11693111591421031061017510498186
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Lausanne

January in Lausanne, Switzerland, presents a notably high humidity level of 91%, setting the tone for a rather damp start to the year. This trend of elevated moisture continues into February, with the humidity slightly decreasing to 89%, but remains prominent throughout the winter months. As spring approaches, the humidity begins to wane gradually, hitting 84% in April and further dropping to 80% by May. The summer months see a steady range around 82%, indicating a comfortable, yet still humid, climate. Interestingly, as autumn arrives, humidity rises once more, peaking at 89% in both October and November, before returning to the year’s high of 91% in December. Overall, January’s humidity reflects a broader seasonal pattern in Lausanne, marked by significant fluctuations that contribute to the city's unique climate dynamics.

January Average Humidity in Lausanne

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Lausanne, 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 Lausanne is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec91%89%87%84%80%82%82%77%81%89%89%91%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Lausanne

In January, Lausanne experiences a low UV Index of 2, which means sun protection isn't essential for most outdoor activities—although you can stay comfortably outside for up to 45 minutes without risk of skin damage. As winter progresses into February, the UV Index rises to a moderate 4, decreasing your safe exposure time to 30 minutes. This upward trend continues through the spring, with the UV Index reaching high levels of 6 in March and 7 in April, where protective measures become more important with burn times down to 25 minutes. As temperatures warm in May, the UV Index escalates to a very high 8, cutting burn time to just 15 minutes. The sun’s intensity peaks in the summer, with values soaring to 10 in June and remaining above 8 through July and August, emphasizing the need for sunscreen and shade. By autumn, the UV Index decreases again, returning to moderate levels in October and November before dropping back to low in December. This seasonal variation highlights the importance of monitoring UV levels to protect your skin throughout the year, especially as they shift dramatically from winter to summer. For more details on the UV Index in Lausanne, check out Lausanne UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Lausanne for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Lausanne 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 Lausanne typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2467810997532
Data source: Lausanne 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 Lausanne

In January, Lausanne experiences a modest 167 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for a gradual increase as winter wanes. As February rolls in, the city basks in 231 hours, hinting at the promise of spring. By March, the days grow noticeably longer, with an impressive 297 hours of sunshine, creating a vibrant atmosphere. The lovely trend continues into April and May, where sunlight peaks at 354 and 355 hours, respectively, inviting locals and visitors to enjoy the blossoming scenery. June transitions into full summer with 394 hours, leading to the sunniest month of the year, July, which shines with 418 hours. Despite a slight drop in August to 388 hours, the warm embrace of summer lingers. As autumn approaches, sunshine retreats gradually, with 330 hours in September and continuing declines through the cooler months of October and November, bringing 288 and 229 hours of light, respectively. Finally, December closes the year with 197 hours, leaving residents eagerly anticipating the return of brighter days in the new year.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Lausanne: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Lausanne 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec167h231h297h354h355h394h418h388h330h288h229h197h
Data source: Lausanne January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Lausanne During January

In January, the chance of sunny weather in Lausanne, Switzerland, stands at just 15%, marking the month as one of the cloudiest of the year. This trend of limited sunlight begins to shift in February, where the likelihood of sunny days nearly doubles to 37%, ushering in a gradual increase as spring approaches. By March, those chances rise further to 48%, and April experiences a sun-soaked leap to 51%, finally offering a taste of brighter days. Despite fluctuating monthly probabilities, January’s dreary prospects make way for a gradual awakening, as winter transitions into the more promising months of spring.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Lausanne

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Lausanne 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 Lausanne experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec15%37%48%51%33%38%40%42%36%38%29%25%
Data source: Lausanne January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Lausanne in January

In Lausanne, Switzerland, January ushers in the year with around 9 hours of daylight, setting the stage for a gradual increase as winter transitions to spring. By February, daylight extends to 10 hours, and as March arrives, it further expands to 11 hours, inviting longer, brighter days. The real leap occurs in April, where daylight surges to 13 hours, leading into May's generous 15 hours of sunshine. This peak continues through June and July, providing 15 hours of daylight for outdoor pursuits. As summer wanes, August still offers a respectable 14 hours, but daylight begins to taper off in September to 12 hours. By October, the days shorten further to 10 hours, eventually descending back to 9 hours in November and 8 hours in December. This cyclical rhythm of daylight highlights the enchanting seasonal transformations Lausanne experiences throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Lausanne for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Lausanne throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 2m10h 19m11h 56m13h 35m15h15h 43m15h 20m14h 5m12h 29m10h 51m9h 24m8h 38m
Data source: Lausanne daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Lausanne

In January, Lausanne experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 1.8 m/s (4 mph), setting the tone for a calm start to the year. This moderate wind pattern persists through the winter months, with February slightly dipping to 1.7 m/s, before returning to 1.8 m/s in March. As spring approaches, the winds begin to pick up slightly, peaking at 1.9 m/s in April. Notably, the wind speeds in Lausanne are relatively stable across the seasons, typically ranging between 1.3 m/s and 1.9 m/s, reflecting a tranquil atmosphere perfect for leisurely strolls by Lake Geneva. The warm summer months see a slight decrease in wind, averaging around 1.4 to 1.5 m/s, before returning to familiar levels come autumn. The consistent wind patterns throughout the year create a mild and enjoyable climate, making Lausanne an inviting destination.

Average January Wind Speed in Lausanne

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Lausanne, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec1.8 m/s1.71.81.91.71.41.51.51.31.71.61.7
Data source: Lausanne January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Lausanne Compares to Other Months

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

January and February exhibit somewhat similar weather patterns, though February tends to be slightly colder. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), with an average of 3°C (37°F). The month sees 116 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation over 11 days, coupled with a high humidity level of 91%. In contrast, February features lower minimum temperatures down to -10°C (15°F), but it has a slightly higher maximum of 16°C (61°F) and an average of 4°C (40°F). Precipitation is also less, totaling 93 mm (3.7 in) over the same number of days, with humidity at 89%. For more details on February's weather, you can check Lausanne weather in February.

In January, temperatures in the region typically range from a chilly -7°C (20°F) to a mild 14°C (57°F), with an average of 3°C (37°F). This month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 116 mm (4.6 in) over 11 days, and a high humidity of 91%. In contrast, March brings slightly colder minimum temperatures of -9°C (17°F) but higher maximums reaching up to 20°C (68°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F). Although March sees a similar level of precipitation at 111 mm (4.4 in), it is spread over 14 days, and the humidity decreases to 87%. For more details, you can check Lausanne weather in March.

In comparing the weather between January and April, we see a notable shift in temperatures and overall conditions. January experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -7°C (20°F) and an average of 3°C (37°F), while April presents milder conditions, featuring a minimum of -2°C (28°F) and an average of 9°C (49°F). The maximum temperatures in April can reach up to 24°C (76°F), a significant contrast to January’s maximum of 14°C (57°F). Precipitation levels also differ, with January receiving 116 mm (4.6 in) over 11 days compared to April’s 59 mm (2.3 in) spread over 9 days, indicating a drier atmosphere. Additionally, humidity slightly decreases from 91% in January to 84% in April. For a more detailed overview, check out Lausanne weather in April.

In January, weather in Lausanne is characterized by chilly temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), with an average of 3°C (37°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 116 mm (4.6 inches) over 11 days, and humidity levels are quite high at 91%. In contrast, May brings a more temperate climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F) and an average of 12°C (55°F). While May sees slightly higher precipitation at 142 mm (5.6 inches) across 15 days, the humidity drops to a more comfortable 80%. For more details on May weather, check out Lausanne weather in May.

In January, the weather is characterized by cold temperatures, with a minimum of -7°C (20°F) and an average around 3°C (37°F). Maximum temperatures can reach up to 14°C (57°F) but are accompanied by high humidity levels at 91%, leading to a chill in the air. Precipitation is somewhat frequent, with about 116 mm (4.6 in) spread over 11 days.

In contrast, June brings a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures around 8°C (47°F) and an average of 17°C (64°F). The maximum can soar to 33°C (91°F), making it feel significantly more pleasant. Although June sees a slight decrease in precipitation to 103 mm (4.1 in) over 13 days, the humidity drops to 82%, contributing to a more comfortable summer atmosphere. For more detailed information, check Lausanne weather in June.

January and July present striking contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures can drop as low as -7°C (20°F), with an average of around 3°C (37°F) and a maximum of 14°C (57°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 91% and significant precipitation, totaling 116 mm (4.6 in) over 11 days. In contrast, July boasts much milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a scorching maximum of 34°C (94°F), culminating in an average of 19°C (67°F). Although July experiences slightly less precipitation at 106 mm (4.2 in) over 13 days, the humidity is notably lower at 82%. This seasonal shift highlights the dramatic variability in weather, making each month unique. For more details, visit Lausanne weather in July.

In January, the weather is typically cold, with average temperatures hovering around 3°C (37°F) and lows that can dip as low as -7°C (20°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 116 mm (4.6 in) across about 11 days and a high humidity level at 91%. In contrast, August brings much warmer temperatures, with averages reaching 19°C (67°F) and maximums soaring to 31°C (89°F). Despite a similar number of precipitation days (11), the total amount is slightly lower at 101 mm (4.0 in), accompanied by a more comfortable humidity level of 77%. For more detailed insights, you can visit Lausanne weather in August.

In January, the weather is cold and damp, with average temperatures hovering around 3°C (37°F) and lows dipping as low as -7°C (20°F). This month sees significant precipitation, totaling 116 mm (4.6 in) over about 11 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 91%. In contrast, September brings much milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (43°F) to a pleasant average of 16°C (61°F), peaking at 27°C (81°F). Precipitation is lower in September, totaling 75 mm (2.9 in) over the same number of days, and humidity is slightly reduced at 81%. For a more detailed overview, you can check Lausanne weather in September.

In January, the weather is considerably colder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 116 mm (4.6 in) over 11 days, and humidity levels are high at 91%. In contrast, October offers milder temperatures, with averages from 3°C (37°F) to 23°C (74°F). Although there is slightly less rainfall at 104 mm (4.1 in) across 12 days, the humidity remains comparable at 89%. For a more detailed look at what to expect, check out Lausanne weather in October.

In January, the weather is characterized by colder temperatures, with a minimum of -7°C (20°F) and an average of 3°C (37°F), while November offers a milder climate, with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F). January also sees more precipitation, totaling 116 mm (4.6 in) over 11 days, compared to November's 98 mm (3.8 in) across 12 days. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly higher in January at 91% compared to November's 89%. For those looking to know more about November weather, you can visit Lausanne weather in November.

In January, the weather in Lausanne is slightly colder compared to December, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F). In contrast, December experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and a maximum of 13°C (55°F). Precipitation is also notably higher in December, totaling 186 mm (7.3 in) over 17 days compared to January's 116 mm (4.6 in) over 11 days. Despite the chill, humidity levels remain consistent at 91% for both months. For more details on December weather, visit Lausanne weather in December.

Compare Lausanne's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Lausanne

January in Lausanne presents a notable contrast to other months, marked by its chilly temperatures and high humidity of 91%. With maximums peaking at a cool 14°C and occasional lows dipping to -7°C, the month leans more towards winter's embrace, inviting a picturesque yet brisk atmosphere. Additionally, the 116 mm of precipitation over 11 days adds a layer of coziness, urging locals and visitors alike to seek warmth indoors or engage in winter activities. Overall, January serves as a reminder of the serene beauty of winter, making it uniquely different from the milder and more vibrant months ahead. For more insights on seasonal variations, visit Lausanne Climate.