January Weather in Boston, United Kingdom

Last updated: March 17, 2025

In January, Boston, United Kingdom experiences a cool and brisk climate, with an average temperature hovering around 5°C (41°F). The maximum temperature can reach up to 15°C (59°F), while chilly nights can plunge to a minimum of -4°C (26°F). This month sees an average precipitation of 43 mm (1.7 in) over approximately 8 days, contributing to a notably high humidity level of 89%. Residents and visitors can expect a blend of damp, chilly days ideal for cozy indoor activities, making it a perfect time to embrace warm beverages and layered clothing.

January Temperature in Boston

In January, Boston, United Kingdom experiences a crisp winter climate, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -4°C (26°F) at night to a mild 15°C (59°F) during the day. As the month unfolds, the average temperature rests at 5°C (41°F), signaling the deep chill before spring begins to peek through. This transitional period sets the stage for a slight warming trend as February arrives, with temperatures dipping even lower at night, but gradually inching upward in the daytime. Notably, the pattern of increasing warmth continues into March, with milder days hinting at the seasonal shift ahead. As spring approaches, the consistent rise in average temperatures paints a picture of impending warmth and longer days, leaving the winter's cold behind.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Boston, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec414345485460646359534642
Data source: Temperature data for Boston 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 Boston

In January, Boston, United Kingdom experiences 43 mm (or 1.7 inches) of precipitation, marking the month as a relatively wet start to the year. With rain falling on about 8 days, January sets the tone for the wetter months ahead, as precipitation gradually increases, peaking in August at 80 mm (3.1 in). Notably, this trend demonstrates a general upward trajectory in rainfall through the spring and summer months, before tapering off in the autumn. As the year progresses, February and March follow with higher totals of 58 mm (2.3 in) and 56 mm (2.2 in) respectively, suggesting that while January is still damp, the subsequent months could bring more considerable rainfall, keeping the landscape lush and vibrant as the seasons change.

January Precipitation Trends in Boston

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Boston, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec435856326574698060745472
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Boston

In January, Boston, United Kingdom, experiences a notable humidity level of 89%, setting the tone for a winter characterized by dampness. As the year unfolds, a gradual decline is observed, with February and March trailing closely behind at 87% and 86%, respectively. This trend continues, reaching a low of 78% in August, the driest month of the year. However, as autumn arrives, humidity levels rebound, peaking again at 89% in November. This cycle suggests a consistent pattern, where the winter months maintain their high humidity, while the summer months offer a slight respite. Overall, the humidity in Boston illustrates a clear seasonal rhythm, with minor fluctuations that contribute to the region’s unique climate experience.

January Average Humidity in Boston

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Boston, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec89%87%86%85%83%83%80%78%84%88%89%88%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Boston

In January, Boston experiences a low UV Index of 1, translating to a burn time of 45 minutes, making sun exposure relatively safe during this winter month. As February rolls in, the UV Index remains at 2, still in the low category, offering similar protection. However, as spring approaches, there's a notable shift; March sees an increase to 4, indicating a moderate exposure level with a burn time reduced to 30 minutes. This trend continues into April, where the UV Index rises to 5, also moderate, reminding residents to be more mindful of sun exposure. Come May, summer begins to peek through with a UV Index reaching 7 and a high exposure designation, cutting burn time to 25 minutes. The summer months of June and July push the UV Index up to 8, categorized as very high, urging caution with a short burn time of just 15 minutes. As fall approaches in August, the UV Index dips to 7 again, but remains high. The UV Index then gradually declines, returning to moderate levels (5 in September and 3 in October), before dropping back to low levels in November and December. Overall, Boston's UV Index reflects an evident seasonal pattern, where sun protection becomes increasingly vital as the temperature rises. For more about UV levels throughout the year, visit Boston UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Boston for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Boston 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec124578875321
Data source: Boston 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 Boston

In January, Boston, United Kingdom, experiences a modest 89 hours of sunshine, setting a tone of coziness as winter lingers. As the year progresses, there’s a notable shift; February sees a welcome increase to 144 hours, hinting at the approaching spring. March continues this upward trend, reaching 195 hours as daylight begins to outshine the winter gloom. By April, the sun truly embraces the region, with a remarkable 321 hours gracing the days, captivating residents in the blossoming season. The momentum doesn't stop there—May dazzles with 378 hours, paving the way for a vibrant summer. The sun remains a steadfast companion through June and July, offering 352 and 374 hours, respectively, before beginning a gentle descent in August with 359 hours. As fall arrives, sunshine dips gradually; September provides a still generous 286 hours, but by October, it contracts to 228 hours. The chill of winter encroaches again in November with 139 hours, and December rounds out the year with a soft 103 hours, reminding us that even in the darker months, a glimpse of sunlight is a cherished gift.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Boston: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Boston 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec89h144h195h321h378h352h374h359h286h228h139h103h
Data source: Boston January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Boston During January

In Boston, United Kingdom, the likelihood of sunny weather in January hovers around a modest 24%, making it one of the cooler months in terms of sunshine. As the seasons transition, February sees a slight drop to 23%, while March begins to show a hint of improvement at 26%. This gradual uptick continues into the spring months, with April jumping to 44%, the first peak of the year. However, the overall trend through the year reveals a fluctuation in sunny days, with May and July providing a more inviting 31% and 36% likelihood, respectively. As we move into the latter part of the year, sunshine becomes less frequent once again, especially in the chill of December, which concludes the year with a mere 19% chance of sunshine. Thus, while January offers limited sunny prospects, the promise of brighter days grows as winter releases its grip.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Boston

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Boston 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 Boston experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec24%23%26%44%31%29%36%26%29%22%29%19%
Data source: Boston January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Boston in January

In Boston, United Kingdom, January greets residents with approximately 8 hours of daylight, a figure that gradually ascends as winter fades. By February, the days extend to 9 hours, hinting at the approaching spring. As March rolls in, daylight increases further to 11 hours, setting the stage for the vibrant blooms of April, which boasts a radiant 14 hours of sunshine. May edges closer to summer with 15 hours of daylight, punctuating a trend of expansion that peaks in June and July at a robust 16 hours. However, as summer wanes, the days begin to shorten, with daylight dipping to 14 hours in August and tapering off to 12 hours in September. The descent continues into October with 10 hours and finally falls to 8 hours in November, before December offers a mere 7 hours of daylight. This cyclical dance of light highlights the seasonal transitions that add a unique rhythm to life in Boston throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Boston for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Boston throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 11m9h 51m11h 54m14h15h 50m16h 49m16h 17m14h 38m12h 36m10h 32m8h 39m7h 38m
Data source: Boston daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Boston

In January, Boston, United Kingdom, experiences an average wind speed of 4.8 m/s (11 mph), setting the tone for a breezy winter. As the months progress to February, the wind picks up slightly, reaching 5.3 m/s (12 mph), before settling at 5.0 m/s (11 mph) in March. The winds begin to calm in April, dropping to 3.9 m/s (9 mph), and continue to flirt with lower speeds through the summer months, culminating in a gentle 3.5 m/s (8 mph) in July. However, a shift occurs in the fall, with October seeing a resurgence to 5.4 m/s (12 mph), indicating a notable increase that carries through to November. As the year concludes, December's winds return to January's levels at 4.8 m/s (11 mph), creating a cyclical pattern that reflects Boston's maritime climate.

Average January Wind Speed in Boston

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Boston, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.8 m/s5.35.03.94.43.83.54.33.95.44.94.8
Data source: Boston January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Boston Compares to Other Months

The weather in Boston 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 Boston and find detailed weather information for every month.

January and February present a notable transition in weather conditions. While January sees a minimum temperature of -4°C (26°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F), February dips slightly lower to a minimum of -6°C (22°F) but offers a marginally higher average of 6°C (43°F). The maximum temperatures in February also rise to 17°C (63°F), surpassing January's peak of 15°C (59°F). Precipitation is more frequent in February, with 58 mm (2.3 in) falling across 11 days, compared to January's 43 mm (1.7 in) over 8 days. Despite January's slightly higher humidity at 89%, February remains close at 87%. For more details about February weather in Boston, visit Boston weather in February.

In January, the weather is quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 15°C (59°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F). The month experiences about 43 mm (1.7 in) of precipitation over approximately 8 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 89%. By contrast, March brings a subtle increase in warmth, with temperatures dipping slightly lower at a minimum of -5°C (24°F), rising to an average of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum of 21°C (70°F). Precipitation also rises to 56 mm (2.2 in) over 12 days, while humidity remains similar at 86%. For more detailed comparisons of March weather, you can check Boston weather in March.

In January, the weather is quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 15°C (59°F), and an average of 5°C (41°F). This month also sees around 43 mm (1.7 in) of precipitation over 8 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 89%.

In contrast, April experiences a notable warming trend, as temperatures rise from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F), with an average temperature of 9°C (48°F). Precipitation decreases slightly to 32 mm (1.3 in) over the same number of rainy days, and humidity remains relatively high but lower at 85%. For more details, check out this link: Boston weather in April.

In January, the weather is quite cold, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -4°C (26°F) at night to a maximum of 15°C (59°F) during the day. This month also experiences higher humidity at 89% and averages 43 mm (1.7 in) of precipitation over 8 days. In contrast, May sees a significant warm-up, with temperatures reaching a minimum of 1°C (35°F) and peaking at 27°C (80°F), while the average temperature rises to 12°C (54°F). Although May has slightly more precipitation at 65 mm (2.6 in) over 12 days, the humidity drops to 83%, making it feel more comfortable. For a closer look at Boston's weather in May, check out Boston weather in May.

In January, the weather is considerably colder, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -4°C (26°F) at night to a mild 15°C (59°F) during the day, averaging around 5°C (41°F). This month also sees about 43 mm (1.7 in) of precipitation over approximately 8 days and a higher humidity level of 89%. In contrast, June brings warmer conditions, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 6°C (43°F) and peaking at a maximum of 30°C (86°F), averaging 16°C (61°F). The summer month experiences more precipitation at 74 mm (2.9 in) over 11 days, but the humidity is slightly lower at 83%. For more details, check out Boston weather in June.

January in Boston is characterized by cold temperatures, with minimums dropping to -4°C (26°F) and average highs only reaching about 5°C (41°F). The month sees approximately 43 mm (1.7 in) of precipitation spread over 8 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 89%. In contrast, July offers a much warmer climate, where temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 33°C (91°F), averaging around 18°C (64°F). While July experiences more precipitation at 69 mm (2.7 in) over 11 days, the humidity is slightly lower at 79%. For more detailed insights on the July weather, you can check out Boston weather in July.

In January, the weather is significantly colder, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -4°C (26°F) at night to a milder average of 5°C (41°F) during the day, peaking at 15°C (59°F). The month sees around 43 mm (1.7 in) of precipitation over approximately 8 days, coupled with high humidity at 89%. In contrast, August brings much warmer temperatures, with minimums of 9°C (49°F), an average of 17°C (64°F), and highs reaching up to 32°C (89°F). Precipitation increases to 80 mm (3.1 in) across 12 days, but the humidity is relatively lower at 78%. For more specifics about the warm weather in August, check out Boston weather in August.

January and September present contrasting weather experiences. In January, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a mild maximum of 15°C (59°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F). This month typically sees 43 mm (1.7 inches) of precipitation over approximately 8 days, coupled with high humidity at 89%. In contrast, September boasts warmer temperatures, with minimums at 4°C (39°F), average highs reaching 15°C (59°F), and maximums peaking at a pleasant 28°C (83°F). Precipitation increases to 60 mm (2.4 inches) over about 10 days, while humidity decreases slightly to 84%. For a detailed overview of the climate, visit Boston weather in September.

January and October present notable differences in weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 15°C (59°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F). This month typically receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of precipitation over about 8 days, combined with high humidity levels of 89%. In contrast, October showcases a milder climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 24°C (76°F), averaging 12°C (53°F). However, it experiences more precipitation, totaling 74 mm (2.9 in) over approximately 13 days, and maintains a slightly lower humidity level at 88%. For a deeper look at the conditions during this season, check out Boston weather in October.

In comparing the weather of January and November, we see some notable differences. January typically experiences lower temperatures, with averages around 5°C (41°F) and a maximum of 15°C (59°F), whereas November is milder, with average temperatures of 8°C (46°F) and peaks reaching 18°C (64°F). Both months exhibit similar humidity levels at 89%, but November tends to have slightly more precipitation, accumulating 54 mm (2.1 in) over approximately 10 days compared to January's 43 mm (1.7 in) over 8 days. For a closer look at the specifics, check out Boston weather in November.

In January, the weather tends to be slightly cooler than in December, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 15°C (59°F), compared to December's temperatures of -2°C (29°F) to 15°C (59°F). Although both months experience similar high temperatures, January typically has a lower average temperature overall. Precipitation is considerably lower in January, with 43 mm (1.7 in) falling over 8 days, while December sees more rain at 72 mm (2.8 in) spread across 15 days. Humidity levels are quite similar, at 89% in January and 88% in December, emphasizing the dampness typical of winter in this region. For a closer look at the specific weather conditions during this time, check out Boston weather in December.

Compare Boston's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Boston

January in Boston showcases a distinct chill that sets it apart from other months. With temperatures averaging around 5°C (41°F), residents and visitors experience the coldest period of the year. The city sees an average of 43 mm (1.7 in) of precipitation over 8 days, resulting in a damp atmosphere marked by high humidity at 89%. While winter can bring its fair share of snow, January’s fluctuating temperatures may also result in milder days that contrast sharply with the biting cold nights. This unique blend of weather makes January a prime time to appreciate the cozy indoor charm of Boston. For a deeper understanding of Boston's climate, visit Boston Climate.