January Weather in Cambridge, United Kingdom

Last updated: March 17, 2025

January in Cambridge, United Kingdom, brings a crisp chill, with average temperatures around 5°C (41°F) and a maximum of 15°C (59°F). The month can be quite brisk, featuring minimum temperatures dipping to -4°C (24°F), which encourages cozy indoor activities. Rainfall accumulates to approximately 50 mm (2.0 in) over 9 days, contributing to the city's characteristic dampness and making the humidity a notable 89%. Despite the cool and occasionally wet weather, January offers a unique charm to this historic city, inviting exploration through its scenic winter landscapes.

January Temperature in Cambridge

In January, Cambridge, United Kingdom, experiences a chilly climate, with temperatures ranging from a brisk -4°C (24°F) at night to a milder 5°C (41°F) on average during the day, peaking at 15°C (59°F). This month marks the coldest part of the year, characterized by frosty mornings and crisp afternoons. As winter gives way to early spring, February shows a slight drop in minimum temperatures, hitting -8°C (18°F), but the average barely rises to 6°C (43°F), with highs reaching 18°C (65°F) by the end of the month. The trend continues with March, where nights are still chilly at -6°C (21°F), yet the average climbs to a comfortable 7°C (46°F), showcasing a gradual warming as spring approaches. This transition hints at the forthcoming rise in temperatures, leading to the pleasant months ahead.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Cambridge, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec414345495561656459534643
Data source: Temperature data for Cambridge 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 Cambridge

In January, Cambridge experiences an average precipitation of 50 mm (2.0 in) over 9 days, setting the tone for the winter months. While rain is frequent, it’s notably lighter compared to the wetter spells that follow in October and December, where precipitation peaks to 79 mm (3.1 in) and 80 mm (3.2 in), respectively. As winter transitions into spring, the amount of rainfall begins to fluctuate, with March seeing a slight increase to 53 mm (2.1 in) over 13 days. This trend of varying precipitation continues into the spring months, suggesting a gradual shift in climate as the year progresses. Overall, January serves as a steady precursor to the wetter and increasingly unpredictable weather patterns typical of Cambridge's climate.

January Precipitation Trends in Cambridge

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Cambridge, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec504753326669657053794980
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Cambridge

January in Cambridge, United Kingdom, is characterized by a high humidity level of 89%, setting the tone for a winter that feels both chilly and damp. As the months progress into February and March, humidity remains relatively stable, with readings of 87% and 86% respectively, creating a consistent backdrop for the early spring. From April to June, humidity slightly decreases, hitting the year's low point of 83% in both May and June, suggesting a brief respite from the dampness. However, this trend reverses as autumn approaches; by October, humidity rises again to 88%, and it remains elevated through the end of the year, with November echoing January's humid embrace. Overall, Cambridge experiences a notable pattern, featuring high humidity levels throughout the winter and autumn months, while the late spring and early summer provide a temporary relief from the pervasive moisture.

January Average Humidity in Cambridge

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Cambridge, 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 Cambridge

In January, Cambridge experiences a UV Index of 1, indicating a low exposure category with a burn time of 45 minutes—perfect for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the crisp winter air without much sun protection. As the months progress into February with a UV Index of 2, outdoor time remains safe under the low exposure category, retaining the same burn time. However, by March, the UV Index climbs to 4, marking a shift to moderate levels and requiring more vigilance in sun safety with a reduced burn time of 30 minutes. This trend continues into April, peaking at 5, suggesting that spring days call for increased awareness of UV rays. The most significant changes occur from May onwards, where the UV Index reaches 7 in the high range and further intensifies to 8 in June and July, demanding stricter sun protection measures as burn times drastically decrease to just 15 minutes. As summer wanes into August, the UV Index drops to 7, before tapering off into more moderate levels in the fall months, reflective of the transition from high sun exposure to lower risks. For a comprehensive view of UV trends throughout the year, visit Cambridge UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Cambridge for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Cambridge 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec124578875421
Data source: Cambridge 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 Cambridge

In Cambridge, January brings a serene yet subdued charm, graced with 88 hours of sunshine that gently signal the promise of brighter days ahead. As the month shifts into February, the sun begins to stretch its rays, offering 143 hours of golden light that invigorates the local landscape. This upward trend continues into March, where 203 hours of sunshine inspire a sense of renewal and anticipation for spring. By April, the warmth intensifies with 311 hours of sunlight, heralding the full bloom of the season. The sunlight peaks in May and July, showcasing 378 and 381 hours respectively, creating a vibrant tapestry of life and energy. As summer wanes into September, the daylight wanes to 281 hours, gradually paving the way for the shorter days of autumn. This gradual decline continues, with October at 229 hours and November dropping to 136 hours, culminating in December's 101 hours, where the cycle concludes as Cambridge prepares for winter's embrace. This rhythmic ebb and flow of sunshine not only marks the changing seasons but also underscores the resilience and beauty of this historic city.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Cambridge: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Cambridge 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec88h143h203h311h378h362h381h350h281h229h136h101h
Data source: Cambridge January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Cambridge During January

In January, Cambridge, United Kingdom, experiences a modest 22% chance of sunshine, making it one of the cloudier months of the year. As winter sets in, the likelihood of clear skies begins to rise gradually, with February showing a slight increase to 25%. This upward trend continues into March, reaching 27%, suggesting that while January is often draped in gray, the anticipation of sunnier days is just around the corner. By April, the chances leap dramatically to 46%, heralding the arrival of spring and brighter weather. Thus, while January may be characterized by its limited sunshine, it's easy to see how the promise of sunnier skies lies ahead as the seasons progress.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Cambridge

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Cambridge 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 Cambridge experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec22%25%27%47%31%28%39%26%29%21%31%16%
Data source: Cambridge January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Cambridge in January

In Cambridge, United Kingdom, the daylight duration showcases a distinct seasonal rhythm, starting with a modest 8 hours in January. As winter gives way to spring, daylight steadily increases, reaching 11 hours by March and blossoming into 13 hours in April, reflecting nature’s awakening. The arrival of summer brings peak brightness, with daylight stretching to a generous 16 hours in both June and July, providing ample time for outdoor activities and exploration. As autumn descends, daylight begins to wane, tapering off to 12 hours in September and further declining to 8 hours by November. By December, the days are at their shortest, with only 7 hours of daylight, reminding us of the cyclical nature of the seasons and the continual transition between light and dark.

Average Daylight Hours in Cambridge for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Cambridge throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 17m9h 54m11h 54m13h 57m15h 45m16h 41m16h 11m14h 34m12h 36m10h 34m8h 44m7h 45m
Data source: Cambridge daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Cambridge

In January, Cambridge experiences an average wind speed of 4.5 m/s (10 mph), setting the tone for a breezy winter month. This speed is slightly lower than the subsequent month, February, which picks up to 4.9 m/s (11 mph), indicating an increase in wind activity as winter starts to fade. The winds remain relatively steady through March at 4.7 m/s, before noticeably calming in April with an average of just 3.5 m/s (8 mph). Interestingly, this trend of diminishing wind speeds continues into June, where a gentle 3.4 m/s (8 mph) is recorded, reaching its annual low of 3.3 m/s (7 mph) in July. However, as summer wanes, a slight resurgence is observed in August with winds averaging 4.1 m/s. This ebbs and flows through the autumn months, peaking again in October at 4.9 m/s (11 mph), ensuring that while January starts off the year with brisk winds, it is part of a dynamic pattern that sees significant shifts throughout the seasons.

Average January Wind Speed in Cambridge

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Cambridge, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.5 m/s4.94.73.54.33.43.34.13.64.94.34.8
Data source: Cambridge January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Cambridge Compares to Other Months

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

January and February exhibit similar weather patterns, but with some notable differences. In January, the temperatures range from a minimum of -4°C (24°F) to a maximum of 15°C (59°F), averaging around 5°C (41°F). This month also sees around 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 9 days, with humidity levels at 89%. In contrast, February experiences slightly colder temperatures, with a minimum of -8°C (18°F), but an average of 6°C (43°F) and a peak of 18°C (65°F). The precipitation is slightly lower at 47 mm (1.8 in) over 10 days, and humidity remains comparable at 87%. Overall, February tends to be colder with marginally less precipitation compared to January. For more details, check out Cambridge weather in February.

When comparing the weather in January and March, January tends to be cooler with average temperatures ranging from -4°C (24°F) to 15°C (59°F). The month experiences higher humidity at 89% and has about 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 9 days. In contrast, March shows a slight increase in average temperature, ranging from -6°C (21°F) to 22°C (72°F). It also sees slightly more precipitation at 53 mm (2.1 in) over 13 days and a marginally lower humidity level of 86%. For more detailed insights on the weather during this month, you can visit Cambridge weather in March.

January and April weather present a notable contrast as winter transitions into spring. In January, the average temperature hovers around 5°C (41°F), with minimums dropping to -4°C (24°F) and maximums reaching 15°C (59°F). The month experiences about 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 9 days, paired with high humidity at 89%. In comparison, April shows a significant warming trend with an average temperature of 9°C (49°F), minimums slightly colder at -2°C (28°F) and maximums soaring to 27°C (81°F). Additionally, it sees reduced precipitation of 32 mm (1.3 in) over 8 days, while humidity remains relatively close at 85%. This shift in weather underscores the early signs of spring emerging in April. For more details, you can view Cambridge weather in April.

In January, the weather is quite cold, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -4°C (24°F) to a mild high of 15°C (59°F), and a notable average of 5°C (41°F). Precipitation is moderate at 50 mm (2.0 in) over about 9 days, along with high humidity of 89%. In contrast, May experiences a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures around 1°C (35°F) and maximums reaching a pleasant 27°C (82°F), averaging at 13°C (55°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 66 mm (2.6 in) over approximately 11 days, coupled with a decrease in humidity to 83%. For more details on the weather during this vibrant spring month, check out Cambridge weather in May.

In January, the weather is typically cold, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -4°C (24°F) at night to a maximum of 15°C (59°F) during the day, accompanied by high humidity at 89%. This month sees about 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over approximately 9 days. In contrast, June brings a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to an average high of 30°C (87°F). Although June experiences slightly more precipitation at 69 mm (2.7 in) over 10 days, the humidity is lower at 83%. This seasonal shift not only marks a significant increase in warmth but also a change in the overall atmospheric conditions. For more detailed information, you can visit Cambridge weather in June.

In January, the weather is quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (24°F) to a maximum of 15°C (59°F), and an average temperature of around 5°C (41°F). The month typically sees about 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation spread over 9 days, combined with high humidity levels at 89%.

In contrast, July brings much warmer conditions, characterized by a minimum temperature of 8°C (47°F) and a maximum of 36°C (97°F), averaging around 18°C (65°F). This summer month experiences slightly higher precipitation at 65 mm (2.6 in) across 12 days, but humidity levels are relatively lower at 79%. For a detailed look at July weather specifically in Cambridge, you can refer to Cambridge weather in July.

In January, the weather is quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (24°F) to a maximum of 15°C (59°F) and an average temperature of 5°C (41°F). The month experiences around 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over about 9 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 89%. In contrast, August brings warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (47°F), an average of 18°C (64°F), and a peak of 34°C (94°F). This month sees slightly more precipitation at 70 mm (2.8 in) across 12 days, though humidity is lower at 78%. This stark difference highlights the transition from winter's cold grip to summertime warmth. For more detailed information, you can visit Cambridge weather in August.

January and September showcase a noticeable contrast in weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a chilly -4°C (24°F) to a maximum of 15°C (59°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F). This month experiences around 50 mm (2.0 inches) of precipitation over approximately 9 days, accompanied by high humidity at 89%. In comparison, September sees more moderate temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F), an average of 15°C (59°F), and a warm maximum of 29°C (85°F). Although September’s precipitation is slightly higher at 52 mm (2.1 inches) over 10 days, it maintains a lower humidity level at 84%. For more detailed insights, you can visit Cambridge weather in September.

In comparing the weather between January and October, we see distinct differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. January typically experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (24°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F), while October offers a milder climate, with the minimum rising to 0°C (33°F) and an average of 12°C (53°F). Precipitation is also higher in October, totaling 79 mm (3.1 in) over 12 days, compared to January's 50 mm (2.0 in) over just 9 days. Humidity levels remain similar, but January tends to feel more frigid with its higher humidity percentage of 89%, compared to October's 88%. For more specifics on October weather, check out Cambridge weather in October.

In January, temperatures range from a minimum of -4°C (24°F) to a maximum of 15°C (59°F), with an average of around 5°C (41°F). The month sees approximately 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over about 9 days, and the humidity remains high at 89%. In contrast, November experiences slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (28°F) and a maximum of 17°C (64°F), yielding an average temperature of 8°C (46°F). Precipitation is similar, with 49 mm (1.9 in) occurring across 10 days, maintaining the same humidity level of 89%. For more details on November weather specifically, check out Cambridge weather in November.

In January, the weather features slightly cooler temperatures, with an average of 5°C (41°F) compared to December's average of 6°C (43°F). While both months experience maximum temperatures of 15°C (59°F), January tends to be a bit drier, receiving only 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 9 days, whereas December sees more rainfall at 80 mm (3.2 in) across 15 days. Humidity remains similar in both months, with January at 89% and December at 88%. For more details on December weather, you can check Cambridge weather in December.

Compare Cambridge's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Cambridge

As winter deepens in January, Cambridge experiences a noticeable chill compared to milder months, with average temperatures hovering around 5°C, bringing an invigorating crispness to the air. The days are marked by a significant dip in temperature, while persistent humidity levels enhance the cool feel, making it ideal for cozy indoor activities. With approximately nine days of precipitation, January is one of the wetter months, contributing to the lushness of the surrounding countryside as the year begins. This contrasts sharply with the sunnier and drier days typical of spring and summer. Explore more about the year-round weather patterns at Cambridge Climate.