January Weather in Dorchester, United Kingdom

Last updated: March 17, 2025

In January, Dorchester, United Kingdom experiences a varied climate characterized by cool temperatures and occasional rain. With a maximum of 14°C (57°F) and an average temperature of 6°C (43°F), the month sees a noticeable chill, dipping to a minimum of -4°C (25°F) at times. Rainfall is not uncommon, accumulating to approximately 51 mm (2.0 in) over 9 days, which contributes to the region's high humidity level of 88%. This blend of cool breezes and wet weather offers a unique winter atmosphere in the heart of Dorchester, perfect for those who enjoy a seasonal change.

January Temperature in Dorchester

In January, temperatures in Dorchester, United Kingdom experience a brisk chill, with minimums dipping as low as -4°C (25°F). The average temperature hovers around 6°C (43°F), while daytime highs can reach 14°C (57°F), marking a gradual transition from the more severe winter months. This pattern reveals an intriguing trend: as the month progresses towards February, the lows dip further to -6°C (22°F), while the averages and maximums show a slight upward movement, paving the way for the incremental warming that characterizes the early spring months. The cool January air often gives crisp clarity to the landscape, setting a serene tone for the year ahead.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Dorchester, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec424446495461646359544845
Data source: Temperature data for Dorchester 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 Dorchester

January in Dorchester typically brings a moderate precipitation level, with an average of 51 mm (2.0 in) spread over 9 days of rainfall. This trend sets a foundation for the wetter months ahead, as precipitation generally increases in February and March, peaking at 73 mm (2.9 in) in March. Notably, while January’s precipitation is relatively modest, it indicates the start of a gradual rise in rainfall leading into the spring, where totals often exceed 70 mm by May and June. The pattern suggests that while January can be a bit dreary, it paves the way for a more dynamic and wetter weather as the year progresses.

January Precipitation Trends in Dorchester

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Dorchester, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5164734873765378481066698
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Dorchester

January in Dorchester, United Kingdom, is characterized by a notable humidity level of 88%, a trend that continues into February. As spring approaches, humidity begins to gently decline, with March showing a slight drop to 86% and April further decreasing to 84%. The warmth of summer brings more relief, as humidity levels fall to 70% in July, before rising again slightly in August and September to around 73% and 79%, respectively. A noticeable spike occurs in the autumn months, as October and November see humidity levels soar back up to 89% and 90%. This cyclical pattern highlights Dorchester’s distinct seasonal shifts, where winter and late autumn bring a moist coastal chill that contrasts with the drier warmth of summer.

January Average Humidity in Dorchester

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Dorchester, 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%88%86%84%80%80%70%73%79%89%90%89%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Dorchester

In January, Dorchester experiences a UV Index of 2, categorizing it as a period of low exposure with a burn time of 45 minutes. This low UV level is typical for the winter months, reflected in February as well, where the Index remains steady at 2. As spring arrives, the UV Index climbs to 4 in March, indicating a moderate exposure risk with a reduced burn time of 30 minutes. The warmer months usher in a noticeable increase in UV intensity, peaking at 8 during both June and July, which necessitates precaution as the burn time drops to just 15 minutes. As summer fades into autumn, the UV Index gradually decreases, returning to 6 in September and dropping to 4 by October, before settling back into the low exposure category with 2 in November and a minimal 1 in December. Overall, the trend shows a significant seasonal variation, highlighting the importance of sun protection during the sunnier months. For more detailed information, visit Dorchester UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Dorchester for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Dorchester 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec224678876421
Data source: Dorchester 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 Dorchester

In Dorchester, United Kingdom, January sets the stage with a modest 100 hours of sunshine, hinting at the winter chill that lingers. As February rolls in, a noticeable uplift occurs with 147 hours, indicating the gradual approach of spring. By March, the days continue to lengthen, boasting 215 hours of sunlight, while April truly bursts forth with 339 hours, painting the landscape in vibrant colors as blooms emerge. The month of May takes this trend even further, basking in an impressive 402 hours of sunshine, welcoming summer with open arms. Although June remains bright with 396 hours, the peak of sunlight arrives in July at 422 hours, defining summer's golden days. As August arrives, a slight decline to 382 hours signals the end of the warmer months, leading into September's 317 hours as autumn starts to take hold. The sunshine gradually diminishes through October with 251 hours, and November and December bring a return to lower levels of light, with 153 hours and 115 hours, respectively. This yearly rhythm reflects the ebb and flow of seasons, creating a fascinating tapestry of light throughout Dorchester's calendar.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Dorchester: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Dorchester 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec100h147h215h339h402h396h422h382h317h251h153h115h
Data source: Dorchester January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Dorchester During January

In January, the likelihood of sunny weather in Dorchester, United Kingdom, hovers around a modest 22%, marking it as one of the cloudier months of the year. As the seasons progress, this chance gradually increases, with February seeing a slight uptick to 24%. A noticeable jump occurs in March, where the sun graces the skies about 35% of the time. By April, the trend continues upward, reaching a comfortable 52% of sunny days, highlighting the transition to spring. This pattern indicates that while January may be dim and dreary, brighter days are just around the corner as the region shifts toward more favorable weather conditions.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Dorchester

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Dorchester 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 Dorchester experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec22%25%35%52%36%28%36%29%30%26%33%22%
Data source: Dorchester January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Dorchester in January

In January, Dorchester experiences a modest 8 hours of daylight, gradually lengthening as winter retreats. February brings an increase to 10 hours, hinting at the approaching spring. This upward trend continues into March, with daylight stretching to 11 hours, followed by April's 13 hours as the days become noticeably longer. By May, daylight reaches a vibrant 15 hours, peaking at 16 hours in the sunlit days of June. As summer wanes, July sees a slight decrease to 15 hours, before a gradual decline begins in August with 14 hours. September brings a gentle reminder of autumn as daylight drops to 12 hours, and by October, it returns to 10 hours. The year rounds out with November and December, both sharing a return to 8 hours, as the cycle of seasons completes its serene journey through the light.

Average Daylight Hours in Dorchester for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Dorchester throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 31m10h 2m11h 55m13h 50m15h 31m16h 23m15h 55m14h 25m12h 34m10h 39m8h 56m8h 2m
Data source: Dorchester daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Dorchester

In January, Dorchester greets the new year with a refreshing average wind speed of 4.7 m/s (11 mph), setting a brisk tone for the month. As winter progresses into February, the winds pick up slightly, reaching an average of 5.5 m/s (12 mph), signaling a transition toward a more dynamic atmosphere. Interestingly, by March, the winds calm a bit to 4.6 m/s (10 mph), only to drop further to 3.5 m/s (8 mph) in April, hinting at the gentle beginnings of spring. This springtime trend continues into May with a return to 4.7 m/s (10 mph), providing a balanced breeziness before summer arrives. The warmest months, June and July, show a noticeable dip in wind speeds, averaging around 3.2 m/s (7 mph) and 3.6 m/s (8 mph), creating a more tranquil summer ambiance. As autumn approaches in September, and with a slight increase back to 3.6 m/s (8 mph), the wind begins to whisper hints of change once more. The year wraps up with a steady 4.6 m/s (10 mph) in October, followed by a moderate drop in November to 3.9 m/s (9 mph), and finally closing the cycle in December with a brisk 4.9 m/s (11 mph), reminding residents of the continued ebb and flow of the seasonal winds.

Average January Wind Speed in Dorchester

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Dorchester, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.7 m/s5.54.63.54.73.23.64.03.64.63.94.9
Data source: Dorchester January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Dorchester Compares to Other Months

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

In January, the weather features a minimum temperature of -4°C (25°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), with maximum temperatures reaching up to 14°C (57°F). The month experiences around 51 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 9 days, and maintains a high humidity level of 88%.

In contrast, February sees slightly cooler conditions, with minimum temperatures dipping to -6°C (22°F) and an average of 7°C (44°F), while maximum temperatures can climb to 16°C (61°F). Precipitation increases to 64 mm (2.5 in), spread across 12 days, yet humidity remains consistent at 88%.

For a closer look at February's climate, check out Dorchester weather in February.

In comparing the weather of January and March, we see a notable shift in temperatures and precipitation patterns. January typically features a minimum temperature of -4°C (25°F), an average of 6°C (43°F), and a maximum of 14°C (57°F), with total precipitation of 51 mm (2.0 in) spread over 9 days and relatively high humidity at 88%. In contrast, March experiences slightly cooler overnight temperatures, with a minimum of -5°C (23°F), but a higher average of 8°C (46°F) and a maximum of 19°C (67°F). Additionally, March sees increased precipitation, totaling 73 mm (2.9 in) over 13 days, while humidity remains slightly lower at 86%. For more detailed insights, check out Dorchester weather in March.

In January, temperatures are quite chilly, ranging from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), with an average of 6°C (43°F). The month sees about 51 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 9 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 88%. In contrast, April brings noticeably milder temperatures, with lows of -1°C (30°F) and highs reaching 23°C (75°F), averaging 10°C (49°F). Precipitation slightly decreases to 48 mm (1.9 in) over just 7 days, and humidity drops to 84%. For more details, check out Dorchester weather in April.

In January, the weather is quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), and an average temperature of 6°C (43°F). This month experiences about 51 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over nine days, accompanied by high humidity at 88%. In contrast, May brings a more moderate climate, with temperatures increasing to a minimum of 1°C (34°F), an average of 12°C (55°F), and a maximum of 24°C (75°F). Though precipitation rises to 73 mm (2.9 in) over twelve days, the humidity is slightly lower at 80%. For more details, check Dorchester weather in May.

In January, the weather is quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), and an average of 6°C (43°F). The month experiences about 51 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation spread over 9 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 88%. In contrast, June brings a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), and an average temperature of 16°C (61°F). While June has slightly more precipitation at 76 mm (3.0 in) over 11 days, the humidity is lower at 80%. Overall, January's cold and damp conditions stand in stark contrast to June's warmth and vibrancy. For more specifics on June weather, you can visit Dorchester weather in June.

In January, temperatures in Dorchester are quite chilly, with a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), while the maximum can reach 14°C (57°F). The weather is damp, with about 51 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation spread over 9 days, and the humidity is a high 88%. In contrast, July brings much warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures of 8°C (47°F), an average of 18°C (64°F), and a maximum of 30°C (86°F). Despite slightly higher precipitation of 53 mm (2.1 in) over 11 days, the humidity drops to a more comfortable 70%. For more details on July weather, you can visit Dorchester weather in July.

January weather in Dorchester is characterized by chilly temperatures, with lows dipping to -4°C (25°F) and average highs around 14°C (57°F). The month sees about 51 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 9 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 88%. In contrast, August offers a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F). During this month, precipitation increases to 78 mm (3.1 in) over 12 days, but humidity is lower at 73%. Overall, August weather is significantly milder and more pleasant compared to the cold and damp conditions of January. For more specific details, you can check out Dorchester weather in August.

In January, the weather is quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), and an average of 6°C (43°F). This month experiences 51 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over about 9 days, along with high humidity levels at 88%. In contrast, September brings a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F) and an average of 15°C (59°F). Precipitation in September is slightly lower at 48 mm (1.9 in) over the same number of rainy days, and the humidity is reduced to 79%. For more details on the weather patterns in September, you can check Dorchester weather in September.

In January, temperatures can be quite chilly, with a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), while October offers a milder climate, featuring a minimum temperature of 0°C (32°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F). January experiences less precipitation at 51 mm (2.0 in) over 9 days, compared to October's wetter conditions with 106 mm (4.2 in) occurring over 14 days. Humidity levels remain relatively high in both months, with January at 88% and October slightly higher at 89%. For more details on October's weather, you can check Dorchester weather in October.

In comparing January and November, we notice distinct differences in temperature and precipitation. January typically sees cooler temperatures, with averages around 6°C (43°F) and a maximum of 14°C (57°F), while November offers a slightly milder average of 9°C (48°F) and peaks at 16°C (61°F). Additionally, November experiences higher rainfall, with 66 mm (2.6 in) over about 10 days compared to January's 51 mm (2.0 in) over 9 days. Humidity levels are also slightly higher in November at 90%, compared to January’s 88%. For a closer look at what to expect, visit Dorchester weather in November.

In comparing the weather of January and December, it's clear that both months share similar temperature ranges, with January seeing a min of -4°C (25°F) and max of 14°C (57°F), while December has slightly milder temperatures with a min of -3°C (27°F) and a max of 14°C (58°F). Both months average around 6-7°C (43-46°F), but January tends to experience less precipitation, with 51 mm (2.0 in) over about 9 days, compared to December's 98 mm (3.9 in) spread across 14 days. The humidity levels remain high in both months, with January at 88% and December slightly higher at 89%. For more detailed information on December weather, you can visit Dorchester weather in December.

Compare Dorchester's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Dorchester

As January unfolds in Dorchester, the weather presents a distinct contrast to other months of the year. Marked by chilly temperatures, with highs barely reaching 14°C and lows dipping down to -4°C, this month feels notably cooler, enveloped in frequent bouts of humidity averaging at a notable 88%. The increased precipitation, measured at 51 mm over about nine days, also sets January apart, adding a dampness that can be quite refreshing yet daunting. While the landscape may seem bare, the beauty of winter resilience emerges. For a deeper understanding of Dorchester's climate nuances, explore Dorchester Climate.