January Weather in Durham, United Kingdom

Last updated: March 17, 2025

In Durham, United Kingdom, January weather showcases a mix of chilly temperatures and notable precipitation. With an average temperature of 5°C (41°F), residents can expect highs reaching 14°C (57°F) and lows plummeting to -4°C (25°F). During this month, 51 mm (2.0 in) of rain falls over approximately 10 days, contributing to the region's distinctively high humidity of 89%. These conditions create a brisk atmosphere, perfect for those who enjoy the invigorating touch of winter in this historic city.

January Temperature in Durham

In Durham, UK, January marks the heart of winter, characterized by chilly temperatures that range from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F). The average temperature hovers around 5°C (41°F), providing a brisk but manageable climate for those venturing outdoors. As the month progresses, there's a subtle indication of transitioning weather patterns; the temperatures begin their gradual ascent, leading into February, which can dip even lower at times, with lows of -6°C (21°F). However, it’s not until the arrival of spring in March and April that the full spectrum of change becomes evident, as daily highs climb towards the mid-teens, hinting at the promise of warmer days ahead. Despite the brisk conditions, January remains a picturesque time in Durham, inviting both locals and visitors to embrace the season's crisp beauty while looking forward to the gradual thaw of approaching spring.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Durham, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec404244465258616156514541
Data source: Temperature data for Durham 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 Durham

In January, Durham experiences a moderate level of precipitation, with 51 mm (2.0 in) of rain spread over approximately 10 days. This sets the tone for the early winter months, with January typically offering a gentle start to the year compared to the wetter February, which receives 76 mm (3.0 in) across 15 days. As the season transitions into spring, average precipitation decreases significantly in April to 35 mm (1.4 in), demonstrating a trend where winter months generally bring more rain. Overall, while January is relatively damp, it paves the way for drier spells ahead, highlighting the region's characteristic variability in weather patterns throughout the year.

January Precipitation Trends in Durham

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Durham, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec517664355680778165836271
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Durham

In January, Durham, United Kingdom, experiences a high humidity level of 89%, setting the tone for the winter months. This peak is followed by a slight decline to 87% in February and a gradual drop to 85% in March. As spring approaches, humidity continues its downward trend, reaching its lowest point of 83% by May. However, this drop is soon reversed as the warmer months bring a more humid atmosphere, with levels stabilizing around the mid-80s throughout the summer. Interestingly, as the year progresses into autumn, the humidity spikes again, peaking at 90% in November and remaining high at 89% in October, before slightly tapering off to 88% in December. Overall, January's substantial humidity reflects a trend of fluctuating moisture levels that influence Durham's climate throughout the year.

January Average Humidity in Durham

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Durham, 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%84%83%85%83%82%87%89%90%88%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Durham

In January, Durham experiences a low UV Index of 1, with a burn time of 45 minutes, making it a safe month for outdoor activities without much concern for sun exposure. As the year progresses into February, the UV index slightly rises to 2, maintaining the same low exposure category and burn time. Come March, there's a notable shift with the index jumping to 4, indicating moderate exposure and a reduced burn time of 30 minutes, suggesting that as winter gives way to spring, increased sun precautions may be necessary. This trend continues into April with a UV Index of 5, reinforcing the need for sun safety as outdoor activities increase. By May and June, the indices climb to 6 and 8 respectively, signaling high to very high UV exposure, where the burn time drastically decreases to just 25 and 15 minutes. The peak of summer, represented by July and August, sees this trend holding steady, before a gradual decline in index values from 6 in August to 3 in October, and further down to 1 by December, signaling the cooler months when sun exposure becomes less of a concern. To understand the nuances of UV levels and weather patterns throughout the year, check out the complete information at Durham UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Durham for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Durham 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec124568865321
Data source: Durham 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 Durham

In January, Durham basks in a modest 89 hours of sunshine, a gentle herald of the brighter days to come as the year unfolds. By February, this figure sees a notable boost to 149 hours, signaling the gradual transition towards spring. As nature awakens, March presents an impressive leap, boasting 222 hours of sunlight, enticing residents to venture outdoors. The upward trend continues through spring and into summer, with April shining at 336 hours, and May maximizing its glory with 396 hours. By July, the city enjoys its sunniest month with 406 hours, while August brings a delightful 361 hours—a reminder of summer's lingering warmth. As autumn settles in, sunshine begins to wane; September’s 306 hours gracefully yield to October’s 235 hours, and the year closes with diminishing daylight in November and December (128 and 98 hours, respectively). This rhythmic ebb and flow of sunshine reflects the captivating seasonal cycle that characterizes Durham's climate.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Durham: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Durham 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec89h149h222h336h396h378h406h361h306h235h128h98h
Data source: Durham January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Durham During January

In Durham, United Kingdom, January offers a modest 25% chance of sunny weather, slightly more favorable than February's 24% but still indicating the typically bleak winter months. As spring approaches, there's a noticeable increase, with April nearly doubling January's likelihood at 49%. Interestingly, while the chances of sunshine fluctuate throughout the year, they remain relatively low until late spring, suggesting that residents should expect mostly overcast skies during the early months. This trend underscores the gradual transition into a sunnier season, highlighting the importance of patience for those eagerly awaiting brighter days.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Durham

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Durham 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 Durham experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec25%24%24%49%31%28%33%22%24%22%29%17%
Data source: Durham January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Durham in January

In January, Durham, United Kingdom, experiences a modest 7 hours of daylight, marking the depths of winter. As the month progresses into February, daylight extends to 9 hours, hinting at the approaching spring. By March, the increase becomes more pronounced with 11 hours of daylight, welcoming longer, brighter days. As we move into April and May, the daylight duration escalates significantly, reaching 14 and 16 hours respectively, showcasing the vivid transition toward summer. June peaks with an impressive 17 hours of daylight, offering ample opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. However, as summer wanes into July and August, daylight begins its gradual retreat, reflecting 16 and 14 hours respectively. The decline continues into the fall months, with September featuring 12 hours and October tapering to 10 hours. By November, daylight reduces further to 8 hours, and once again, December closes the year with just 7 hours, bringing us full circle back to winter's embrace. This cyclical rhythm of daylight in Durham underscores the dynamic changes of the seasons, inviting both reflection and anticipation for the return of longer days.

Average Daylight Hours in Durham for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Durham throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7h 54m9h 42m11h 54m14h 8m16h 7m17h 10m16h 36m14h 48m12h 38m10h 25m8h 25m7h 19m
Data source: Durham daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Durham

In January, Durham experiences a brisk average wind speed of 4.4 m/s (10 mph), setting the tone for winter’s chill. As the month rolls into February, the winds pick up, reaching 5.5 m/s (12 mph), which is the highest observed in the early months of the year. This increase marks a noticeable shift before the winds begin to moderate through March at 4.9 m/s (11 mph). Following this, the spring months see a significant decline, with April, May, and June all settling at a calm 3.5 m/s (8 mph), giving residents a brief reprieve from the gusts. However, July brings the lightest winds of the year at 2.8 m/s (6 mph), creating a serene summer atmosphere. As we transition to autumn, the wind speeds gradually rise again, with October and November showcasing winds of 5.2 m/s (12 mph) and 5.1 m/s (11 mph), respectively. Finally, December slides back down to 4.3 m/s (10 mph), culminating a year characterized by a gentle ebb and flow of wind that complements Durham's picturesque seasonal shifts.

Average January Wind Speed in Durham

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Durham, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.4 m/s5.54.93.53.53.52.83.63.65.25.14.3
Data source: Durham January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Durham Compares to Other Months

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

January typically presents a chilly atmosphere, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), alongside an average temperature of 5°C (41°F). The month experiences around 51 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days, while humidity hovers at a relatively high 89%.

In comparison, February is slightly colder, featuring a minimum temperature of -6°C (21°F) and a higher maximum of 17°C (63°F), though the average remains similar at 5°C (42°F). This month is wetter, receiving 76 mm (3.0 in) of precipitation over 15 days, with humidity levels just slightly reduced at 87%. For a more detailed view on February weather specifics, you can visit Durham weather in February.

In January, temperatures in Durham range from a chilly minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a milder maximum of 14°C (57°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F). The month experiences 51 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days, coupled with high humidity levels of 89%. In contrast, March brings slightly warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (24°F) to a maximum of 18°C (65°F) and an average of 7°C (44°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 64 mm (2.5 in) over about 12 days, while humidity decreases to 85%. For a more detailed look at March weather, you can refer to Durham weather in March.

In January, the weather is characterized by colder temperatures, with daily averages around 5°C (41°F) and occasional lows reaching -4°C (25°F). The month experiences 51 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over about 10 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 89%. In contrast, April brings a noticeable warming trend, with average temperatures rising to around 8°C (47°F) and highs soaring to 23°C (74°F). Precipitation decreases to 35 mm (1.4 in) occurring over just 7 days, and humidity also declines slightly to 84%. For more details on April weather specifics, you can check Durham weather in April.

In January, the weather is noticeably colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), and an average temperature of around 5°C (41°F). The month also sees higher humidity at 89% and experiences about 10 days of precipitation totaling 51 mm (2.0 in). In contrast, May offers a milder climate, with temperatures climbing from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a pleasant maximum of 24°C (76°F) and an average of 11°C (53°F). While it has slightly more precipitation at 56 mm (2.2 in) over 13 days, the humidity is lower at 83%. For more detailed information on the weather in May, you can visit Durham weather in May.

In January, the weather is notably colder, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F). The month also sees around 51 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days, along with high humidity at 89%. In contrast, June brings a more moderate climate, with minimum temperatures of 5°C (42°F) and maximums soaring to 27°C (81°F), averaging around 14°C (58°F). Though June experiences slightly more precipitation at 80 mm (3.2 in) over 11 days, the humidity remains relatively comfortable at 85%. For a detailed look at June weather, you can visit Durham weather in June.

January and July present strikingly different weather in Durham. In January, temperatures range from a chilly -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F). The month experiences high humidity at 89% and sees precipitation on about 10 days, totaling 51 mm (2.0 in). In contrast, July brings warmer conditions, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 7°C (46°F) to a pleasant maximum of 30°C (86°F), averaging 16°C (62°F). Although July has slightly more precipitation at 77 mm (3.0 in) over about 13 days, the humidity is slightly lower at 83%. For more specific details, check out the following link: Durham weather in July.

January and August in Durham present contrasting weather profiles. In January, temperatures hover between a frosty -4°C (25°F) and a mild 14°C (57°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F). The month experiences around 51 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 10 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 89%. In stark contrast, August showcases warmer temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 7°C (46°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), averaging 16°C (61°F). Precipitation increases to 80 mm (3.2 in) over 15 days, but humidity is slightly lower at 82%. For more details on the weather in August, you can visit Durham weather in August.

January and September in Durham showcase a stark contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures dip to a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and reach an average of 5°C (41°F), while September enjoys milder temperatures with a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F). Additionally, January experiences a greater chill with maximum temperatures peaking at 14°C (57°F), whereas September boasts warmer highs of up to 27°C (80°F). While both months see a fair amount of precipitation, September accumulates slightly more rainfall at 65 mm (2.6 in) over 12 days compared to January's 51 mm (2.0 in) across 10 days. Humidity levels are also comparable, with January at 89% and September at 87%. To explore more about Durham's weather specifically in September, you can visit Durham weather in September.

In January, the weather is noticeably colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), while October experiences milder conditions, with temperatures fluctuating from 1°C (34°F) to 21°C (70°F). January sees an average of 5°C (41°F) compared to October's average of 11°C (51°F). Additionally, October is wetter, with 83 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation over 14 days, compared to January’s 51 mm (2.0 in) across 10 days. Despite the difference in temperatures and precipitation levels, both months share a high humidity rate of 89%. For more detailed information, you can visit Durham weather in October.

January and November exhibit distinct weather patterns, with January generally colder than November. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F), while November sees slightly milder temperatures, with minimums of -2°C (28°F) and maximums reaching 16°C (61°F), averaging at 7°C (46°F). Precipitation is also noteworthy, as November experiences a higher total of 62 mm (2.5 in) over 14 days, compared to January’s 51 mm (2.0 in) across 10 days. Humidity remains high in both months, with January at 89% and November slightly higher at 90%. For more detailed insights, you can visit Durham weather in November.

In January, temperatures in Durham typically range from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F). The month experiences approximately 51 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over about 10 days, with humidity levels around 89%. In contrast, December sees slightly colder temperatures, with a minimum of -5°C (23°F) and a maximum of 13°C (56°F), also averaging 5°C (42°F). However, December is wetter, receiving around 71 mm (2.8 in) of precipitation across 13 days, and maintaining a humidity of 88%. For more details, you can visit Durham weather in December.

Compare Durham's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Durham

As you navigate through January in Durham, you'll experience a distinct shift in weather compared to other months. The chill in the air, with temperatures dipping down to -4°C (25°F), showcases the depth of winter, while the average temperature hovers around 5°C (41°F), making it one of the colder times of the year. This month typically sees around 51 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 10 days, contributing to the 89% humidity that often blankets the region. While milder months may offer more sunshine and less rainfall, January embraces the essence of winter, with its crisp air and occasional wet spells, inviting residents and visitors to enjoy the cozy charm of the season. For a deeper understanding of what to expect throughout the year, delve into the details at Durham Climate.