January Weather in Folkestone, United Kingdom

Last updated: March 17, 2025

In January, Folkestone experiences a chilly maritime climate characterized by an average temperature of 7°C (44°F), with maximums reaching 13°C (55°F) and plunging to a minimum of -1°C (31°F). This month sees 90 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation spread over 13 days, contributing to a notably high humidity level of 91%. Visitors can expect a damp atmosphere, ideal for cozy indoor pursuits, while occasional brisk walks along the coastline offer refreshing moments amidst the winter scenery.

January Temperature in Folkestone

In Folkestone, January marks the heart of winter, with temperatures reaching a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and averaging around 7°C (44°F). As the month progresses, the coastal town experiences a mild streak, with daytime highs peaking at 13°C (55°F). This chilly month sets the stage for February’s comparable temperatures, slightly dropping to -2°C (29°F) at night, but maintaining the same average of 7°C (45°F). Moving into March, a gradual warming trend is noticeable as the average climbs to 8°C (46°F), hinting at the approaching spring with maximum highs hitting 16°C (62°F). This progression of temperatures reflects a nuanced seasonal transition, where the chilly winter gradually gives way to the more temperate spring climate, making Folkestone a charming destination during this time of year.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Folkestone, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec444546485359636462575147
Data source: Temperature data for Folkestone 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 Folkestone

In January, Folkestone experiences a notable 90 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation, making it one of the wetter months of the year. Rain graces the area for about 13 days, setting the tone for the winter season. Interestingly, this amount is closely mirrored by February, which sees slightly less precipitation at 89 mm, although it stretches for 15 days, suggesting more frequent but lighter showers. As the winter months give way to early spring, March brings a drop to 71 mm (2.8 in) over roughly the same number of days. This trend of gradual decline continues into the spring months, with April experiencing just 27 mm (1.1 in) and only 6 days of rain. Overall, January encapsulates the heavier, more frequent rain typical of winter, before transitioning to a drier and sunnier climate in the months ahead.

January Precipitation Trends in Folkestone

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Folkestone, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec908971275856517164133112150
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Folkestone

In January, Folkestone experiences its highest humidity of the year at an impressive 91%, setting a damp tone for the month. As winter progresses into February, humidity slightly decreases to 89%, but the air remains noticeably moist. This trend continues into early spring, with March and April seeing humidity levels drop gradually to 86% and 85%, respectively. By May, the humidity eases further to 82%, heralding the arrival of summer. The warmer months of June and July bring a refreshing shift, with humidity falling to 81% and 76%, making for more comfortable conditions. However, as autumn approaches, the moisture levels rebound, with September nudging up to 80% and October climbing back to 89%. November and December close the year with high humidity, both reaching 92%, reflecting the cyclical nature of Folkestone's climate and reminding us of the region's distinctive coastal influence.

January Average Humidity in Folkestone

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Folkestone, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec91%89%86%85%82%81%76%73%80%89%92%92%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Folkestone

In Folkestone, United Kingdom, January brings a UV Index of 1, indicating low exposure risk and allowing for a generous burn time of 45 minutes under the winter sun. As the months progress into February, the UV Index nudges slightly higher to 2, maintaining that low exposure category. However, a notable shift occurs in March when the index rises to 4, marking the beginning of moderate exposure; here, the burn time decreases to 30 minutes. This trend continues in April, reaching an index of 5. By May, the UV Index escalates to 7, signaling a high exposure category and a further reduction in burn time to just 25 minutes. The peak summer months of June and July push the index to 8, categorized as very high, with an urgent burn time of only 15 minutes. As summer wanes into autumn, the UV Index gradually declines, returning to moderate and low exposure levels by September to December, with burn times extending back to 30-45 minutes. For more detailed insights on how UV levels vary throughout the year, visit Folkestone UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Folkestone for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Folkestone 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: Folkestone 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 Folkestone

In Folkestone, United Kingdom, January marks the beginning of the year with a modest 95 hours of sunshine, setting a tranquil tone for winter. As the months progress, the sun begins to make a more pronounced appearance, with February providing a noticeable uptick to 157 hours. The transformation really gains momentum in March, where sunshine hours soar to 234, heralding the arrival of spring. April and May continue this upward trend, peaking at 414 hours in May as the days grow longer and warmer. The summer months are radiant, with June reaching 416 hours and July peaking at 422 hours, making it the sunniest month of the year. However, as the seasons transition back to autumn, sunshine begins to wane, dropping to 326 hours in September and further declining to 117 hours by December. Overall, the sunshine hours in Folkestone illustrate a clear seasonal rhythm, characterized by a delightful crescendo in brightness during the spring and summer, followed by a gentle descent into the cozy embrace of winter.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Folkestone: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Folkestone 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec95h157h234h351h414h416h422h398h326h248h163h117h
Data source: Folkestone January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Folkestone During January

In January, Folkestone experiences a modest 19% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the cloudier months of the year. As winter progresses into February, this likelihood slightly increases to 26%, hinting at a gradual transition towards brighter days. However, the real shift occurs in the spring months, with March seeing a significant rise to 39% sunshine, accompanied by the vibrant blooms of April when the chance of sun peaks at 52%. This upward trend continues into May and begins to stabilize through the summer, indicating that while January may feel gloomy, the promise of sunnier skies is just around the corner.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Folkestone

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Folkestone 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 Folkestone experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec19%26%39%52%39%33%42%40%40%30%28%19%
Data source: Folkestone January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Folkestone in January

In Folkestone, United Kingdom, January ushers in 8 hours of daylight, setting the stage for a gradual lengthening of days as the year progresses. As February arrives, this daylight extends to 10 hours, hinting at the approaching spring. By March, the sun graces the sky for 11 hours, creating a noticeable shift in the atmosphere. April brings even more light at 13 hours, igniting hopes for brighter days ahead. As we move into May, daylight peaks at an impressive 15 hours, before reaching its zenith in June with 16 hours of sunshine, the longest of the year. This abundance gradually diminishes during July and August, where daylight is still generous at 15 and 14 hours, respectively. By September, the sun retreats slightly to 12 hours, followed by a swift decline as October provides 10 hours and November dwindles to 8 hours. Finally, December closes the year with a mere 7 hours of daylight, completing the cycle of light that characterizes the ever-changing seasons in Folkestone.

Average Daylight Hours in Folkestone for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Folkestone throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 27m10h11h 55m13h 52m15h 34m16h 28m15h 59m14h 27m12h 34m10h 38m8h 53m7h 57m
Data source: Folkestone daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Folkestone

In Folkestone, January greets residents with an average wind speed of 7.2 m/s (16 mph), setting the tone for a brisk winter month. While February sees a slight uptick to 7.8 m/s, the trend shifts in the spring with March experiencing a dip to 6.8 m/s. As the season progresses, wind speeds continue to gently decline, reaching their annual low of 4.6 m/s (10 mph) in June. However, a gradual recovery begins in July, and by autumn, wind speeds climb to a notable 7.7 m/s in October. December echoes January's briskness with 7.6 m/s, indicating that while winter may bring calmer seas, the winds of Folkestone remain a robust presence throughout the year, creating a dynamic coastal experience.

Average January Wind Speed in Folkestone

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Folkestone, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7.2 m/s7.86.86.26.54.65.46.45.67.76.57.6
Data source: Folkestone January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Folkestone Compares to Other Months

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

January and February experience similar weather patterns, with both months averaging around 7°C (44°F). January tends to be slightly milder, with maximum temperatures reaching 13°C (55°F), while February sees a slight dip, peaking at 12°C (54°F). Precipitation levels are also comparable, with January receiving 90 mm (3.5 in) over 13 days and February just slightly less at 89 mm (3.5 in) across 15 days. Humidity levels are high in both months, but January has a slightly higher average at 91%, compared to February's 89%. For more specifics on February's conditions, you can check Folkestone weather in February.

In January, temperatures in Folkestone range from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a maximum of 13°C (55°F), with an average temperature of 7°C (44°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 90 mm (3.5 in) over 13 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 91%. In contrast, March brings slightly milder weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (29°F) to a maximum of 16°C (62°F) and an average of 8°C (46°F). Precipitation decreases to 71 mm (2.8 in) over the same number of days, and humidity levels are a bit lower at 86%. For more detailed information on March weather, you can visit Folkestone weather in March.

January and April exhibit noticeable differences in weather patterns. In January, temperatures typically range from a chilly -1°C (31°F) to a mild 13°C (55°F), with an average temperature of 7°C (44°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, averaging 90 mm (3.5 in) over 13 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 91%. In contrast, April brings a more moderate climate, with temperatures increasing to a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and a maximum of 17°C (63°F), averaging 9°C (49°F). Precipitation is considerably less, totaling 27 mm (1.1 in) over just 6 days, and humidity decreases slightly to 85%. For more details, check out Folkestone weather in April.

In January, the weather is quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a maximum of 13°C (55°F) and an average of 7°C (44°F). This month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 90 mm (3.5 in) over about 13 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 91%.

Contrastingly, May brings much warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (43°F) to a pleasant maximum of 21°C (70°F), averaging 12°C (54°F). Precipitation decreases to 58 mm (2.3 in) over about 10 days, and humidity levels also drop to 82%. The transition from January to May highlights a significant shift toward milder and drier weather, making May a more favorable time for outdoor activities. For more information, you can check Folkestone weather in May.

In January, the weather is quite chilly, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a maximum of 13°C (55°F). The month tends to be damp, accumulating around 90 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation over 13 days, and the humidity is high at 91%. In contrast, June brings a significant shift with milder temperatures, where the minimum is 10°C (51°F) and the maximum reaches 22°C (72°F), along with a lower average of 15°C (59°F). Precipitation in June is also reduced to 56 mm (2.2 in) over just 8 days, and humidity decreases to 81%. For more details on June weather, you can check out Folkestone weather in June.

January weather is quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a low of -1°C (31°F) to a daytime high of 13°C (55°F), and an average of 7°C (44°F). The month is also marked by high humidity at 91% and considerable precipitation, with rain expected on around 13 days, totaling 90 mm (3.5 inches). In contrast, July offers a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures starting at 13°C (56°F) and rising to an average of 17°C (63°F) and a peak of 28°C (82°F). Precipitation is less frequent in July, occurring over 9 days and accumulating only 51 mm (2.0 inches), paired with a lower humidity of 76%. For more detailed weather information specific to July, check out Folkestone weather in July.

The weather in January is notably colder than in August, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -1°C (31°F) to a mild 13°C (55°F). In contrast, August experiences much warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures of 12°C (53°F) and maximums up to 26°C (78°F). January also sees higher precipitation levels, averaging 90 mm (3.5 in) over 13 days, compared to August's 70 mm (2.8 in) over just 10 days, and the humidity is significantly higher in January at 91%, dropping to a more comfortable 73% in August. For more details on the summer weather, check out Folkestone weather in August.

January and September display striking differences in weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a chilly -1°C (31°F) at night to a mild 13°C (55°F) during the day, accompanied by significant precipitation of 90 mm (3.5 in) over 13 days, and a high humidity level of 91%. In contrast, September enjoys a warmer climate, with temperatures creeping up to a comfortable average of 17°C (62°F), peaking at 22°C (71°F) and only experiencing 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain over 10 days, while humidity levels drop to 80%. For a closer look at what to expect, check out Folkestone weather in September.

In January, the weather in Folkestone is generally cold, with minimum temperatures dipping to -1°C (31°F) and an average temperature of around 7°C (44°F). Precipitation is also quite high, with about 90 mm (3.5 in) falling over 13 days, and humidity levels are at a notable 91%.

In contrast, October brings milder temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and an average high reaching 14°C (58°F). Rainfall increases to 133 mm (5.2 in) over 17 days, although humidity remains relatively consistent at 89%. The transition from January to October showcases a significant warming trend and a shift in weather patterns. For more detailed information, you can check Folkestone weather in October.

January generally experiences colder temperatures compared to November, with minimums dipping to -1°C (31°F) and an average of 7°C (44°F), while November sees slightly milder conditions with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and an average of 10°C (51°F). In terms of precipitation, January has 90 mm (3.5 in) over 13 days, whereas November typically sees more rain, accumulating 112 mm (4.4 in) over 17 days. Humidity levels are quite similar, standing at 91% in January and slightly higher at 92% in November. For more details on November weather, check out Folkestone weather in November.

In comparing the weather between January and December, we see some notable differences. January typically features cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and an average of 7°C (44°F), while December remains slightly milder, with a minimum of 2°C (35°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F). Precipitation levels also vary, as January averages 90 mm (3.5 in) over 13 days, compared to December's higher total of 150 mm (5.9 in) across 19 days. The humidity remains quite consistent, with January at 91% and December slightly higher at 92%. For those interested in further specifics about December's weather, please refer to Folkestone weather in December.

Compare Folkestone's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Folkestone

As January settles in, Folkestone experiences a notable chill, setting it apart from the milder months of the year. The average temperature dips significantly, requiring residents and visitors to bundle up against the cold. With increased precipitation and approximately half the month marked by rain, January stands out as one of the wetter times, contributing to its high humidity levels. This brisk and damp weather creates a cozy atmosphere, perfect for enjoying local indoor attractions. To learn more about the broader climate patterns throughout the year, visit our comprehensive guide on Folkestone Climate.