January Weather in Lancaster, United Kingdom

Last updated: March 17, 2025

January in Lancaster, United Kingdom, presents a tapestry of cool and damp weather. The maximum temperature hovers around 13°C (56°F), while the average falls to a chilly 5°C (41°F), dipping as low as -3°C (27°F) at night. With 92 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation spread over 13 days, residents experience a notably wet month, accompanied by an humidity level of 89% that can make the air feel even colder. Embrace the cozy indoor activities, as this month sets the stage for winter's embrace in Lancaster!

January Temperature in Lancaster

In Lancaster, January unfolds under a chill, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -3°C (27°F) and peaking at a maximum of 13°C (56°F). This month serves as a precursor to the gradual warming trend that characterizes the early part of the year, where the average temperature hovers around 5°C (41°F). As we transition into February, the cold persists slightly, with a minimum plunging to -4°C (25°F), but the average inches up to 6°C (42°F), hinting at the promise of spring. This pattern continues into March and April, where the temperatures gradually rise, and milder days start to break through the winter chill. Overall, January stands out as a cold but pivotal month, setting the stage for the warmth of late spring and summer that follows.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Lancaster, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec414244475258616057524643
Data source: Temperature data for Lancaster 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 Lancaster

In Lancaster, January ushers in a fair amount of rain, accumulating around 92 mm (3.6 in) over approximately 13 days. This sets the stage for what is often one of the wetter months of the year, as precipitation begins to ramp up noticeably. Following January, February sees a sharp increase in rainfall, with totals reaching 135 mm (5.3 in) across 17 days, highlighting a distinct trend of escalating precipitation that continues into the spring months. Despite the sogginess, January’s relatively moderate totals signal the transition towards the wetter late winter and spring seasons, where Lancaster experiences its peak rainfall, particularly in the warmer months of July and August.

January Precipitation Trends in Lancaster

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Lancaster, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec921351245165109109153127161119140
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Lancaster

In January, Lancaster experiences a high humidity level of 89%, setting the stage for a typically damp winter month. As the year progresses into February, humidity drops slightly to 88%, hinting at a subtle shift, but it remains consistently high through the spring. By March and April, levels decrease further to 86% and 84%, respectively, as the city begins to emerge from the winter months. This trend continues into the warmer months of May and June, where humidity falls to 79% and 81%, presenting a more comfortable atmosphere. However, as summer gives way to autumn, humidity rises again, peaking at 91% in November before settling back to 89% in December. This cyclical pattern highlights Lancaster's maritime climate, characterized by consistently high humidity, particularly in the colder months.

January Average Humidity in Lancaster

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Lancaster, 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%85%79%81%78%79%85%90%91%89%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Lancaster

In January, Lancaster experiences a low UV Index of 1, indicating minimal sun exposure risk for residents and visitors alike. With a burn time of 45 minutes, it's a great opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities safely. As the months progress into February, the UV Index slightly increases to 2, but the exposure remains low, keeping burn times consistent at 45 minutes. By March, however, the UV Index rises to 3, marking the beginning of a moderate exposure category where burn times decrease to 30 minutes. This upward trend continues into spring, peaking in the summer months, particularly in June and July, when the UV Index reaches a significant 8—warning us of very high exposure risk with burn times reduced to just 15 minutes. Observing these trends is essential for planning sun-safe outdoor activities throughout the year. For more details on UV exposure throughout the seasons, visit Lancaster UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Lancaster for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Lancaster 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec123578875321
Data source: Lancaster 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 Lancaster

In January, Lancaster experiences a modest 84 hours of sunshine, a stark contrast to the vibrant light of the following months. As winter gives way to spring, the sunshine steadily increases, with February seeing 152 hours and March enjoying 219 hours. This upward trend continues robustly into April and May, where 338 and 409 hours respectively paint a picture of blossoming warmth. Summer peaks in July with an impressive 416 hours, providing the city its sunniest month. However, as the year progresses into August and September, sunshine begins to wane to 373 and 302 hours, signaling the arrival of autumn. By October, the daylight dims further to 236 hours, and the dwindling sun continues into November and December with only 120 and 100 hours. This seasonal ebb and flow of sunlight in Lancaster creates a vivid rhythm, inviting residents to revel in the brighter months while preparing for the cozy embrace of winter.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Lancaster: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Lancaster 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec84h152h219h338h409h386h416h373h302h236h120h100h
Data source: Lancaster January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Lancaster During January

In Lancaster, January tends to be a rather gloomy month, with a modest 21% chance of sunny weather. This likelihood is slightly lower than that of March and even October, suggesting that winter still holds a tight grip as the year begins. As the seasons progress, the sun becomes increasingly elusive until April, when sunny days surge to 51%, signifying a welcome transition into spring. Interestingly, February shows a slight uptick to 26%, hinting that winter might be starting to loosen its hold, but it remains significantly below the sunnier months ahead. Overall, January sets the stage for longer days and brighter skies, with the promise of better weather just a few months away.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Lancaster

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Lancaster 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 Lancaster experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec21%26%23%51%32%24%34%25%21%16%26%15%
Data source: Lancaster January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Lancaster in January

In Lancaster, United Kingdom, the transition through the winter months reveals a gradual increase in daylight hours that energizes the atmosphere. In January, residents experience just 8 hours of daylight, a stark reminder of winter's grasp. However, as February rolls in, a welcome shift to 9 hours begins to lift spirits. The arrival of March brings a noticeable jump to 11 hours, setting the stage for spring. By April, daylight extends to 14 hours, encouraging outdoor activities and exploration. This upward trend peaks in June with 17 hours of radiant sunlight, allowing for long, vibrant days. As summer fades, August still boasts 14 hours, before gradually retreating to 10 hours in October and further down to 8 hours by November. Ultimately, Lancaster's daylight duration reflects a rhythmic ebb and flow, highlighting the beauty of each season's transition.

Average Daylight Hours in Lancaster for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Lancaster throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h9h 46m11h 54m14h 5m16h 1m17h 2m16h 29m14h 45m12h 38m10h 28m8h 30m7h 26m
Data source: Lancaster daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Lancaster

In Lancaster during January, the wind picks up with an average speed of 4.4 m/s (10 mph), setting a brisk tone for the new year. This movement in the air is a prelude to February's gusty manifestation, where wind speeds increase to 5.5 m/s (12 mph), marking the highest for the early months. As winter transitions to spring, March sees a slight dip, with winds calming to 4.8 m/s (11 mph), before a further reduction in April and June where the average drops to 3.2 m/s (7 mph). The pleasant periods of May and August offer gentle breezes at 3.8 m/s (8 mph) and 3.5 m/s (8 mph) respectively, giving way to the calm of summer. As autumn takes hold, winds pick up again in October at 5.3 m/s (12 mph), creating a dance with fallen leaves, before settling back down to 4.9 m/s (11 mph) in November and 4.7 m/s (10 mph) in December. This annual rhythm of winds illustrates Lancaster's shifting seasons, oscillating between breezy chills and gentle whispers throughout the year.

Average January Wind Speed in Lancaster

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Lancaster, 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/s5.54.83.23.83.22.73.53.65.34.94.7
Data source: Lancaster January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Lancaster Compares to Other Months

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

In January, the weather features a minimum temperature of -3°C (27°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F), with a maximum of 13°C (56°F). The month sees 92 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 13 days, coupled with high humidity at 89%. In contrast, February experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and an average of 6°C (42°F), reaching up to 17°C (63°F) at its peak. Notably, February is wetter, with 135 mm (5.3 in) of precipitation over 17 days and a similar humidity level of 88%. For more details, check out Lancaster weather in February.

January and March showcase a gradual transition in weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 92 mm (3.6 in) over 13 days, combined with high humidity levels at 89%. In contrast, March brings slightly cooler temperatures with a minimum of -5°C (24°F) and a higher maximum of 17°C (63°F), resulting in an average of 6°C (44°F). Precipitation increases to 124 mm (4.9 in) across 17 days, while humidity decreases marginally to 86%. For more detailed insights on March weather, you can check this link: Lancaster weather in March.

In January, the weather is much colder, with average temperatures hovering around 5°C (41°F) and lows dipping to -3°C (27°F). The month also experiences significant precipitation, with around 92 mm (3.6 in) falling over 13 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 89%. In contrast, April ushers in milder conditions, featuring an average temperature of 8°C (47°F) and highs reaching up to 21°C (70°F). Precipitation decreases to 51 mm (2.0 in) over just 9 days, and humidity is slightly lower at 84%. This shift in weather makes April feel considerably more pleasant than the frigid January depths. For more details, check out Lancaster weather in April.

January and May present a stark contrast in weather patterns. In January, temperatures can drop to as low as -3°C (27°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F) and a maximum reaching 13°C (56°F). The month is also quite damp, receiving 92 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 13 days and featuring high humidity at 89%. In contrast, May brings much milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a pleasant average of 11°C (53°F) and a high of 25°C (78°F). The precipitation decreases to 65 mm (2.6 in) over just 12 days, and the humidity lowers to a more comfortable 79%. For more details on specific weather conditions in May, you can explore Lancaster weather in May.

January and June present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can dip to a chilly minimum of -3°C (27°F), with an average hovering around 5°C (41°F) and a maximum reaching 13°C (56°F). The month sees considerable precipitation, totaling 92 mm (3.6 in) over 13 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 89%. In contrast, June offers a more temperate climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (44°F) to a comfortable maximum of 27°C (81°F), averaging 15°C (59°F). Although June experiences slightly more precipitation at 109 mm (4.3 in) over 16 days, the humidity is lower at 81%, making the weather feel more pleasant. For more specific details, you can explore Lancaster weather in June.

In January, the weather is quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F), and the average temperature sitting at around 5°C (41°F). This month also experiences high humidity at 89% and receives about 92 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 13 days. In contrast, July brings much warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a balmy maximum of 30°C (86°F) and an average temperature of 16°C (61°F). Although it is relatively warm, July sees slightly more precipitation, with 109 mm (4.3 in) over 15 days, and the humidity drops to a more comfortable 78%. For those specifically interested in details about summer weather, you can find more information here: Lancaster weather in July.

January and August present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures range from a chilly -3°C (27°F) at night to a moderately cool 13°C (56°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 5°C (41°F). The month sees a significant amount of precipitation, totaling 92 mm (3.6 in) over approximately 13 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 89%. In contrast, August boasts a much warmer climate, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F), averaging 16°C (61°F). Rainfall increases to 153 mm (6.0 in) occurring over 20 days, while humidity drops to a more comfortable 79%. For a detailed look at the specifics of August weather, visit Lancaster weather in August.

In January, the weather is much colder with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F). The month also sees significant precipitation, averaging 92 mm (3.6 in) over about 13 days, with high humidity at 89%. In contrast, September experiences milder weather, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 4°C (39°F), rising to an average of 14°C (57°F), and peaking at 26°C (80°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 127 mm (5.0 in) over 16 days, accompanied by slightly lower humidity at 85%. For more detailed information, check out Lancaster weather in September.

In comparing the weather between January and October, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. January experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -3°C (27°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F), while October enjoys milder conditions, with minimums around -1°C (31°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F). Moreover, October tends to be wetter, receiving 161 mm (6.4 in) of precipitation over 20 days, compared to January's 92 mm (3.6 in) over 13 days. Both months exhibit high humidity, but October's atmosphere is slightly drier at 90%, in contrast to January's 89%. For more details, you can check this link: Lancaster weather in October.

In January, temperatures typically range from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F). The month sees about 92 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 13 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 89%. In contrast, November experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (26°F) and a maximum of 15°C (60°F), averaging at 8°C (47°F). This month is wetter, with 119 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation over 19 days and a humidity level of 91%. For more details on November weather, you can visit Lancaster weather in November.

In comparing January and December weather, January tends to be slightly milder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F), while December experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -5°C (24°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F). Precipitation levels are significantly higher in December, totaling 140 mm (5.5 in) over 18 days, compared to 92 mm (3.6 in) over 13 days in January. Both months share similar humidity levels at 89%, but December's increased rain can make it feel damp. For more detailed information on December's climate, check out Lancaster weather in December.

Compare Lancaster's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Lancaster

As January settles over Lancaster, the weather presents a distinct transition from the milder months that precede it. With chillier temperatures and elevated humidity levels, this month often feels more pronounced in its cold than those that follow. Rainfall is not uncommon, with an increase in wet days that can leave the landscape glistening but also underscores a shift toward the dampness of winter. The combination of these elements creates a cozy yet brisk atmosphere, perfect for embracing indoor activities or enjoying a brisk walk through the picturesque surroundings. For a broader perspective on how January compares to other months, explore more at Lancaster Climate.