January Weather in Oxford, United Kingdom

Last updated: March 17, 2025

In January, Oxford, United Kingdom, experiences a chilly climate characterized by a maximum temperature of 14°C (58°F), an average of 5°C (41°F), and a minimum dipping to -4°C (26°F). With 51 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation spread over 9 days, the month is marked by a notably humid atmosphere, maintaining an average humidity level of 91%. Whether you're traversing the historic streets or enjoying the local culture, be prepared for a blend of crisp air and occasional rain as you explore this iconic city in winter.

January Temperature in Oxford

In January, Oxford experiences its coldest temperatures of the year, with average lows dipping to -4°C (26°F), while the highs can reach up to 14°C (58°F). This month marks a distinct chill, typically characterized by frosty mornings and cool afternoons, inviting residents and visitors alike to bundle up in warm layers. As winter progresses into February, temperatures drop slightly lower, revealing a trend of colder evenings, but a modest climb in average daytime warmth. Throughout the winter months, these variations set the stage for an early spring, as March begins to show increasing averages, hinting at more temperate days ahead. Observing the gradual transition from the colder depths of January to the milder embrace of subsequent months highlights the dynamic and evolving climate of Oxford, making each season a unique experience.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Oxford, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec404245485461646358524643
Data source: Temperature data for Oxford 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 Oxford

In January, Oxford experiences a moderate start to the year, with precipitation totaling 51 mm (2.0 in) over 9 rainy days. This sets the tone for a winter month that's consistent with the subsequent February, which sees the same rainfall level but increases slightly to 11 days of wet weather. As the season transitions into spring, precipitation begins to rise, peaking in June at 74 mm (2.9 in) spread across 12 days. Interestingly, the variation in rainfall highlights a trend of increased wet days leading up to autumn, with October notably experiencing 95 mm (3.7 in) over 13 days, showcasing the shift towards the wetter, darker months. Overall, while January offers relatively balanced rainfall, the gradual uptick in precipitation days hints at the impending dampness characteristic of Oxford's climate.

January Precipitation Trends in Oxford

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Oxford, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec515160386674647153955783
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Oxford

In January, Oxford experiences a high humidity level of 91%, setting the tone for a damp start to the year. This trend continues into February with a slight decrease to 89%, but a noticeable increase follows as the months advance toward winter's end. By March and April, humidity levels gradually decrease to 86% and 85% respectively, hinting at the arrival of spring. However, the transition is subtle, as the city remains moist through May at 79%. The summer months bring a reprieve, with July peaking at 71%, the lowest percentage of the year. Yet, as the seasons change, humidity revisits with August at 76% and increases again towards autumn, reaching 82% in September and rising to 90% by October. Ultimately, the year closes with a return to high humidity levels in November and December, both at 92%, reflecting Oxford’s characteristic soggy climate that lingers long into the festive season.

January Average Humidity in Oxford

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Oxford, 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%79%81%71%76%82%91%92%92%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Oxford

In January, Oxford experiences a low UV Index of 1, indicating minimal risk for sunburn, with a burn time of approximately 45 minutes. As winter gives way to spring, February continues this trend with a UV Index of 2, still categorized as low. However, come March, the index rises to 4, marking a shift to moderate exposure, where the burn time decreases to 30 minutes. This upward trend continues into the sunnier months, peaking in June and July with a significantly higher UV Index of 8, categorized as very high, where protective measures become crucial with a burn time of just 15 minutes. As summer fades into autumn, the index tapers off—August and September see high levels at 7 and 6, respectively, before returning to low readings of 2 in November and 1 in December. This seasonal variation underscores the importance of sun protection as the UV Index fluctuates throughout the year. For more detailed information, visit Oxford UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Oxford for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Oxford 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec124678876421
Data source: Oxford 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 Oxford

January in Oxford is characterized by a modest 98 hours of sunshine, setting a tone of introspection as the new year begins. As winter slowly recedes, February offers a notable increase to 146 hours, hinting at the awakening of spring. The sunshine continues to flourish in March with 203 hours, as daylight stretches and the city comes alive with budding blooms. By April, the trend accelerates further, soaring to 313 hours, celebrating the heart of spring. May reaches a peak of 388 hours, providing sun-filled days that invite outdoor explorations. The joy of long summer days continues into June and July, with 377 and 397 hours respectively, establishing a vibrant backdrop for social gatherings and picnics. As summer wanes, August retains a strong 359 hours, before a gentle decline begins in September with 293 hours. The fall transition brings 237 hours in October, followed by the dwindling light of November and December, with 144 and 111 hours respectively. Overall, Oxford's sunshine follows a beautiful arc through the seasons, reminding residents and visitors alike of the vibrant life that flourishes under the sun.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Oxford: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Oxford 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec98h146h203h313h388h377h397h359h293h237h144h111h
Data source: Oxford January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Oxford During January

In January, the likelihood of experiencing sunny weather in Oxford, United Kingdom, stands at a modest 21%. This percentage reveals a trend of increasing sun chances as the year progresses; notably, February sees a slight uptick to 24%, and March continues this trajectory with 26%. By April, the sun's presence becomes significantly more reliable at 50%, suggesting that the arrival of spring brings more favorable weather conditions. The subsequent months display varying cloudiness, with May at 31% and July peaking at 36%, before dipping into the cooler, cloudier months of autumn. Overall, January's relatively low likelihood of sunny weather hints at the typical overcast skies often associated with winter in this historic city.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Oxford

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Oxford 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 Oxford experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec21%24%26%50%31%25%36%22%27%24%31%16%
Data source: Oxford January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Oxford in January

In January, Oxford experiences approximately 8 hours of daylight, marking the beginning of a gradual transition as the days begin to lengthen. This upward trend continues into February with 9 hours, paving the way for a remarkable increase through March, which enjoys 11 hours of sunlight. As spring approaches, daylight peaks dramatically in April with 13 hours, and blossoms fully by May, offering an impressive 15 hours. The longest days occur in June and July, each providing 16 hours, basking the city in abundant sunlight. However, as summer wanes, daylight gradually recedes, tapering off to 14 hours in August and declining further to 12 hours in September. The cycle continues into October and November, where daylight diminishes to 10 hours and 8 hours, respectively, before dropping to its lowest point in December with only 7 hours. This rhythmic pattern not only highlights the seasonal shifts but also enhances the vibrant character of Oxford throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Oxford for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Oxford throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 22m9h 57m11h 55m13h 54m15h 39m16h 34m16h 4m14h 30m12h 35m10h 36m8h 49m7h 52m
Data source: Oxford daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Oxford

In January, the winds in Oxford, United Kingdom, dance gently at an average speed of 4.4 m/s (10 mph), setting a cool yet invigorating tone for the start of the year. As the month progresses into February, the gusts pick up slightly, reaching 5.1 m/s (11 mph), which hints at the shifting energies of early spring. However, by March, the winds settle back to a more moderate 4.5 m/s (10 mph), maintaining a consistent feel that persists into April with a calming drop to 3.4 m/s (8 mph). As the seasons transition, the winds generally remain mild through the warmer months, peaking again in October and December at 4.6 m/s (10 mph), illustrating a rhythmic cycle—as if the winter months serenade the arrival of spring and carry us into the warmth of summer, only to return gently to the familiar breeze as the year concludes.

Average January Wind Speed in Oxford

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Oxford, 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/s5.14.53.44.23.33.23.83.54.64.04.6
Data source: Oxford January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Oxford Compares to Other Months

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

In January, temperatures in Oxford range from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F). The month experiences around 51 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 9 days, accompanied by high humidity at 91%. Conversely, February sees a slight drop in nighttime temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (22°F) but an increase in daytime highs, reaching up to 18°C (65°F) and averaging 6°C (43°F). The precipitation remains the same at 51 mm (2.0 in), but it occurs over a slightly longer period of 11 days, with humidity slightly lower at 89%. For more detailed information regarding February weather, you can refer to Oxford weather in February.

In January, the weather tends to be colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F). The month experiences about 51 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over nine days, along with high humidity levels at 91%. In contrast, March sees a slight increase in temperatures, with minimums of -6°C (22°F), averages of 7°C (45°F), and maximums reaching up to 21°C (71°F). Precipitation also rises to 60 mm (2.4 in) spread over 13 days, while humidity decreases to 86%. For further details, you can check Oxford weather in March.

January and April exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. January, characterized by colder temperatures, sees averages around 5°C (41°F) with a minimum of -4°C (26°F) and a maximum of 14°C (58°F). It also experiences higher humidity at 91% and slightly more precipitation, totaling 51 mm (2.0 in) over about 9 days. In contrast, April brings milder conditions, with average temperatures rising to 9°C (49°F) and a maximum reaching 26°C (79°F). The precipitation in April is less, totaling 38 mm (1.5 in) over 8 days, and humidity decreases slightly to 85%. For more insights into April's climate, visit Oxford weather in April.

In January, the weather is quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), averaging 5°C (41°F). With a high humidity of 91%, rain is expected on about 9 days, leading to a total precipitation of 51 mm (2.0 in). In contrast, May brings a significant warming trend, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 26°C (78°F), averaging 12°C (54°F). Although it is still somewhat humid at 79%, May experiences slightly more precipitation, totaling 66 mm (2.6 in) over approximately 11 days. For more details on May weather, you can visit Oxford weather in May.

In January, the weather is notably cold, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F) and an average around 5°C (41°F). The month experiences considerable humidity at 91% along with 51 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over about 9 days. In contrast, June brings much warmer conditions, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 6°C (43°F) to a scorching maximum of 31°C (87°F), averaging around 16°C (61°F). While June has slightly more precipitation at 74 mm (2.9 in) over 12 days, the humidity is lower at 80%. For more information, you can check out Oxford weather in June.

In January, the weather in Oxford is characterized by cold temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (26°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F), while reaching a maximum of only 14°C (58°F). The month sees an average of 51 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 9 days and high humidity at 91%. In stark contrast, July brings warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F), an average of 18°C (65°F), and a maximum that can soar to 35°C (96°F). Although July experiences slightly more precipitation at 64 mm (2.5 in) across 12 days, the humidity drops to a more comfortable 71%. For a closer look at July's weather, you can visit Oxford weather in July.

January and August present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures can drop as low as -4°C (26°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F) and a maximum of 14°C (58°F). The month sees a significant amount of precipitation, totaling 51 mm (2.0 in) over approximately 9 days, accompanied by high humidity at 91%. In contrast, August brings milder temperatures, starting at a minimum of 7°C (46°F) and soaring up to 33°C (92°F) during the hottest days, with an average of 17°C (63°F). While August also experiences some rainfall, totaling 71 mm (2.8 in) over about 12 days, the humidity drops to a more comfortable 76%. For more detailed insights on August weather, you can visit Oxford weather in August.

In January, the weather is considerably colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), accompanied by high humidity at 91%. The month sees around 51 mm (2.0 inches) of precipitation over nine days, contributing to a chilly and often damp atmosphere. In contrast, September ushers in milder temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (37°F) and a maximum of 29°C (84°F), resulting in a comfortable average of 15°C (59°F). The precipitation is slightly higher at 53 mm (2.1 inches) over the same number of days, but the humidity is lower at 82%, creating a more pleasant early autumn experience. For more detailed insights on September weather, check out Oxford weather in September.

When comparing the weather in January and October, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation. In January, temperatures range from a chilly -4°C (26°F) to a mild 14°C (58°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F), while October sees a more moderate temperature range of 0°C (32°F) to 23°C (73°F) with an average of 11°C (53°F). While January experiences about 51 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over approximately 9 days, October has a higher total of 95 mm (3.7 in) spread across about 13 days. Both months boast high humidity levels, with January at 91% and October slightly lower at 90%. For more specific details about October weather, you can visit Oxford weather in October.

In January, temperatures range from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F), while November enjoys slightly milder temperatures, with lows of -2°C (28°F) and highs reaching 16°C (62°F), averaging around 8°C (46°F). Both months experience considerable precipitation, with January receiving 51 mm (2.0 in) over 9 days and November slightly wetter at 57 mm (2.2 in) across 12 days. Humidity remains high in both months, with January at 91% and November just a notch higher at 92%. For a more detailed look at November weather in Oxford, visit Oxford weather in November.

In January, the weather is slightly milder than in December, with average temperatures ranging from -4°C (26°F) to 14°C (58°F), compared to December's min of -5°C (24°F) and a similar max of 14°C (58°F). While both months see a maximum temperature of 14°C, December tends to be wetter, with 83 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation over 15 days, compared to January's 51 mm (2.0 in) spread over 9 days. Humidity levels are quite comparable, with January at 91% and December slightly higher at 92%. For a more detailed look at December's weather, you can visit Oxford weather in December.

Compare Oxford's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Oxford

January in Oxford brings a notable chill compared to other months, characterized by its low average temperatures and frequent precipitation. With the mercury often dipping near freezing, this month stands out as one of the coldest of the year. The combination of high humidity and a modest daily rain presence creates a damp atmosphere, making January feel particularly brisk. This wintry backdrop invites locals and visitors alike to embrace indoor pursuits while also enjoying the city's charm under a blanket of layered clothing. For a deeper dive into the nuances of weather patterns in Oxford, check out Oxford Climate.