January Weather in Reading, United Kingdom

Last updated: March 17, 2025

January in Reading, United Kingdom, showcases a chilly yet invigorating climate. With maximum temperatures reaching up to 14°C (58°F) and average temperatures hovering around 5°C (41°F), the month can be quite variable. The minimum temperatures can dip to a crisp -4°C (25°F), making warm clothing essential for outdoor activities. Rainfall is also a notable feature, with 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation spread across 9 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 91%. This mix of cool temperatures and wet weather paints a typical winter picture, inviting residents and visitors to embrace the charm of winter in Reading.

January Temperature in Reading

In January, Reading experiences a chill that ushers in the new year, with minimum temperatures dropping to a brisk -4°C (25°F). As residents bundle up, the average temperature hovers around a cool 5°C (41°F), while daytime highs can reach a mild 14°C (58°F), offering occasional respite from the winter chill. This trend of gradual warming continues into February, showcasing a slight dip in morning temperatures to -8°C (17°F) but an increase in maximums, suggesting the promise of spring as the month progresses. As winter gives way to early signs of spring, the temperatures steadily rise, illustrating a subtle but clear transition that begins in January and sets the stage for the upcoming months.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Reading, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec414345495561656359534643
Data source: Temperature data for Reading 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 Reading

January in Reading, United Kingdom, typically sees moderate precipitation, with an average of 50 mm (2.0 in) spread across about 9 days. This early winter month serves as a precursor to the slightly wetter February, which adds just a touch more rainfall. Interestingly, the weather patterns of Reading reflect a gradual increase in precipitation as spring approaches, peaking in the later months with April offering a brief respite. As the year progresses, rainfall becomes more frequent, particularly in the late autumn months, where October stands out with an impressive 95 mm (3.7 in), indicating a clear trend toward higher moisture levels as the seasons shift. Such variations underscore the dynamic climate of Reading, where each month contributes uniquely to the annual weather narrative.

January Precipitation Trends in Reading

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Reading, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec505259376875667049955583
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Reading

In January, Reading, United Kingdom, experiences a high humidity level of 91%, marking one of the wettest months of the year. This moisture-laden atmosphere signals the heart of winter, setting the stage for the cold, damp conditions typical of the season. As the year progresses into February, humidity slightly decreases to 89%, but remains elevated. A steady decline is observed through the spring months, with March at 86% and April at 85%, giving way to a more comfortable feel by May, when humidity drops to 79%. The trend continues into summer, peaking in July at 71%, before rising again in the autumn months, with October and November returning to the high 90s. Overall, the data illustrates a clear seasonal pattern: humidity is at its highest in winter and late autumn, then declines during the pleasant spring and summer months, only to rise again as the year closes.

January Average Humidity in Reading

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Reading, 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 Reading

In January, Reading experiences a low UV Index of 1, indicating minimal sun exposure risk, with a burn time of 45 minutes. As the months progress, the UV Index gradually rises, reaching 2 in February while maintaining the low exposure category. By March, the trend shifts to a moderate UV Index of 4, where sun exposure becomes more significant, reducing the burn time to 30 minutes. April and May see an increase to high levels, peaking at 7 in May, emphasizing the need for sun protection as the spring sun becomes more potent. The summer months of June and July continue this trend, both peaking at a very high UV Index of 8, demanding caution with a short burn time of just 15 minutes. The UV Index begins to drop again in August and September, while October returns to a moderate level of 4, before falling back to low levels in November and December, replicating the January index. This seasonal fluctuation highlights the importance of being mindful of sun safety, especially during the sunnier months in Reading. For more details, check the Reading UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Reading for January

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

In Reading, United Kingdom, the month of January bathes the city in a modest 98 hours of sunshine, a gentle precursor to the increasing brightness that follows. As winter transitions to spring, February brings a slight lift to 146 hours of sunlight, hinting at the awakening of nature. March accelerates this trend with 203 hours, ushering in a vibrant atmosphere as days grow longer. The sunshine peaks in late spring and early summer, with May delivering an impressive 388 hours, while July ignites warmth with 397 hours. As summer wanes, a gradual decline begins; August still enjoys a healthy 359 hours but signals the return of shorter days. By autumn, September's 293 hours marks a noticeable drop, paving the way for November and December, where hours dwindle to 144 and 111 respectively. This natural ebb and flow of sunlight encapsulates Reading's seasonal charm, offering a rich tapestry of light and shade throughout the year.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Reading: January Highlighted

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

Chance of Sun in Reading During January

In Reading, United Kingdom, the likelihood of sunny weather in January is relatively low, with only a 20% chance of sunshine. This trend is indicative of a generally grey winter, as the sun begins to show itself more frequently in the following months. February sees a slight uptick to 24%, while March brings a more noticeable improvement at 28%. It's not until April that the chances soar to 51%, marking the transition to brighter spring days. Thus, while January may feel dreary, the weather is set to brighten just around the corner, making a more significant escape from the winter gloom increasingly likely as the season progresses.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Reading

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Reading 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 Reading experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec20%24%28%51%32%26%36%23%27%25%31%17%
Data source: Reading January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Reading in January

In Reading, United Kingdom, the daylight duration experiences a gradual evolution throughout the year, reflecting the changing seasons. January kicks off with around 8 hours of daylight, a modest amount that gradually increases as winter transitions to spring. By February, the days stretch to 9 hours, hinting at the upcoming light. March heralds a more significant change with a leap to 11 hours, while April bathes the landscape in 13 hours of sunshine, inviting nature to awaken. The peak arrives in June and July, where residents enjoy a generous 16 hours of daylight, perfect for outdoor activities and late evenings. As summer wanes, August sees a slight decline to 14 hours, followed by a more pronounced reduction in September to 12 hours. By October, the days shorten to 10 hours, and as the year draws to a close, November and December offer only 8 and 7 hours respectively, plunging the region back into the comforting embrace of longer nights. This rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight not only marks the passage of time but also shapes the seasonal life in Reading.

Average Daylight Hours in Reading for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Reading throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 24m9h 58m11h 55m13h 54m15h 37m16h 31m16h 3m14h 29m12h 34m10h 36m8h 50m7h 54m
Data source: Reading daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Reading

In Reading, United Kingdom, the January winds kick off the year with an average speed of 4.3 m/s (10 mph), creating a brisk, refreshing atmosphere. This sets a tone that continues into February, where winds intensify slightly, peaking at 4.9 m/s (11 mph)—the strongest for the first quarter. Interestingly, by March, the winds settle back to 4.4 m/s (10 mph), only to further diminish towards spring, with April seeing a notable drop to 3.4 m/s (8 mph). This trend of calmer winds continues through the summer months, with both July and June averaging around 3.2 m/s (7 mph). However, as autumn takes its grip, October and December bounce back to 4.4 m/s and 4.5 m/s, respectively, drawing in the year's close with a hint of gusty vigor. Overall, January’s winds set an invigorating stage for changing seasons, reflecting a dynamic climate rhythm throughout the year.

Average January Wind Speed in Reading

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Reading, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.3 m/s4.94.43.44.33.23.23.73.44.43.94.5
Data source: Reading January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Reading Compares to Other Months

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

In January, the weather typically features a minimum temperature of -4°C (25°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F) and a maximum of 14°C (58°F). The month experiences about 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 9 days, alongside a high humidity of 91%. In contrast, February tends to be slightly colder at night, with a minimum of -8°C (17°F), but features a marginally higher average temperature of 6°C (43°F) and a maximum of 18°C (65°F). Precipitation in February is slightly increased to 52 mm (2.0 in) over 10 days, with humidity slightly lower at 89%. For more details on February weather, you can check out Reading weather in February.

January and March present contrasting weather patterns, showcasing the transition from winter to early spring. January temperatures range from a chilly -4°C (25°F) to a mild maximum of 14°C (58°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F) and a high humidity of 91%. In comparison, March experiences slightly cooler minimum temperatures at -6°C (22°F), but an overall warmer average of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum that can reach 22°C (71°F). Additionally, March sees increased precipitation, totaling 59 mm (2.3 in) over 14 days, compared to January’s 50 mm (2.0 in) over 9 days. For more detailed information, you can check out Reading weather in March.

In January, temperatures often dip as low as -4°C (25°F), with an average of 5°C (41°F) and a maximum reaching 14°C (58°F). The month sees about 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over approximately 9 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 91%. In contrast, April experiences a slight increase in temperatures, with lows of -3°C (27°F), an average of 9°C (49°F), and a maximum temperature soaring to 26°C (79°F). Precipitation also decreases to 36 mm (1.4 in) across about 8 days, and humidity levels are slightly lower at 85%. For more insights on how the weather in April varies, check out Reading 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 (58°F), and an average of 5°C (41°F). It typically experiences about 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 9 days, coupled with high humidity at 91%. In contrast, May brings a much more temperate climate, with temperatures ranging from 0°C (33°F) to a pleasant 26°C (78°F) and an average temperature of 13°C (55°F). Although it has slightly more precipitation at 68 mm (2.7 in) over 11 days, the humidity drops to a more comfortable 79%. For a detailed look at the weather in May, check out Reading weather in May.

In January, temperatures in Reading range from a chilly -4°C (25°F) to a mild 14°C (58°F), with an average of around 5°C (41°F) and high humidity at 91%. The month experiences about 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over approximately 9 days, making it a typically damp winter month. In contrast, June ushers in warmer weather, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 6°C (44°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), and an average temperature of 16°C (61°F). Rainfall increases slightly to 75 mm (2.9 in) over about 10 days, yet the humidity drops to a more comfortable 80%. For more details about the weather in June, visit Reading weather in June.

January and July present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures range from a chilly -4°C (25°F) at their lowest to a milder 14°C (58°F) at their peak, with an average of just 5°C (41°F). This month also sees considerable humidity at 91% and moderate precipitation over about 9 days, totaling 50 mm (2.0 in). In contrast, July experiences a significant increase in temperatures, with lows of 7°C (46°F) and highs soaring up to 35°C (96°F), averaging around 18°C (65°F). Despite being the peak summer month, July has slightly more precipitation at 66 mm (2.6 in) over 12 days, but the humidity is notably lower at 71%. For a closer look at the specifics of July's weather, check out this link: Reading weather in July.

In comparing the weather between January and August, it's clear that January experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and an average of only 5°C (41°F). In contrast, August boasts a significantly warmer climate, featuring minimum temperatures of 7°C (45°F) and an average peak of 17°C (63°F), reaching as high as 33°C (92°F). While January sees around 50 mm of precipitation over 9 days, August has slightly more at 70 mm across 12 days. Additionally, the humidity is higher in January at 91%, compared to August's more comfortable 76%. For those looking for more insights, Reading weather in August provides detailed information on the summer climate.

January and September present strikingly different weather conditions. In January, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a mild maximum of 14°C (58°F), with an average temperature of 5°C (41°F). The month also experiences higher humidity levels at 91%, along with 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 9 days. In contrast, September boasts a much warmer climate, with temperatures fluctuating between a minimum of 3°C (37°F) and a maximum of 28°C (83°F), resulting in an average of 15°C (59°F). Although precipitation remains similar at 49 mm (1.9 in) over the same number of wet days, the humidity is slightly lower at 82%. For more insights into September weather, you can visit Reading weather in September.

In January, the weather is quite cold, with minimum temperatures dropping to -4°C (25°F) and an average around 5°C (41°F). The days are often damp, featuring about 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over approximately 9 days, alongside a high humidity level of 91%. In contrast, October offers milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 23°C (73°F) and an average of 11°C (53°F). While it experiences more rainfall, totaling 95 mm (3.7 in) over 13 days, the humidity remains slightly lower at 90%. For more insights on October weather, you can visit Reading weather in October.

In January, the weather tends to be colder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 14°C (58°F), while November experiences slightly milder temperatures, averaging from -2°C (28°F) to 16°C (62°F). While both months see a considerable amount of rainfall, January typically has around 50 mm (2.0 in) over 9 days, whereas November receives slightly more at 55 mm (2.2 in) over 12 days. Additionally, humidity levels remain quite high in both months, with January at 91% and November at 92%. For more insights on the weather patterns, check out Reading weather in November.

In comparing the weather from January to December, both months experience similar temperature ranges, with January averaging 5°C (41°F) and December slightly warmer at 6°C (43°F). However, December typically sees more precipitation, averaging 83 mm (3.3 in) over 14 days, compared to January's 50 mm (2.0 in) over just 9 days. Additionally, with humidity levels of 91% in January and 92% in December, both months maintain a damp ambiance, making them feel quite similar. For more detailed information, you can refer to Reading weather in December.

Compare Reading's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Reading

As January unfolds in Reading, it welcomes a significant shift from the milder months of autumn, bringing with it a blend of chilly temperatures and damp conditions. With an average temperature around 5°C (41°F), the cold sets in, often dipping below freezing at night. Humidity levels climb to a high 91%, creating a crisp and often dreary atmosphere, punctuated by about nine days of precipitation throughout the month. This chilly, wet climate stands in stark contrast to the warmer and drier days of summer, making January a time for cozy indoors and warm drinks. For more insights into how Reading's climate evolves throughout the year, visit Reading Climate.