January Weather in Swanage, United Kingdom

Last updated: March 17, 2025

January in Swanage, United Kingdom offers a mild yet brisk climate, with maximum temperatures reaching 13°C (56°F) and an average of 8°C (46°F). As the month unfolds, lows can dip to a chilly 2°C (36°F), making warm layers essential for outdoor activities. Expect a fair share of rainfall, totaling 73 mm (2.9 in) across approximately 11 days, contributing to the region's lush landscape. With humidity levels soaring at 91%, the air remains noticeably damp, enhancing the quintessential coastal experience of this charming town.

January Temperature in Swanage

In Swanage, United Kingdom, January sees temperatures start to dip, with minimums around 2°C (36°F) and average highs reaching 13°C (56°F). This chilly month marks the heart of winter, before the gradual warming trend begins to take hold. While daytime temperatures typically hover around 8°C (46°F), the weather is often crisp, hinting at the frigid air that lingers. As the month progresses into February and March, temperatures remain relatively stable, yet hint at the arrival of spring with mild averages around 8°C (47°F). Notably, January's max temperatures are the highest of the colder months, setting the stage for a gentle transition into the more vibrant warmth of late spring and summer.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Swanage, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec464647495458636361575249
Data source: Temperature data for Swanage 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 Swanage

In January, Swanage experiences an average precipitation of 73 mm (2.9 in) over 11 days, setting the tone for a typically wet winter season. This month sees a consistent pattern with only a slight increase in February and March, each recording similar precipitation levels of 74 mm (2.9 in), though they come with a few more rainy days. As the year progresses into the spring months, precipitation begins to taper off significantly, with April dipping to 36 mm (1.4 in), followed by May at 55 mm (2.1 in). While winter's embrace lingers with substantial rainfall in October (137 mm / 5.4 in) and December (129 mm / 5.1 in), the overall trend shows a gradual decline in precipitation as the milder summer months approach, offering a brief respite before the winter rains return. Swanage's weather intricately weaves a tale of seasonal shifts, where January's damp start gives way to lighter showers as the year unfolds.

January Precipitation Trends in Swanage

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Swanage, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec737574365569467154137107129
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Swanage

In Swanage, United Kingdom, January greets residents and visitors with a notable humidity level of 91%, setting a trend that persists into the colder months. This high humidity is a hallmark of the winter season, as February follows closely behind at 89% and November peaks at 92%. As spring approaches, humidity begins to decline, dropping to 86% in March and stabilizing at 85% in April. The warmth of May brings a further dip to 79%, marking the start of a more comfortable, albeit humid summer, where July sees the lowest levels at 71%. However, as autumn rolls in, humidity levels gradually climb back up, reaching 90% in October and once again peaking at 92% in December. This cyclical shift in humidity illustrates how Swanage experiences a rich interplay between its coastal climate and the changing seasons, with a clear trend of highest humidity during the winter and early spring months.

January Average Humidity in Swanage

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

In Swanage, United Kingdom, January greets residents with a UV Index of 2, categorized as low exposure, which allows for a generous burn time of 45 minutes before the sun’s rays become a concern. As the seasons transition into February and March, there’s a noticeable uptick, with the UV Index rising to 3 and 4 respectively, marking a shift to moderate exposure, and shortening the burn time to 30 minutes. This trend continues into the spring, peaking in April and May when the index reaches high levels of 6 and 7, reducing the safe burn time to just 25 minutes. By June and July, the sun's intensity escalates further, hitting very high levels of 8 where care is crucial as burn time drops to only 15 minutes. As summer wanes, the UV Index decreases, but notable high readings persist into August and September, before tapering off in the cooler months of October through December. Understanding these fluctuations in UV exposure is essential for planning outdoor activities safely. For more detailed information, visit Swanage UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Swanage for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Swanage 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec234678876421
Data source: Swanage 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 Swanage

In Swanage, January ushers in the year with just 107 hours of sunshine, making it one of the cloudier months. However, as winter begins to melt into spring, February experiences a notable increase to 152 hours, hinting at brighter days ahead. By March, the trend continues, with sunshine hours soaring to 232, and by April, the days become increasingly radiant with 354 hours illuminated under the sun. This upward trajectory peaks in the summer months, where June and July bask in 416 and 435 hours respectively, showcasing Swanage as a quintessential summer destination. Although August retains a healthy 395 hours, a gentle decline begins into the fall, with September at 333 hours. As the year winds down, the sun retreats further, dropping to just 124 hours in December, but the promise of returning brightness remains evident as the cycle starts anew.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Swanage: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Swanage 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec107h152h232h354h414h416h435h395h333h262h169h124h
Data source: Swanage January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Swanage During January

In Swanage, the likelihood of sunny weather in January is relatively low, with only a 21% chance of sunshine gracing the coastal town. This trend of cloudier skies extends into February, where the prospects improve slightly to 26%. As spring approaches, the likelihood of sunny days quickly rises, reaching 40% in March and 59% by April, indicating a promising transition as winter gives way to milder weather. Interestingly, May sees a slight dip to 42%, but the months of summer bring a resurgence of sunny potential, especially in July with 45%. Overall, while January might be one of the grayer months, the stark upward trend in sunshine throughout the subsequent months is a delightful reminder of the shifting seasons.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Swanage

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Swanage 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 Swanage experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec21%26%40%59%42%31%45%36%37%30%37%22%
Data source: Swanage January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Swanage in January

In Swanage, United Kingdom, January ushers in approximately 8 hours of daylight, marking the quiet beginnings of the year. As winter transitions into spring, daylight begins to extend, reaching 10 hours in February and further blossoming to 11 hours by March. This gradual increase feels invigorating, with April offering a delightful 13 hours of sunlight as nature awakens. The warmth of May brings 15 hours of daylight, and by June, the longest days arrive, basking the region in a generous 16 hours of sunshine. However, as summer fades, daylight hours start to wane, dipping to 15 hours in July and then 14 hours in August. The shorter days of September signal the approach of autumn, yielding 12 hours of light, followed by a decline back to 10 hours in October and 8 hours by November and December. This rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight not only marks the changing seasons but also enriches the beauty of Swanage throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Swanage for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Swanage throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 31m10h 2m11h 55m13h 50m15h 30m16h 22m15h 54m14h 25m12h 34m10h 39m8h 57m8h 2m
Data source: Swanage daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Swanage

In January, Swanage experiences brisk winds, with an average wind speed of 8.0 m/s (18 mph), setting the stage for a blustery start to the year. This trend of lively winds continues into February, where speeds slightly increase to 8.4 m/s (19 mph), suggesting a spirited atmosphere perfect for coastal strolls. As winter wanes into March, however, a noticeable drop occurs, with gusts calming to 6.8 m/s (15 mph), marking a transition toward more temperate conditions. By April, winds further decrease to 5.4 m/s (12 mph), while spring brings milder weather, creating a refreshing environment. Nevertheless, later months reveal a gentle rise in wind speeds throughout the spring and summer, peaking again in October at 7.5 m/s (17 mph) before settling back to the seasonal norm by December. This cyclical pattern highlights the dynamic nature of Swanage’s coastal climate, where the January winds herald both the energy and change of the seasons.

Average January Wind Speed in Swanage

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Swanage, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8.0 m/s8.46.85.46.94.65.26.15.77.56.78.0
Data source: Swanage January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Swanage Compares to Other Months

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

January typically experiences slightly milder temperatures than February, with an average of 8°C (46°F) and maxing out at 13°C (56°F) compared to February's average of 8°C (47°F) and a maximum of 12°C (55°F). Both months see similar precipitation levels—73 mm (2.9 in) in January versus 74 mm (2.9 in) in February—though February has a higher number of precipitation days, with 13 compared to January's 11. Humidity remains high throughout both months, with January averaging 91% and February slightly lower at 89%. For more specific details on February weather, you can check Swanage weather in February.

In January, the weather in Swanage is generally milder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F). The month sees about 73 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 11 days and experiences higher humidity levels at 91%. In contrast, March brings slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and a maximum of 12°C (55°F), but maintains a similar average temperature of 8°C (47°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 74 mm (2.9 in) over 14 days, while humidity decreases to 86%. For more detailed insights, you can check this link: Swanage weather in March.

January and April exhibit noticeable differences in weather patterns. January tends to be cooler, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F), and it experiences more precipitation, totaling 73 mm (2.9 in) over 11 days. The humidity is relatively high at 91%. In contrast, April sees a slight increase in temperature, with averages from 3°C (38°F) to 16°C (61°F) and significantly less precipitation, totaling 36 mm (1.4 in) over just 6 days, along with a somewhat lower humidity level of 85%. These variations make April a more pleasant month overall. For more information, you can check Swanage weather in April.

In January, temperatures in Swanage are significantly cooler, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and an average of 8°C (46°F), reaching a maximum of 13°C (56°F). The month is characterized by higher humidity at 91% and more precipitation, totaling 73 mm (2.9 in) over around 11 days. In contrast, May brings milder weather with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (43°F) to a maximum of 19°C (67°F), averaging 12°C (54°F). The rainfall decreases to 55 mm (2.1 in) over 9 days, and humidity drops to a more comfortable 79%. For more detailed information, check the Swanage weather in May.

The weather in January contrasts significantly with that of June. In January, temperatures are cooler, ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F), with an average temperature of 8°C (46°F). The month also sees higher humidity levels at 91% and experiences approximately 73 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 11 days. In contrast, June ushers in milder weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (51°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), averaging 15°C (59°F). Precipitation is slightly lower at 69 mm (2.7 in) but occurs over fewer days, only 9, and humidity drops to 80%. For more detailed insights, check Swanage weather in June.

In January, temperatures in Swanage range from a chilly minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F), with an average of 8°C (46°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 91% and considerable precipitation, totaling 73 mm (2.9 in) over 11 days. In contrast, July brings a warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 13°C (56°F) to a comfortable maximum of 21°C (71°F), averaging 17°C (63°F). Precipitation is significantly lower at 46 mm (1.8 in) spread over just 8 days, and humidity drops to 71%. For a closer look at what to expect, check out Swanage weather in July.

In January, the weather is notably colder, with average temperatures ranging from a chilly 2°C (36°F) to a mild 13°C (56°F). The month experiences higher humidity at 91% and sees about 73 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 11 days. In contrast, August offers a much warmer climate, with temperatures averaging between 13°C (55°F) and 24°C (75°F). Precipitation is slightly lower, at 71 mm (2.8 in) over just 9 days, and the humidity decreases to 76%. This stark contrast highlights the transition from winter's chill to summer warmth. For more detailed information about the August weather, you can visit Swanage weather in August.

In January, the weather features cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and an average of 8°C (46°F), whereas September enjoys milder conditions, starting at a minimum of 11°C (52°F) and averaging 16°C (62°F). Rainfall is more frequent in January, with 73 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 11 days compared to September's 54 mm (2.1 in) over 9 days. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in January at 91%, while September experiences a more comfortable 82%. For a detailed look at September's climate, check out Swanage weather in September.

January and October present distinct weather patterns in terms of temperature and precipitation. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F), with an average of 8°C (46°F). The month sees about 73 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 11 days, coupled with a high humidity level of 91%. In contrast, October experiences milder temperatures, ranging from 6°C (43°F) to 19°C (67°F), with an average of 14°C (58°F). However, it brings significantly more rainfall, with 137 mm (5.4 in) spread over 17 days, while humidity remains fairly constant at 90%. For more detailed insights on October weather, visit Swanage weather in October.

In comparing the weather between January and November, we see some notable differences. January experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and an average high of 13°C (56°F), while November is slightly milder, boasting a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and an average maximum of 16°C (61°F). Additionally, November has a higher total precipitation of 106 mm (4.2 in) over 16 days, compared to January's 73 mm (2.9 in) across 11 days. Both months exhibit high humidity levels, with January at 91% and November slightly higher at 92%. For more detailed insights into November’s weather, you can check Swanage weather in November.

In January, the weather in Swanage tends to be slightly cooler than in December, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F), compared to December's range of 3°C (38°F) to 14°C (57°F). January also experiences less precipitation, receiving about 73 mm (2.9 in) over 11 days, while December sees significantly higher rainfall at 129 mm (5.1 in) across 17 days. Humidity levels remain quite similar, with January at 91% and December at 92%. For more details on December weather, you might find this link helpful: Swanage weather in December.

Compare Swanage's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Swanage

January in Swanage presents a stark contrast to the milder months, embracing the chill with maximum temperatures only reaching 13°C and often dipping to a brisk 2°C. The high humidity at 91% combined with frequent precipitation—averaging nearly 73 mm over 11 days—adds to the wintery feel. This month is a notable departure from the warmer, dryer conditions of spring and summer, creating a unique atmosphere ideal for cozy indoor activities or braving the elements for a brisk walk along the stunning coastline. For a deeper dive into the seasonal variations, check out Swanage Climate.