Last updated: March 17, 2025
In January, Fort William, United Kingdom, experiences a chilly climate characterized by a maximum temperature of 11°C (53°F) and a minimum of -10°C (14°F). With an average temperature hovering around 3°C (37°F), this month offers a stark winter atmosphere. Precipitation is significant, totaling 158 mm (6.2 in) over approximately 16 days, creating a damp environment with humidity levels reaching an impressive 86%. Visitors should be prepared for variable weather, making January a month of both challenges and beauty in this scenic region.
In Fort William, January ushers in the heart of winter with temperatures predominantly chilly. The month kicks off with minimums plummeting to a frigid -10°C (14°F), setting a stark backdrop for the average daytime temperature of 3°C (37°F). As the month progresses, highs reach up to 11°C (53°F), providing a brief respite from the cold. This pattern of chilly lows and marginally warmer highs is consistent with the early winter climate, making January one of the coldest months of the year. The gradual increase in temperatures often hints at the transition to spring in the following months, as February sees similar averages but slightly lower minimum temperatures, indicating a lingering winter chill. Overall, January’s weather in Fort William encapsulates the alluring yet biting essence of Scottish winter.
In January, Fort William experiences a significant amount of rainfall, with 158 mm (6.2 in) of precipitation spread across approximately 16 days. This sets the stage for a typically wet season, as the region transitions into February, where rainfall increases to 210 mm (8.3 in) over 19 days. The trend continues into March, where precipitation remains high at 188 mm (7.4 in), signalling that winter is still very much in the air. As spring approaches, April sees a sharp drop in rainfall to just 74 mm (2.9 in) over 15 days, offering a brief respite before the wetter months return. The months that follow reveal a pattern of fluctuating but generally high precipitation, culminating in the rainy peak of 235 mm (9.3 in) in October, which contrasts sharply with the relatively dry April. This cycle highlights Fort William's climate as consistently damp, especially in the early year, with January kicking off a notably soggy winter season.
In January, Fort William embraces a high humidity level of 86%, setting the tone for a damp winter atmosphere. This significant moisture level is part of a consistent trend, with humidity only slightly decreasing to 85% in February and March, before touching 84% in April as spring approaches. However, the relative humidity gradually rises again in the warmer months, peaking at 88% in August. As autumn rolls in, humidity escalates even further, culminating at 90% in November, the highest of the year. This cyclical pattern underscores Fort William's reputation for a consistently moist climate, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to prepare for the lingering dampness throughout the year.
In Fort William, United Kingdom, January typically sees a UV Index of 1, placing it in the low exposure category with a burn time of approximately 45 minutes. This trend of low UV levels continues into February, maintaining the same burn time and exposure category. As winter transitions to spring, the UV index rises modestly: March reaches 3 (moderate) with a reduced burn time of 30 minutes, while April further spikes to 5 (moderate). The sun becomes increasingly intense as spring progresses into summer, peaking at 8 during June and July, which is categorized as very high, dropping burn time to just 15 minutes. August sees a slight decrease to 6 (high) before tapering back to 5 in September and falling to 3 by October. The year wraps up with a return to low UV levels in November and December, both having an index of 1. This pattern highlights not only the fluctuation of UV exposure throughout the year but also the importance of sun protection as the season changes. For more detailed insights, check out the Fort William UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In January, the skies over Fort William are often cloaked in a shroud of gray, showering the landscape with only 50 hours of sunshine, making it the least radiant month of the year. As the seasons shift, February shows a promising uptick with 107 hours, hinting at brighter days ahead. By March, the warmth begins to unfurl, bringing 150 hours of sunlight, and by April, daylight truly blossoms with 298 hours, as nature awakens from its winter slumber. This upward trend continues into May and June, where residents bask in 348 and 342 hours respectively, soaking up long days filled with golden light. The summer months of July and August maintain this brightness, offering 340 hours and 306 hours of sunshine. However, as autumn arrives, the sunshine slowly diminishes, with September experiencing 238 hours, paving the way for the cooler and cloudier months ahead. The year concludes with the least sunshine again in December, wrapping up the cycle with just 48 hours, reminding us of the inevitable return of winter's embrace.
In Fort William, United Kingdom, January is characterized by a modest 16% chance of sunny weather. This is slightly higher than the subsequent month of February, which sees a 17% likelihood of sunshine. Interestingly, as winter transitions to spring, the chance of sunshine sees a marked increase in April, skyrocketing to 40%, indicating the arrival of brighter days. Conversely, the chances drop in March to 11%, highlighting January's relatively favorable position within the dreary winter months. Overall, while January doesn't offer a guarantee of sunny skies, its likelihood of sunshine slightly outshines the depths of winter, setting the stage for a gradual transition to sunnier times ahead.
In January, Fort William experiences about 7 hours of daylight, marking the darkest stretch of the year. As the weeks progress into February, daylight increases to 9 hours, heralding the slow return of brightness. March sees a notable leap to 11 hours, as spring hints at its approach, and by April, daylight extends to a welcoming 14 hours. This trend continues into May and June, where daylight peaks at an impressive 17 hours, allowing for long, vibrant days ideal for outdoor activities. As summer wanes in August, hours begin to decline, but even at 15 hours, the days remain generous. The gradual shortening continues through September and October, eventually settling at 8 hours in November and dwindling to 6 hours by December. This cyclical rhythm of daylight in Fort William not only marks the passing of seasons but also invites residents and visitors alike to embrace the beauty of each phase of the year.
In Fort William, the January winds offer a gentle start to the year, with an average speed of 2.5 m/s (6 mph). This calmness contrasts sharply with the increased gusts of February, when winds pick up significantly to 4.3 m/s (10 mph). As the season unfolds, the winds fluctuate, peaking in November at 3.4 m/s (8 mph), before settling back into a more subdued pace in the winter months of January and April, both returning to 2.5 m/s. Overall, the winter months display a tendency toward quieter winds, while mid-year brings a gradual increase, hinting at a more dynamic atmosphere. This variability not only influences local weather patterns but also enchants visitors with the unique charm of each season's breeze.
The weather in Fort William 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 Fort William and find detailed weather information for every month.
In January, temperatures range from a chilling -10°C (14°F) to a mild 11°C (53°F), with an average of 3°C (37°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 158 mm (6.2 in) over 16 days, accompanied by high humidity at 86%. By contrast, February experiences slightly colder temperatures, with a minimum of -13°C (9°F) and a maximum of 12°C (54°F), while maintaining the same average of 3°C (37°F). Precipitation increases to 210 mm (8.3 in) over 19 days, and humidity remains similar at 85%. For a detailed look at February weather, visit Fort William weather in February.
In January, temperatures are generally colder, with minimums reaching -10°C (14°F) and an average of around 3°C (37°F). Precipitation is significant, totaling 158 mm (6.2 in) over 16 days, coupled with a high humidity level of 86%. In contrast, March sees slightly warmer temperatures, with an average of 4°C (40°F) and maximums peaking at 15°C (60°F), though it experiences more precipitation at 188 mm (7.4 in) over 21 days. Humidity remains relatively constant at 85%. For a more detailed look at the weather patterns during this time, you can refer to Fort William weather in March.
In January, the weather is marked by colder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -10°C (14°F) to a maximum of 11°C (53°F), with an average of 3°C (37°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 158 mm (6.2 in) over 16 days, and a high humidity level of 86%. In contrast, April sees a more moderate climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 20°C (69°F) and an average temperature of 6°C (43°F). Precipitation decreases to 74 mm (2.9 in) over 15 days, and humidity remains slightly lower at 84%. For those interested in specific details about April's weather in this region, you can find more information here: Fort William weather in April.
In January, the weather is much colder, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -10°C (14°F) to a maximum of 11°C (53°F), while May brings warmer conditions, with temperatures fluctuating from -3°C (28°F) to a pleasant 24°C (76°F). January experiences higher precipitation at 158 mm (6.2 in) over 16 days, compared to May’s 99 mm (3.9 in) across the same number of days. Additionally, humidity levels remain high in January at 86%, slightly lower in May at 82%, making January feel more frigid and damp. For more details on the typical weather conditions during this month, check out Fort William weather in May.
The weather in January is considerably colder than in June, with temperatures dipping as low as -10°C (14°F) and averaging around 3°C (37°F). In contrast, June experiences milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F), leading to a more comfortable average of 12°C (54°F). While January sees higher precipitation levels of 158 mm (6.2 in) over 16 days, June has slightly less rainfall at 144 mm (5.7 in) but stretches over 19 rainy days. Additionally, humidity remains relatively high in both months, with January at 86% and June at 84%. For a more detailed look at the warm-weather conditions, you can check Fort William weather in June.
In January, the weather is characterized by cold temperatures, with minimums reaching as low as -10°C (14°F) and an average of about 3°C (37°F). This month sees significant precipitation, totaling 158 mm (6.2 in) over 16 days, and a high humidity level of 86%, contributing to a wintery atmosphere. In contrast, July offers a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 26°C (78°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F). While July experiences almost continuous rain over 19 days, the total precipitation is somewhat lower at 128 mm (5.0 in). Both months have a similar humidity level, around 87%. For more details on July's weather, you can check Fort William weather in July.
In January, the weather is marked by colder temperatures, with minimums dipping as low as -10°C (14°F) and an average temperature of around 3°C (37°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 158 mm (6.2 in) over 16 days, coupled with high humidity at 86%. In contrast, August offers a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures starting at 5°C (41°F) and an average of 13°C (56°F), peaking at a comfortable 24°C (75°F). Although August sees slightly higher precipitation at 168 mm (6.6 in) over 22 days, the humidity remains relatively high at 88%. For a detailed look at weather specifics, visit Fort William weather in August.
January and September exhibit stark contrasts in weather patterns. In January, the temperatures range from a chilly -10°C (14°F) at their lowest to a mild 11°C (53°F) at their peak, averaging around 3°C (37°F). This month is characterized by high humidity at 86% and significant precipitation of 158 mm (6.2 in) over 16 days. In comparison, September sees a more temperate climate with minimum temperatures of -2°C (29°F) and maximums reaching 23°C (73°F), resulting in a comfortable average of 11°C (52°F). Although September experiences slightly more precipitation at 176 mm (6.9 in) over 19 days, the overall feel is more pleasant with humidity at 89%. For more detailed insights, check out Fort William weather in September.
January and October exhibit significant differences in weather patterns. In January, temperatures can dip as low as -10°C (14°F) with an average of 3°C (37°F), while October sees milder conditions with a minimum of -3°C (27°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F). Precipitation is also notably higher in October, with 235 mm (9.3 in) over 24 days compared to January’s 158 mm (6.2 in) across 16 days. The humidity remains fairly high in both months, reaching 86% in January and slightly increasing to 89% in October. For more detailed insights, you can explore Fort William weather in October.
January and November exhibit notable differences in their weather patterns, despite both falling in the colder months of the year. In January, temperatures can range from a minimum of -10°C (14°F) to a maximum of 11°C (53°F), with an average around 3°C (37°F). In contrast, November sees milder temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (24°F) and a maximum of 13°C (55°F), averaging at about 5°C (41°F). Furthermore, January experiences 158 mm (6.2 in) of precipitation over 16 days, while November has slightly higher precipitation at 171 mm (6.7 in) across 19 days. Additionally, the humidity in November is a tad higher at 90% compared to January's 86%. For more detailed insights into November's climate, you can check out Fort William weather in November.
The weather in January and December exhibits some similarities, but notable differences exist in terms of precipitation. Both months experience similar temperature ranges, with January having a minimum of -10°C (14°F) and a maximum of 11°C (53°F), while December's temperatures range from -9°C (17°F) to 11°C (52°F). January records an average temperature of 3°C (37°F), slightly lower than December's average of 3°C (38°F). However, January sees less precipitation overall, totaling 158 mm (6.2 in) across 16 days, compared to December's 181 mm (7.1 in) over 21 days. Both months maintain a consistent humidity level of 86%. For more detailed information, check out Fort William weather in December.
As January unfolds in Fort William, it brings a distinct chill that sets it apart from the milder months of the year. With average temperatures hovering around 3°C (37°F) and the potential for frigid lows reaching -10°C (14°F), this month showcases the raw beauty of winter. Precipitation is common, with about 16 days of rain or snow contributing to the 158 mm (6.2 in) of moisture, creating a winter wonderland backdrop. The high humidity of 86% adds to the cold, making it feel even more brisk. For those intrigued by the unique weather patterns that define this stunning region, explore more about the nuances of the region's climate at Fort William Climate.