January Weather in Highland, United Kingdom

Last updated: March 17, 2025

In January, the Highland region of the United Kingdom experiences a varied climate, where temperatures fluctuate from a maximum of 13°C (56°F) to a chilly minimum of -7°C (19°F). The average temperature hovers around a brisk 4°C (39°F), emphasizing the need for warm clothing. Rainfall is notable, with a total of 73 mm (2.9 in) over the month, falling on approximately 12 days, contributing to the region's lush landscapes. High humidity levels at 89% add to the winter chill, creating a unique atmosphere that defines Highland's winter season.

January Temperature in Highland

In January, the Highland region of the United Kingdom typically experiences chilly temperatures, with a minimum dropping to -7°C (19°F) and an average hovering around 4°C (39°F). Daytime highs can rise to a mild 13°C (56°F), providing a brief respite from the cold, but the prevailing winter chill lingers, often marked by frosty mornings. This trend of fluctuating winter temperatures sets the stage for a gradual warming as the year progresses, with February bringing even colder lows down to -13°C (9°F). As spring approaches, temperatures slowly rise, showcasing the region's resilience: by March, daytime highs reach a more comfortable 17°C (63°F). The year unfolds from these brisk January blues into the vibrant warmth of spring and summer, demonstrating a vivid seasonal shift characteristic of the Highlands.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Highland, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec393941455055595754484239
Data source: Temperature data for Highland 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 Highland

In January, Highland, United Kingdom, experiences an average precipitation of 73 mm (2.9 in) over approximately 12 days, marking the beginning of a wet winter period. This slightly lower amount compared to February's 78 mm and March's 79 mm indicates a gradual increase in rainfall as the season progresses. As winter gives way to spring, precipitation tends to bounce back, peaking in October with a notable 107 mm (4.2 in) across 20 days. Interestingly, the number of rainy days remains fairly consistent throughout the year, with a maximum of 17 days in March and November. This suggests that while January starts with the least precipitation, the onset of spring leads to a rise in both rainfall and rainy days, setting the stage for a lush green landscape as the year advances.

January Precipitation Trends in Highland

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Highland, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7378795181807681871078885
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Highland

In Highland, United Kingdom, January ushers in a notably high humidity level of 89%, setting a trend that characterizes the early months of the year. As winter gives way to spring, the humidity gradually decreases, with February at 88% and March dropping to 86%. This decline continues into April and May, where humidity levels dip to 84% and 82%, respectively, offering a brief respite. However, the summer months see a rise again, with humidity stabilizing around 86% in both July and August. As autumn approaches, the trend reverses yet again, with September peaking at a humid 90% and October and November following closely at 91% and 92%. By December, the humidity recedes slightly to 88%, reflecting the cyclical nature of Highland’s climate, where moisture lingers throughout the changing seasons.

January Average Humidity in Highland

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Highland, 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%84%82%84%86%86%90%91%92%89%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Highland

In January, Highland, United Kingdom experiences a low UV Index of 1, indicating minimal risk for sunburn with a burn time of 45 minutes. This trend of low UV exposure continues into February, with the index rising slightly to 2, but still categorized as low. As spring approaches, March brings a moderate uptick to 3, reducing the safe burn time to 30 minutes. The UV levels climb further through April and May, peaking at 6 in May, which signifies a high exposure category and a decrease in burn time to just 25 minutes. The summer months see the UV Index reach a very high level of 8 in June, drastically shortening safe sun exposure. Following this peak, the index slightly lowers during July and August, yet remains in the high range before tapering off in autumn. By November and December, the UV Index drops back to 1, reflecting the annual cycle of UV exposure in Highland, which ranges from low to very high throughout the year. For more details, visit the Highland UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Highland for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Highland 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec123568765311
Data source: Highland 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 Highland

In Highland, United Kingdom, the January sunshine is modest, with only 70 hours illuminating the days. As winter transitions into spring, February witnesses a remarkable increase to 150 hours, hinting at the changing seasons. By March, the sun further graces the region, bringing 210 hours of daylight. This upward trend continues through April and May, where residents enjoy 334 and 388 hours respectively, painting a picture of vibrant spring. The peak of summer shines bright, with July basking in 396 hours of sunshine. As the year progresses, sunshine hours gradually decline, characteristic of the autumn months. September still offers a generous 288 hours, but November and December retreat to just 119 and 82 hours respectively, reminding us of the fleeting warmth as the year draws to a close. This cadence of sunshine reflects the rhythm of life in Highland, where each season is marked by its own unique light.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Highland: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Highland 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec70h150h210h334h388h390h396h365h288h214h119h82h
Data source: Highland January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Highland During January

In January, Highland, United Kingdom, sees a modest 18% chance of sunny weather, marking a generally dreary start to the year. This percentage sets it lower than the following month, February, which enjoys a noticeable bump to 27%. Interestingly, there’s a remarkable dip in March, where the sun is expected to shine just 16% of the time, before spring brings more cheer in April with an optimistic 36% chance. While the likelihood of sunshine fluctuates throughout the months, January remains one of the less favorable times for sun-seekers, foreshadowing a gradual ascent in sunshine opportunities as the seasons progress.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Highland

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Highland 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 Highland experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec18%27%16%36%20%24%20%15%17%16%17%17%
Data source: Highland January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Highland in January

In Highland, United Kingdom, the shift in daylight duration throughout the year is quite pronounced, with January marking one of the shortest stretches of sunlight at just 7 hours. As winter relinquishes its grip, February sees a noticeable increase, bringing about 9 hours of daylight. The trend continues to ascend into spring, with March reaching 11 hours and April blossoming to 14 hours. By May and June, daylight peaks at an impressive 16 and 17 hours, respectively, offering the longest days of the year. As summer fades into fall, the abundant sunlight begins to wane, dropping to 15 hours in August and gradually tapering off to 12 hours in September, eventually descending back to 7 hours in November and 6 hours in December. This cyclical pattern illustrates the evolving rhythm of the seasons, enhancing the charm of Highland's landscape throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Highland for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Highland throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7h 23m9h 26m11h 53m14h 22m16h 38m17h 53m17h 12m15h 8m12h 42m10h 14m7h 58m6h 41m
Data source: Highland daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Highland

In January, the Highland region of the United Kingdom experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 2.8 m/s (6 mph), setting a tranquil tone for the month. This calmness, however, is just a prelude to the increasing winds that follow; by February, the speed escalates to 4.5 m/s (10 mph), reflecting a robust shift towards more blustery conditions. As spring approaches, March maintains a brisk pace at 4.1 m/s (9 mph), before reverting to the quieter winds of April and May, which return to the calm of 2.8 m/s and 2.7 m/s respectively. The summer months show a decrease in wind speed, with July and August both at 2.3 m/s (5 mph), creating a serene atmosphere. However, as autumn sets in, wind speeds pick up again, particularly in November with 4.3 m/s (10 mph), before tapering off to a mild 3.1 m/s (7 mph) in December. This rhythmic ebb and flow of wind in the Highlands underlines the region's dynamic climate, making each month distinct yet connected.

Average January Wind Speed in Highland

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Highland, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.8 m/s4.54.12.82.73.32.32.33.13.74.33.1
Data source: Highland January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Highland Compares to Other Months

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

January typically features milder temperatures compared to February, with an average high of 13°C (56°F) versus February’s maximum of 15°C (59°F). However, February experiences colder minimum temperatures, dropping to -13°C (9°F), which is significantly lower than January's minimum of -7°C (19°F). Precipitation levels in February are slightly higher, with 78 mm (3.1 in) over 14 days, compared to 73 mm (2.9 in) over 12 days in January. Both months have high humidity, hovering around 88-89%. For more detailed insights, you can check out Highland weather in February.

In January, temperatures typically range from a chilly -7°C (19°F) at night to a milder maximum of 13°C (56°F) during the day, with an average of 4°C (39°F). The month is characterized by relatively high humidity at 89%, along with 73 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation spread across 12 days.

In contrast, March sees slightly higher temperatures, with mínima reaching -5°C (23°F) and maxima rising to 17°C (63°F), averaging around 5°C (41°F). Precipitation in March totals 79 mm (3.1 in) over 17 days, indicating a somewhat wetter month, but the humidity is slightly lower at 86%. For more details on the weather in March, visit Highland weather in March.

In January, the weather is generally colder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (19°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F). This month experiences a fair amount of precipitation, totaling 73 mm (2.9 in) over about 12 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 89%. Conversely, April brings a noticeable warmth, with average temperatures rising to a minimum of -6°C (22°F) and a maximum of 22°C (71°F). While there is still some precipitation, averaging 51 mm (2.0 in) over 13 days, the humidity slightly decreases to 84%. For more detailed information about the weather during this month, check out Highland weather in April.

January and May present stark contrasts in terms of weather. In January, temperatures can dip as low as -7°C (19°F), with an average of just 4°C (39°F) and maximums reaching 13°C (56°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 89% and 73 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation spread over 12 days. In contrast, May enjoys much milder temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (30°F), an average of 10°C (50°F), and maximums soaring to 25°C (78°F). Though May experiences slightly more precipitation at 81 mm (3.2 in) over 15 days, the humidity is lower at 82%. For a detailed look at May weather, check out Highland weather in May.

In January, the weather is quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (19°F) to an average of 4°C (39°F) and a maximum of 13°C (56°F). During this month, precipitation is common, occurring over 12 days and totaling about 73 mm (2.9 in), complemented by high humidity levels at 89%. In contrast, June brings much warmer conditions, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 1°C (35°F) and rising to an average of 13°C (56°F), peaking at a maximum of 28°C (82°F). Rainfall is slightly higher, with about 80 mm (3.1 in) over 15 days, and humidity is a touch lower at 84%. For a more detailed look at June weather, you can visit Highland weather in June.

January and July present a stark contrast in weather. In January, temperatures can dip as low as -7°C (19°F), with an average of 4°C (39°F) and a maximum reaching 13°C (56°F). This month sees around 73 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 12 days, coupled with a high humidity level of 89%. In contrast, July boasts milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F) and an average of 15°C (59°F). The month receives slightly more precipitation at 76 mm (3.0 in) over 16 days, while humidity levels are slightly lower at 86%. For more detailed information, you can check Highland weather in July.

January and August present contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures range from a chilly -7°C (19°F) at night to a mild 13°C (56°F) during the day, with an average of 4°C (39°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 73 mm (2.9 in) over approximately 12 days, alongside high humidity levels of 89%.

In contrast, August features much warmer temperatures, with lows of 5°C (42°F) and highs reaching 25°C (78°F), resulting in a more comfortable average of 14°C (58°F). Although slightly wetter with 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain across 16 days, the humidity remains relatively high at 86%. Together, these comparisons illustrate how January’s cold and persistent wetness differs markedly from the warmer and slightly rainier conditions of August. For more detailed information, check out Highland weather in August.

In January, the weather is notably colder, with temperatures ranging from a chilling -7°C (19°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F) and an average of 4°C (39°F). The month sees around 73 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 12 days, coupled with high humidity at 89%. In contrast, September experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (35°F) and a maximum reaching 24°C (75°F), and an average temperature of 12°C (54°F). Although precipitation slightly increases to 87 mm (3.4 in) over 16 days, humidity remains similar at 90%. For more detailed insights into weather patterns, check out Highland weather in September.

January and October present notably different weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a chilly -7°C (19°F) to a mild 13°C (56°F), with an average of 4°C (39°F). The month receives about 73 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 12 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 89%. In contrast, October sees slightly warmer temperatures, with a range of -3°C (27°F) to 18°C (64°F) and an average of 9°C (48°F). This month experiences more precipitation, totaling 107 mm (4.2 in) over 20 days, and a marginally higher humidity of 91%. For more detailed information, you can check Highland weather in October.

In January, temperatures tend to be colder, with minimums dropping to -7°C (19°F) and an average of 4°C (39°F), while November sees slightly milder conditions with minimums around -5°C (23°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F). Both months experience significant precipitation, but November is rainier overall, receiving 88 mm (3.5 in) over 17 days compared to January's 73 mm (2.9 in) over 12 days. Additionally, humidity levels are notably higher in November at 92%, compared to January's 89%. For more information, check out this link: Highland weather in November.

In January, the weather continues to reflect the chill of winter, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (19°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F), similar to December. However, January typically sees slightly less precipitation, averaging 73 mm (2.9 inches) over about 12 days, compared to December's 85 mm (3.4 inches) across 16 days. Humidity levels are also quite comparable, with January at 89% and December slightly lower at 88%. For more detailed insights into December's conditions, visit Highland weather in December.

Compare Highland's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Highland

As January settles in, Highland's weather reveals a stark contrast to the milder months. With temperatures dipping significantly and the chill in the air, residents and visitors alike feel the bite of winter more acutely. The average temperature hovers around a brisk 4°C, and while occasional warmer days might tempt you to venture outside, the minimum can plummet to -7°C, inviting frosty mornings and enchanting winter landscapes. The high humidity at 89% combined with about 12 days of precipitation creates a decidedly damp atmosphere, enhancing the region's rugged beauty and making it essential to prepare for the unpredictable nature of Highland’s January climate. To learn more about how this month fits into the annual weather patterns, visit Highland Climate.