Last updated: March 17, 2025
January in Kirkwall, United Kingdom, is characterized by cool temperatures and a notable degree of rainfall. With a maximum temperature reaching 12°C (53°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F), residents experience brisk days transitioning into chilly nights, where the minimum can dip to 2°C (36°F). This month is marked by 91 mm (3.6 in) of rainfall spread over 16 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 82%. Visitors should prepare for a damp and invigorating winter experience, perfect for exploring the town's rich history amidst the ever-changing weather.
In January, Kirkwall experiences a mild winter, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 12°C (53°F). The average temperature hovers around 6°C (44°F), showcasing a relatively warm start to the year compared to the colder months that follow. As February approaches, temperatures dip slightly, bringing minimums down to 0°C (33°F) but maintaining an average that stays consistent. This trend of stable averages persists into March and April, where temperatures remain around 6-7°C. The transition into spring begins in May, as warmer days set in, with highs reaching 13°C (56°F), hinting at the seasonal shift. Overall, Kirkwall's January sets the tone for a predominantly mild winter, gradually paving the way for the refreshing changes of upcoming months.
In January, Kirkwall experiences 91 mm (3.6 inches) of precipitation over 16 days, marking the start of a typically wet winter. This trend continues into February, where rainfall slightly increases to 99 mm (3.9 inches) across 18 days. March sees a further uptick, reaching 104 mm (4.1 inches) over 20 days, illustrating the region's transition into a wetter early spring. As temperatures gradually rise into April and May, precipitation surprisingly declines, dropping to 51 mm (2.0 inches) and 55 mm (2.2 inches), respectively, with fewer rainy days. However, the cycle begins again later in the year, particularly in the autumn months of September and October, where rainfall peaks at 125 mm (4.9 inches) and 163 mm (6.4 inches), accompanied by heightened daily rain events that can stretch up to 25 days in October. This pattern showcases Kirkwall's distinct wet seasons, allowing for a vivid tapestry of rainfall throughout the year.
In January, Kirkwall experiences a humidity level of 82%, setting the tone for a generally damp winter. As the months progress into February and March, humidity remains steady at 81%, creating an atmosphere of crisp, cool air typical of early spring. With the arrival of April, the humidity stabilizes at 81%, while May sees a slight dip to 83%, hinting at the seasonal transition. As summer approaches, humidity levels rise steadily, peaking at 87% in July, which introduces a sultry feel to the otherwise temperate climate. The trend continues through August and into autumn, with humidity reaching 88% by September and maintaining high levels into October and November. By December, the humidity slightly decreases to 80%, closing the year on a slightly drier note, but still reflecting the coastal environment typical of Kirkwall. Overall, the highest humidity levels occur in the mid to late summer and autumn months, adding a rich layer of moisture to this vibrant Scottish locale.
In Kirkwall, United Kingdom, January brings a low UV Index of 1, indicating minimal risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, with a burn time of about 45 minutes. This trend continues into February, maintaining the same level of low exposure risk. However, as spring approaches, the UV Index starts to rise noticeably; by March, it reaches 3, signaling a moderate exposure category with a reduced burn time of 30 minutes. This gradual increase continues through April and May, peaking in the summer months of June and July at a UV Index of 7, where protective measures become increasingly necessary due to high exposure risks. As autumn sets in, the UV Index declines again, reverting to a low category by November and December. For more detailed insights on the UV levels throughout the year, check out Kirkwall UV Index.
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In January, Kirkwall basks in a modest 55 hours of sunshine, a gentle prelude to the brighter days ahead. As winter slowly yields, February sees a remarkable jump to 141 hours, hinting at the awakening of spring. By March, the sun shines for 204 hours, further brightening spirits as the days lengthen. The arrival of April brings a delightful surge to 337 hours, paving the way for the vibrant months ahead. May and June stand out with 406 and 428 hours of sunshine, respectively, showcasing the peak of brightness in Kirkwall. However, the sun begins to wane in July and August, with slightly reduced hours of 413 and 384, marking a gentle transition toward autumn. As the days shorten in the fall, September offers 288 hours, while October and November witness a significant drop to 209 and 94 hours. Ultimately, December finishes the year with only 74 hours, wrapping up a cycle of sunshine that vividly illustrates the changing seasons in this charming corner of the United Kingdom.
In Kirkwall, January typically brings a 28% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the cooler months for clear skies. This figure stands out amidst a varied annual spectrum, where February enjoys a slight increase in sunshine at 36%, providing a hint of optimism for those yearning for brighter days. As the year progresses, the likelihood of sunshine fluctuates: March dips to 19%, while April matches February's sunny potential at 36%. However, the chance gradually decreases again in the summer months, with July and August plummeting to 16% and 15%, respectively. Overall, January’s sunshine prospects reflect a blend of typical winter gloom, yet through the lens of the yearly trends, there’s a clear rhythm of shifting brightness awaiting as the seasons progress.
In January, Kirkwall experiences about 7 hours of daylight, marking the beginning of a gradual increase as the year progresses. By February, this brightens to 9 hours, setting the stage for the onset of spring. As the days lengthen, March brings a significant jump to 11 hours, while April delights with 14 hours of sunshine, a clear sign of nature awakening. The peak arrives in June, where residents enjoy an impressive 18 hours of daylight, perfect for embracing the outdoors. However, this abundance starts to wane in July and August, bringing 17 and 15 hours respectively, as summer begins to tip into autumn. From September's 12 hours down to 6 hours in December, the daylight dwindles, creating a rhythmic cycle that beautifully reflects the seasonal changes in Kirkwall. This ebb and flow of daylight not only defines the city’s climate but also influences its vibrant community life throughout the year.
In January, Kirkwall experiences an average wind speed of 8.9 m/s (or 20 mph), setting the tone for a breezy winter month. As the year progresses into February, winds pick up slightly, reaching 10.3 m/s (23 mph), before returning to 8.9 m/s in March. This pattern reflects a steadiness typical of early spring transitions. April brings a dip to 7.9 m/s, and by May and June, the winds soften further, averaging 6.3 m/s and 6.6 m/s, respectively. However, as summer wanes into October, wind speeds rise again, climbing to 9.2 m/s before peaking in November at 10.8 m/s, reminiscent of the turbulent weather often seen as autumn deepens. By the time December arrives, the winds settle back to 8.9 m/s, mirroring the January conditions, thus framing the year with familiar gusts that echo the island's maritime climate.
The weather in Kirkwall 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 Kirkwall and find detailed weather information for every month.
January and February exhibit similar overall temperatures, with January slightly warmer, featuring an average of 6°C (44°F) compared to February’s average of 6°C (43°F). However, February sees a slightly lower minimum temperature of 0°C (33°F) compared to January’s 2°C (36°F). Both months experience considerable precipitation, with February receiving 99 mm (3.9 in) over 18 days, while January records 91 mm (3.6 in) across 16 days. Humidity remains fairly consistent, with January at 82% and February at 81%. For more detailed information on daily weather patterns, you can check out Kirkwall weather in February.
In comparing the weather between January and March, both months exhibit similar average temperatures, with January averaging 6°C (44°F) and March maintaining the same average. However, January tends to be slightly warmer in terms of maximum temperatures, reaching up to 12°C (53°F), whereas March peaks at 10°C (50°F). Precipitation also varies, with January receiving 91 mm (3.6 in) over 16 days, while March experiences a bit more rain at 104 mm (4.1 in) over 20 days. Humidity levels remain relatively constant, with January at 82% and March at 81%. For more detailed information about March weather, you can refer to Kirkwall weather in March.
In January, the weather is generally colder with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 12°C (53°F), while April sees slightly milder conditions, with temperatures varying from 0°C (32°F) at the lowest to 11°C (53°F) at the highest. January experiences more precipitation, totaling 91 mm (3.6 in) over 16 days, compared to April's 51 mm (2.0 in) across 12 days. Despite both months having high humidity levels, January's average humidity is slightly higher at 82% compared to April's 81%. For a detailed look at April weather, visit Kirkwall weather in April.
In January, the weather tends to be quite chilly, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 12°C (53°F). This month also experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 91 mm (3.6 in) over approximately 16 days, alongside high humidity levels at 82%. In contrast, May brings slightly warmer temperatures, with averages ranging from 3°C (37°F) to 13°C (56°F). Precipitation decreases to 55 mm (2.2 in) across 13 days, and humidity remains comparable at 83%. For a detailed look at the weather during this spring month, visit Kirkwall weather in May.
In January, the weather is considerably colder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 12°C (53°F). The month is also characterized by higher precipitation, totaling 91 mm (3.6 in) over 16 days, coupled with a humidity level of 82%. In contrast, June brings milder conditions, with average temperatures from 7°C (45°F) to 14°C (58°F). Precipitation decreases to 55 mm (2.2 in) over 11 days, while humidity slightly rises to 84%. For more details on June's climate, you can visit Kirkwall weather in June.
January and July present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures range from a chilly 2°C (36°F) at night to a mild 12°C (53°F) during the day, accompanied by significant precipitation of 91 mm (3.6 inches) over 16 days, paired with high humidity at 82%. In contrast, July enjoys milder temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (49°F) and a maximum of 17°C (63°F), along with reduced precipitation totals of 70 mm (2.8 inches) spread across 13 days, while humidity slightly increases to 87%. For a more detailed look at July temperatures, check out Kirkwall weather in July.
In January, the weather is markedly cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 12°C (53°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 91 mm (3.6 in) over 16 days, contributing to a relatively high humidity level of 82%. In contrast, August presents a milder climate, with minimum temperatures of 10°C (51°F), an average of 13°C (56°F), and a maximum of 16°C (61°F). Precipitation decreases to 72 mm (2.8 in) across 15 days, and humidity rises slightly to 86%. For more information on the weather in August, check out Kirkwall weather in August.
In January, the weather is notably colder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 12°C (53°F). The month sees about 91 mm (3.6 in) of precipitation over 16 days, accompanied by a relatively high humidity level of 82%. In contrast, September offers a milder climate, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 9°C (48°F) and peaking at 16°C (61°F). This month experiences increased rainfall, totaling 125 mm (4.9 in) across 19 days, and slightly higher humidity at 88%. For a more detailed look at the weather, check out Kirkwall weather in September.
In comparison to January, October experiences slightly milder temperatures, with minimums around 5°C (42°F) compared to January's 2°C (36°F). The average temperature in October is also higher at 11°C (51°F) versus January's 6°C (44°F), making it feel more pleasant overall. However, October sees significantly more precipitation, with a total of 163 mm (6.4 in) over 25 days, compared to January's 91 mm (3.6 in) across 16 days. Additionally, humidity levels are marginally higher in October at 87%, compared to January's 82%. For more specific details on the weather, you can check Kirkwall weather in October.
In comparing the weather between January and November, January tends to be slightly cooler with average temperatures ranging from 2°C (36°F) to 12°C (53°F), while November sees a marginally higher average, from 3°C (38°F) to 13°C (56°F). November also experiences more precipitation, totaling 136 mm (5.4 in) over 23 days, compared to January's 91 mm (3.6 in) spread across 16 days. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in November at 87% compared to January's 82%. For a more detailed overview, you can check Kirkwall weather in November.
In comparing the weather between January and December, January tends to be slightly cooler, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 12°C (53°F). December, on the other hand, sees temperatures that are marginally higher, with a minimum of 3°C (37°F) and a maximum of 11°C (52°F). Additionally, January experiences more precipitation, with 91 mm (3.6 in) over 16 days, compared to December's 111 mm (4.4 in) spread over 21 days. Humidity levels are quite similar, hovering around 82% in January and 80% in December. For further details about the weather in December, you can check Kirkwall weather in December.
In January, Kirkwall's weather presents a distinct winter chill compared to the milder months that precede and follow it. Temperatures dip, with cool averages hovering around 6°C, making it a memorable month for those who appreciate the crisp winter air. This period also marks a significant uptick in precipitation, with nearly half the month seeing rainfall, contrasting sharply with the drier spells of late spring and summer. The high humidity levels, typical of winter, contribute to a damp atmosphere, while the longer nights add to the tranquil vibe of this historic town. For a deeper dive into the unique characteristics of Kirkwall's climate, explore Kirkwall Climate.