Last updated: February 24, 2025
In January, Fairbanks, United States experiences a stark contrast in temperatures, with a maximum reach of 4°C (40°F) and an average plummeting to a chilling -19°C (-2°F). The month is characterized by extreme lows, dipping to a biting -46°C (-50°F). Despite the severe cold, precipitation remains light, totaling 13 mm (0.5 in) over four days. The high humidity of 96% adds to the frigid atmosphere, making January in Fairbanks a month of harsh beauty and stark winter conditions.
In Fairbanks, United States, January showcases the depths of winter with temperature extremes that can be quite shocking. The month opens with a chilling minimum of -46°C (-50°F), making the average temperature a biting -19°C (-2°F). Despite the harsh cold, temperatures can rise to a relatively warm 4°C (40°F), providing brief respite from the frigid conditions. This stark contrast highlights January as the coldest month of the year, setting the stage for a gradual warming trend as Fairbanks transitions into February and March, when the minimums begin to improve slightly. As the days lengthen, temperatures rise, leading into the mildness of April, which averages around 0°C (33°F). Overall, January’s freezing temperatures not only define the winter landscape but also mark a pivotal point in the seasonal transition as the icy grip of winter starts to loosen.
In Fairbanks, January marks a relatively dry start to the year, with just 13 mm (0.5 in) of precipitation recorded over a mere 4 days. This sets the stage for a gradual increase in moisture as winter transitions into spring. February follows with a noticeable uptick to 24 mm (1.0 in), paving the way for March and April, where precipitation amounts hover around 21 mm (0.8 in) and 20 mm (0.8 in) respectively. As the seasons change, so does the weather—May and June see a significant rise, both in total precipitation and the number of rainy days, culminating in a peak of 56 mm (2.2 in) in June. This upward trend continues into the summer months, showcasing Fairbanks' characteristic wetness in August, which boasts a striking 104 mm (4.1 in). Overall, the data illustrates a clear seasonal pattern where winter's dryness gives way to a lush, rainier summer, emphasizing the stark contrasts in Fairbanks' climate throughout the year.
In Fairbanks, United States, January showcases an impressive 96% humidity, setting the tone for a month characterized by dampness and chill. As the year unfolds, February maintains a similar trend with a slight decrease to 93%, while March and April continue this gradual drop, recording 89% and 85% humidity, respectively. The transition to late spring and summer sees humidity levels dip further, reaching 77% in May and stabilizing around 78% in June. However, a noticeable uptick occurs in July and August, where humidity rises to 85% and 88%, embracing the summer monsoon vibes. As autumn approaches, September and October signal a return to higher humidity levels at 90% and a peak of 97%. The year closes with November and December, hitting a striking 100% and 99%, reminding residents of the winter's frosty embrace. Throughout the year, Fairbanks experiences a captivating ebb and flow in humidity, shaping its distinct seasonal character.
In January, Fairbanks enjoys a low UV Index of 1, indicating minimal risk for skin damage from sun exposure, with a safe burn time of 45 minutes. This pattern of low UV levels continues through February, making early winter an ideal time for outdoor activities without significant sun safety concerns. However, as spring approaches, March sees a slight increase to UV Index 2, but exposure remains low, still allowing for a generous burn time of 45 minutes. The trend shifts dramatically in April, where the UV Index rises to 3, indicating moderate exposure risk and reducing the safe burn time to just 30 minutes. This pattern of increasing UV levels persists into the summer months, peaking at 5 in May through August, when sun safety becomes more crucial. As fall approaches, the UV Index begins a gradual decline, returning to low levels in October and remaining there through December. To explore more about UV exposure throughout the year, visit Fairbanks UV Index.
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In Fairbanks, January is the beginning of a gradual ascent into brighter days, offering only 43 hours of sunshine as the region shakes off winter's grasp. As the sun begins to climb higher in the sky, February sees a notable increase to 115 hours, setting the stage for a significant shift in March, where residents bask in 214 hours of daylight. This upward trajectory continues through the spring months, reaching 304 hours in April and peaking at a sun-soaked 392 hours in May. The long Alaskan summer months follow suit, with June offering an impressive 424 hours of sunshine, before a gradual decline begins in July. By August, the daylight recedes to 247 hours, transitioning into autumn's embrace as September settles in with 199 hours of daylight. As the year winds down, both October and November witness a steep drop, with the sun bringing just 131 hours and 72 hours respectively, culminating in a mere 34 hours of sunlight in December. This remarkable ebb and flow of sunlight not only defines the Alaskan landscape but also captures the vibrant transition from the cold darkness of winter to the warmth of summer.
In Fairbanks, January brings a 41% chance of sunny weather, marking a peak in the winter months. Interestingly, this percentage slightly increases in February to 42%, but dips again to 34% by March, indicating a trend towards more overcast skies as winter progresses. The transition into spring in April showcases a notable rebound, with the likelihood of sunshine rising to 49%, before fluctuating throughout the warmer months. While Fairbanks experiences these seasonal shifts, the winter sun continues to shine a little brighter in January compared to the months that follow, hinting at a fleeting optimism amidst the snowy days.
In Fairbanks, the transition from the deep winter into the vibrant spring is a remarkable journey through changing daylight. January brings a mere 5 hours of daylight, enveloping the city in a long twilight that is gradually transformed in the following months. By February, light increases to 8 hours, hinting at the promise of spring, while March sees a significant leap to 11 hours, energizing the community. The days grow even longer in April, offering 15 hours of daylight, and by May, the lush landscapes bask in 18 hours of sunlight. June reaches its zenith with an impressive 21 hours, perfect for exploring the outdoors under the midnight sun. However, as summer wanes into fall, daylight begins its slow retreat—July still enjoys 19 hours, but by August, it has dropped to 16 hours. This decline continues through the autumn months, as September offers 12 hours and October only 9 hours. By November, daylight dwindles to 6 hours, and December presents its starkest reality with just 3 hours of light, reminding residents of the cyclical nature of the seasons in this extraordinary northern latitude.
In Fairbanks, January greets residents with an average wind speed of 2.7 m/s (6 mph), making it one of the windiest months of the year. Interestingly, the wind speed begins to drop slightly in February to 2.4 m/s (5 mph), continuing a gradual decline through March at 2.1 m/s (5 mph). However, come April, a mild resurgence occurs, with speeds returning to 2.6 m/s (6 mph), before tapering again during the summer months, where June records the calmest winds at 1.9 m/s (4 mph). With a subtle upturn in the fall, November's winds pick up to 2.1 m/s (5 mph), only to close the year once more with January’s brisk gusts. This cyclical pattern not only reflects the changing seasons but also contributes to Fairbanks' unique winter landscape, seamlessly intertwining the cold and the wind.
The weather in Fairbanks 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 Fairbanks and find detailed weather information for every month.
In January, the weather in Fairbanks is characterized by extreme cold, with average temperatures reaching a chilling -19°C (2°F) and minimum lows plummeting to -46°C (-50°F). It sees limited precipitation, totaling just 13 mm (0.5 inches) over about 4 days, and maintains a high humidity level of 96%. In contrast, February exhibits slightly milder temperatures, with an average of -16°C (3°F) and minimum lows of -40°C (-39°F), while still reaching a maximum of 4°C (40°F). Precipitation increases in February to 24 mm (1.0 inches) over 7 days, coupled with a slightly lower humidity of 93%. For more detailed information, you can check Fairbanks weather in February.
In January, the weather is considerably harsher, with temperatures plummeting to a minimum of -46°C (-50°F) and an average of -19°C (-2°F). This month also experiences higher humidity at 96%, with only a slight amount of precipitation totaling 13 mm (0.5 in) over just 4 days. In contrast, March brings a noticeable warming trend, with average temperatures rising to -10°C (14°F) and maximums reaching 13°C (56°F). Although March sees slightly higher precipitation at 21 mm (0.8 in) over 6 days, the humidity drops to 89%, creating a more bearable atmosphere. For a deeper look into the specifics of March weather, you can visit Fairbanks weather in March.
In January, the weather is characterized by severe cold, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -46°C (-50°F) to a maximum of just 4°C (40°F). The average temperature hovers around -19°C (-2°F) and the high humidity of 96% adds to the harsh conditions, leading to minimal precipitation of 13 mm (0.5 in) over just four days. In contrast, April marks a significant shift, bringing milder temperatures that range from a minimum of -29°C (-19°F) to a pleasant maximum of 19°C (66°F), with an average around 0°C (33°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 20 mm (0.8 in) over five days, and humidity drops to 85%, making for a more manageable and refreshing atmosphere. For a detailed look at what to expect, visit Fairbanks weather in April.
January and May present strikingly contrasting weather patterns. In January, temperatures plunge to chilling lows, with a minimum of -46°C (-50°F) and an average temperature of -19°C (-2°F), while May warms up significantly, with lows around -4°C (25°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F). Precipitation also differs, with January receiving a modest 13 mm (0.5 in) over four days, compared to May's 24 mm (0.9 in) across seven days, indicating a shift toward more frequent rain. Additionally, humidity stays high in January at 96%, while it decreases to a more comfortable 77% in May. For more insights on the month, check out Fairbanks weather in May.
January and June present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures plummet, with minimums reaching a frigid -46°C (-50°F) and average temperatures lingering around -19°C (-2°F), while maximum temperatures rise only to 4°C (40°F). The month sees minimal precipitation, accumulating just 13 mm (0.5 in) over 4 days, and humidity is at a high 96%. In contrast, June boasts a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures starting at 5°C (42°F) and average temperatures climbing to a pleasant 17°C (63°F), peaking at a warm 32°C (90°F). Precipitation increases during this month, totaling 56 mm (2.2 in) across 12 days, and humidity drops to a comfortable 78%. For more details on summer weather, check out Fairbanks weather in June.
In January, Fairbanks experiences frigid temperatures with a minimum of -46°C (-50°F) and an average of -19°C (-2°F), while reaching a maximum of only 4°C (40°F). The month sees very little precipitation, totaling just 13 mm (0.5 in) over 4 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 96%. In stark contrast, July brings a significant warmth, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to an average of 18°C (66°F) and peaking at a pleasant 31°C (89°F). This summer month receives more substantial rainfall of 49 mm (1.9 in) across 10 days, and while humidity is lower at 85%, it still contributes to a distinctly different climate. For further details, check out Fairbanks weather in July.
In January, the weather in Fairbanks is characterized by frigid temperatures, with a striking minimum of -46°C (-50°F) and an average temperature around -19°C (-2°F). The region experiences minimal precipitation, averaging just 13 mm (0.5 in) over about four days, with a high humidity of 96% that contributes to the biting cold. In contrast, August brings a dramatic shift, presenting milder conditions with minimum temperatures around 4°C (39°F) and average highs reaching 31°C (88°F). This month sees significantly more precipitation, totaling 104 mm (4.1 in) over approximately 15 days, along with a lower humidity level of 88%. For those interested in a deeper dive into August weather specifics, you can check out Fairbanks weather in August.
January and September present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures plummet with a minimum of -46°C (-50°F) and an average temperature of -19°C (-2°F), creating a frigid atmosphere. The maximum temperature barely rises above freezing at 4°C (40°F), while precipitation is minimal at just 13 mm (0.5 in) over 4 days, accompanied by high humidity at 96%. In contrast, September sees a more moderate climate, with minimum temperatures of -8°C (18°F) and an average of 9°C (48°F), peaking at a pleasant 23°C (74°F). Precipitation increases to 43 mm (1.7 in) over 9 days, and humidity remains relatively high at 90%. For a detailed look at the September weather, you can visit Fairbanks weather in September.
January and October in Fairbanks offer stark contrasts in weather. January is characterized by frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -46°C (-50°F) and a chilly average of -19°C (-2°F), along with rare precipitation, typically only 13 mm (0.5 in) over about 4 days. The humidity hovers at a high 96%, contributing to the biting cold. In contrast, October experiences milder conditions, with minimum temperatures of -14°C (7°F) and an average of around 0°C (33°F), peaking at 19°C (66°F). Precipitation increases in October, totaling 39 mm (1.5 in) over 7 days, and the humidity is slightly higher at 97%. For more details on October weather, you can check Fairbanks weather in October.
In January, temperatures drop even lower than in November, with minimums plunging to -46°C (-50°F) and an average of -19°C (-2°F), while the maximum temperature barely rises above freezing at 4°C (40°F). In contrast, November experiences slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of -35°C (-30°F) and an average of -12°C (11°F), reaching a maximum of 8°C (46°F). Precipitation is also notably different, with January receiving just 13 mm (0.5 in) over 4 days, while November sees significantly more moisture at 31 mm (1.2 in) across 8 days, contributing to a humidity level of 100%. For a deeper dive into the specifics of November weather, you can explore Fairbanks weather in November.
When comparing the weather in January and December, January tends to be slightly colder on average, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -46°C (-50°F) to a maximum of 4°C (40°F) and an average of -19°C (-2°F). In contrast, December features milder temperatures, with a minimum of -39°C (-38°F), an average of -15°C (5°F), and a maximum of 5°C (41°F). Precipitation levels also differ; January sees approximately 13 mm (0.5 in) over 4 days, while December experiences higher precipitation of 33 mm (1.3 in) across 6 days. Additionally, humidity is slightly higher in December at 99%, compared to January's 96%. For more details, you can check Fairbanks weather in December.
January in Fairbanks presents a stark contrast to milder months, enveloping the region in a deep freeze marked by subzero temperatures and high humidity. With an average chill settling around -19°C (-2°F), residents brace for the month’s extreme lows that can plummet to a chilling -46°C (-50°F), showcasing the profound impact of winter. Although precipitation is limited, the few days of snow contribute to the serene, frosty landscape. As such, January is a time when Fairbanks embraces its true winter essence, making it a unique experience compared to the warmer months. For more insights into the year's climate patterns, visit Fairbanks Climate.