January Weather in Sitka, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

In January, Sitka, United States experiences a cool maritime climate, characterized by an average temperature of 1°C (33°F) and extreme variations ranging from a minimum of -17°C (2°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F). The month is notably wet, with 219 mm (8.6 in) of precipitation spread over 18 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 87%. Visitors can expect a dramatic interplay between chilly air and frequent rainfall, making it a unique time to experience Sitka's stunning winter landscapes.

January Temperature in Sitka

In January, Sitka, United States, experiences a chilly embrace, with temperatures ranging from a biting -17°C (2°F) at night to a more moderate 13°C (56°F) during the day. The average temperature hovers around 1°C (33°F), setting a wintery tone for the month. This pattern of cold mornings and mild afternoons is typical for Sitka, reflecting a gradual transition into spring as the year progresses. February shows slightly warmer nights at -16°C (4°F), while the average temperature remains stable, indicating a prolonged chill. By March, temperatures start to show a hint of warmth, with daytime highs reaching 11°C (52°F). As winter yields to spring, the trend becomes increasingly apparent, with temperatures steadily rising through April, where daily maximums hit 14°C (57°F), heralding the approach of the vibrant seasons ahead.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Sitka, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec333235404651555552453836
Data source: Temperature data for Sitka 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 Sitka

In January, Sitka experiences a significant 219 mm (8.6 in) of precipitation, making it one of the wettest months of the year. This uptick in rainfall continues into the late fall and early winter months, where December tallies 293 mm (11.5 in), an overall peak in the annual precipitation cycle. January typically sees about 18 days of rain, setting a trend of consistent wet weather that follows through February and March, where total rainfall slightly decreases. However, the overall pattern suggests that the winter months are characterized by frequent precipitation, emphasizing Sitka's reputation for lush, green landscapes and a thriving natural ecosystem. As spring approaches, rainfall begins to wane, with May receiving only 124 mm (4.9 in), making way for drier summer months, yet the cycle of abundant precipitation resumes by late summer and into fall, highlighting the region's vibrant climate dynamics.

January Precipitation Trends in Sitka

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Sitka, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec219179179174124137112201224276284293
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Sitka

In January, Sitka experiences a notably high humidity level of 87%, setting the stage for the generally damp and misty climate typical of the Pacific Northwest. The humidity gradually decreases through February and March, dipping to 85% and 83% respectively, but then stabilizes at 83% throughout April. As May arrives, humidity rises once again, peaking at a staggering 95% in June and reaching 101% in July, highlighting the region's trend of increasing moisture during the summer months. This high humidity persists through August but starts to taper off in September at 94%. The return to lower levels in October (87%) and November (85%) signals the onset of winter, only to rise back up to 87% in December. Overall, the data reflects a significant seasonal variability, with a clear distinction between drier late winter and early spring months, and the intensely humid summer period.

January Average Humidity in Sitka

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Sitka, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec87%85%83%83%88%95%101%100%94%87%85%87%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Sitka

In January, Sitka enjoys a low UV Index of 1, indicating minimal risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure, with a burn time of 45 minutes. This trend of low exposure continues through February, maintaining the same UV Index and burn time. However, as spring approaches, the UV Index begins to rise, reaching 4 by March and 5 by April, ushering in a moderate exposure category with reduced burn times of 30 minutes. The late spring and summer months bring higher UV indices, peaking at 6 in May and June, and reaching 7 in both July and August, where the burn time shortens to 25 minutes. As autumn sets in, the UV Index declines, falling back to 5 in September, then to 3 in October, before returning to low levels of 1 during November and December. This seasonal fluctuation highlights the importance of sun safety awareness throughout the year, especially during the sunnier months. For more information, visit Sitka UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Sitka for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Sitka 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec124566775311
Data source: Sitka 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 Sitka

January in Sitka is characterized by its modest 44 hours of sunshine, a stark contrast to the brightening days that follow. As winter gives way to spring, February sees a jump to 128 hours, hinting at the gradual return of light. By March, the sun shines for 177 hours, and April continues the upward trend with 196 hours. This increasing pattern peaks in May and June, where residents enjoy 220 hours of radiant sunlight, before slightly dropping in the latter half of the year. As summer fades, August holds onto 212 hours, while September still enjoys the tail end of sunny days with 185 hours. Come October, the sunshine dwindles to 120 hours, signaling the onset of shorter days. November and December bring the year to a close with only 64 hours and 52 hours of sunshine, respectively, leaving locals eagerly awaiting the return of longer, sunlit days.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Sitka: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Sitka 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec44h128h177h196h220h222h220h212h185h120h64h52h
Data source: Sitka January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Sitka During January

In Sitka, United States, January brings rather gloomy skies, with a mere 15% chance of sunny weather, marking it as one of the cloudiest months of the year. As winter transitions to early spring, the odds for sunshine gradually improve, notably rising to 34% in February and hovering around 19% in March. However, unlike typical seasonal patterns, May surprises with a slump to just 12% sunshine, before a slow recovery in the summer months. Remarkably, there is a general upward trend in sunshine probability as the year progresses, with April peaking at 32% and maintaining healthier percentages through July and August. The overall pattern suggests that while January may be a washout, the subsequent months offer a glimmer of hope for those craving the sun.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Sitka

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Sitka 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 Sitka experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec15%34%19%33%12%24%18%17%10%16%16%30%
Data source: Sitka January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Sitka in January

In Sitka, United States, January marks the tail end of the dark winter months, with only 7 hours of daylight. As the year progresses, daylight gradually increases, bringing a sense of renewal and awakening. By February, daylight extends to 9 hours, and by March, it reaches 11 hours, heralding the arrival of spring. April continues this upward trend, offering 14 hours, before May shines brighter at 16 hours. The peak of daylight occurs in the summer months of June and July, with a generous 17 hours to relish the stunning natural scenery. As summer fades into fall, daylight begins to dwindle once more, dropping to 15 hours in August and steadily decreasing to 12 hours in September. October provides 10 hours, while November and December retreat to 8 and a mere 6 hours of daylight, respectively, closing the cycle of the year. This rhythmic ebb and flow of light not only defines the seasons but also shapes the lifestyle and activities of Sitka's residents.

Average Daylight Hours in Sitka for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Sitka throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7h 29m9h 30m11h 54m14h 22m16h 34m17h 46m17h 5m15h 3m12h 40m10h 14m8h 1m6h 47m
Data source: Sitka daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Sitka

In Sitka during January, the wind whips through at an average speed of 4.7 m/s (10 mph), marking it as the month with the highest gusts in the year. As we transition into February, these breezes soften just a tad to 4.0 m/s (9 mph). A notable trend unfolds in the spring months, with wind speeds gradually decreasing, particularly in April and July, where they dip to around 2.6 to 2.8 m/s (6 mph). Interestingly, the wind begins to pick up again in September with a refreshing 3.9 m/s (9 mph), signaling a return to gustier conditions as fall approaches. The year wraps up with moderate breezes in November and December, but the patterns clearly indicate January's dominance as the windiest month, setting an energetic tone for the year ahead.

Average January Wind Speed in Sitka

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Sitka, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.7 m/s4.03.72.83.32.82.63.23.94.44.13.5
Data source: Sitka January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Sitka Compares to Other Months

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

January and February exhibit notable differences in weather conditions. January typically sees a wider range of temperatures, with a minimum of -17°C (2°F), averaging around 1°C (33°F), and peaking at 13°C (56°F). In contrast, February's temperatures are slightly milder, with a low of -16°C (4°F), an average of 0°C (32°F), and a maximum of 9°C (48°F). Precipitation levels also differ; January receives 219 mm (8.6 in) over 18 days, while February records a lower total of 179 mm (7.0 in) across 15 days. Additionally, humidity levels remain fairly consistent, with January at 87% and February slightly lower at 85%. For more detailed information, you can check Sitka weather in February.

January weather is characterized by colder temperatures, with a minimum of -17°C (2°F) and an average of 1°C (33°F), reaching a maximum of 13°C (56°F). Alongside this chill, January receives significant precipitation of 219 mm (8.6 in) over 18 days and maintains high humidity levels at 87%. In contrast, March sees slightly warmer conditions, with a minimum of -13°C (9°F) and a similar average of 1°C (35°F). The maximum temperatures drop slightly to 11°C (52°F), and March experiences less precipitation at 179 mm (7.0 in), also spread over 18 days, while humidity decreases to 83%. For a detailed look at weather trends, you can check Sitka weather in March.

January and April exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In January, temperatures can drop as low as -17°C (2°F), with an average of 1°C (33°F) and a maximum of 13°C (56°F). This month also experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 219 mm (8.6 in) over 18 days, coupled with a high humidity level of 87%. In contrast, April sees milder temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (21°F), an average of 4°C (40°F), and a similar maximum of 14°C (57°F). Precipitation decreases to 174 mm (6.9 in) over the same number of days, alongside a slightly lower humidity at 83%. For more details, check out Sitka weather in April.

In January, the weather is significantly colder, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -17°C (2°F) to a milder maximum of 13°C (56°F), and an average temperature of around 1°C (33°F). The month experiences substantial precipitation, totaling 219 mm (8.6 in) over 18 days, along with high humidity at 87%. In contrast, May brings a much more temperate climate, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 1°C (35°F) and peaking at 20°C (68°F), averaging around 8°C (46°F). Precipitation decreases to 124 mm (4.9 in) over 19 days, and humidity remains comparable at 88%. For more details on the pleasant weather conditions in May, check out Sitka weather in May.

In January, the weather is characterized by frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -17°C (2°F) and an average of around 1°C (33°F). Precipitation is substantial, totaling 219 mm (8.6 in) over 18 days, and the humidity levels are high at 87%. In stark contrast, June brings milder temperatures, where the minimum is 4°C (40°F) and the average reaches 10°C (51°F), peaking at 21°C (71°F). Although precipitation is less, at 137 mm (5.4 in) over 20 days, humidity increases slightly to 95%. For more detailed information about June weather in Sitka, you can visit Sitka weather in June.

January and July present stark contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -17°C (2°F), with an average of 1°C (33°F) and a peak of 13°C (56°F). This month is characterized by high humidity at 87% and considerable precipitation of 219 mm (8.6 in) over 18 days. In contrast, July offers a much milder climate, featuring minimum temperatures of 9°C (48°F), an average of 13°C (55°F), and a maximum of 22°C (72°F). The humidity rises to a remarkable 101%, but with less precipitation—112 mm (4.4 in)—spread over 15 days. For further details on July conditions, you can visit Sitka weather in July.

In January, the weather is significantly colder, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -17°C (2°F) at night to a mild 13°C (56°F) during the day, averaging around 1°C (33°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 219 mm (8.6 in) over 18 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 87%. In contrast, August offers a more temperate climate, with temperatures varying from a low of 7°C (45°F) to a warm maximum of 25°C (77°F), averaging at 13°C (56°F). Although it has slightly less precipitation at 201 mm (7.9 in) over 20 days, the humidity is notably higher at 100%. This stark contrast highlights the seasonal shift in Sitka's weather, making each month distinctively unique. For more detailed information, you can check Sitka weather in August.

January and September present contrasting weather patterns. In January, temperatures can plunge as low as -17°C (2°F), averaging around 1°C (33°F), while daytime highs reach only up to 13°C (56°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 219 mm (8.6 in) over 18 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 87%. In contrast, September brings milder conditions with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a pleasant maximum of 21°C (70°F), averaging 11°C (52°F). While precipitation slightly increases to 224 mm (8.8 in) over 17 days, the humidity also rises to 94%, creating a more damp atmosphere. For more details on September weather, visit Sitka weather in September.

January and October exhibit notable differences in weather conditions. January experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum reaching -17°C (2°F) and an average of just 1°C (33°F), while October is milder, with a minimum of -3°C (28°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F). Precipitation levels are relatively high in both months, but October sees slightly more rainfall at 276 mm (10.9 in) compared to January's 219 mm (8.6 in). Both months share a consistent humidity level of 87%, contributing to the dampness typical of the region. For a closer look at October's weather patterns, visit Sitka weather in October.

January and November exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a frigid minimum of -17°C (2°F) to a mild maximum of 13°C (56°F), with an average of 1°C (33°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 219 mm (8.6 in) over 18 days, and humidity levels are quite high at 87%. In contrast, November has a slightly milder minimum of -6°C (21°F) and a maximum of 12°C (54°F), with an average temperature of 4°C (39°F). Additionally, November sees an increase in precipitation, totaling 284 mm (11.2 in) over 23 days, while humidity remains relatively constant at 85%. For more detailed insights about weather in November, check out Sitka weather in November.

In comparison to January, December tends to be slightly warmer, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -14°C (7°F) to a maximum of 10°C (50°F), while January sees a minimum of -17°C (2°F) and a maximum of 13°C (56°F). December also experiences more precipitation, with 293 mm (11.5 in) over 22 days, compared to January's 219 mm (8.6 in) over 18 days. However, both months maintain the same high humidity level of 87%. For more detailed insights, you can check Sitka weather in December.

Compare Sitka's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Sitka

January in Sitka presents a stark contrast to the milder months, with temperatures often plunging to chilly lows and the potential for significant snowfall. The average temperature hovers around freezing, making it one of the coldest months of the year. The city experiences considerable precipitation, with nearly two-thirds of the month seeing rainy or snowy days, leading to an atmosphere that feels both damp and crisp. Furthermore, with humidity levels remaining high, the cold can penetrate more deeply, making it feel even colder than the thermometer suggests. As winter solidifies its grip, Sitka transforms into a serene, wintry landscape, offering a unique charm different from the rest of the year. For more details about Sitka's weather patterns, visit Sitka Climate.