January Weather in Charleston, United States

Last updated: June 24, 2025

In Charleston, United States, the average temperature in January hovers around 5°C (41°F). During this time, temperatures can range dramatically, dipping as low as -15°C (4°F) and peaking at a pleasant 24°C (75°F). Prepare for some wet days, as the area experiences about 80 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation over 9 days. The average humidity is a rather high 82%, making it feel cooler and more refreshing.

January Temperature in Charleston

In January in Charleston, the average temperature is 5°C (41°F), with maximums reaching 24°C (75°F) and minimums dipping as low as -15°C (4°F). Travelers should be prepared for a wide range of temperatures, ensuring they pack layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Charleston, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Charleston, January typically has an average temperature of 5°C (41°F), with highs reaching up to 24°C (75°F) and lows dropping to around -15°C (4°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec414555607078828076635146
Data source: Temperature data for Charleston 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 Charleston

In Charleston in January, the precipitation amount is 80 mm (3.1 in) spread over 9 days.

January Precipitation Trends in Charleston

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Charleston, 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. In Charleston, January typically receives around 80 mm (3.1 inches) of precipitation spread over approximately 9 days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8011613116119710987125591137690
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Charleston

In Charleston in January, humidity is 82%. With an average temperature of 5°C (41°F), this humidity feels like a chilly, damp blanket wrapping around you, making outdoor activities less enjoyable and making it essential to dress in layers to stay warm while navigating the wet conditions.

January Average Humidity in Charleston

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Charleston, with January’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In January, average humidity in Charleston is approximately 82%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec82%79%77%78%82%81%75%61%59%69%82%88%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Charleston

In Charleston in January, the maximum UV index reaches 4, which corresponds to a moderate Exposure Category. With a time to burn of 30 minutes, it’s important to take precautions to protect your skin. You can find more details in the Hourly UV Index in Charleston for better planning.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Charleston for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Charleston 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. In January, the maximum UV index in Charleston typically reaches 4, which falls under the moderate exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec46810111111109754
Data source: Charleston 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.

How January Weather in Charleston Compares to Other Months

Weather in Charleston varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares January’s weather to other months in Charleston, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

This table compares monthly weather conditions in Charleston, showing how January’s temperature, precipitation, humidity, and UV index levels differ from those of other months.
 TemperaturePrecipitationHumidityUV
January Weather5°C (41°F)80 mm (3.1 inches)82%moderate
February Weather7°C (45°F)116 mm (4.6 inches)79%high
March Weather13°C (55°F)131 mm (5.1 inches)77%very high
April Weather16°C (61°F)161 mm (6.3 inches)78%very high
May Weather21°C (70°F)197 mm (7.8 inches)82%extreme
June Weather26°C (78°F)109 mm (4.3 inches)81%extreme
July Weather28°C (82°F)87 mm (3.4 inches)75%extreme
August Weather27°C (80°F)125 mm (4.9 inches)61%very high
September Weather25°C (76°F)59 mm (2.3 inches)59%very high
October Weather17°C (64°F)113 mm (4.5 inches)69%high
November Weather10°C (51°F)76 mm (3.0 inches)82%moderate
December Weather8°C (47°F)90 mm (3.5 inches)87%moderate

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