January Weather in Mendocino, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

In January, Mendocino, United States, experiences a varied climate characterized by mild temperatures and frequent rainfall. The maximum temperature can reach up to 21°C (69°F), while the average dips to a cool 10°C (50°F), and nights can be as chilly as 1°C (34°F). Rain is a significant feature this month, with a total precipitation of 147 mm (5.8 in) spread over approximately 11 days, contributing to an impressive humidity level of 86%. This unique combination of weather elements creates a moody, lush atmosphere, perfect for exploring Mendocino's scenic beauty.

January Temperature in Mendocino

In Mendocino, January temperatures begin the year with a distinct chill, featuring a minimum of 1°C (34°F), while the average hovers around a cool 10°C (50°F) and can reach a pleasant maximum of 21°C (69°F). This pattern reflects a mild coastal climate, where winter months typically see moderate temperatures that gradually begin to rise as spring approaches. With January acting as a precursor to the warmer days ahead, it sets the stage for February's slight warming trend, which brings temperatures that can peak at 24°C (76°F). Overall, Mendocino enjoys a relatively stable climate throughout winter, with January's cool embrace giving way to an uplifting transition into the milder and sunnier days of spring.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Mendocino, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec505051545661636464595350
Data source: Temperature data for Mendocino 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 Mendocino

In January, Mendocino experiences a significant influx of moisture, recording 147 mm (5.8 in) of precipitation over 11 days. This robust rainfall marks the peak of the wet season, setting a stark contrast to the drier months ahead. As winter progresses, February follows closely with 137 mm (5.4 in), but by March, the figures drop noticeably to 108 mm (4.2 in), hinting at the gradual transition toward spring. The rainfall continues to taper off sharply in April, plummeting to 60 mm (2.4 in), and further dwindling through May and into the summer months, where virtually no rain is recorded. This trend underscores a distinct seasonal pattern, where the vibrant January deluge prepares the landscape for drier, sunnier days to come in Mendocino.

January Precipitation Trends in Mendocino

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Mendocino, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec14813710860432216437297
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Mendocino

In Mendocino, January ushers in a notably high humidity level of 86%, setting the tone for a damp winter environment that persists through the month. As the year progresses, humidity gradually decreases, dropping to 84% in February and further declining to 83% by March. A more significant reduction occurs as spring approaches, with levels stabilizing around 80% from April through May. The trend continues heading into summer, where humidity hits a seasonal low of 66% in August, creating a crisp coastal atmosphere. As autumn descends, humidity begins to rise once more, stabilizing at 84% in both November and December, echoing the winter’s initial dampness. This cyclical change highlights Mendocino's unique maritime climate, where humidity weaves a continuous thread through the seasons, balancing between wet winters and drier summers.

January Average Humidity in Mendocino

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Mendocino, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec86%84%83%80%80%76%70%66%68%72%84%84%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Mendocino

In January, Mendocino experiences a moderate UV Index of 3, indicating a safe level for most outdoor activities with a burn time of 30 minutes. As winter transitions to spring, February sees a slight increase to UV Index 5, still classified as moderate, maintaining a 30-minute burn time. However, come March, the sun's intensity ramps up sharply, reaching a high index of 7 and reducing the safe exposure time to just 25 minutes. This trend continues to escalate through April, when the UV Index hits 8, marking a very high exposure category and a burn time of only 15 minutes. As summer approaches, May and June both peak at an extreme Index of 11, allowing for merely 10 minutes of safe sun exposure. Despite a slight decrease in August and September, levels remain elevated at 10 and 8, respectively. As the year winds down, the UV Index gradually drops back to moderate levels in November and December. For more details on weekly variations and safety tips, check Mendocino UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Mendocino for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Mendocino 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3578111111108643
Data source: Mendocino 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 Mendocino

In January, Mendocino experiences 133 hours of sunshine, marking the start of the year with a relatively modest light count. As the season transitions, February brings a noticeable improvement to 205 hours, signaling longer days ahead. By March, the sun shines for 261 hours, and the momentum carries into April with an impressive 290 hours of radiant sunlight. The peak of sunshine arrives in late spring and summer, with June boasting 376 hours and July reaching 386 hours—the pinnacle of brightness for the year. As summer gives way to fall, sunshine hours gradually decline, yet September still enjoys a robust 302 hours. The trend continues into October with 275 hours, before slipping back to 208 hours in November and 175 hours in December, as Mendocino settles into the cooler, shorter days of winter. This clear progression of sunshine hours not only illustrates the region's delightful climate shifts but also highlights the charm of each season.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Mendocino: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Mendocino 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec133h205h261h290h348h376h386h344h302h275h208h175h
Data source: Mendocino January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Mendocino During January

In Mendocino, the chances of enjoying sunny weather in January hover around 35%, signaling that while the sun can break through occasionally, it's outshone by the potential for more overcast days. This trend of limited sunshine begins to shift rapidly in February, climbing to 51%, and continues to rise with each subsequent month, peaking at 70% in May. As spring unfolds into summer, the likelihood of sun remains relatively robust, averaging over 50%. The gradual increase in sunny days throughout the year underscores the transition from the cooler, cloudier winter months to the vibrant, sun-kissed days of spring and summer, making January a time of anticipation for brighter skies ahead.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Mendocino

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Mendocino 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 Mendocino experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec35%52%58%60%70%56%52%63%57%46%40%32%
Data source: Mendocino January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Mendocino in January

In Mendocino, United States, January marks the beginning of a gradual increase in daylight duration, with only 9 hours of sunlight. As the months progress, daylight lengthens steadily, reaching 10 hours in February and 11 hours in March. The arrival of spring brings significant changes; by April, residents enjoy 13 hours of daylight, which peaks during the summer months at 14 hours from May through July. As summer wanes into autumn, daylight begins to retreat, moving back down through 13 hours in August and settling at 12 hours in September. This decline continues into the winter months, with both November and December reverting to 9 hours of daylight. Thus, Mendocino experiences a beautiful rhythm of light, cycling through a spectrum that highlights the vibrant changes of each season.

Average Daylight Hours in Mendocino for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Mendocino throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 44m10h 43m11h 58m13h 15m14h 20m14h 52m14h 34m13h 37m12h 23m11h 6m9h 59m9h 26m
Data source: Mendocino daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Mendocino

In Mendocino, January greets residents and visitors with a gentle breeze, averaging 3.3 m/s (7 mph)—a calm start to the year. As winter unfolds, the wind speeds gradually climb, peaking in May at 5.0 m/s (11 mph), offering a more invigorating atmosphere as spring approaches. Following this peak, the winds return to a milder pace during the summer months, averaging around 3.3 m/s (7 mph) in July and August. As summer fades into autumn, a subtle decline emerges, with September and November recording the lowest average speeds of 2.7 m/s (6 mph) and 2.5 m/s (6 mph), respectively. This seasonal pattern reveals not only the typical fluctuations in Mendocino’s wind but also a rhythm that mirrors the majestic coastal landscape, making each month a unique experience for all who embrace its breezes.

Average January Wind Speed in Mendocino

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Mendocino, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.3 m/s3.93.73.55.03.73.33.12.73.52.53.2
Data source: Mendocino January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Mendocino Compares to Other Months

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

January and February feature similar average temperatures, with both months hovering around 10°C (50°F). However, January experiences slightly chillier minimum and maximum temperatures, ranging from 1°C (34°F) to 21°C (69°F), compared to February's minimum of 0°C (32°F) and a warmer maximum of 24°C (76°F). While January has a bit more precipitation at 147 mm (5.8 in) over 11 days, February sees a slightly drier environment with 137 mm (5.4 in) over the same number of rainy days. Humidity levels are also quite close, with January at 86% and February at 84%. For a more detailed look at February weather, check out Mendocino weather in February.

In comparing the weather between January and March, both months exhibit relatively mild temperatures, with January featuring a minimum of 1°C (34°F) and an average of 10°C (50°F), while March sees slightly warmer temperatures with a minimum of 2°C (35°F) and a similar average of 10°C (51°F). The maximum temperature increases in March to 23°C (74°F), compared to January's maximum of 21°C (69°F). Precipitation is also noteworthy, as January experiences 147 mm (5.8 in) over 11 days, whereas March has a reduced total of 108 mm (4.2 in) across 13 days, indicating a shift towards slightly drier conditions. Humidity remains high throughout both months, with January at 86% and March at 83%. For more specific insights on March weather, you can check Mendocino weather in March.

January weather is characterized by cooler temperatures, with averages ranging from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 21°C (69°F). It is also marked by higher precipitation levels, totaling 147 mm (5.8 in) over 11 days, and a humidity of 86%. In contrast, April offers milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F). Additionally, April experiences significantly less precipitation, averaging 60 mm (2.4 in) over just 7 days, and slightly lower humidity at 80%. For further details on April weather, you can visit Mendocino weather in April.

In January, the weather tends to be quite cool, with temperatures ranging from a chilly minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a pleasant maximum of 21°C (69°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 147 mm (5.8 in) over about 11 days, and maintains a high humidity level of 86%. In contrast, May brings milder and warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (42°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F). Precipitation drops substantially to 43 mm (1.7 in) over just 4 days, and humidity also decreases to 80%. For more details on specific weather conditions during this month, check out Mendocino weather in May.

When comparing the weather in January and June, it’s clear that there are significant differences. January is marked by a cooler climate, with temperatures ranging from a min of 1°C (34°F) to a max of 21°C (69°F), accompanied by considerable precipitation of 147 mm (5.8 in) over 11 days, resulting in high humidity levels of 86%. In contrast, June experiences a much warmer and drier climate, with temperatures ranging from a min of 9°C (48°F) to a max of 31°C (88°F) and only 2 mm (0.1 in) of precipitation across the month, with no rainy days and humidity dropping to 76%. This shift in weather conditions highlights the transition from the chilly, wet winter to the warm, dry summer months. For more information on June weather, check out Mendocino weather in June.

In January, the weather is quite cool and variable, with temperatures ranging from a chilly 1°C (34°F) at night to a mild 21°C (69°F) during the day. The month experiences substantial rainfall, averaging 147 mm (5.8 inches) over approximately 11 days, contributing to high humidity levels of 86%. In contrast, July brings a warm and dry climate, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 11°C (52°F) and reaching a maximum of 29°C (84°F). Notably, July has minimal precipitation, with only 2 mm (0.1 inches) recorded over the entire month and no rainy days, resulting in a more comfortable humidity level of 70%. For more details on summer conditions, you can check Mendocino weather in July.

January and August present contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a pleasant maximum of 21°C (69°F), with an average of 10°C (50°F). This month experiences significant precipitation, with 147 mm (5.8 in) falling over 11 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 86%. In stark contrast, August boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (51°F) and a maximum reaching 31°C (88°F), averaging 18°C (64°F). Dry conditions dominate this month, with just 1 mm (0.0 in) of precipitation over 0 days, and a reduced humidity of 66%. For more details, you can check out Mendocino weather in August.

In January, the weather is considerably cooler with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 21°C (69°F) and an average of 10°C (50°F). This month typically experiences higher levels of precipitation, accumulating around 147 mm (5.8 in) over about 11 days, alongside a high humidity of 86%.

In contrast, September offers much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (47°F) and a maximum reaching a scorching 36°C (96°F), averaging 18°C (64°F). The month is characterized by minimal rainfall, with only about 6 mm (0.2 in) over just one day, and lower humidity at 68%. For more detailed information, you can check Mendocino weather in September.

The weather in January is generally cooler and wetter compared to October. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of 21°C (69°F), with an average of 10°C (50°F). This month also sees significant rainfall, with approximately 147 mm (5.8 in) falling over 11 days and an overall humidity of 86%. In contrast, October features milder temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (43°F), an average of 15°C (60°F), and a peak of 32°C (90°F). Rainfall is much less frequent in October, with only 43 mm (1.7 in) over just 3 days and a lower humidity level of 72%. For more details on the weather during this milder month, check out Mendocino weather in October.

In January, temperatures range from a chilly 1°C (34°F) at night to a pleasant 21°C (69°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 10°C (50°F). The month experiences significant rainfall, totaling 147 mm (5.8 in) over approximately 11 days, contributing to the high humidity of 86%. In contrast, November boasts slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (35°F), an average of 12°C (53°F), and a maximum of 22°C (72°F). Precipitation is substantially lower at 72 mm (2.8 in) spread across about 6 days, and humidity is slightly less at 84%. For a detailed look at weather conditions in November, visit Mendocino weather in November.

In comparing the weather between January and December, both months experience similar average temperatures, hovering around 10°C (50°F). However, January is characterized by slightly lower minimum temperatures at 1°C (34°F) and a marginally higher maximum temperature of 21°C (69°F), compared to December's minimum of 2°C (35°F) and maximum of 20°C (68°F). January also sees significantly more precipitation, totaling 147 mm (5.8 in) spread over 11 days, whereas December has only 97 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over the same number of days. Humidity is slightly higher in January at 86%, compared to 84% in December. For a more detailed look at conditions in December, you can visit Mendocino weather in December.

Compare Mendocino's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Mendocino

January in Mendocino brings a unique charm, marked by cooler temperatures and a noticeably higher humidity level compared to other months. While the days can be milder, the nights often dip significantly, creating a refreshing contrast. This month sees increased precipitation, with rain gracing the landscape on several days, giving life to the lush greenery that defines the region. As winter settles in, Mendocino transforms into a cozy retreat, ideal for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. To learn more about what to expect throughout the year, check out Mendocino Climate.