Last updated: February 24, 2025
January in South Lake Tahoe presents a chilly yet enchanting winter landscape, with temperatures ranging from a brisk -12°C (11°F) to a maximum of 12°C (54°F). The average temperature hovers around the freezing point at 0°C (32°F), making it a perfect time for winter activities. Visitors can expect considerable precipitation during this month, totaling 177 mm (7.0 in) over 10 days, contributing to the region's picturesque snowy scenery. With a humidity level of 84%, the air feels crisp and invigorating, ideal for those who embrace the beauty of winter in this stunning alpine destination.
In South Lake Tahoe, January brings a crisp chill to the air, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -12°C (11°F) at night to a mild 12°C (54°F) during the day. This month showcases a stark contrast in temperatures, with an average hovering around 0°C (32°F), hinting at the lingering winter conditions. As the month progresses, early signs of a thaw emerge, indicated by the gradual rise in temperatures seen in February, where minimums dip slightly lower at -16°C (3°F), yet maximums can reach a pleasant 16°C (61°F). This trend of fluctuating temperatures and the promise of warming days continues into March and April, creating a dynamic landscape for locals and visitors alike. By the end of the season, a noticeable shift toward milder weather becomes evident, setting the stage for the transition into spring.
In January, South Lake Tahoe experiences considerable precipitation, with 177 mm (7.0 in) falling over an average of 10 days. This makes it one of the wettest months of the year, closely rivaled by February, which sees a marginal uptick in rainfall. As winter progresses into March, precipitation begins to taper off, dropping to 158 mm (6.2 in) despite an increase in the number of rainy days to 14. The trend suggests a peak in precipitation during the early winter months, gradually yielding to drier conditions in April and May. Interestingly, after May's significantly lower total of 65 mm (2.6 in), the summer months turn quite dry, with only sparse rainfall accumulating from June through August. This seasonal shift underscores the transitional nature of precipitation patterns in this stunning alpine region, showcasing the interplay between winter storms and summer dryness.
In January, South Lake Tahoe experiences a notable humidity level of 84%, a trend that continues into February before slightly decreasing in March to 83%. This high humidity during the winter months creates a crisp, invigorating atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the snow-covered landscape. As the seasons transition into spring and summer, humidity gradually declines, reaching its lowest point of 36% in August. The shift toward drier conditions continues into the fall, but the humidity spikes again in late autumn, with both November and December returning to 84% and 83% respectively. This fluctuation emphasizes the balance of moist and dry climates in South Lake Tahoe, enhancing its appeal year-round.
In January, South Lake Tahoe experiences a moderate UV Index of 4, allowing for approximately 30 minutes of sun exposure before burning occurs. As winter gives way to spring, the UV levels rise significantly, with February reaching a high of 6 and a burn time diminishing to 25 minutes. By March, the UV Index spikes to 9, indicating very high exposure risk and reducing burn time to just 15 minutes. As the months progress into April and May, the Index hits a peak of 11 and 13 respectively, falling into the extreme category, where only 10 minutes of direct sunlight is safe. This trend continues through the summer months, with the UV Index plateauing around 12 until August. As autumn approaches, there's a notable decline, with September reverting to very high levels at 10, and October dropping to a high 7. By the end of the year, UV levels moderate again, showcasing the dynamic seasonal shifts in sun exposure. For more detailed information, check out South Lake Tahoe UV Index.
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In South Lake Tahoe, January shines with approximately 154 hours of sunlight, marking the beginning of a gradual increase in daylight that peaks in the summer months. As the year unfolds, February experiences a noteworthy rise to 213 hours, setting the stage for spring’s arrival. By March, outdoor enthusiasts can bask in 257 hours of sunshine, which continues its upward trajectory, reaching 307 hours in April and an impressive 352 hours by May. The pinnacle comes in July, when the sun graces the landscape for a remarkable 397 hours, before gently tapering off as autumn approaches. In August, hours of sunlight still remain abundant at 364, but the decline begins with September's 322 hours. As winter re-emerges, the charm of South Lake Tahoe persists, offering 229 hours in November and 191 hours in December, reminding visitors that even in the coldest months, the sun still has a presence worth enjoying.
In South Lake Tahoe, January heralds the winter season with only a 34% likelihood of sunny weather, making it one of the cloudier months of the year. As the calendar moves into February, the chances of sunshine begin to rise to 49%, suggesting a subtle shift towards clearer days. This upward trend continues through the spring months, with March and April seeing 55% and 68% chances, respectively, as the region shakes off the winter chill. By May, the sun shines more consistently, boasting a 76% likelihood, a pattern that peaks in the summer with August reaching an impressive 91%. Overall, this progression highlights the increasing prevalence of sunny days as winter transitions into summer, making early January a time for enjoying the crisp air and beautiful snowy landscapes, before the beckoning warmth of sunnier days arrives.
In January, South Lake Tahoe enjoys a modest 9 hours of daylight, setting the stage for the gradual increase that follows. As the seasons shift, February brings an increase to 10 hours, with light continuing to grow throughout March, where it reaches 11 hours. By April, the days become considerably longer at 13 hours, signaling the approach of spring and summer. This trend peaks in June, July, and August, where daylight extends to a pleasant 14 hours, perfect for outdoor activities and exploration. As summer wanes, daylight starts to retract, with 13 hours in August giving way to 12 hours in September. The downward trend continues into the fall and winter months, where 10 hours are recorded in November and returning to 9 hours by December. This rhythm of daylight serves as a beautiful reminder of the seasonal changes that define life in South Lake Tahoe.
In South Lake Tahoe, January ushers in a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 2.1 m/s (5 mph), mirroring the conditions of the previous month. This consistent wind pattern continues into February and April, showcasing a stable climate ideal for winter sports and serene lake views. Interestingly, March and June see a slight uptick, peaking at 2.2 m/s (5 mph), suggesting a subtle increase in gusts as the seasons transition. As the summer months approach, wind speeds dip slightly, with July and August recording lower averages of 1.9 m/s (4 mph) and 2.0 m/s (4 mph), respectively, creating a calm environment perfect for outdoor relaxation. As autumn arrives, September and October return to the more familiar 2.1 m/s (5 mph) mark, while December notably escalates to 2.4 m/s (5 mph), hinting at the invigorating winter winds to come. Overall, the wind speeds in South Lake Tahoe reflect a rhythm of tranquility, gently echoing the town's seasonal shifts.
The weather in South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe and find detailed weather information for every month.
January and February in South Lake Tahoe present a chilly landscape, with both months experiencing significant cold and consistent precipitation. January has a slightly higher average temperature of 0°C (32°F), compared to February's average of -1°C (31°F). However, February showcases slightly milder maximum temperatures, reaching up to 16°C (61°F), in contrast to January's maximum of 12°C (54°F). Precipitation levels are comparable, with January receiving 177 mm (7.0 in) over 10 days and February seeing slightly more at 180 mm (7.1 in) across 11 days. Humidity remains constant at 84% for both months. For a more detailed look at the February weather, check out South Lake Tahoe weather in February.
In January, South Lake Tahoe experiences colder temperatures with an average of 0°C (32°F) and a notable maximum reaching 12°C (54°F), while the minimum can plunge to -12°C (11°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, with 177 mm (7.0 in) over approximately 10 days, and humidity levels hovering around 84%. By contrast, March brings a slight warming trend, with average temperatures rising to 1°C (34°F) and maximums reaching 16°C (61°F), although the minimum remains the same at -12°C (10°F). Precipitation in March is somewhat lower at 158 mm (6.2 in) spread over 14 days, with humidity just slightly less at 83%. For more detailed insights on March weather, you can check this link: South Lake Tahoe weather in March.
In January, temperatures in South Lake Tahoe are quite chilly, with a minimum of -12°C (11°F), an average of 0°C (32°F), and a maximum of 12°C (54°F). Precipitation is relatively high at 177 mm (7.0 in) over 10 days, contributing to a humid environment with 84% humidity. In contrast, April brings a noticeable shift in weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -13°C (8°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F) and an average of 4°C (40°F). Although April has less precipitation at 76 mm (3.0 in) over 8 days, humidity drops slightly to 81%. This transition highlights the gradual warming and decreased precipitation as spring approaches. For more details, check out South Lake Tahoe weather in April.
In January, South Lake Tahoe experiences chilly temperatures, with minimums dropping to -12°C (11°F) and averaging around 0°C (32°F). The region sees significant precipitation of 177 mm (7.0 in) over approximately 10 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 84%. In contrast, May brings a much milder climate, where temperatures range from a minimum of -9°C (17°F) to an average of 9°C (48°F), peaking at a comfortable 27°C (81°F). Precipitation decreases to 65 mm (2.6 in) across the same number of days, and the humidity drops to 74%. For a closer look at the weather during this lively spring month, visit South Lake Tahoe weather in May.
When comparing the weather in January and June, the differences are quite striking. January features much colder temperatures, with lows reaching as low as -12°C (11°F) and an average temperature around 0°C (32°F). It also experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 177 mm (7.0 in) over about 10 days, along with high humidity at 84%. In contrast, June offers a much more mild and pleasant climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (30°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F) and an average of 15°C (60°F). Precipitation drops significantly to just 14 mm (0.6 in) over approximately 4 days, and humidity decreases to a more comfortable 64%. For a closer look at the June climate, you can visit South Lake Tahoe weather in June.
In January, the weather in South Lake Tahoe is characterized by low temperatures, ranging from a chilly minimum of -12°C (11°F) to a mild maximum of 12°C (54°F), with an average of around 0°C (32°F). This month experiences considerable precipitation of 177 mm (7.0 in) over approximately 10 days, and high humidity levels at 84% contribute to the cold, damp conditions.
In contrast, July brings a dramatic shift to warmer temperatures, with minimums of 5°C (42°F), average highs around 20°C (68°F), and peaks reaching up to a sweltering 33°C (92°F). Precipitation drops significantly to just 13 mm (0.5 in) over 4 days, and the humidity decreases to a more comfortable 44%. For a closer look at July weather, check out South Lake Tahoe weather in July.
January and August present strikingly different weather conditions. In January, temperatures can drop as low as -12°C (11°F), with an average of 0°C (32°F) and highs reaching 12°C (54°F). This month also experiences significant precipitation, totaling 177 mm (7.0 in) over about 10 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 84%. In contrast, August boasts much milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to an average of 19°C (67°F), with peaks up to 33°C (91°F). Precipitation is minimal in August, with just 12 mm (0.5 in) falling over 4 days and humidity dropping to a comfortable 36%. For those interested in the specifics of August weather in this region, further details can be found in the provided link: South Lake Tahoe weather in August.
January and September present strikingly different weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plummet as low as -12°C (11°F), with an average around 0°C (32°F) and a maximum reaching 12°C (54°F). The month is often characterized by substantial precipitation, totaling 177 mm (7.0 in) over about 10 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 84%. In contrast, September ushers in a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a pleasant maximum of 32°C (90°F), resulting in an average of 15°C (60°F). Additionally, September is relatively dry, with only 16 mm (0.6 in) of precipitation over just 4 days and a significantly lower humidity level of 44%. For more details on South Lake Tahoe weather in September, feel free to explore further.
January and October present strikingly different weather conditions in South Lake Tahoe. In January, temperatures can plummet to a chilling minimum of -12°C (11°F), with an average around 0°C (32°F) and a maximum of 12°C (54°F), making it a month characterized by cold and significant precipitation, averaging 177 mm over about 10 days and a high humidity of 84%. In contrast, October boasts a milder climate, featuring minimum temperatures of -7°C (20°F), an average of 9°C (48°F), and a maximum that can reach a warm 27°C (80°F). Precipitation during October is considerably lower at 47 mm over just 3 days, along with a reduced humidity level of 65%. This makes October a preferable time for outdoor activities, as detailed in South Lake Tahoe weather in October.
When comparing the weather in January and November, a distinct contrast emerges. January experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -12°C (11°F) and an average of 0°C (32°F), while November is slightly milder with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -10°C (14°F) to an average of 4°C (39°F). Additionally, January has a higher level of precipitation at 177 mm (7.0 in) over 10 days compared to November’s 83 mm (3.3 in) over 7 days. Interestingly, both months share the same humidity level of 84%, highlighting that the crispness in the air is consistent even amid varying temperatures and precipitation patterns. For a more detailed outlook on November’s climate, check out South Lake Tahoe weather in November.
In South Lake Tahoe, January and December exhibit very similar winter weather patterns. Both months experience minimum temperatures around -12°C (11°F) and a comparable number of rainy days at 10. However, January has a slightly higher average temperature of 0°C (32°F) and a maximum of 12°C (54°F), compared to December's average of -1°C (31°F) and maximum of 14°C (58°F). The total precipitation also increases in January to 177 mm (7.0 in), surpassing December's 139 mm (5.5 in), though the humidity levels remain nearly identical at 84% for January and 83% for December. For more details about December weather, you can visit South Lake Tahoe weather in December.
January in South Lake Tahoe is characterized by chilly temperatures and relatively high humidity, making it distinctly cooler and wetter compared to other months. With an average temperature hovering around freezing, this time of year sees significant precipitation, contributing to the region's wintry charm. January stands out with its ability to blanket the landscape in snow, ideal for winter sports enthusiasts and those seeking a picturesque winter retreat. For a detailed overview of the region's weather patterns throughout the year, visit South Lake Tahoe Climate.