Last updated: February 24, 2025
During January, Ouray, United States experiences a dramatic winter chill, with average temperatures hovering around -8°C (18°F). The month's climate is characterized by a sharp maximum of 7°C (45°F) and a frigid minimum of -23°C (-10°F), creating a stark contrast that defines this season. The area sees a total precipitation amount of 52 mm (2.1 in) over approximately 10 days, contributing to the area's 85% humidity. This blend of cold temperatures and elevated humidity underscores January as a prime time for winter enthusiasts to experience the breathtaking snowy landscapes of Ouray.
In Ouray, United States, January presents a chilly embrace, with temperatures dipping to a bone-numbing minimum of -23°C (-10°F) and peaking at a modest 7°C (45°F). The average temperature hovers around -8°C (18°F), making it one of the coldest months in the region. Following January, February sees a slight decrease in temperatures, with lows touching -25°C (-12°F), yet the trend towards warming is evident as March brings average temperatures up to -3°C (27°F). Despite the sharp drops, particularly in December, the subsequent months gradually rise, hinting at a slow but steady transition into spring. Each month thereafter builds on this warming trend, suggesting that while January can be frigid, it’s merely a stepping stone towards the milder temperatures that follow.
In January, Ouray experiences an average precipitation of 52 mm (2.1 in) over about 10 days, marking the beginning of the year's wet season. This is just the start, as precipitation steadily increases in the following months, peaking in July with a substantial 113 mm (4.5 in) over 15 days. Interestingly, the early spring months of March and April also see a rise in precipitation, indicating a transitional phase before the summer rains. As the year progresses, a noticeable decline in both precipitation amounts and rainy days occurs, particularly during the drier summer months of June and September. Overall, January sets the stage for a dynamic precipitation pattern that shapes Ouray's climate throughout the year.
In January, Ouray experiences a high humidity level of 85%, setting a pattern for the winter months characterized by moisture-laden air. This humidity slightly increases in February, reaching 86%, before dropping significantly to 76% in March as the transition to spring begins. As temperatures rise, April brings further reduction to 69%, leading to a more pronounced drop in humidity during the warmer months, with May and June seeing levels plummet to 53% and 40% respectively. The trend continues into the height of summer, where July reaches a low of 36%, making it the driest month of the year. However, as autumn approaches, humidity levels gradually rise again, peaking at 85% in December. This cyclical pattern highlights the significant seasonal variations in humidity throughout the year in Ouray, resulting in a moist winter, a dry summer, and a gradual return to humidity in the fall.
In January, Ouray experiences a moderate UV Index of 4, with a burn time of about 30 minutes, making it relatively safe for sun exposure. As the months progress, we see a noticeable upward trend in UV levels, peaking in April and May at an extreme UV Index of 13. This escalating exposure highlights a significant drop in burn time to just 10 minutes during summer, illustrating the importance of sun protection as warmer months approach. Interestingly, the UV Index gradually decreases again toward the end of the year, reminiscent of January's moderate levels. For detailed insights on UV exposure throughout the year, check out Ouray UV Index.
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As the New Year dawns in Ouray, January brings 173 sunny hours, a gentle start to a month often associated with winter's chill. However, the sunshine steadily increases as the seasons change, with February witnessing a noticeable rise to 217 hours. The trend of expanding daylight continues into spring, culminating in an impressive 324 hours of sunshine by April. May heralds the arrival of nearly a full month's worth of sunlight at 365 hours, the peak of spring splendor, before summer's warmth takes over in June with 381 hours. This sun-drenched period slightly dips into July and August but remains generous. As the year transitions into autumn, sunlight begins its gradual decline, though even in September, 315 hours paint our landscapes in golden hues. The daylight retreats further into the colder months, showcasing 221 hours in December, yet the overall pattern reveals a delightful ebb and flow of sunshine that enchants residents and visitors alike throughout the year.
In Ouray, Colorado, January brings a 57% chance of sunny weather, making it a promising start to the year for those seeking sunshine. This month stands as one of the more favorable winter periods compared to its neighbor, February, which dips to 46%. As the seasons shift, the likelihood of sunny days begins to rise, particularly in the spring, reaching 61% in April. The trend continues through the year, peaking in the warmer months, with August delivering a dazzling 68% chance of sunshine, before settling back in the autumn. Overall, January offers a solid opportunity for sun-seekers, hinting at the bright days to come as winter transitions to spring.
In Ouray, United States, January brings about 9 hours of daylight, setting the stage for a gradual transition into a brighter year. As February arrives, daylight increases to 10 hours, hinting at the upcoming spring. This upward trend continues into March with 11 hours, and by April, the days stretch to a delightful 13 hours, heralding the rejuvenation of nature. May and June maintain an impressive 14-hour span of daylight, providing ample time to enjoy the great outdoors. As summer wanes, daylight subtly recedes, with August revealing 13 hours and early fall in September bringing 12 hours. This seasonal ebb continues through October and November, where daylight slips back to 11 and 10 hours respectively, before January returns full circle with 9 hours of daylight once more. This rhythmic cycle of increasing and decreasing daylight not only marks the passage of time but also enriches the experience of living in Ouray throughout the year.
In Ouray, January greets residents with a gentle breeze, featuring an average wind speed of 1.8 m/s (4 mph), marking it as one of the calmer months of the year. As winter transitions into spring, the winds gradually pick up, peaking in April at 2.4 m/s (5 mph) before settling down slightly in May and shifting again into milder speeds during the summer months. Interestingly, the lowest wind speeds are observed in July, coinciding with the warmest season, while October brings another uptick in breeziness. This cyclical pattern underscores Ouray's transitional climate, where gentle winds complement the breathtaking mountainous landscape, ensuring a dynamic yet serene atmosphere throughout the year.
The weather in Ouray 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 Ouray and find detailed weather information for every month.
January and February in Ouray showcase a cold winter landscape, though February generally tends to be slightly more hospitable. In January, temperatures dip as low as -23°C (-10°F) with an average of -8°C (18°F) and a maximum of just 7°C (45°F). The month also sees about 52 mm (2.1 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 85%.
Conversely, February experiences a bit of a shift, with a lower minimum temperature of -25°C (-12°F), but a higher average of -7°C (20°F) and a maximum that reaches up to 10°C (51°F). This month records increased precipitation at 73 mm (2.9 in) over 13 days and slightly higher humidity at 86%. For a deeper understanding of the weather dynamics, check out Ouray weather in February.
January and March offer contrasting yet chilly weather patterns. In January, temperatures vary from a minimum of -23°C (-10°F) to a maximum of 7°C (45°F), with an average of -8°C (18°F) and significant humidity at 85%. Precipitation occurs on about 10 days, totaling 52 mm (2.1 in). In contrast, March sees a slightly warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -21°C (-5°F) to a maximum of 11°C (53°F) and an average of -3°C (27°F). Despite higher precipitation at 82 mm (3.2 in) over 13 days, the humidity drops to 76%. For a more detailed look at March weather, you can check out Ouray weather in March.
January and April present striking differences in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -23°C (-10°F), with an average of -8°C (18°F) and a maximum reaching 7°C (45°F). The month experiences high humidity at 85% along with 52 mm (2.1 in) of precipitation over about 10 days. In contrast, April offers a warmer climate with a minimum temperature of -17°C (1°F), an average of 0°C (32°F), and a maximum peaking at 12°C (55°F). Despite a slightly higher precipitation total of 60 mm (2.4 in) over the same number of days, the humidity drops to 69%. For a more detailed outlook on the weather during this spring month, check out Ouray weather in April.
January and May present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -23°C (-10°F), with an average of -8°C (18°F) and a maximum of 7°C (45°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 85% and receives about 52 mm (2.1 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days. In comparison, May offers a significant warm-up, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -12°C (10°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F) and an average of 4°C (40°F). While the total precipitation slightly increases to 56 mm (2.2 in), the humidity drops to 53%, creating a much drier atmosphere. For more detailed insights into specific conditions, you can check Ouray weather in May.
In January, the weather is characterized by frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -23°C (-10°F) and an average around -8°C (18°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. The precipitation is relatively moderate at 52 mm (2.1 in) over about 10 days, accompanied by high humidity at 85%, giving an overall chilly and damp feel. In contrast, June brings a significant warm-up, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (20°F) to a pleasant maximum of 26°C (78°F). Precipitation decreases to 30 mm (1.2 in) over just 6 days, and the humidity drops to a more comfortable 40%, creating a much drier and milder environment. For more detailed insights into June weather, check Ouray weather in June.
January and July present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures are frigid, with minimums dropping to -23°C (-10°F) and an average temperature of -8°C (18°F). The high often reaches only 7°C (45°F), coupled with considerable humidity at 85%, resulting in a chilly atmosphere. Precipitation occurs on about 10 days, totaling 52 mm (2.1 in).
In contrast, July enjoys a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures around 0°C (32°F) and an average of 14°C (58°F). The maximum temperature can soar to 26°C (79°F), and the humidity drops significantly to 36%, making for a more comfortable environment. However, July is also wetter, with precipitation occurring on approximately 15 days and accumulating to 113 mm (4.5 in). For more details, you can check Ouray weather in July.
In January, the weather is characterized by bitter cold temperatures, with minimums dropping to -23°C (-10°F) and maximums only reaching up to 7°C (45°F). The month sees significant humidity at 85%, contributing to an overall cold and damp atmosphere, with about 52 mm (2.1 in) of precipitation over 10 days. In stark contrast, August offers a much more pleasant climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a comfortable maximum of 24°C (76°F), and an average temperature of 13°C (56°F). The humidity drops to a more manageable 44%, and precipitation remains similar at 54 mm (2.1 in) over the same number of days. For more details on August weather, check out Ouray weather in August.
Comparing the weather in January and September reveals stark contrasts in temperature and humidity. January experiences frigid conditions with average temperatures hovering around -8°C (18°F) and a maximum of only 7°C (45°F), creating a chilly atmosphere with high humidity at 85%. In contrast, September brings milder weather, with average temperatures rising to 10°C (50°F) and maximums reaching 24°C (76°F). Precipitation levels are relatively similar, with January recording 52 mm (2.1 in) over 10 days and September slightly less at 50 mm (2.0 in) over just 8 days. For more details on the September climate, check Ouray weather in September.
In January, temperatures in Ouray range from a chilling -23°C (-10°F) to a moderately cold 7°C (45°F), with an average temperature of -8°C (18°F). The month experiences a significant amount of precipitation, totaling 52 mm (2.1 in) over about 10 days, with high humidity at 85%.
In contrast, October offers a milder climate with temperatures fluctuating from a minimum of -27°C (-17°F) to a maximum of 19°C (67°F), leading to a more comfortable average of 2°C (36°F). While October also sees a similar precipitation level of 52 mm (2.0 in) over 10 days, its lower humidity at 74% contributes to a much different feel. For more details, check out Ouray weather in October.
When comparing the weather in January and November, January tends to be slightly milder overall, with average temperatures around -8°C (18°F), while November has colder minimum temperatures, reaching as low as -27°C (-16°F). Despite November's higher maximum temperature of 14°C (57°F), it features less precipitation (43 mm) over fewer days (8) than January, which sees 52 mm of precipitation across 10 days. Humidity levels are quite similar in both months, hovering around 85% in January and 83% in November. For more detailed information on November weather, you can check Ouray weather in November.
When comparing the weather between January and December, both months experience cold conditions typical of winter, but January is slightly warmer. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of -23°C (-10°F) to a maximum of 7°C (45°F), while December has even chillier temperatures, with a minimum of -26°C (-15°F) and a maximum of 9°C (49°F). Precipitation levels are also somewhat similar, with January seeing 52 mm over 10 days compared to December's 60 mm over 11 days. Both months maintain a high humidity level of 85%, contributing to the chilly ambiance. For more detailed information about December weather, you can check Ouray weather in December.
January in Ouray showcases a stark contrast to the warmer months, characterized by its chillier temperatures and higher humidity levels. While the average temperature plummets, the scenery transforms into a winter wonderland, inviting snow enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With approximately ten days of precipitation, snowfall blankets the region, adding to its breathtaking beauty. This month stands out not just for its frigid conditions but for the serene atmosphere it brings, making it a unique time to experience Ouray's winter charm. For more insights into how our winter climate compares to the rest of the year, explore Ouray Climate.