January Weather in Iowa City, United States

Last updated: June 24, 2025

In January, the average temperature in Iowa City, United States hovers around -6°C (22°F). Be prepared for some extreme fluctuations, as temperatures can drop as low as -33°C (-27°F) and soar to a maximum of 12°C (54°F). During this chilly month, expect about 48 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation spread over 7 days, with an average humidity level of 81%, adding a crispness to the air.

January Temperature in Iowa City

In January in Iowa City, the average temperature is -6°C (22°F), with maximums reaching 12°C (54°F) and minimums plunging as low as -33°C (-27°F). Travelers should be prepared for a wide range of temperatures and dress in layers to stay warm during their visit.

January Weather in Iowa City: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Iowa City, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Iowa City, January typically has an average temperature of -6°C (22°F), with highs reaching up to 12°C (54°F) and lows dropping to around -33°C (-27°F).

Data source: Temperature data for Iowa City generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January Precipitation in Iowa City

In Iowa City in January, the total precipitation amount is 48 mm (1.9 in) over a span of 7 days.

January Precipitation Trends in Iowa City

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Iowa City, 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 Iowa City, January typically receives around 48 mm (1.9 inches) of precipitation spread over approximately 7 days.

Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

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Millimeters (mm) Inches (in)

January Humidity in Iowa City

In Iowa City in January, humidity is 81%. With an average temperature of -6°C (22°F), this humidity feels like a biting chill that penetrates layers of clothing, making travel uncomfortable and the air heavy with frost.

January Average Humidity in Iowa City

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Iowa City, 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 Iowa City is approximately 81%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.

Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Iowa City

In Iowa City in January, the maximum UV index is 3, which corresponds to a moderate Exposure Category. The time to burn is approximately 30 minutes. For more details on the hourly UV index in Iowa City, you can check the information here.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Iowa City for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Iowa City 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 Iowa City typically reaches 3, which falls under the moderate exposure category.

Data source: Iowa City 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 Iowa City Compares to Other Months

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

This table compares monthly weather conditions in Iowa City, showing how January’s temperature, precipitation, humidity, and UV index levels differ from those of other months.
	Temperature	Precipitation	Humidity	UV
January Weather	-6°C (22°F)	48 mm (1.9 inches)	81%	moderate
February Weather	-4°C (24°F)	58 mm (2.3 inches)	81%	moderate
March Weather	4°C (39°F)	80 mm (3.2 inches)	81%	high
April Weather	9°C (49°F)	84 mm (3.3 inches)	82%	very high
May Weather	17°C (62°F)	139 mm (5.5 inches)	78%	very high
June Weather	23°C (74°F)	128 mm (5.0 inches)	81%	extreme
July Weather	25°C (77°F)	79 mm (3.1 inches)	79%	very high
August Weather	23°C (73°F)	83 mm (3.3 inches)	77%	very high
September Weather	20°C (68°F)	130 mm (5.1 inches)	78%	very high
October Weather	12°C (53°F)	135 mm (5.3 inches)	78%	high
November Weather	3°C (38°F)	50 mm (2.0 inches)	87%	moderate
December Weather	-1°C (31°F)	46 mm (1.8 inches)	84%	moderate