January Weather in Ottawa, United States

Last updated: June 24, 2025

In January, the average temperature in Ottawa, United States hovers around 0°C (33°F), with extremes ranging from a chilly -21°C (-6°F) to a mild 18°C (65°F). Expect about 56 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation across 6 days, contributing to an average humidity of 76%. Bundle up and prepare for a mix of weather!

January Temperature in Ottawa

In January in Ottawa, the average temperature is 0°C (33°F). The maximum can reach 18°C (65°F), and the minimum can be as low as -21°C (-6°F). Be sure to pack appropriately for a wide range of temperatures when traveling to Ottawa during this time.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Ottawa, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Ottawa, January typically has an average temperature of 0°C (33°F), with highs reaching up to 18°C (65°F) and lows dropping to around -21°C (-6°F).

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

January Precipitation in Ottawa

In Ottawa in January, the precipitation amount is 56 mm (2.2 in) spread over 6 days.

January Precipitation Trends in Ottawa

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Ottawa, 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 Ottawa, January typically receives around 56 mm (2.2 inches) of precipitation spread over approximately 6 days.

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

Choose your preferred precipitation unit

Millimeters (mm) Inches (in)

January Humidity in Ottawa

In Ottawa in January, humidity is 76%. With an average temperature of 0°C (33°F), this humidity feels like a damp chill that seeps through your layers, making travel uncomfortable and urging you to seek out cozy indoor spaces.

January Average Humidity in Ottawa

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Ottawa, 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 Ottawa is approximately 76%, 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 Ottawa

In Ottawa 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 Ottawa, you can check the information here.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Ottawa for January

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

Data source: Ottawa 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 Ottawa Compares to Other Months

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

This table compares monthly weather conditions in Ottawa, showing how January’s temperature, precipitation, humidity, and UV index levels differ from those of other months.
	Temperature	Precipitation	Humidity	UV
January Weather	0°C (33°F)	56 mm (2.2 inches)	76%	moderate
February Weather	1°C (34°F)	36 mm (1.4 inches)	77%	high
March Weather	9°C (48°F)	98 mm (3.9 inches)	70%	high
April Weather	13°C (55°F)	96 mm (3.8 inches)	73%	very high
May Weather	19°C (66°F)	196 mm (7.7 inches)	82%	very high
June Weather	25°C (77°F)	109 mm (4.3 inches)	82%	extreme
July Weather	27°C (80°F)	112 mm (4.4 inches)	81%	extreme
August Weather	25°C (77°F)	120 mm (4.7 inches)	78%	very high
September Weather	22°C (73°F)	81 mm (3.2 inches)	71%	very high
October Weather	14°C (58°F)	115 mm (4.5 inches)	71%	high
November Weather	7°C (45°F)	41 mm (1.6 inches)	81%	moderate
December Weather	4°C (39°F)	33 mm (1.3 inches)	84%	moderate