January Weather in Louisville, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

January weather in Louisville, United States can be quite a mix, with temperatures ranging from an average of 2°C (35°F) to a chilly minimum of -18°C (0°F). The month sees a notable maximum of 20°C (68°F), making for some surprising swings in daily temperatures. Residents experience 87 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation over approximately 9 days, contributing to the high humidity of 87% that often blankets the city. This combination of cold temperatures and damp conditions shapes a unique winter experience for locals and visitors alike, as they navigate the often crisp and cloudy January days.

January Temperature in Louisville

In Louisville, January showcases a chilly panorama, with temperatures ranging from a brisk -18°C (0°F) to a mild 20°C (68°F). The average temperature hovers around 2°C (35°F), marking it as one of the colder months of the year. Despite these frosty lows, a swing towards warmer days is evident, as the month experiences notably higher maximum temperatures compared to the previous month of December. This trend of increasing warmth continues into February, where the average nudges up to 4°C (40°F), setting the stage for a gradual climb as spring approaches. As the cold grips the city, the potential for warmer, sunnier days lingers just around the corner, creating an intriguing contrast that characterizes Louisville's winter season.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Louisville, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec353948566775787671604541
Data source: Temperature data for Louisville generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

January Precipitation in Louisville

In January, Louisville experiences a modest precipitation total of 87 mm (3.4 in) over about 9 days of rainfall, making it one of the driest months of the year. This sets the stage for a steadily increasing trend in precipitation as winter shifts to spring, with February jumping to 128 mm (5.0 in) and continuing to rise through the following months, peaking in June at 151 mm (5.9 in). The pattern suggests a gradual buildup of moisture leading into the summer, while the number of rainy days remains relatively consistent, hinting at a nuanced interplay between seasonal changes and rainfall distribution. As the year progresses, one can see how January's light drizzle hints at the more robust, wet conditions that follow in the early and mid-spring months.

January Precipitation Trends in Louisville

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Louisville, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8712813213712815198941129888106
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Louisville

In January, Louisville experiences its peak humidity, reaching a notable 87%, which sets the tone for the winter months. This high level of moisture in the air persists into December, suggesting a trend of elevated humidity during these colder weeks. As we transition into February and March, levels slightly taper off to 85% and 86%, respectively, hinting at a mild reprieve before spring. However, as the year progresses toward summer, humidity begins to gradually decline, hitting 79% in both July and May, stabilizing at 70% in August. Interestingly, the fall months bring a resurgence, particularly in November, with the humidity surging back up to 88%. This cyclical pattern highlights the dynamic nature of Louisville's humidity throughout the year, with winter and late fall lingering at the highest levels while summer offers a bit of relief.

January Average Humidity in Louisville

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Louisville, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec87%85%86%84%79%82%79%70%69%76%88%87%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Louisville

In January, Louisville experiences a moderate UV Index of 3, indicating that while it’s safe to be outside, protection from sun exposure is advisable within a 30-minute burn time. This trend of moderate UV levels continues into February, where the index rises to 5, suggesting that sun protection remains necessary. As spring approaches, there is a noticeable increase; by March, the UV Index climbs to 7, marking a transition to high exposure risk with a reduced burn time of just 25 minutes. The arrival of warmer months brings even higher UV levels, peaking in April at 9 and reaching extremes in June at 11. As summer transitions to fall, the UV index gradually decreases, tapering off to high and moderate levels by October and November, respectively. This data underscores the importance of sun safety throughout the year, particularly as Louisville moves from winter’s mild rays to summer’s intense sun. For more detailed insights, you can check the full report at Louisville UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Louisville for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Louisville 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3579101110108743
Data source: Louisville 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 Louisville

January in Louisville tends to be a quiet time for sunshine, with residents enjoying a modest 128 hours of daylight. But as winter fades, the sun starts to shine brighter; by February, the total climbs to 152 hours, signaling the gradual approach of spring. The trend continues to escalate dramatically, with March and April welcoming 219 and 241 hours respectively, as nature begins to awaken from its winter slumber. The peak of sunshine arrives in the summer months, with July basking in a glorious 345 hours. Although the days begin to shorten again in August, generous sunlight remains at 318 hours. As fall approaches, September and October offer a pleasing 281 and 248 hours, before the cycle winds down to 201 hours in November and 171 in December. This pattern unveils a rich tapestry of daylight, inviting Louisville's residents to savor every sunlit moment throughout the year.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Louisville: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Louisville 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec128h152h219h241h287h322h345h318h281h248h201h171h
Data source: Louisville January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Louisville During January

In January, Louisville experiences a modest 31% chance of sunny weather, setting the stage for a somewhat overcast start to the year. Interestingly, this likelihood is notably higher than in February, which drops to 24%, highlighting a shift into the heart of winter. As spring approaches, the sunny forecasts begin to improve significantly, culminating in March with a 42% chance, and reaching nearly half the time by April at 48%. This upward trend continues, suggesting that though January may not promise plentiful sunshine, brighter days are just around the corner as the seasons transition.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Louisville

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Louisville 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 Louisville experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec31%24%42%48%30%38%47%40%57%40%52%38%
Data source: Louisville January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Louisville in January

In Louisville, United States, January marks the beginning of the year's daylight journey, offering approximately 9 hours of sunlight. As winter yields to spring, the days gradually lengthen, with February bringing an additional hour of daylight, reaching 10 hours. The trend continues into March with a notable leap to 11 hours, heralding the approach of longer, warmer days. By April, residents enjoy a generous 13 hours of daylight, peaking at 14 hours during the summer months of May, June, and July. As autumn sets in, daylight begins to wane, tapering off to 13 hours in August and gradually decreasing to 12 hours in September. The descent continues through October and November, stabilizing once again at 9 hours by December. This cyclical pattern of daylight reveals the seasonal rhythm inherent in Louisville's climate, inviting residents to savor the longer days of summer before retreating into the cozy embrace of winter.

Average Daylight Hours in Louisville for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Louisville throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 50m10h 46m11h 58m13h 13m14h 15m14h 46m14h 29m13h 33m12h 22m11h 9m10h 4m9h 32m
Data source: Louisville daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Louisville

In Louisville, January brings a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 2.8 m/s (6 mph), setting a calming tone for the winter month. As the seasons transition into February and March, the winds begin to pick up slightly, reaching 3.1 m/s (7 mph) and 3.2 m/s (7 mph), respectively. This trend of increasing wind speed peaks in March, suggesting a hint of spring in the air. However, as temperatures rise into the warmer months, a noticeable decline in wind speeds occurs, dropping to 2.1 m/s (5 mph) by July and simmering to a low of 1.9 m/s (4 mph) in August. Interestingly, as autumn approaches, wind speeds begin to recover, bringing January full circle with an almost equal measure of calm and refreshing breezes. This ebb and flow of wind not only reflects changes in the seasons but also enhances Louisville's dynamic weather patterns, making each month uniquely captivating.

Average January Wind Speed in Louisville

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Louisville, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.8 m/s3.13.22.92.52.42.11.92.42.72.83.2
Data source: Louisville January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Louisville Compares to Other Months

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

In January, temperatures vary from a minimum of -18°C (0°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), with an average of 2°C (35°F). The month experiences 87 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation over about 9 days, coupled with a high humidity of 87%. In contrast, February sees a slight increase in average temperature to 4°C (40°F) and a higher maximum of 26°C (79°F), although it maintains the same minimum of -18°C (0°F). Precipitation rises to 128 mm (5.0 in) over 13 days, with humidity slightly decreasing to 85%. For more detailed information, you can check Louisville weather in February.

In January, the weather is notably colder, with temperatures ranging from a frigid minimum of -18°C (0°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F) and an average of just 2°C (35°F). The month sees about 87 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation over 9 days, accompanied by high humidity at 87%. In contrast, March brings a significant warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a low of -12°C (11°F) to a high of 27°C (81°F) and an average of 9°C (48°F). Precipitation increases to 132 mm (5.2 in) over 13 days, while humidity remains slightly lower at 86%. This transition between the two months indicates a shift from the deep winter chill of January to the milder, more variable weather of March, making for a dramatic change in the overall climate. For more details, check Louisville weather in March.

In comparing the weather between January and April, we notice significant differences in both temperature and precipitation. January experiences a much colder climate, with average temperatures hovering around 2°C (35°F) and minimums plunging to -18°C (0°F). In contrast, April enjoys milder conditions, with average temperatures rising to 13°C (56°F) and maximums reaching up to 29°C (84°F). While January has a significant amount of precipitation at 87 mm (3.4 in) over 9 days, April sees an increase with 137 mm (5.4 in) spread across 12 days. Humidity levels remain relatively high in both months, with January at 87% and April slightly lower at 84%. For more detailed insights into April's weather, visit Louisville weather in April.

In January, the weather is quite frigid, with temperatures ranging from a chilling minimum of -18°C (0°F) to a mild maximum of 20°C (68°F), averaging around 2°C (35°F). The month sees considerable precipitation with 87 mm (3.4 in) falling over approximately 9 days and high humidity levels at 87%. In stark contrast, May boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (33°F), an average of 20°C (67°F), and a peak of 33°C (92°F). Although May experiences slightly more precipitation, totaling 128 mm (5.0 in) over about 14 days, the humidity is somewhat lower at 79%. For more details on the specific weather patterns and conditions in May, visit Louisville weather in May.

In January, the weather is notably cold, with temperatures ranging from a frigid minimum of -18°C (0°F) to a relatively mild maximum of 20°C (68°F), and an average temperature of just 2°C (35°F). This month receives about 87 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation over roughly 9 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 87%.

Conversely, June brings much warmer conditions, with temperatures fluctuating between a minimum of 9°C (49°F) and a maximum of 34°C (93°F), leading to a pleasant average temperature of 24°C (75°F). The month sees increased precipitation, totaling 151 mm (5.9 in) across 12 days, although the humidity is slightly lower at 82%. For more details about the climate in June, you can refer to Louisville weather in June.

January and July present stark contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures can plunge to a chilly -18°C (0°F) at night, while reaching a pleasant high of around 20°C (68°F) during the day. Precipitation averages 87 mm (3.4 in) over about 9 days, accompanied by high humidity at 87%. In contrast, July boasts a significantly warmer climate with a minimum temperature of 15°C (60°F) and average highs of 26°C (79°F) to 35°C (95°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 98 mm (3.9 in) over 11 days, but humidity is lower at 79%. For more details on July weather, you can visit Louisville weather in July.

January and August present stark contrasts in weather. January's temperatures can dip as low as -18°C (0°F), with an average around 2°C (35°F) and a high of 20°C (68°F), while August offers a much milder range, with minimums of 13°C (56°F), average temperatures reaching 25°C (76°F), and maximums soaring up to 35°C (95°F). Precipitation is somewhat comparable, with January seeing 87 mm (3.4 in) over 9 days and August slightly higher at 94 mm (3.7 in) across 11 days. Additionally, January's humidity is notably high at 87%, contrasting with the lower humidity of 70% in August. For more detailed insights, check out Louisville weather in August.

When comparing the weather in January and September, it's clear that these months present vastly different conditions. January's temperatures can plunge as low as -18°C (0°F) and only reach an average high of 2°C (35°F), while September experiences much milder weather with average lows of 8°C (47°F) and highs soaring up to 36°C (97°F). Precipitation is relatively high in both months, with January receiving 87 mm over 9 days and September slightly wetter at 112 mm, but over just 8 days. Additionally, January's humidity levels peak at a chilly 87%, contrasting sharply with the more comfortable 69% in September. For more detailed insights, you can check Louisville weather in September.

January and October exhibit striking differences in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -18°C (0°F), with an average temperature around 2°C (35°F), occasionally peaking at 20°C (68°F). The month sees a significant amount of precipitation, averaging 87 mm (3.4 in) over about 9 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 87%. In contrast, October offers milder temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and an average of 16°C (60°F), reaching maximums of 35°C (96°F). Precipitation slightly increases to 98 mm (3.9 in) over 10 days, while humidity drops to a more comfortable 76%. For more detailed insights, check out Louisville weather in October.

January and November exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. January often brings colder temperatures, with a minimum dipping to -18°C (0°F) and an average around 2°C (35°F), while November enjoys milder conditions, with a minimum of -10°C (14°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F). Both months experience similar precipitation levels, with January receiving 87 mm (3.4 in) and November slightly more at 88 mm (3.5 in), and both months see rain on approximately 9 days. Humidity levels are quite close as well, with January at 87% and November slightly higher at 88%. For more details, check out Louisville weather in November.

In comparing the weather between January and December, January typically exhibits a colder range, with temperatures dropping as low as -18°C (0°F) and averaging around 2°C (35°F), while December sees slightly milder conditions, with minimums of -14°C (8°F) and average temperatures of 5°C (41°F). Precipitation levels are notably high in both months, with January receiving about 87 mm (3.4 in) over 9 days and December slightly higher at 106 mm (4.2 in) over 10 days. Interestingly, both months share similar humidity levels at 87%, contributing to the chilly atmosphere. For further details on December's climate, you can check Louisville weather in December.

Compare Louisville's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Louisville

In January, Louisville experiences a marked contrast to the milder months of the year, with chilly temperatures and higher humidity levels that can make the cold feel even more pervasive. Rainy days, though fewer than in spring, contribute to a notable increase in precipitation compared to the drier summer months. As the city enters the depths of winter, residents often face the bracing cold, with temperatures dipping significantly at night. This month's weather invites a cozy indoor lifestyle, where hot drinks and warm layers become essentials. For a more comprehensive understanding of what to expect throughout the year, explore the details in Louisville Climate.