Last updated: February 24, 2025
In January, Salem, United States experiences a distinct winter charm, with temperatures fluctuating between a maximum of 19°C (67°F) and a minimum of -20°C (-3°F), resulting in an average chill of 0°C (32°F). The month is characterized by 77 mm (3.0 in) of precipitation spread over 9 days, contributing to the region's wintry ambiance. With humidity levels soaring to 86%, the cold air can feel particularly brisk. This combination of factors makes January an intriguing time to explore Salem's seasonal landscapes.
In January, Salem experiences a chilling start to the year, with temperatures ranging from a biting -20°C (-3°F) at night to a modest 19°C (67°F) during the day, averaging around 0°C (32°F). These winter months showcase a significant contrast, as January's average temperature sets a precedence for the slow warming trend leading into spring. As the days progress into February and March, temperatures gradually rise, indicating that winter is losing its grip, with the average nudging slightly upward to 1°C (33°F) in February and 3°C (38°F) in March. Despite these increases, nighttime lows remain frosty, consistently dropping below freezing. March maintains a maximum temperature of 19°C (66°F), hinting at the warmer days to come. This transitional phase showcases Salem's climate resilience, as it prepares to welcome the rejuvenating warmth of spring ahead.
In January, Salem experiences an average precipitation of 77 mm (3.0 in) over approximately 9 days of the month, marking the beginning of the year with a notable wet spell. This sets the stage for a trend where precipitation generally increases as the months progress, peaking in April with 141 mm (5.6 in) over 13 days, showcasing the transition into spring. Interestingly, the rainy season appears to extend into late autumn, with October recording the highest amount at 146 mm (5.8 in) along with a consistent number of rainy days throughout the year. While January delivers a relatively modest start compared to the wetter months that follow, it lays the groundwork for Salem's rich, moisture-laden climate that characterizes the Pacific Northwest.
In January, Salem experiences its highest humidity of the year at 86%, setting the tone for the winter months. As the temperature begins to rise in February and March, humidity slightly decreases to 84% and 82%, respectively, suggesting a gradual transition to spring. By April, the levels continue to drop to 80%, signaling a move toward drier air. The trend becomes even more pronounced in the warmer months of May and June, where humidity stabilizes around 72%. This pattern of decreasing humidity persists into the summer, with July and August featuring even lower levels at 67% and 66%. As fall approaches, humidity levels begin to rise again, peaking in November at 84%, before settling at 81% in December. Overall, the data showcases a clear seasonal rhythm of humidity fluctuations, reflecting Salem's diverse climate throughout the year.
In January, Salem experiences a moderate UV Index of 3, with a burn time of approximately 30 minutes, encouraging residents to enjoy the outdoors while remaining mindful of sun exposure. As the year progresses, the UV Index starts to rise, peaking at 10 in June, indicating a very high exposure category where even short sun exposure can lead to burns within just 15 minutes. This pattern continues through summer, with similar high values in July and August. Notably, as autumn approaches, the UV levels gradually decline, dropping to a moderate 4 in November and a more manageable 2 in December, which allows for longer safe exposure times. This trend highlights the importance of adjusting sun safety practices throughout the year. For more details, visit the Salem UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
January in Salem brings 152 hours of sunshine, marking the start of the year with a modest glow. However, as February rolls in, daylight hours begin to stretch, peaking to 188 hours. This trend of increasing sun continues into the spring months, with March and April delivering 253 and 240 hours respectively, offering a vibrant awakening as nature bursts into bloom. By the time May and June arrive, Salem basks in the height of sunlight, enjoying 289 hours and 327 hours, making these months perfect for outdoor activities. The warmth peaks in July with 334 hours, before gradually tapering off in August, while still holding at 327 hours. As autumn unfolds, September and October see a gentle decline to 278 and 221 hours, respectively, settling into the cozy comfort of fall. Finally, November and December bring shorter days, with 201 and 178 hours, signaling the end of the year, thus encapsulating a cycle of vibrant life shaped by the sun’s presence.
In Salem, January brings a moderate likelihood of sunny weather, with a 44% chance of clear skies. This forecast positions January as a slightly more promising month for sunshine compared to the drearier months that follow, such as February and July, both with lower probabilities of sun at 34% and 33%, respectively. Interestingly, as spring approaches, the chances of sun significantly increase, peaking in March at 61%. This trend reflects a gradual uptick in sunny days as the city transitions into the warmer months, making January an ideal time to enjoy those rare bursts of sunlight amid the winter chill.
In Salem, United States, January marks the beginning of the year with just 9 hours of daylight, a stark contrast to the vibrant settings that follow. As winter fades into early spring, daylight gradually increases, reaching 10 hours in February and 11 hours in March, effectively lifting spirits and illuminating the landscape. April and May continue this upward trend, offering 13 and 14 hours of sunlight, respectively, as nature bursts into bloom. The peak daylight duration occurs in June, with an impressive 15 hours that invite longer outdoor adventures. With the onset of summer's end, daylight begins its slow descent, bringing 14 hours in July and tapering to 13 hours in August. The transition into fall sees daylight decrease further, dropping to 10 hours in October and returning to 9 hours by December, capturing the cyclical rhythm of nature's light and dark. This pattern illustrates the shifting seasons, each bringing its own charm and dynamic to Salem's annual daylight experience.
In January, Salem greets the new year with a brisk average wind speed of 4.5 m/s (10 mph), a reminder of the invigorating chill that accompanies winter. As the months progress into February, the winds slightly ease to 4.4 m/s, suggesting a transitional period before spring. However, by March, there’s a subtle uptick to 4.9 m/s, hinting at the energizing gusts that often usher in warmer weather. The trend dips again in April and May, with speeds around 4.2 m/s and 4.0 m/s respectively, before settling into a calmer summer, where July and August see the lowest average speeds at 3.3 m/s and 3.2 m/s. This shift indicates a lull in wind activity, coinciding with the heat of summer. As the year rounds out, the winds pick up slightly in September and remain relatively steady through the fall, with consistent speeds around 4.2 m/s from October to December. Overall, January sets the stage for a dynamic wind pattern in Salem, fluctuating between brisk winter breezes and the stillness of summer, ultimately leading to a balanced shift as the seasons change.
The weather in Salem 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 Salem and find detailed weather information for every month.
January and February exhibit striking similarities in temperature and precipitation patterns, though some nuances are present. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of -20°C (-3°F) to a maximum of 19°C (67°F), with an average of 0°C (32°F) and 77 mm of precipitation over 9 days. February, while slightly milder, sees a minimum of -16°C (4°F) and maintains the same maximum of 19°C (66°F), with an average of 1°C (33°F) and increased precipitation of 96 mm over 11 days. Humidity levels remain relatively consistent, with January at 86% and February at 84%. For more detailed information, you can check Salem weather in February.
January and March present notable contrasts in weather despite having similar maximum temperatures. In January, the average temperature hovers around freezing at 0°C (32°F), with a chilling minimum of -20°C (-3°F) and relatively high humidity at 86%. Precipitation is moderate, averaging 77 mm (3.0 in) over 9 days. By March, the weather begins to warm, with an average temperature rising to 3°C (38°F) and a minimum of -14°C (7°F). Precipitation also increases slightly to 96 mm (3.8 in) over 10 days, but humidity drops to 82%. For more details on weather conditions in March, you can visit Salem weather in March.
January and April present stark contrasts in weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a chilling minimum of -20°C (-3°F) to a mild maximum of 19°C (67°F), with an average hovering around 0°C (32°F). The month sees significant precipitation at 77 mm (3.0 in), spread over 9 days, coupled with high humidity at 86%. In contrast, April offers a more temperate climate, with minimum temperatures rising to -2°C (28°F) and maximums reaching up to 26°C (79°F), averaging 8°C (47°F). Precipitation increases to 141 mm (5.6 in) over 13 days, though humidity slightly decreases to 80%. For more detailed insights, you can check Salem weather in April.
January and May present contrasting weather patterns. In January, temperatures can drop as low as -20°C (-3°F), with an average of 0°C (32°F) and highs reaching 19°C (67°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 86%, along with 77 mm (3.0 in) of precipitation over 9 days. In contrast, May brings milder conditions, with minimum temperatures around 3°C (37°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F), peaking at 30°C (87°F). Although May experiences slightly more precipitation at 91 mm (3.6 in) over 11 days, the humidity level decreases to 72%. For further details, you can check out Salem weather in May.
In January, the weather is notably cold, with temperatures ranging from a frigid minimum of -20°C (-3°F) to a mild maximum of 19°C (67°F), averaging around 0°C (32°F). This month experiences significant humidity at 86% and receives about 77 mm (3.0 in) of precipitation over 9 days. In contrast, June brings much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (46°F) and a maximum of 32°C (91°F), averaging 19°C (66°F). Although June experiences slightly more precipitation at 87 mm (3.4 in) over 10 days, the humidity drops to a more comfortable 72%. For more detailed insights, you can check Salem weather in June.
In January, temperatures can plummet to a chilling minimum of -20°C (-3°F), with an average around 0°C (32°F) and a maximum reaching only 19°C (67°F). The month also experiences high humidity at 86% and a total precipitation of 77 mm (3.0 in) over approximately 9 days. In stark contrast, July boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 14°C (57°F), an average of 22°C (73°F), and a maximum that can soar up to 33°C (91°F). Although July sees slightly more precipitation at 116 mm (4.6 in) over 11 days, the humidity drops significantly to 67%. For more detailed insights into July weather, check out Salem weather in July.
In January, Salem experiences frigid temperatures, with minimum readings plunging to -20°C (-3°F) and an average of around 0°C (32°F), while the maximum temperature can reach a mild 19°C (67°F). The month is also marked by high humidity at 86% and notable precipitation of 77 mm (3.0 in) over approximately 9 days. In contrast, August brings a warm respite, with minimum temperatures around 13°C (56°F) and average highs of 22°C (73°F), peaking at 32°C (91°F). With slightly lower precipitation of 72 mm (2.8 in) spread over about 10 days and 66% humidity, August offers a much more temperate climate. For more details on August weather in Salem, you can visit Salem weather in August.
In January, the weather is significantly colder, with temperatures ranging from a chilling -20°C (-3°F) to a milder 19°C (67°F) but averaging around 0°C (32°F). This month also experiences high humidity levels at 86% and considerable precipitation of 77 mm (3.0 in) over 9 days. In contrast, September brings a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures around 7°C (45°F) and maximums soaring up to 32°C (90°F), averaging 19°C (66°F). Precipitation slightly increases to 84 mm (3.3 in) but occurs over just 8 days, and humidity drops to a more comfortable 71%. For more details on September weather, you can visit Salem weather in September.
January and October present strikingly different weather patterns. In January, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -20°C (-3°F), with an average around 0°C (32°F) and a maximum of 19°C (67°F). The month experiences about 77 mm (3.0 in) of precipitation over nine days, coupled with high humidity at 86%. Conversely, October enjoys milder conditions, with minimum temperatures at 0°C (33°F) and averages around 13°C (57°F), peaking at 27°C (81°F). This month sees increased precipitation at 146 mm (5.8 in) over eleven days, but humidity is slightly lower at 78%. For more insights on weather specifics, visit Salem weather in October.
In comparing the weather of January and November, it is evident that January experiences significantly colder temperatures, with a minimum of -20°C (-3°F) and an average of around 0°C (32°F). In contrast, November's temperatures are milder, with a minimum of -11°C (13°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F). Additionally, November sees slightly higher precipitation at 101 mm (4.0 in) over 10 days, compared to January's 77 mm (3.0 in) over 9 days. Humidity levels remain relatively similar, with January at 86% and November at 84%. For more specifics on November's weather, you can check Salem weather in November.
When comparing the weather in January to December, January tends to be slightly colder overall, with an average temperature of 0°C (32°F) compared to December's average of 2°C (35°F). The minimum temperatures are similar, but January can reach a higher maximum of 19°C (67°F) while December peaks at 16°C (62°F). In terms of precipitation, December is wetter, receiving 129 mm (5.1 in) over 10 days, while January experiences 77 mm (3.0 in) over 9 days. Moreover, January shows higher humidity levels at 86% compared to December's 81%. For more detailed insights on December weather, check out Salem weather in December.
January in Salem presents a stark contrast to the milder months, characterized by cold temperatures that can plunge to sub-zero levels, giving a chilling edge to the typically brisk winter air. With average highs barely reaching 19°C (67°F) and a notable humidity level of 86%, the month feels even colder due to the dampness. Although precipitation is relatively moderate, with 9 rainy days, it often comes in the form of icy rain or snow, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland. This dramatic drop in temperatures and increase in moisture makes January distinct, setting the stage for a truly unique seasonal experience. For a deeper dive into Salem's weather patterns, visit Salem Climate.