January Weather in Washington, United States

Last updated: June 24, 2025

In Washington, United States, the average temperature in January hovers around -4°C (26°F), with extremes that can plunge to -25°C (-12°F) or rise to 16°C (62°F). Expect 86 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation spread over about 9 days, contributing to an average humidity of a brisk 89%. Brace yourself for a month of chilly, damp weather!

January Temperature in Washington

In January in Washington, the average temperature is -4°C (26°F). Maximum temperatures can reach 16°C (62°F), while the minimum can drop to as low as -25°C (-12°F). Travelers should be prepared for a wide range of temperatures when planning their visit.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Washington, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Washington, January typically has an average temperature of -4°C (26°F), with highs reaching up to 16°C (62°F) and lows dropping to around -25°C (-12°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec262834465766727063523930
Data source: Temperature data for Washington generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

January Precipitation in Washington

In Washington in January, the precipitation amount is 86 mm (3.4 in), falling over the course of 9 days.

January Precipitation Trends in Washington

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Washington, 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 Washington, January typically receives around 86 mm (3.4 inches) of precipitation spread over approximately 9 days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8610490157121109182143129175106130
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Washington

In Washington in January, humidity is 89%. With an average temperature of -4°C (26°F), this humidity feels like a biting chill that clings to your skin, making every step outdoors feel like traversing through a frosty fog.

January Average Humidity in Washington

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Washington, 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 Washington is approximately 89%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec90%88%86%84%76%72%67%64%72%81%87%85%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Washington

In Washington 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 Washington, you can check the information here.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Washington for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Washington 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 Washington typically reaches 3, which falls under the moderate exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec35681010998642
Data source: Washington 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 Washington Compares to Other Months

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

This table compares monthly weather conditions in Washington, showing how January’s temperature, precipitation, humidity, and UV index levels differ from those of other months.
 TemperaturePrecipitationHumidityUV
January Weather-4°C (26°F)86 mm (3.4 inches)89%moderate
February Weather-2°C (29°F)104 mm (4.1 inches)88%moderate
March Weather1°C (34°F)90 mm (3.6 inches)86%high
April Weather8°C (46°F)157 mm (6.2 inches)84%very high
May Weather14°C (57°F)121 mm (4.8 inches)76%very high
June Weather19°C (67°F)109 mm (4.3 inches)72%very high
July Weather22°C (72°F)182 mm (7.1 inches)66%very high
August Weather21°C (70°F)143 mm (5.6 inches)64%very high
September Weather17°C (63°F)129 mm (5.1 inches)72%very high
October Weather11°C (53°F)174 mm (6.9 inches)81%high
November Weather4°C (39°F)106 mm (4.2 inches)87%moderate
December Weather-1°C (30°F)130 mm (5.1 inches)84%low

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