January Weather in Traverse City, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

In January, Traverse City experiences a unique blend of winter weather, characterized by maximum temperatures reaching up to 10°C (50°F) and minimum lows plummeting to -24°C (-10°F). The average temperature hovers around a chilly -4°C (24°F), setting the stage for the season’s stark beauty. With 58 mm (2.3 in) of precipitation spread over 13 days, residents and visitors can expect a mix of snow and rain, contributing to a heavy humidity level of 91%. This combination creates a captivating winter landscape, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking both adventure and tranquil scenery in the heart of wintertime Traverse City.

January Temperature in Traverse City

In Traverse City, Michigan, January temperatures can be quite challenging, marked by a stark contrast between the frigid lows and comparatively mild highs. The month typically experiences a chilling minimum of -24°C (-10°F), with average temperatures lingering around -4°C (24°F), while daytime peaks can reach a brisk 10°C (50°F). This pattern of cold begins to shift as February follows, with slightly less severe minimums of -21°C (-5°F) and averages descending to -5°C (23°F), but highs remain steady. March marks the onset of gradual warming, moving towards more comfortable temperatures, as the month opens with lows of -16°C (4°F) and an average creeping closer to the freezing point. Observing this trend, it becomes clear that winter's grip slowly loosens, giving way to early signs of spring as April brings milder conditions with average highs soaring to 26°C (79°F), thus transitioning from the harsh grip of winter into the burgeoning warmth of the upcoming months.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Traverse City, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec242331415364716962513730
Data source: Temperature data for Traverse City 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 Traverse City

In January, Traverse City receives an average precipitation of 58 mm (2.3 in) over about 13 days, marking the start of the year with a subtle blend of snow and rain. This sets the tone for the following months, as the precipitation slightly increases in February to 60 mm (2.4 in) and maintains a steady pace through March. April marks a significant shift, with a noticeable rise to 98 mm (3.9 in) as spring approaches, while May and June continue this upward trend, peaking at 116 mm (4.5 in) and 107 mm (4.2 in) respectively. As summer arrives, the precipitation levels stabilize around 106 mm (4.2 in) for July. The latter months of the year witness an autumnal dip, with October experiencing the highest rainfall of 135 mm (5.3 in) and days of precipitation peaking at 18 days, before descending into the drier winter cycle of November and December. Overall, the gradual increase in precipitation from winter to spring, followed by a peak in autumn, beautifully illustrates the city’s seasonal transformation.

January Precipitation Trends in Traverse City

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Traverse 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5860609811610710689801357976
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Traverse City

January in Traverse City sees a notable humidity level of 91%, matching that of February and setting the tone for a moist winter. As the months progress into spring, humidity slightly decreases, dropping to 87% in March and April, before reaching a more moderate 82% in May. The summer months bring further relief, with July peaking at 75%, making it the driest month of the year. However, as autumn approaches, humidity rises again, culminating at 87% in December. This annual cycle illustrates a clear trend: Traverse City experiences its highest humidity in winter and late fall, while enjoying a more temperate atmosphere during the summer months.

January Average Humidity in Traverse City

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Traverse City, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec91%91%87%87%82%79%76%76%79%83%86%87%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Traverse City

In Traverse City, January greets residents with a UV Index of 2, categorizing exposure as low and allowing for a generous burn time of 45 minutes. As winter transitions into spring, the UV Index steadily rises, reaching 4 in February and peaking at 5 in March, both classified as moderate, which means shorter exposure times of 30 minutes. This gradual escalation hints at the impending sunnier days. By April, the UV Index climbs to 7, indicating high exposure, while May and June experience their peak, with indexes hitting 9 and 10, respectively, resulting in a significantly reduced burn time of just 15 minutes—a reminder of the summer sun's intensity. As the year progresses, August sees a slight drop to 8, while September and October bring the index back to high and moderate levels. Finally, the year begins and ends with a return to low exposure in December and January, making it crucial for residents to stay informed about the changing UV conditions throughout the year. For more detailed information, visit Traverse City UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Traverse City for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Traverse 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2457910987532
Data source: Traverse 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.

January Sunshine in Traverse City

January in Traverse City may only bring 83 hours of sunshine, but it sets the stage for a gradual increase that warms hearts as winter melts into spring. By February, the sun begins to assert itself with 151 hours, hinting at brighter days ahead. As we move into March and April, the daylight significantly expands, reaching 228 and 244 hours, respectively, awakening the landscape from its frosty slumber. The true transformation occurs in late spring and summer, with sunshine peaking in July at an impressive 362 hours, enveloping the city in a vibrant glow. Even as August ushers in a slight decline to 336 hours, the warmth lingers, ensuring plenty of summer fun. As autumn takes hold, sunshine hours gently taper off, ending the year at 135 hours in November and a quiet 98 hours in December. This cyclical dance of light showcases Traverse City's seasons, inviting visitors to embrace each unique phase.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Traverse City: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Traverse City 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec83h151h228h244h304h334h362h336h279h201h135h98h
Data source: Traverse City January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Traverse City During January

In Traverse City, January presents a uniquely challenging weather outlook, with only a 9% chance of sunny days. This starkly contrasts with the following months, where the likelihood of sunshine gradually increases. By February, the chances nearly double to 21%, and by March, they rise to a more promising 42%. This upward trend continues as spring approaches, peaking in the summer months—July and August boast an impressive 52% chance of sun. Clearly, while January may be draped in winter’s gray, the promise of brighter days is just around the corner as the seasons shift and warmth returns.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Traverse City

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Traverse City 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 Traverse City experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9%21%42%34%46%47%52%51%52%33%28%14%
Data source: Traverse City January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Traverse City in January

In Traverse City, January marks the beginning of a gradual increase in daylight, with about 9 hours illuminating the winter landscape. This ascent continues into February, bringing an additional hour of sunlight, as residents anticipate longer days. By March, the daylight stretches to an impressive 11 hours, signaling the approach of spring. April and May further enhance the experience, with 13 and 14 hours of daylight, respectively, inviting outdoor activities and vibrant blooms. The peak is reached in June and July, where the sun graces the area for 15 hours, perfect for enjoying Traverse City’s natural beauty. As summer wanes, daylight begins to recede, dropping to 13 hours in August and gradually tapering off to 12 in September, before settling back into the shorter days of autumn and winter, culminating in just 8 hours of light by December. This cyclical rhythm underscores the seasonal changes, blending the thrill of longer summer days with the tranquil charm of winter’s embrace.

Average Daylight Hours in Traverse City for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Traverse City throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 13m10h 26m11h 57m13h 31m14h 50m15h 30m15h 8m13h 57m12h 27m10h 54m9h 32m8h 50m
Data source: Traverse City daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Traverse City

In Traverse City, January ushers in a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 3.6 m/s (8 mph), setting the tone for a wintery retreat. This tranquility is slightly surpassed in February, where winds pick up to 3.7 m/s (8 mph), hinting at an early transition towards spring. As the seasons change, March introduces a noticeable increase in wind speed to 4.3 m/s (10 mph), signifying the awakening of nature. The trend fluctuates in the following months, with April returning to the calmer 3.7 m/s and May dipping slightly to 3.3 m/s, marking the onset of warmer weather. The summer months bring a slight decrease, stabilizing around 3.1 m/s (7 mph) in June and July, before fading to 2.9 m/s (7 mph) in August. As fall approaches, September sees a revival in wind intensity, returning to 3.7 m/s while November and December finish strong with peaks at 4.4 m/s (10 mph) and 4.8 m/s (11 mph) respectively. This rhythmic pattern of wind speeds throughout the year reflects Traverse City's unique climate dynamics, showcasing both the calm and the invigorating breath of winter.

Average January Wind Speed in Traverse City

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Traverse City, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.6 m/s3.74.33.73.33.13.12.93.73.24.44.8
Data source: Traverse City January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Traverse City Compares to Other Months

The weather in Traverse City 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 Traverse City and find detailed weather information for every month.

In comparing the weather between January and February, both months exhibit frigid temperatures with January averaging slightly colder at -4°C (24°F) compared to February's average of -5°C (23°F). The minimum temperatures are also harsh, with January reaching lows of -24°C (-10°F), while February is slightly milder at -21°C (-5°F). Precipitation levels are comparable, with January experiencing 58 mm (2.3 in) over 13 days and February receiving 60 mm (2.4 in) across 12 days. Humidity remains consistent at 91% for both months. For more details on February weather patterns, check out Traverse City weather in February.

In January, temperatures are significantly colder, with minimums reaching as low as -24°C (-10°F) and an average of -4°C (24°F). In contrast, March experiences a milder climate, with minimum temperatures of -16°C (4°F) and an average of -1°C (31°F). Precipitation levels are relatively similar in both months, with January receiving 58 mm (2.3 in) over 13 days, while March sees slightly more at 60 mm (2.4 in) over 11 days. Additionally, humidity is a bit higher in January at 91%, compared to 87% in March. For more detailed information about March weather, you can check Traverse City weather in March.

In January, Traverse City experiences frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -24°C (-10°F) and an average of -4°C (24°F), making the month quite chilly. The precipitation levels, totaling 58 mm (2.3 in), occur over 13 days, accompanied by high humidity at 91%. In contrast, April brings a noticeable warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -12°C (10°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F). Although precipitation increases to 98 mm (3.9 in) over the same number of days, humidity drops slightly to 87%. For more detailed insights into April weather patterns, you can check out Traverse City weather in April.

The weather in January is characterized by frigid temperatures, with an average of -4°C (24°F) and a maximum of only 10°C (50°F), while May offers a much warmer experience, featuring an average temperature of 12°C (53°F) and peaks reaching up to 32°C (89°F). January sees significant precipitation, totaling 58 mm (2.3 in) across 13 days, though the humidity remains high at 91%. In contrast, May has increased precipitation at 116 mm (4.5 in), but it occurs over just 12 days, with a slightly lower humidity level of 82%. For a detailed look at May's weather patterns, you can check out Traverse City weather in May.

January and June present stark contrasts in weather patterns. January experiences frigid temperatures, with minimums plunging to -24°C (-10°F) and average highs only reaching 10°C (50°F). The month sees significant precipitation of 58 mm (2.3 in) over approximately 13 days, coupled with a high humidity level of 91%, making it feel even colder. In sharp contrast, June boasts milder temperatures, with minimums around 4°C (39°F) and average highs soaring to 31°C (89°F). Precipitation increases to 107 mm (4.2 in) over 11 days, but the lower humidity of 79% offers a more comfortable atmosphere. For a more detailed look at what June has to offer, check out Traverse City weather in June.

In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -24°C (-10°F), with an average temperature of -4°C (24°F) and maximums reaching 10°C (50°F). The month sees frequent cold winds, contributing to a high humidity level of 91% and a total precipitation of 58 mm (2.3 in) over approximately 13 days. In stark contrast, July experiences much warmer weather, with minimum temperatures around 12°C (54°F), averaging 21°C (71°F), and soaring to maximums of 35°C (95°F). Although July also sees a fair amount of precipitation at 106 mm (4.2 in), it falls over just 9 days, and the humidity drops to a more comfortable 75%. This dramatic contrast in temperatures and weather patterns illustrates the significant seasonal shifts that characterize the region. For more details, you can visit Traverse City weather in July.

January and August represent two markedly different seasons in Traverse City, with January characterized by frigid temperatures and high humidity, while August boasts warmer, more inviting weather. In January, temperatures can plummet to a stark minimum of -24°C (-10°F), with an average of -4°C (24°F) and a maximum of 10°C (50°F). The month sees significant humidity at 91%, along with 58 mm (2.3 in) of precipitation over 13 days. In contrast, August offers a much more temperate climate, with minimum temperatures around 8°C (48°F) and average highs reaching up to 31°C (88°F). While it experiences a slightly higher total precipitation of 89 mm (3.5 in) over 11 days, the humidity drops to a more comfortable 76%. For more insights into the warm summer climate, you can check Traverse City weather in August.

In January, temperatures plunge to a minimum of -24°C (-10°F), with an average of -4°C (24°F) and a maximum of just 10°C (50°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 91%, accompanied by 58 mm (2.3 in) of precipitation over 13 days. In stark contrast, September brings milder weather with a minimum temperature of 2°C (36°F), an average of 17°C (63°F), and a maximum reaching up to 34°C (93°F). While September sees slightly higher precipitation at 80 mm (3.1 in) over 12 days, the humidity drops to 79%. For more detailed insights on September weather, visit Traverse City weather in September.

January and October offer starkly contrasting weather experiences. In January, temperatures plunge as low as -24°C (-10°F), averaging around -4°C (24°F) with maximums reaching only 10°C (50°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 91% and receives about 58 mm (2.3 in) of precipitation spread over 13 days. In contrast, October features a milder climate with minimum temperatures of -1°C (30°F) and averages climbing to 10°C (51°F), peaking at a comfortable 25°C (78°F). Although October sees more rainfall, with 135 mm (5.3 in) over 18 days, the lower humidity at 83% makes for a more pleasant feel. For a closer look at October's weather specifics in Traverse City, you can visit Traverse City weather in October.

January and November display stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures plunge to a minimum of -24°C (-10°F), averaging around -4°C (24°F), with maximums only reaching 10°C (50°F). This month also experiences significant humidity at 91%, accompanied by 58 mm (2.3 in) of precipitation over 13 days. In contrast, November sees milder temperatures, with a minimum of -11°C (12°F) and an average of 3°C (38°F). It can warm up to a comfortable maximum of 23°C (74°F) and has slightly more precipitation at 79 mm (3.1 in) over 15 days, along with a lower humidity of 86%. For a closer look at the specific conditions, visit Traverse City weather in November.

In January, temperatures are generally colder with minimums dropping to -24°C (-10°F) and an average of -4°C (24°F), compared to December's milder temperatures, which range from a minimum of -15°C (5°F) to an average of -1°C (31°F). While January experiences slightly less precipitation at 58 mm (2.3 in) over 13 days, December sees a higher total of 76 mm (3.0 in) across 15 days. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly higher in January at 91%, compared to December's 87%. For a more detailed look at the weather conditions, check out Traverse City weather in December.

Compare Traverse City's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Traverse City

As January settles over Traverse City, the landscape transforms into a winter wonderland, marked by a notable chill that sets it apart from other months. With average temperatures hovering around -4°C (24°F), this month experiences one of the coldest climates of the year, making it a stark contrast to the warmer summer months. The high humidity coupled with consistent precipitation creates an atmosphere that, while brisk, can often feel damp and crisp. Throughout January, residents and visitors alike can expect about 13 days of precipitation, adding a layer of beauty to the snow-covered scenery. If you're curious about how these wintery elements align with trends throughout the year, explore more in the complete Traverse City Climate overview.