January Weather in Kansas City, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

January in Kansas City presents a dynamic weather experience characterized by a maximum temperature reaching 18°C (64°F), while the average temperature hovers around a chilly 0°C (31°F). The month can see frigid lows dip to -23°C (-9°F), emphasizing winter's grip on the region. Despite the cold, residents and visitors may witness approximately 56 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over just 5 days, contributing to the month’s 80% humidity. This blend of temperatures and moisture creates a rich tapestry of January weather that shapes outdoor activities and community life throughout the month.

January Temperature in Kansas City

In Kansas City, January brings a stark chill, with temperatures plummeting to a minimum of -23°C (-9°F), an average of 0°C (31°F), and reaching a maximum of 18°C (64°F). The month marks the peak of winter's grip, where frigid nights give way to slightly warmer days, although the average still hovers around the freezing point. This cold spell sets the tone for February, which can be even colder at times with lows dipping to -26°C (-15°F). The transition to spring in March begins to hint at relief, as temperatures start to rise, but it's clear that January remains a true winter month, characterized by its sharp contrasts and brisk weather patterns.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Kansas City, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec313346546677797672574438
Data source: Temperature data for Kansas 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 Kansas City

In January, Kansas City experiences a moderate precipitation total of 56 mm (2.2 in), falling over an average of just 5 days. This marks a transitional period, as the winter chill gives way to the promise of spring, with precipitation starting to increase in subsequent months. February sees a slight decrease to 40 mm, but by March, the city experiences a significant uptick with 97 mm (3.8 in), followed by a peak in May at 215 mm (8.5 in). As the year progresses, Kansas City's rainfall pattern reveals a distinct trend: while January remains relatively dry compared to the heavier downpours of spring and summer, it sets the stage for the wetter months ahead, creating a rhythm of moisture that nourishes the landscape.

January Precipitation Trends in Kansas City

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Kansas 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5640979321594118126871134733
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Kansas City

In January, Kansas City experiences a notable level of humidity, averaging around 80% as the winter months linger. This high humidity aligns with the colder weather, creating a damp atmosphere that can feel chillier than the temperature suggests. Interestingly, this trend of elevated humidity continues into February and November, where humidity levels hover around 78% and 84%, respectively. The peak arrives in December with a striking 86%, indicating that winter's influence remains strong. As the seasons transition towards spring, a gradual decrease begins, with March dipping to 75%. However, May and June see a resurgence, with humidity climbing back up to 82% and 83%, embodying the lush vigor of late spring and early summer. Overall, while January stands out for its high levels, the months that surround it illustrate a dynamic relationship between humidity and seasonal changes in Kansas City.

January Average Humidity in Kansas City

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Kansas 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec80%78%75%77%82%83%81%78%72%72%84%86%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Kansas City

In Kansas City, the January UV Index stands at a moderate level of 3, indicating that while sun exposure poses some risk, it remains relatively safe with a burn time of 30 minutes. As the year unfolds, UV levels steadily rise, peaking at an extreme 11 in both June and July, where the burn time drops significantly to just 10 minutes. Notably, the transition from winter to spring showcases a notable increase: from February's moderate 5 to March's high 6. By April, the UV Index soars to 9, categorized as very high, emphasizing the importance of sun protection as the days get longer and warmer. This trend continues into summer and early fall, before tapering off in November and December, where the UV Index returns to a moderate 3. For a closer look at the trends throughout the year, visit Kansas City UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Kansas City for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Kansas 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3569101111109643
Data source: Kansas 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 Kansas City

January in Kansas City is characterized by 148 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for a gradual increase as the months progress. The city welcomes more daylight in February with 196 hours, and by March, this climbs to 216 hours, signaling spring's arrival. As the days grow longer, April offers a delightful 259 hours, followed by May with 282 hours, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities. The sun peaks in July, where residents bask in an impressive 363 hours of sunshine. However, the trend begins to shift as summer wanes, with August providing 329 hours, and September dropping to 286 hours. As fall approaches, the sunshine hours continue to fade, with October at 249 hours and November declining further to 214 hours. Finally, December mirrors January with 216 hours, wrapping up the year with a seasonal shift while still offering moments of brightness. Overall, Kansas City's sunshine trend highlights a vibrant fluctuation through the seasons, inviting residents to enjoy the sun's embrace at its peak and the cozy charm of shorter days as the year comes to a close.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Kansas City: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Kansas 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec148h196h216h259h282h335h363h329h286h249h214h216h
Data source: Kansas City January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Kansas City During January

In Kansas City, January typically sees a 32% chance of sunny weather, marking it as one of the cooler months for sunlight. While winter still holds its grip, these odds gradually improve with the transition into spring; by March, the likelihood of sunshine rises to 46%. As winter gives way to warmer months, the forecast brightens significantly, peaking at 74% in September. This trend highlights a clear progression from the low sunlight of January to the abundant sunshine that characterizes late summer and early fall, painting a vivid picture of Kansas City’s seasonal rhythm.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Kansas City

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Kansas 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 Kansas City experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec32%38%46%50%26%47%52%59%74%50%55%57%
Data source: Kansas City January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Kansas City in January

In Kansas City, January ushers in approximately 9 hours of daylight, a stark contrast to the gradual increase that follows. As winter cedes to spring, daylight extends to 10 hours in February and reaches 11 hours by March, signaling the approach of warmer months. The sunniest months emerge in late spring and early summer, with 14 hours of daylight in both May and June, creating a vibrant backdrop for outdoor activities. However, as summer wanes, daylight begins its gentle decline, tapering from 14 hours in July to 13 hours in August, and further to 12 hours in September. By the time winter returns, daylight once again contracts to 11 hours in October and ultimately back to 9 hours in December, completing the cyclical dance of the seasons in this Midwestern city. This interplay between daylight duration and seasonal change not only marks time but also sets the rhythm for life in Kansas City.

Average Daylight Hours in Kansas City for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Kansas 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 46m10h 44m11h 58m13h 15m14h 19m14h 50m14h 33m13h 36m12h 23m11h 7m10h 1m9h 27m
Data source: Kansas City daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Kansas City

In Kansas City, the January winds carry a gentle hum with an average speed of 3.5 m/s (8 mph), mirroring the calmness of February before the breezes pick up in March, reaching 4.4 m/s (10 mph). This subtle increase hints at the arrival of spring, as winds continue to dance playfully through the seasons. April sees a slight dip, which is typical as the warmer months approach, but by the summer, the winds soften again, with July reaching a mere 2.4 m/s (5 mph), creating a serene atmosphere that contrasts with the energetic gusts of early spring. Overall, Kansas City's wind patterns reflect a rhythmic cycle of tranquil and brisk moments, offering a glimpse into the transition of the seasons.

Average January Wind Speed in Kansas City

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Kansas 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.5 m/s3.64.43.83.32.82.43.13.43.53.74.0
Data source: Kansas City January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Kansas City Compares to Other Months

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

January and February exhibit striking contrasts in weather despite similar average temperatures. In January, the minimum temperature dips to a chilly -23°C (-9°F), while February sees an even lower minimum of -26°C (-15°F). However, February boasts a slightly warmer maximum temperature of 24°C (76°F), compared to January's peak of 18°C (64°F). Precipitation is more frequent in February, occurring over 7 days, though it totals only 40 mm (1.6 in) compared to January's 56 mm (2.2 in). Both months experience high humidity levels, with January at 80% and February slightly lower at 78%. For more detailed insights about February weather, you can visit Kansas City weather in February.

January and March showcase contrasting weather patterns. In January, temperatures can drop as low as -23°C (-9°F), with an average of 0°C (31°F) and a maximum reaching 18°C (64°F). The month experiences a total precipitation of 56 mm (2.2 in) over about 5 days, accompanied by high humidity at 80%. By March, however, the climate begins to warm significantly, with minimum temperatures around -19°C (-3°F) and a notable increase in average temperature to 8°C (47°F), peaking at 29°C (84°F). March also sees increased rainfall, totaling 97 mm (3.8 in) over 11 days, with slightly lower humidity at 75%. For more detailed information, you can check Kansas City weather in March.

January and April present stark contrasts in weather conditions. January typically features frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -23°C (-9°F), an average around 0°C (31°F), and a maximum reaching only 18°C (64°F). The month sees about 56 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over approximately 5 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of around 80%. In contrast, April brings a more temperate climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -7°C (19°F) to a pleasant average of 12°C (54°F), peaking at a warm 30°C (87°F). The month is also wetter, recording 93 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation across 11 days, but with slightly lower humidity at 77%. For more information about the weather patterns in April, you can visit Kansas City weather in April.

January in Kansas City is characterized by frigid temperatures, where the minimum can plunge to -23°C (-9°F) and the daily average hovers around 0°C (31°F). The month sees relatively low precipitation, totaling 56 mm (2.2 in) over just 5 days, combined with high humidity levels at 80%, creating a brisk and uncomfortable chill.

In contrast, May brings a dramatic shift in weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a scorching maximum of 34°C (93°F), resulting in an average of 19°C (66°F). Precipitation significantly increases to 215 mm (8.5 in) over 15 days, and humidity remains high at 82%, contributing to a warm and often humid atmosphere. The transformation from the harsh cold of January to the warm, vibrant days of May highlights the stark seasonal contrast in Kansas City's climate. For more detailed insights on May weather, visit Kansas City weather in May.

In January, temperatures can plummet as low as -23°C (-9°F), with an average around 0°C (31°F) and occasional highs reaching 18°C (64°F). The month sees about 56 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over five days, all while maintaining a high humidity level of 80%. In stark contrast, June offers a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures around 11°C (52°F) and an average soaring to 25°C (77°F), peaking at a sweltering 37°C (99°F). Rainfall increases to 94 mm (3.7 in) over around ten days, with humidity slightly elevated at 83%. For a detailed look at June weather specifics, check out Kansas City weather in June.

January and July present striking contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures can plummet as low as -23°C (-9°F), with an average temperature hovering around 0°C (31°F) and a maximum of 18°C (64°F). The month sees about 56 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over five days, coupled with high humidity levels at 80%. Conversely, July showcases a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures around 16°C (61°F) and reaching averages of 26°C (80°F), peaking at a scorching 37°C (99°F). Additionally, July experiences more precipitation, totaling 118 mm (4.6 in) over nine days, while humidity remains slightly higher, at 81%. For a deeper dive into the summer conditions, check out Kansas City weather in July.

When comparing the weather in January and August, a stark contrast emerges. January experiences frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -23°C (-9°F) and an average around 0°C (31°F), while August boasts much warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (54°F) to a sizzling maximum of 35°C (96°F). Precipitation levels also differ significantly; January receives 56 mm (2.2 in) over just 5 days, while August sees a more substantial 126 mm (5.0 in) across 12 days. Despite the increased rain in August, humidity levels remain relatively high in both months, at 80% in January and 78% in August. For more details on the weather specific to that month, you can check Kansas City weather in August.

In January, the weather is characterized by frigid temperatures, with minimums plunging to -23°C (-9°F) and an average around 0°C (31°F). In contrast, September brings a much warmer climate, with average temperatures soaring to 22°C (72°F) and maximums reaching up to 33°C (92°F). While January experiences relatively low precipitation levels at 56 mm (2.2 in) over about 5 days, September sees increased rainfall of 87 mm (3.4 in) across 7 days, accompanied by a lower humidity level of 72%. For more details on the weather specifics, you can check out Kansas City weather in September.

January and October showcase stark contrasts in weather patterns. In January, temperatures can plummet to a chilling minimum of -23°C (-9°F), with an average of around 0°C (31°F) and occasional highs reaching 18°C (64°F). The month sees about 56 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over just five days, coupled with a high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, October brings a more moderate climate, featuring a minimum temperature of -2°C (29°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F), with highs soaring up to 32°C (89°F). Precipitation is more frequent, totaling 113 mm (4.5 in) across 11 days, while humidity drops to 72%. For more details on the weather trends, check out Kansas City weather in October.

January and November present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -23°C (-9°F), with an average of 0°C (31°F) and a maximum reaching 18°C (64°F). This month also sees higher humidity levels at 80% and more precipitation, totaling 56 mm (2.2 in) over five days. In contrast, November offers relatively milder temperatures, with a minimum of -14°C (8°F) and an average of 7°C (44°F), peaking at 24°C (76°F). The precipitation during this month is slightly less at 47 mm (1.8 in), but humidity is a bit higher at 84%. For a detailed look at November's climate dynamics, you can refer to this link: Kansas City weather in November.

In comparing the weather of January and December, January tends to be colder with minimum temperatures dipping to -23°C (-9°F) and an average of 0°C (31°F), while December’s minimum reaches -18°C (-1°F) and an average of 3°C (38°F). Additionally, January experiences a slightly higher precipitation level of 56 mm (2.2 in) over approximately 5 days, compared to December’s 33 mm (1.3 in) over 4 days. The humidity is notably high in both months, with January at 80% and December at 86%. For more details on December weather specifics, you can check Kansas City weather in December.

Compare Kansas City's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Kansas City

January in Kansas City offers a stark contrast to the city's more temperate months. With the chill of winter firmly in place, residents can expect average temperatures hovering around 0°C (31°F), accompanied by the occasional plunge to below freezing. This month typically brings about 56 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation, but with only five days of rainfall, snow is often the star of the show. The 80% humidity adds a biting edge to the cold, enhancing the brisk feel of the air. As the coldest month of the year, January sets the stage for indoor coziness and winter activities, making it a unique time to experience Kansas City's seasonal charm. For more insights into what to expect throughout the year, visit Kansas City Climate.