January Weather in Bethlehem, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

In January, the weather in Bethlehem, United States presents a stark winter landscape characterized by a maximum temperature of 12°C (54°F), an average of -8°C (17°F), and a chilling minimum of -31°C (-23°F). The month is marked by 86 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation spread over 12 days, leading to a notably high humidity level of 91%. This blend of cold temperatures and frequent precipitation creates a captivating yet challenging environment, ideal for those seeking the beauty of winter while braving its extremes.

January Temperature in Bethlehem

In Bethlehem, United States, January's temperatures present a stark winter landscape, with a chilling average of -8°C (17°F). The month can swing dramatically from a bone-numbing low of -31°C (-23°F) to a slightly milder high of 12°C (54°F), reflecting the harsh reality of winter. As the month advances into February, temperatures remain frigid, although they begin to edge upward, with February's maximum reaching 16°C (62°F). This gradual warming trend continues into March, where temperatures start to reflect the promise of spring, fluctuating between -22°C (-8°F) and 18°C (65°F). Notably, the consistent rise in average temperatures from January through March signifies a transition from the depths of winter towards the thaw of early spring, making it a time of both harsh cold and budding hope for warmer days ahead.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Bethlehem, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec172027405362676558473222
Data source: Temperature data for Bethlehem 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 Bethlehem

In January, Bethlehem experiences moderate precipitation, with an average of 86 mm (3.4 in) spread over approximately 12 days. This sets the stage for a typically wet winter, where the rainfall begins to dip slightly in February, with just 1 mm less than the prior month. As the season progresses towards spring, precipitation levels fluctuate, peaking in April at 125 mm (4.9 in) before gradually declining through the warmer months. Interestingly, January's precipitation establishes a trend of consistent rainfall leading into the early months of the year, with February maintaining similar totals, and a noticeable drop in March. This pattern signifies a transition towards a wetter spring, highlighting a brief lull before the summer months bring increased rainfall, culminating in July's peak. Overall, January serves as a pivotal month, bridging seasonal variations in Bethlehem's precipitation landscape.

January Precipitation Trends in Bethlehem

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Bethlehem, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8685771251041091199169140116100
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Bethlehem

In January, Bethlehem experiences its highest humidity level at an impressive 91%. This abundance of moisture sets the tone for the winter months and reflects the chilly air's capacity to hold water vapor. As the year progresses into February, humidity slightly decreases to 89%, continuing a trend of gradual decline that lasts through early spring. By March, the humidity drops further to 85%, before leveling off in April at 84%. As the temperatures rise, the air begins to dry out, culminating in the lowest humidity of the year at 72% in June. However, a slow rebound begins in July and continues through September, where humidity fluctuates around the mid-70s to low 80s. This pattern suggests a clear seasonal shift, with the humidity gradually increasing again as autumn approaches, culminating in a return to 85% by October and hovering in the mid-80s through the end of the year. This cyclical dance of humidity throughout the months paints a vivid picture of Bethlehem's climate, marked by notable shifts influenced by seasonal changes.

January Average Humidity in Bethlehem

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Bethlehem, 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%89%85%84%78%72%75%74%77%85%86%85%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Bethlehem

In January, Bethlehem experiences a low UV Index of 2, which means the risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure is minimal, with a burn time of 45 minutes. As winter progresses into February, the UV Index rises to 4—a moderate level—reducing the safe exposure time to 30 minutes. By March, as spring approaches, the UV Index reaches 6, categorized as high, prompting more caution with a burn time of only 25 minutes. This trend continues to intensify, peaking at a very high index of 10 in June, where just 15 minutes of unprotected exposure could lead to sunburn. The summer months consistently show elevated UV levels while fall brings a slight ease with an index reduced to 5 in October and dropping again to 3 by November. As the year rounds out, December mirrors January's low UV conditions, reinforcing the seasonal pattern. For more detailed UV information, visit Bethlehem UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Bethlehem for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Bethlehem 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2468910997532
Data source: Bethlehem 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 Bethlehem

January sets the stage for the year in Bethlehem, United States, with 111 hours of sunshine, a modest beginning to the sun-drenched days ahead. As winter transitions to spring, sunshine hours gradually increase, peaking in March with 226 hours. By the time we reach the vibrant blooms of May and the long, warm days of summer, sunshine hours surge dramatically, hitting a seasonal high of 322 hours in August. Following this peak, there is a gentle decline as autumn approaches, with October basking in 183 hours before the year concludes with the shorter daylight of December at 136 hours. This clear seasonal rhythm showcases the stark contrast between the cold, crisp winter months and the exuberant warmth of summer, highlighting Bethlehem’s dynamic and inviting climate throughout the year.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Bethlehem: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Bethlehem 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec111h154h226h206h250h308h318h322h275h183h151h136h
Data source: Bethlehem January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Bethlehem During January

In Bethlehem, United States, the likelihood of sunshine in January stands at a modest 28%, marking it as one of the cloudier months of the year. This percentage is slightly higher than February, which sees a 27% chance of sunny days, but significantly lower than the upcoming March, where sunny weather nearly doubles at 46%. Interestingly, January’s sunshine probability is also sandwiched between the relatively sunnier months of April and May, both hovering around 30-32%. As the seasons transition from winter to spring, residents can look forward to a notable increase in sunny days, making January a rather gray prelude to the brighter weather that lies ahead.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Bethlehem

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Bethlehem 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 Bethlehem experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec28%27%46%30%33%37%22%31%36%29%45%26%
Data source: Bethlehem January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Bethlehem in January

In January, Bethlehem experiences 9 hours of daylight, marking the beginning of a gradual increase that will transform the landscape as winter gives way to spring. This upward trend continues into February with 10 hours, and by March, daylight extends to 11 hours, inviting longer and brighter days. As spring unfolds in April, the duration surges to 13 hours, culminating in May with 14 hours of daylight—a peak that coincides with the vibrancy of nature in full bloom. June and July maintain this high point at 15 hours, basking the town in extended sunshine during the warmest months. However, as summer wanes, daylight begins to taper off, starting in August with 13 hours, followed by a gradual decline through autumn. By November, daylight dwindles back to 9 hours, and December closes the year with a minimal 8 hours, reminding us of the cyclical nature of the seasons. This rhythmic pattern through the months not only shapes daily life but also offers a glimpse into the changing environment in Bethlehem.

Average Daylight Hours in Bethlehem for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Bethlehem throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 17m10h 28m11h 57m13h 29m14h 47m15h 26m15h 5m13h 55m12h 27m10h 55m9h 35m8h 54m
Data source: Bethlehem daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Bethlehem

In January, Bethlehem, United States, experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 2.3 m/s (5 mph), setting a tranquil tone for the start of the year. As winter progresses into February, the winds pick up slightly, rising to 2.6 m/s (6 mph), hinting at the subtle transition towards spring. March brings even brisker gusts, averaging 3.3 m/s (7 mph), marking the peak of wind activity for this season. However, by April, the winds begin to taper off slightly, returning to 2.8 m/s (6 mph). Following this, the trend sees a gradual decline through the summer months, with July and August reporting the calmest periods, both at 2.0 m/s (5 mph) and 1.9 m/s (4 mph), respectively. As autumn approaches, wind speeds begin to stabilize around 2.5 m/s (6 mph) in September and November, before ending the year on a slightly higher note of 2.8 m/s (6 mph) in December. This cyclical pattern reveals a distinctive rhythm of winds in Bethlehem, oscillating between mild summer breezes and the more energetic gusts of early spring.

Average January Wind Speed in Bethlehem

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Bethlehem, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.3 m/s2.63.32.82.42.72.01.92.52.22.52.8
Data source: Bethlehem January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Bethlehem Compares to Other Months

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

In comparing the weather of January and February, January tends to be colder with average temperatures around -8°C (17°F) and a maximum of 12°C (54°F), while February sees a slight increase in average temperature to -7°C (20°F), with highs reaching up to 16°C (62°F). Both months experience similar levels of precipitation, with January recording 86 mm (3.4 in) over 12 days and February slightly more at 85 mm (3.4 in) over 13 days. Humidity levels are relatively high in both months, at 91% for January and 89% for February, contributing to a crisp atmosphere. For those interested in more detailed weather conditions, you can check Bethlehem weather in February.

When comparing the weather in January and March, January tends to be significantly colder, with average temperatures hovering around -8°C (17°F) and a minimum dropping to -31°C (-23°F). In contrast, March shows a notable warming trend, with average temperatures rising to -3°C (27°F) and maximums reaching as high as 18°C (65°F). Both months experience similar levels of precipitation, with January receiving 86 mm (3.4 in) over 12 days and March with 77 mm (3.0 in) over 11 days. Additionally, January has higher humidity at 91%, while March remains slightly lower at 85%. For more details on March weather, you can check out Bethlehem weather in March.

In January, the weather is characterized by frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -31°C (-23°F) and an average around -8°C (17°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. The precipitation, while lower than in April, still reaches 86 mm (3.4 in) over 12 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 91%. In contrast, April brings a significant shift in conditions, featuring milder weather with a minimum of -12°C (10°F) and an average temperature of 4°C (40°F), peaking at 24°C (76°F). The month sees increased precipitation at 125 mm (4.9 in) over 16 days, although the humidity drops slightly to 84%. This transition from the harsh winter chill of January to the budding warmth of April illustrates the dramatic changes in climate as spring approaches. For more detailed insights, check out Bethlehem weather in April.

January and May present a striking contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -31°C (-23°F) with an average of -8°C (17°F) and a maximum of just 12°C (54°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. Additionally, January experiences high humidity at 91% and 86 mm of precipitation over approximately 12 days. In contrast, May sees a significant temperature rise, with minimums of -3°C (27°F), an average of 12°C (53°F), and maximums soaring to 31°C (87°F). Although May does see an increase in precipitation to 104 mm across 13 days, the humidity decreases to 78%, offering a more pleasant spring atmosphere. For more details, check out Bethlehem weather in May.

January and June weather in Bethlehem present a striking contrast. In January, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -31°C (-23°F), with an average of -8°C (17°F) and a maximum of 12°C (54°F). The month experiences significant precipitation with 86 mm (3.4 in) spread over 12 days, and a high humidity level at 91%. In comparison, June brings a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to an average of 17°C (62°F) and peaking at 31°C (88°F). June also sees slightly higher precipitation at 109 mm (4.3 in) over the same number of days, but with lower humidity at 72%. For more details on June weather, you can refer to Bethlehem weather in June.

January and July present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plummet to a chilling minimum of -31°C (-23°F), with an average temperature around -8°C (17°F) and a maximum of just 12°C (54°F). Humidity levels are quite high at 91%, accompanied by 86 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation over about 12 days. In contrast, July enjoys milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a maximum of 33°C (91°F), with an average of 19°C (67°F). Although July receives slightly more precipitation at 119 mm (4.7 in) across 14 days, the lower humidity of 75% contributes to a more comfortable atmosphere. For more details on the summer climate, check out Bethlehem weather in July.

January and August present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plunge as low as -31°C (-23°F), with an average of -8°C (17°F) and a maximum reaching just 12°C (54°F). The month often experiences high humidity at 91% and significant precipitation spread across 12 days, totaling 86 mm (3.4 in). In comparison, August displays a much milder climate with minimum temperatures of 4°C (40°F) and an average temperature of 18°C (66°F), peaking at a warm 32°C (89°F). Precipitation slightly increases to 91 mm (3.6 in) over 13 days, but humidity drops to a more comfortable 74%. For more detailed insights, you can explore Bethlehem weather in August.

In January, Bethlehem experiences frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -31°C (-23°F) and an average of -8°C (17°F), making it a stark contrast to the warmth of September, where temperatures range from a minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a pleasant average of 15°C (58°F). The maximum temperature in September even climbs to a comfortable 29°C (85°F), while January only reaches a maximum of 12°C (54°F). Additionally, January faces higher humidity at 91%, along with more days of precipitation, totaling 86 mm (3.4 in) over 12 days, compared to September's 69 mm (2.7 in) over just 9 days. For a closer look at September's weather, you can check Bethlehem weather in September.

January and October present stark contrasts in weather conditions. January is notably frigid, with average temperatures hovering around -8°C (17°F) and minimums plunging to -31°C (-23°F). In comparison, October offers a milder climate, with average temperatures rising to 8°C (47°F) and maximums reaching a pleasant 24°C (76°F). While January sees about 86 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation over 12 days, October experiences slightly more rainfall at 140 mm (5.5 in) over 14 days, contributing to the overall sense of wetness in the fall. Moreover, humidity levels are high in both months, with January at 91% and October slightly lower at 85%. For more details on what to expect in October, you can check Bethlehem weather in October.

January weather is characterized by significantly colder temperatures, with a minimum reaching a frigid -31°C (-23°F) and an average around -8°C (17°F). In contrast, November experiences milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -21°C (-5°F) to a more comfortable average of 0°C (32°F). Additionally, November tends to be wetter, recording 116 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation over 15 days, compared to January's 86 mm (3.4 in) across 12 days. The humidity in January is slightly higher at 91%, while November's humidity sits at 86%. For a closer look at the specifics, you can explore Bethlehem weather in November.

In comparing the weather between January and December, we find that January typically experiences slightly cooler temperatures, with an average of -8°C (17°F), compared to December's average of -6°C (22°F). Both months see similar minimum temperatures, approximately -30°C to -31°C (-21°F to -23°F), while maximum temperatures are also quite close, peaking at 12°C (54°F) in January and 13°C (56°F) in December. Precipitation is somewhat higher in December, totaling 100 mm (3.9 in) over 15 days, in contrast to January's 86 mm (3.4 in) across 12 days. Interestingly, January presents a higher humidity level at 91%, compared to December's 85%. For more detailed insights, visit Bethlehem weather in December.

Compare Bethlehem's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Bethlehem

January in Bethlehem stands out with its chilly embrace, featuring temperatures that often dip to frigid lows compared to the milder months preceding and following it. The high humidity levels of 91% amplify the cold, while precipitation manifests as snow and rain across approximately half the month. Moreover, the 86 mm of precipitation indicates a notable shift from the drier conditions experienced in the summer, making January a unique chapter in Bethlehem's yearly climate narrative. To learn more about how these weather patterns fit into the larger context, explore the Bethlehem Climate.