January Weather in Lincoln, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

In Lincoln, United States, January brings a chill with temperatures ranging from a maximum of 12°C (54°F) to a minimum of -29°C (-20°F), resulting in an average temperature of -8°C (18°F). The month sees 85 mm (3.4 inches) of precipitation spread over 11 days, contributing to an overall humidity level of 86%. This combination of cold and damp creates a characteristically brisk winter atmosphere, ideal for those who enjoy the unique beauty of a midwestern winter.

January Temperature in Lincoln

In Lincoln, United States, January brings a frigid chill, with temperatures ranging from a bone-numbing -29°C (-20°F) at night to a surprisingly mild 12°C (54°F) during the day. The average temperature hovers around -8°C (18°F), setting the tone for the month as the coldest of the year. This stark winter landscape shifts slightly as February approaches, with low temperatures easing a bit to -26°C (-14°F) and daytime highs reaching 16°C (62°F), but the atmosphere remains brisk. As the season progresses into March, there's a gradual warming trend, with average temperatures crawling closer to zero, yet January stands out as a month for bundled-up activities and crisp, refreshing air. Overall, January's chilly embrace prepares residents for the subsequent thaw that emerges in the following months, showcasing the dynamic weather patterns typical of the region.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Lincoln, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec182128405363686659473223
Data source: Temperature data for Lincoln 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 Lincoln

In January, Lincoln experiences an average precipitation of 85 mm (3.4 in) over approximately 11 days, setting the stage for the wetter months to come. This amount is closely matched by February, which sees just slightly more rainfall at 86 mm but over a couple of extra days. As the seasons progress towards spring, the frequency and volume of precipitation typically increase, peaking dramatically in July with 135 mm (5.3 in), a trend echoed in October's impressive 143 mm (5.6 in). January's precipitation levels, while lower than some of the year's wetter months, serve as a gentle precursor, hinting at the transition into the more moisture-laden spring and summer seasons in Lincoln.

January Precipitation Trends in Lincoln

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Lincoln, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec858675129981051359971143119113
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Lincoln

In Lincoln, United States, January greets residents with a high humidity level of 86%, making it one of the dampest months of the year. This trend of elevated humidity continues into February, though it slightly drops to 84%. As spring approaches, humidity decreases steadily, reaching 82% in March and 80% in April, hinting at more comfortable conditions. By May and June, humidity stabilizes around 72%, offering a refreshing change as summer begins. However, the trend shifts again in the hotter months, as July and August experience lower humidity levels at 67% and 66%, respectively, providing a break from the oppressive summer heat. As we move into fall, humidity begins to rise again, peaking at 84% in November before settling at 81% in December, illustrating a cyclical pattern that sees Lincoln oscillating between high and low humidity throughout the year.

January Average Humidity in Lincoln

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Lincoln, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec86%84%82%80%72%72%67%66%71%79%84%81%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Lincoln

In Lincoln, United States, the UV Index peaks in the summer months, but January offers a moderate start to the year with an index of 3, indicating a 30-minute burn time for unprotected skin. The UV exposure category remains consistent at moderate levels throughout January and February, before escalating to high levels by March. As spring approaches, the UV Index rises sharply, hitting 8 in April and reaching a striking 9 in May, with corresponding burn times dropping to just 15 minutes. This trend continues through the summer, where the peak UV Index of 10 occurs in June, emphasizing the importance of sun protection during these warmer months. As the year progresses into fall and winter, the UV Index gradually declines, with December reaching a low of 2 and a longer burn time of 45 minutes before the cycle resets. To stay informed about the changing UV levels throughout the year, check out the detailed resources at Lincoln UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Lincoln for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Lincoln 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3468910997532
Data source: Lincoln 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 Lincoln

In Lincoln, United States, the January sunshine serves as a gentle harbinger of the brighter days to come, with 126 hours of sunlight marking the start of the year. As winter retreats, February brings a noticeable increase to 165 hours, hinting at the transition to spring. By March, the sun shines more generously, offering 242 hours that invigorate the city. This upward trend continues through the spring and into the summer, peaking in July with 321 hours. The warmth lingers in August, when sunshine reaches its zenith with 328 hours, creating the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities. As autumn approaches, the hours gradually diminish, with September's 285 hours transitioning into October's 194 hours, and finally winding down toward the year’s end at 155 hours in December. Overall, the data illustrates a captivating cycle of sunshine, with winter's modest beginnings blossoming into vibrant summer days before gracefully tapering off into the coziness of the colder months.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Lincoln: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Lincoln 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec126h165h242h218h261h316h321h328h285h194h169h155h
Data source: Lincoln January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Lincoln During January

In Lincoln, the likelihood of sunny weather in January hovers around 30%, positioning it among the months with more frequent overcast skies. This percentage is notably higher than February's 26%, showcasing a slight uptick in sun chances as winter progresses. However, it pales in comparison to the sunnier days anticipated in March, where expectations soar to 47%. Interestingly, the pattern shows that while winter months struggle with low sunshine odds, the transition towards spring brings a welcome increase, with April and May also maintaining around 31% and 32% likelihoods, respectively. Overall, while January may not be the brightest month, the gradual shift towards sunnier skies is just around the corner.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Lincoln

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Lincoln 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 Lincoln experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec30%26%47%31%32%37%22%29%37%29%46%26%
Data source: Lincoln January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Lincoln in January

In Lincoln, United States, January marks the beginning of the year with a modest 9 hours of daylight, gradually increasing as the seasons change. As February embraces winter's tail end, daylight extends to 10 hours, heralding the approach of spring. By March, the sun shines for 11 hours, offering a hint of the warmth to come. This upward trend continues through April and May, where daylight peaks at 14 hours, creating an inviting atmosphere for outdoor activities. June and July boast the most daylight at 15 hours, allowing residents to savor extended evenings. As summer wanes, daylight begins to retreat, dropping to 13 hours in August and further to 12 hours in September. The cycle comes full circle in autumn, as October and November witness a decline to 10 and 9 hours, respectively, before December closes the year with just 8 hours. This rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight not only shapes daily life in Lincoln but also underscores the beautiful transition of seasons.

Average Daylight Hours in Lincoln for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Lincoln throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 19m10h 29m11h 57m13h 28m14h 45m15h 23m15h 2m13h 54m12h 27m10h 56m9h 37m8h 56m
Data source: Lincoln daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Lincoln

In January, Lincoln experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 2.8 m/s (6 mph), a figure that remains consistent throughout February. As spring approaches in March, wind speeds pick up slightly to 3.4 m/s (8 mph), hinting at the seasonal transition. However, by April, the winds calm down again to 2.9 m/s (7 mph), echoing the generally mild conditions of late winter. The following months see a gradual decline, particularly in the heat of July and August, where average speeds drop to 2.0 m/s (4 mph) and 1.9 m/s (4 mph), respectively. As autumn rolls in, the winds begin to pick up slightly again, stabilizing around 2.4 m/s (5 mph) in September and 2.2 m/s (5 mph) in October. Ultimately, November sees a modest increase back to 2.6 m/s (6 mph), and December returns to the calm of January, reinforcing Lincoln's reputation for tranquil winter winds. This pattern reflects the area's subtle shifts in seasonal wind dynamics, with the winter months typically characterized by steady yet gentle airflow.

Average January Wind Speed in Lincoln

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Lincoln, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.8 m/s2.83.42.92.52.52.01.92.42.22.62.8
Data source: Lincoln January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Lincoln Compares to Other Months

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

January and February offer a stark yet similar winter experience in Lincoln. January is characterized by slightly colder temperatures, with average lows around -8°C (18°F) compared to February's -6°C (21°F). The maximum temperatures in January reach 12°C (54°F), while February can be slightly warmer at 16°C (62°F). Both months experience similar precipitation levels, with January receiving 85 mm (3.4 in) and February just a notch higher at 86 mm (3.4 in), though February has a couple more days of precipitation, totaling 13 days compared to January's 11. Humidity remains high and fairly consistent, with January at 86% and February slightly lower at 84%. For a detailed overview of February's weather specifics in Lincoln, you can check Lincoln weather in February.

In January, temperatures in Lincoln experience a stark chill, with a minimum of -29°C (-20°F) and an average of -8°C (18°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. Precipitation is relatively high at 85 mm (3.4 in), occurring over 11 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 86%. In contrast, March sees a slight warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -21°C (-6°F) to a more temperate average of -2°C (28°F), and a maximum reaching 18°C (64°F). While precipitation decreases slightly to 75 mm (2.9 in) over 10 days and humidity lowers to 82%, the overall climate in March feels more inviting. For more detailed information, you can check Lincoln weather in March.

In comparing the weather between January and April, there is a noticeable shift in temperature and precipitation patterns. January experiences much colder temperatures with a minimum of -29°C (-20°F) and an average of -8°C (18°F), while April sees a significant increase, with minimum temperatures around -12°C (11°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F). The maximum temperatures in April can reach up to 24°C (76°F), providing a stark contrast to January's peak of only 12°C (54°F).

Precipitation is also more prominent in April, totaling 129 mm (5.1 in) over 15 days, compared to January's 85 mm (3.4 in) spread across 11 days. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly lower in April at 80%, compared to 86% in January. For more specific details on the weather in Lincoln during April, you can check Lincoln weather in April.

In January, the weather is harsh and frigid, with temperatures plummeting to a minimum of -29°C (-20°F) and averaging around -8°C (18°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 85 mm (3.4 in) over 11 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 86%. In contrast, May brings a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (28°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), averaging 12°C (53°F). Despite a slight increase in precipitation to 98 mm (3.9 in) over 14 days, the humidity drops to a more comfortable 72%. For more details on Lincoln's weather during this vibrant spring month, visit Lincoln weather in May.

In January, the weather in Lincoln is characterized by bitterly cold temperatures, with average lows of -8°C (18°F) and maximums reaching only 12°C (54°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 85 mm (3.4 inches) over 11 days, while humidity sits high at 86%, creating a chill that feels even more intense. In contrast, June brings a dramatic transformation with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to an average of 17°C (63°F), and highs that can soar to 32°C (90°F). Although June experiences slightly more precipitation at 105 mm (4.1 inches) over 12 days, the humidity drops to a more comfortable 72%. For a closer look at Lincoln's June weather, visit Lincoln weather in June.

January and July present a striking contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plummet as low as -29°C (-20°F), while the average temperature hovers around -8°C (18°F), with maximums reaching 12°C (54°F). The month sees considerable precipitation of 85 mm (3.4 in) over approximately 11 days and an elevated humidity of 86%, contributing to a bleak winter atmosphere. In contrast, July brings warm temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (44°F), an average of 20°C (68°F), and highs that can soar to 33°C (92°F). With a slight increase in precipitation to 135 mm (5.3 in) over about 13 days and reduced humidity at 67%, July offers a markedly more pleasant and inviting climate. For more detailed insights, check out Lincoln weather in July.

January and August present stark contrasts in weather conditions. January's temperatures plunge as low as -29°C (-20°F), with an average of -8°C (18°F) and highs reaching only 12°C (54°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 85 mm (3.4 in) over 11 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 86%. In contrast, August offers a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to an average of 19°C (66°F) and highs peaking at 32°C (89°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 99 mm (3.9 in) over 13 days, but humidity drops to a more comfortable 66%. For more details on August weather, check out Lincoln weather in August.

January and September exhibit stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures plunge with a minimum of -29°C (-20°F) and an average of -8°C (18°F), while the maximum reaches only 12°C (54°F). The month also sees considerable precipitation at 85 mm (3.4 in) over 11 days, accompanied by high humidity at 86%. In contrast, September experiences a milder climate, with minimum temperatures around -4°C (25°F) and an average of 15°C (59°F), peaking at 29°C (85°F). The month is drier with 71 mm (2.8 in) of precipitation over 10 days, and humidity drops to a more comfortable 71%. For more details on September weather, you can check out Lincoln weather in September.

In comparing January and October weather, January experiences frigid temperatures, with minimums plummeting to -29°C (-20°F) and an average of -8°C (18°F), while October boasts a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures around -6°C (21°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F). The maximum temperature in January peaks at 12°C (54°F), in stark contrast to October's warmer high of 24°C (76°F). Additionally, precipitation is more frequent in October, totaling 143 mm (5.6 in) over 14 days, compared to January's 85 mm (3.4 in) over 11 days. Humidity also sees a decline, with January at 86% and October at 78%. For a detailed look at October weather specifics, check Lincoln weather in October.

January and November present contrasting weather conditions, particularly in temperature and precipitation. In January, the temperatures range from a minimum of -29°C (-20°F) to a maximum of 12°C (54°F), with an average temperature of -8°C (18°F). This frigid month experiences a total precipitation of 85 mm (3.4 in) over about 11 days, accompanied by high humidity at 86%. In comparison, November is slightly milder, with temperatures ranging from -19°C (-3°F) to a maximum of 21°C (71°F) and an average of 0°C (33°F). November also sees increased precipitation at 119 mm (4.7 in) over 13 days, with humidity slightly lower at 84%. For more details on the specific weather patterns and conditions during this transition month, you can check Lincoln weather in November.

In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -27°C (-15°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), with an average of -5°C (23°F). This month experiences more precipitation, totaling 113 mm (4.5 in) over approximately 13 days, coupled with a humidity level of 81%. In contrast, January is slightly colder, with temperatures fluctuating between -29°C (-20°F) and a maximum of 12°C (54°F), averaging -8°C (18°F). The precipitation in January is less, at 85 mm (3.4 in) over 11 days, but the humidity remains relatively high at 86%. For more detailed insights on December weather, check out Lincoln weather in December.

Compare Lincoln's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Lincoln

January in Lincoln presents a stark contrast to the milder months, characterized by its cold temperatures and significant precipitation. With average highs barely reaching above freezing and lows plunging to extreme lows, this month is one of the coldest, enveloped in a cloud of thick humidity. Unlike the warmer seasons, January often brings snowy days, contributing to its total of 11 precipitation days. Those seeking the beauty of winter should prepare for the chill and embrace the unique climate that January offers. For a deeper dive into how this month fits into the wider context of Lincoln's weather patterns, visit Lincoln Climate.