January Weather in Washington, United States

Last updated: June 24, 2025

In January, the average temperature in Washington, United States hovers around -5°C (23°F), although it can dip as low as -29°C (-19°F) and peak at a mild 16°C (60°F). Expect 71 mm (2.8 in) of precipitation spread over 9 days, with an average humidity level of 86%, creating a chill that permeates the air.

January Temperature in Washington

In January in Washington, the average temperature is -5°C (23°F), with maximums possibly reaching 16°C (60°F) and minimums dropping to as low as -29°C (-19°F). Travelers should prepare for a wide range of temperatures and pack accordingly for 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 -5°C (23°F), with highs reaching up to 16°C (60°F) and lows dropping to around -29°C (-19°F).

Data source: Temperature data for Washington generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January Precipitation in Washington

In Washington in January, the precipitation amount is 71 mm (2.8 in) spread over 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 71 mm (2.8 inches) of precipitation spread over approximately 9 days.

Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Choose your preferred precipitation unit

Millimeters (mm) Inches (in)

January Humidity in Washington

In Washington in January humidity is 86%. With an average temperature of -5°C (23°F), this humidity feels like a biting chill that seeps into your bones, making outdoor adventures quite uncomfortable and necessitating extra layers to stay warm while exploring.

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 86%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.

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.

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.
	Temperature	Precipitation	Humidity	UV
January Weather	-5°C (23°F)	71 mm (2.8 inches)	86%	moderate
February Weather	-3°C (26°F)	85 mm (3.3 inches)	84%	moderate
March Weather	0°C (32°F)	78 mm (3.1 inches)	82%	high
April Weather	7°C (44°F)	126 mm (5.0 inches)	80%	very high
May Weather	13°C (56°F)	83 mm (3.3 inches)	72%	very high
June Weather	19°C (66°F)	90 mm (3.5 inches)	72%	very high
July Weather	22°C (72°F)	129 mm (5.1 inches)	67%	very high
August Weather	21°C (70°F)	94 mm (3.7 inches)	66%	very high
September Weather	17°C (63°F)	78 mm (3.1 inches)	71%	high
October Weather	10°C (51°F)	132 mm (5.2 inches)	78%	high
November Weather	3°C (37°F)	105 mm (4.1 inches)	84%	moderate
December Weather	-3°C (27°F)	114 mm (4.5 inches)	81%	low