January Weather in Princeton, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

January in Princeton, United States offers a striking contrast in weather conditions, characterized by a maximum temperature reaching 20°C (68°F) and dropping to a minimum of -17°C (2°F). The average temperature hovers around 2°C (35°F), making it a notably chilly month. Residents can expect about 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation spread over 8 days, contributing to a moderately humid atmosphere with an average humidity of 84%. This blend of cold temperatures and considerable moisture creates a unique winter landscape, perfect for embracing the season’s activities.

January Temperature in Princeton

In January, Princeton experiences a stark winter chill, with temperatures plunging to -17°C (2°F) at their lowest. This sets an average temperature of around 2°C (35°F), offering a brief respite from the biting cold, while daytime highs can surprisingly reach up to 20°C (68°F). This range illustrates the volatility of early winter, where Arctic air can clash with milder systems, occasionally resulting in unseasonably warm days. As the month progresses, the transition towards February continues, with temperatures slowly inching upwards, hinting that spring is just around the corner despite the lingering winter chill.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Princeton, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec353843546372787670614639
Data source: Temperature data for Princeton generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

January Precipitation in Princeton

In January, Princeton experiences a moderate precipitation of 64 mm (2.5 in), spread over roughly 8 days. This marks a quieter start to the year, especially compared to the subsequent months, where precipitation gradually increases. As winter transitions into spring, February and March see a significant uptick, each recording 109 mm (4.3 in), albeit with 11 and 10 days of rain respectively. April and May continue this trend with similar amounts, peaking in May at 131 mm (5.1 in) over 13 days. This progression highlights a clear trend of increasing rainfall, setting the stage for the wetter months ahead, culminating in the height of summer precipitation. Overall, January serves as a gentle introduction to what becomes a lush and vibrant landscape in the ensuing months.

January Precipitation Trends in Princeton

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Princeton, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec641091091061311001391358712183104
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Princeton

In January, Princeton experiences a high level of humidity at 84%, marking it as one of the dampest months of the year. As winter transitions into spring, humidity begins a gradual decline, with February seeing a slight drop to 82% and March further decreasing to 81%. This downward trend continues into April at 78%, paving the way for drier conditions as spring blooms. By May, humidity levels notably dip to 69%, where they remain steady through June and July, providing a welcome respite during the warmer months. However, the trend reverses as summer wanes, with humidity rising again to 65% in August and returning to the 70s by October. Notably, November and December see a resurgence in moisture, reaching 82% and 80%, respectively, as the region braces for winter once more. The ebb and flow of humidity in Princeton throughout the year highlights the stark contrasts between its humid winter and the comparatively drier summer months.

January Average Humidity in Princeton

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Princeton, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec84%82%81%78%70%69%62%65%68%74%82%80%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Princeton

In January, Princeton experiences a moderate UV Index of 3, indicating that while sun exposure is generally safe, caution is still advised, especially during peak hours. With a burn time of just 30 minutes, it's a good reminder for residents to use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors. As the months progress, the UV Index steadily rises, peaking at 10 in both May and June, where the risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure becomes very high, necessitating rapid response measures like seeking shade or wearing protective gear. This upward trend continues until August, after which it gradually decreases as autumn approaches, showcasing the significant seasonal variations in UV exposure. As we move towards the winter months, UV levels drop again, allowing for less concern over sunburn, particularly in December with an index of 2. For an in-depth look at the UV variability throughout the year, check out the Princeton UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Princeton for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Princeton 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec356810101098642
Data source: Princeton 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 Princeton

As the cold grip of winter loosens in Princeton, January brings a modest 147 hours of sunshine, a precursor to the gradual increase in daylight that follows. By February, the sun begins to assert itself more, offering 178 hours of light, signaling the approach of spring. March sees a remarkable leap to 249 hours, awakening the landscape with longer, brighter days. This upward trajectory continues through April and May, peaking at 278 hours in May as flora bursts into bloom. The summer months shine with vigor, with July basking in a generous 349 hours of sunshine, the zenith of the yearly sunshine curve, only to slightly dip again in August to 312 hours. As the season transitions into autumn, sunshine hours gradually decrease, with October and November providing 226 and 218 hours, respectively. By the time December rolls around, Princeton closes the year with 180 hours of sun, reflecting a beautiful cycle of light that dances through each season.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Princeton: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Princeton 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec147h178h249h248h278h315h349h312h272h226h218h180h
Data source: Princeton January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Princeton During January

In Princeton, January offers a relatively moderate chance of sunny weather, with a 45% likelihood that the sun will shine during the month. This puts it on par with January’s counterpart, July, which also boasts a 45% sunny probability, suggesting that the winter month can occasionally rival the summer in brightness. As winter progresses, the chances of sunshine see a gradual decline, with February dropping to just 29%. Interestingly, as we move into spring, the probability peaks again in March at 56%, indicating a vibrant transition as the year unfolds. Overall, while January may not be the sunniest month, it nonetheless holds its ground, promising a few balmy days amidst the chill of winter.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Princeton

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Princeton 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 Princeton experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec45%29%56%44%41%37%45%30%49%37%55%32%
Data source: Princeton January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Princeton in January

In Princeton, United States, the rhythm of daylight duration begins its gradual ascent in January, where residents enjoy 9 hours of sunlight. This trend continues into February, adding an extra hour, and steadily climbs to 11 hours by March. As spring approaches, daylight reaches a peak of 14 hours from late spring through mid-summer, with June, July, and early August basking in this abundance of light. The gradual decline resumes in August, tapering off to 12 hours by September and settling back to 9 hours by the end of the year. This cyclical pattern not only marks the transition of seasons but also influences the daily lives and activities of the Princeton community, as they embrace longer days in the warmer months and cozy evenings as winter approaches.

Average Daylight Hours in Princeton for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Princeton throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 40m10h 41m11h 58m13h 17m14h 24m14h 58m14h 39m13h 40m12h 24m11h 5m9h 56m9h 21m
Data source: Princeton daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Princeton

In January, Princeton experiences an average wind speed of 3.3 m/s (7 mph), setting a brisk tone for the year. This month is characterized by a subtle increase in wind intensity as it transitions into February, which sees a slight uptick at 3.4 m/s (8 mph). As spring approaches, March brings a gentle rise to 3.6 m/s (8 mph), offering a hint of warming air. However, as the season shifts, the wind calms again in April to 3.3 m/s (7 mph), echoing the coolness of early spring. Over the summer months, winds notably lighten, reaching their lowest in July and August at 2.3 m/s (5 mph). As fall rolls in, the winds gradually pick up again, with September and October returning to around 3.0 m/s (7 mph), culminating in the year with a soft breeze in December at 2.9 m/s (6 mph). This annual cycle reflects Princeton's fluctuating winds, echoing the rhythm of the changing seasons.

Average January Wind Speed in Princeton

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Princeton, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.3 m/s3.43.63.33.02.62.32.32.93.03.12.9
Data source: Princeton January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Princeton Compares to Other Months

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

January and February showcase distinct yet somewhat similar winter weather patterns. January typically experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -17°C (2°F) and an average of 2°C (35°F), while February sees slightly warmer temperatures, including a minimum of -16°C (4°F) and an average of 3°C (38°F). Precipitation increases in February, reaching 109 mm (4.3 in) over 11 days compared to January's 64 mm (2.5 in) over 8 days. Despite this increase in rainfall, February maintains a slightly lower humidity level at 82% compared to January's 84%. Overall, both months present a chilly winter climate, but February tends to offer slightly milder conditions. For more details, you can check out Princeton weather in February.

January and March exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In January, temperatures can drop as low as -17°C (2°F), with an average of 2°C (35°F) and a maximum reaching 20°C (68°F). The month experiences about 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 8 days, along with high humidity levels at 84%. In contrast, March has milder temperatures, with a minimum of -12°C (10°F), an average of 6°C (43°F), and a maximum soaring up to 28°C (83°F). Additionally, March sees increased precipitation at 109 mm (4.3 in) over 10 days, but the humidity is slightly lower at 81%. For more information on the climate specifics, you can check Princeton weather in March.

The weather in January is characterized by colder temperatures, with a minimum plummeting to -17°C (2°F) and an average of just 2°C (35°F), while the maximum can reach a mild 20°C (68°F). In contrast, April shows a significant warming trend, featuring minimum temperatures around -2°C (29°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F), peaking at a high of 31°C (88°F). Precipitation is higher in April, totaling 106 mm (4.2 in) over 12 days, compared to January's 64 mm (2.5 in) spread across 8 days, although humidity remains relatively high in both months, with January at 84% and April at 78%. For more detailed information, check out Princeton weather in April.

The weather in January and May presents a striking contrast. January typically experiences frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -17°C (2°F) and an average of just 2°C (35°F). In contrast, May enjoys much milder conditions, boasting an average temperature of 17°C (63°F) and highs reaching up to 35°C (94°F). Precipitation is also more abundant in May, with 131 mm (5.1 in) over 13 days compared to January's 64 mm (2.5 in) across just 8 days. Additionally, January's humidity is notably higher at 84%, whereas May sees a more comfortable level of 69%. For more details on the weather during this vibrant spring month, check out Princeton weather in May.

January and June present starkly contrasting weather patterns. In January, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -17°C (2°F), with an average temperature around 2°C (35°F) and a maximum reaching up to 20°C (68°F). The month experiences 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 8 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 84%. In contrast, June sees a milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 9°C (48°F) to a maximum of 36°C (97°F), averaging at 22°C (73°F). Despite higher precipitation of 100 mm (3.9 in) over 12 days, the humidity decreases to 69%. This shift from the frigid cold of January to the warm, humid summer of June highlights the significant seasonal changes in weather. For further details, you can visit Princeton weather in June.

January and July present stark contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -17°C (2°F), with an average of 2°C (35°F) and a maximum reaching 20°C (68°F). The month sees around 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over approximately 8 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 84%. In stark contrast, July boasts much warmer conditions with minimum temperatures of 13°C (56°F), an average of 26°C (78°F), and maximums soaring to 37°C (98°F). Precipitation increases to 139 mm (5.5 in) with rainfall occurring on about 14 days, while humidity drops to a more comfortable 62%. For a closer look at what to expect, check out Princeton weather in July.

January and August present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -17°C (2°F), with an average of 2°C (35°F) and a maximum of 20°C (68°F). The month sees about 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 8 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 84%. Conversely, August offers a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures around 14°C (57°F), averaging 24°C (76°F), and peaking at 35°C (96°F). Precipitation in August increases significantly to 135 mm (5.3 in) over 14 days, while humidity drops to a more comfortable 65%. For more detailed information, visit Princeton weather in August.

When comparing the weather in January to that of September, notable contrasts emerge. January experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum dipping to -17°C (2°F) and an average temperature of only 2°C (35°F). In contrast, September enjoys milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (43°F) to a maximum of 35°C (95°F) and an average of 21°C (70°F). Additionally, precipitation is slightly higher in September, with 87 mm (3.4 in) over about 10 days, compared to January’s 64 mm (2.5 in) over 8 days. Humidity levels also differ, with January being more humid at 84% compared to September’s 68%. For more details on the weather specifics, check out Princeton weather in September.

In comparing the weather of January and October, we see distinct differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. January experiences frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -17°C (2°F) and an average of just 2°C (35°F), while October boasts milder conditions, featuring a minimum of 1°C (34°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F). Additionally, October is considerably warmer, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 35°C (96°F), compared to January's peak of 20°C (68°F). Precipitation in October is also higher, totaling 121 mm (4.8 in) over 10 days, compared to January’s 64 mm (2.5 in) over 8 days, though the humidity is slightly lower in October at 74%. For more details on October weather, check out Princeton weather in October.

In January, temperatures are significantly colder, with a minimum dipping to -17°C (2°F) and an average of just 2°C (35°F), while November enjoys milder conditions, where the minimum is -9°C (15°F) and the average rises to 8°C (46°F). Although January has lower precipitation at 64 mm (2.5 in) over 8 days, November experiences slightly more rainfall totaling 83 mm (3.3 in) across 9 days. Additionally, humidity levels remain similar, hovering around 84% in January and 82% in November. For a detailed look at November weather, check out Princeton weather in November.

In January, temperatures can drop to a minimum of -17°C (2°F), while the average temperature hovers at around 2°C (35°F), with a maximum of 20°C (68°F). The month sees about 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over approximately 8 days and maintains a high humidity level of 84%. In contrast, December experiences slightly milder conditions with a minimum temperature of -12°C (11°F), an average of 4°C (39°F), and a maximum of 19°C (67°F). December also has more precipitation, totaling 104 mm (4.1 in) over approximately 10 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 80%. For a more detailed look at the weather patterns, you can check Princeton weather in December.

Compare Princeton's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Princeton

January in Princeton is characterized by its chilly temperatures and relatively high humidity, presenting a stark contrast to the warmer months. With an average temperature hovering around freezing, the potential for snow and frost can make this month feel particularly brisk. Despite occasional rain, with about eight days of precipitation, January remains dry compared to the heavier rains typical of spring. This pivotal winter month invites cozy indoor gatherings and winter sports, setting the stage for a unique seasonal experience. For an in-depth look at the climatic patterns throughout the year, explore Princeton Climate.