January Weather in Columbus, United States

Last updated: June 24, 2025

In Columbus, United States, the average temperature in January hovers around -5°C (23°F). During this month, temperatures can dip as low as -25°C (-14°F), while reaching a comfortable high of 17°C (62°F). Expect precipitation of approximately 89 mm (3.5 in) over 13 days, contributing to a high average humidity of 90%.

January Temperature in Columbus

In January in Columbus, the average temperature is -5°C (23°F). Maximum temperatures can reach 17°C (62°F), while minimums can drop as low as -25°C (-14°F). Visitors should be prepared for a wide range of temperatures when traveling during this time.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Columbus, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Columbus, January typically has an average temperature of -5°C (23°F), with highs reaching up to 17°C (62°F) and lows dropping to around -25°C (-14°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec232632445665706861513729
Data source: Temperature data for Columbus 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 Columbus

In Columbus in January, the precipitation amount is 89 mm (3.5 in) distributed over 13 days.

January Precipitation Trends in Columbus

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Columbus, 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 Columbus, January typically receives around 89 mm (3.5 inches) of precipitation spread over approximately 13 days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec891009112013011815913398166107101
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Columbus

In Columbus in January, humidity is 90%. With an average temperature of -5°C (23°F), this humidity feels like walking through an icy mist, making it challenging to stay warm while traveling as your clothes cling to your skin, and every breath feels damp and heavy in the frigid air.

January Average Humidity in Columbus

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Columbus, 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 Columbus is approximately 90%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec90%90%87%88%82%79%78%76%78%84%89%86%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Columbus

In Columbus 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 Columbus, you can check the information here.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Columbus for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Columbus 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 Columbus typically reaches 3, which falls under the moderate exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3468910998642
Data source: Columbus 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 Columbus Compares to Other Months

Weather in Columbus varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares January’s weather to other months in Columbus, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

This table compares monthly weather conditions in Columbus, showing how January’s temperature, precipitation, humidity, and UV index levels differ from those of other months.
 TemperaturePrecipitationHumidityUV
January Weather-5°C (23°F)89 mm (3.5 inches)90%moderate
February Weather-3°C (27°F)100 mm (4.0 inches)90%moderate
March Weather0°C (33°F)91 mm (3.6 inches)87%high
April Weather7°C (44°F)120 mm (4.7 inches)88%very high
May Weather14°C (57°F)130 mm (5.1 inches)82%very high
June Weather18°C (65°F)118 mm (4.7 inches)79%very high
July Weather21°C (70°F)159 mm (6.2 inches)78%very high
August Weather20°C (68°F)133 mm (5.2 inches)76%very high
September Weather16°C (62°F)98 mm (3.8 inches)78%very high
October Weather11°C (52°F)166 mm (6.5 inches)84%high
November Weather3°C (37°F)107 mm (4.2 inches)89%moderate
December Weather-2°C (29°F)101 mm (4.0 inches)86%low

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