Last updated: February 24, 2025
January in Manhattan presents a dynamic climate that oscillates between chilly extremes and milder spells. With a maximum temperature reaching 18°C (64°F) and an average of just 1°C (34°F), the month showcases the stark contrast of winter. The minimum plunge can drop to a brisk -18°C (-1°F), emphasizing the need for warm layers. Rainfall accumulates to 67 mm (2.7 in) over seven days, contributing to the season's damp chill and resulting in a humidity level of 84% that often makes the cold feel even sharper. This combination of factors creates a quintessential New York winter, where the scenic beauty of the season is matched by its brisk temperature.
In January, temperatures in Manhattan range drastically, with a stark minimum of -18°C (1°F) contrasting against a relatively mild maximum of 18°C (64°F). This fluctuation yields an average of 1°C (34°F), highlighting the chilly, yet occasionally surprising warmth that can occur. As the month progresses, one can anticipate a gradual warming trend into February, where temperatures increase slightly, and the coldest extremes diminish. The transitional month of January acts as a precursor to the more temperate early spring months ahead, suggesting the city’s weather is a rollercoaster ride through the depths of winter, with the promise of milder days just around the corner.
In January, Manhattan experiences an average precipitation of 67 mm (2.7 in), spread over approximately 7 days. This positions January as the month with one of the lower precipitation totals of the year, especially when compared to the heavier rainfalls in the subsequent months of April and July, which see much more substantial accumulations of 112 mm (4.4 in) and 148 mm (5.8 in) respectively. The lighter winter precipitation often brings a mix of snow and rain, creating a distinct contrast to the wetter, more humid summer months, where the average rainfall peaks considerably. As the seasons transition, the gradual increase in both precipitation and rainy days reflects the city’s shift from the colder, quieter winter to the vibrant and often stormy summer atmosphere.
January in Manhattan is characterized by a notably high humidity level of 84%, setting the stage for a winter month that often feels damp and chillier than the thermometer suggests. As the season progresses into February and March, the humidity begins to drop slightly, resting at 82% and 81% respectively. However, spring brings about further decreases, with April averaging 78% and May a more comfortable 69%. This trend of declining humidity continues into the summer, where July and August showcase notably lower levels at 62% and 65%. Interestingly, as the year transitions into fall, humidity levels start to creep back up, peaking again in November at 82% before settling at 80% in December. This cyclical pattern highlights Manhattan's shift from a humid winter to a drier summer, only to cycle back as the colder months return.
In January, Manhattan experiences a moderate UV Index of 3, indicating that while the sun's rays are not extremely harmful, some level of protection is still recommended, with a burn time of about 30 minutes. As the months progress to February, the UV Index increases to 5, maintaining that moderate level, yet the risk gradually escalates. By March, the index rises to 6, entering the high exposure category, where the burn time shortens to 25 minutes. This upward trend continues into the warmer months, peaking in May and June with a UV Index of 10, classified as very high, requiring vigilant protection during the brief 15-minute burn time. The pattern sustains its intensity through July and August before tapering off in September and October. As daylight decreases, November sees a drop to a UV Index of 4 and finally, December cools down to 2, where the burn time extends to 45 minutes. Overall, the January UV Index marks the beginning of a seasonal journey towards heightened sun exposure. For more details, visit Manhattan UV Index.
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In January, Manhattan basks in a modest 148 hours of sunshine, setting a serene tone for the year ahead. As the cold winter months progress, February sees a slight uptick to 177 hours, hinting at the promise of warmer days. By March, the city begins to awaken, with 248 hours of sunlight igniting the anticipation of spring. The warmth continues to build through April and May, peaking at an impressive 271 hours in the latter, as vibrant blooms flourish across the borough. The trend reaches its zenith in June and July, where residents can enjoy a sun-soaked 310 and 339 hours, respectively. Even in the sweltering days of August, sunlight remains abundant at 309 hours, though a gradual decline sets in with the arrival of fall. September brings 272 hours, while October and November drop to 218 and 208 hours, respectively. By the time December wraps up the year with 175 hours, it becomes clear: New York's sunshine is a captivating cycle, reflecting both the changing seasons and the vibrant life of the city.
In Manhattan, January greets residents with a 48% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the brighter months of winter. This optimistic outlook is particularly notable when compared to the chillier February, which dips to 31%, and March, where sunshine makes a comeback with a 57% probability. As the seasons transition, April and May maintain a steady chance of sun at 45% and 42% respectively. Interestingly, the sunny probabilities vary significantly as summer approaches, with July and August exhibiting lower chances at 43% and 29%, respectively. Meanwhile, the year wraps up with more fluctuating sunshine, as November boasts a 55% likelihood before dipping again in December to 31%. Overall, January stands out as a surprisingly sunny winter month, hinting at the vibrant patterns of weather yet to unfold.
In January, Manhattan experiences a modest 9 hours of daylight, marking it as one of the year's darkest months. As winter deepens, daylight gradually increases, reaching 10 hours in February and 11 hours by March, heralding the onset of early spring. The trend continues upward through April and May, where sunlight peaks at 13 and 14 hours, respectively, inviting longer days and vibrant outdoor activities. However, the summer solstice in June provides the most cherished daylight, with a full 15 hours to enjoy. As the year progresses into late summer and fall, daylight begins to recede, tapering to 14 hours in July and 13 hours in August, before sliding back to 12 hours in September. The drop continues with 11 hours in October, reverting to 9 hours by November and December, where the cycle completes. This rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight not only shapes daily life in Manhattan but also offers a beautiful reminder of nature's changing seasons.
In January, the wind sweeps through Manhattan at an average speed of 3.5 m/s (8 mph), setting a brisk tone for the winter month. This slight breeze is consistent with the wind patterns observed throughout the early part of the year, as February follows closely with 3.4 m/s (8 mph), showcasing how the city’s air remains lively even in the cold. As spring approaches, the March winds pick up just a touch to 3.7 m/s (8 mph), hinting at the changing season. Interestingly, the latter months, such as June through August, experience calmer days with wind speeds dipping to 2.5 m/s (6 mph). This trend toward gentler breezes continues into the late summer and autumn, with speeds stabilizing around 3.1 m/s (7 mph) as Manhattan transitions into fall. Overall, the wind in January serves as a robust reminder of the city’s spirited weather, gradually softening as the year unfolds.
The weather in Manhattan 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 Manhattan and find detailed weather information for every month.
January and February exhibit similar cold temperatures, with January recording a minimum of -18°C (0°F) and February slightly milder at -16°C (4°F). The average temperatures see a slight increase; January averages 1°C (34°F) while February averages 2°C (36°F). In terms of maximum temperatures, February typically reaches up to 20°C (68°F), compared to January's maximum of 18°C (64°F). February also brings increased precipitation, accumulating 102 mm (4.0 in) over 10 days, compared to January's 67 mm (2.7 in) over 7 days. Humidity levels remain comparable, with January at 84% and February slightly lower at 82%. For more details, check out Manhattan weather in February.
In January, the weather is characterized by colder temperatures, with averages hovering around 1°C (34°F) and minimums plunging to -18°C (-1°F). Precipitation occurs on about 7 days, totaling around 67 mm (2.7 in) while the humidity remains relatively high at 84%. In contrast, March brings a noticeable warming trend, with average temperatures rising to 5°C (42°F) and maximums reaching up to 25°C (77°F). Although March experiences more precipitation—98 mm (3.8 in) over approximately 10 days—the humidity slightly decreases to 81%. For a more detailed look at the weather patterns, you can check Manhattan weather in March.
In January, temperatures in Manhattan can plummet as low as -18°C (1°F) but generally hover around an average of 1°C (34°F), with highs reaching up to 18°C (64°F). The month sees about 67 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over approximately 7 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 84%. In contrast, April brings a noticeable shift with minimum temperatures around -1°C (31°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F), peaking at a warm 27°C (82°F). Rainfall increases to 112 mm (4.4 in) across 12 days, and humidity decreases slightly to 78%. For more detailed insights on April weather, visit Manhattan weather in April.
In January, temperatures can be quite frigid, with a minimum of -18°C (1°F) and an average of just 1°C (34°F), while maxing out at 18°C (64°F). The month experiences a significant amount of humidity at 84%, along with 67 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over 7 days. In contrast, May brings a noticeable warmth, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to an average of 17°C (62°F), reaching up to a sizzling 31°C (88°F). However, May also features increased precipitation, totaling 114 mm (4.5 in) over 13 days, coupled with a decrease in humidity to 69%. For a closer look at the effects of the weather in this vibrant month, check out Manhattan weather in May.
In January, the weather in Manhattan is significantly colder, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -18°C (1°F) to a milder 18°C (64°F), averaging around 1°C (34°F). The month experiences high humidity levels at 84% and sees about 67 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over roughly 7 days. In stark contrast, June brings much warmer weather, with temperatures fluctuating between 10°C (50°F) and a high of 35°C (94°F), averaging a pleasant 22°C (72°F). Although June has more precipitation at 92 mm (3.6 in), it occurs over 13 days, with humidity levels more moderate at 69%. For more details on June weather, visit Manhattan weather in June.
January and July present stark contrasts in weather. January experiences much colder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -18°C (1°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F), with an average of around 1°C (34°F). In contrast, July boasts significantly warmer conditions, with temperatures soaring from a minimum of 17°C (62°F) to a maximum of 36°C (96°F) and an average of 26°C (78°F). Precipitation is also more frequent in July, with 148 mm (5.8 in) over 13 days, compared to January's 67 mm (2.7 in) over just 7 days. Additionally, January's humidity is notably higher at 84%, while July's humidity sits at a more comfortable 62%. For a closer look at July's weather patterns, check out Manhattan weather in July.
January and August showcase stark contrasts in weather, with January characterized by frigid temperatures, averaging around 1°C (34°F), where lows can plummet to -18°C (1°F). The month experiences significant humidity at 84% and sees around 67 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation spread over 7 days. In contrast, August brings warmth and vibrancy, boasting average temperatures of 25°C (76°F), with highs reaching up to 34°C (93°F). This summer month also sees increased rainfall, accumulating 127 mm (5.0 in) over 14 days, though humidity is more moderate at 65%. For a closer look at what to expect during this time, check out Manhattan weather in August.
In January, Manhattan experiences cold temperatures with a stark range, featuring a minimum of -18°C (1°F) and an average of 1°C (34°F), while the maximum reaches up to 18°C (64°F). The month sees about 67 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over 7 days and maintains a high humidity level of 84%, contributing to an overall chilly and damp atmosphere.
In contrast, September brings much milder and more pleasant weather, with minimum temperatures around 9°C (49°F) and average highs of 21°C (70°F), peaking at 33°C (92°F). Precipitation rises slightly to 92 mm (3.6 in) over 9 days, but the humidity drops to 68%, creating a more comfortable and inviting experience for outdoor activities. For a deeper look at the weather specifics, you can visit Manhattan weather in September.
January and October present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -18°C (1°F), with an average temperature around 1°C (34°F) and a maximum of 18°C (64°F). This month experiences significant humidity at 84% and about 67 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation over 7 days. Conversely, October offers a milder climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a comfortable average of 16°C (61°F), peaking at 33°C (91°F). It sees more rainfall, with 128 mm (5.0 in) distributed over 10 days, although humidity is lower at 74%. For more detailed information, you can refer to Manhattan weather in October.
January and November present contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -18°C (1°F) and typically hover around an average of 1°C (34°F), with occasional highs reaching 18°C (64°F). This month experiences heavier snowfall, contributing to a total precipitation of 67 mm (2.7 in) over 7 days, characterized by higher humidity levels at 84%.
In comparison, November offers milder conditions with a minimum of -9°C (17°F) and an average temperature of 8°C (47°F), peaking at a maximum of 24°C (75°F). Precipitation in November is slightly higher at 83 mm (3.3 in) spread over 8 days, while humidity remains relatively stable at 82%. For a detailed look at the weather in November, check out Manhattan weather in November.
In comparing the weather of January to December, January tends to be colder, with average temperatures hovering around 1°C (34°F), while December has a slightly milder average of 4°C (39°F). Both months can experience maximum temperatures of up to 18°C (64°F), but January has lower minimum temperatures that can drop to -18°C (-1°F) compared to December's minimum of -11°C (13°F). Precipitation also varies, with January receiving 67 mm (2.7 in) over approximately 7 days versus December's higher total of 106 mm (4.2 in) spread over 10 days. Interestingly, January has a higher humidity level at 84%, compared to December's 80%. For more details on the weather trends in December, you can check Manhattan weather in December.
January in Manhattan presents a unique charm, characterized by its chilly temperatures that stand in stark contrast to the warmer months of the year. This mid-winter month typically feels markedly colder, with an average that hovers around freezing, making bundled-up outings a must. The high humidity and occasional drizzle contribute to the biting cold, further distinguishing January from the more temperate and vibrant spring and summer months. With only a few precipitation days, the city transforms into a wintry landscape, inviting visitors to experience its seasonal beauty. For those curious about how January fits into the broader context of weather trends, explore more at Manhattan Climate.