Last updated: February 24, 2025
In January, Saranac Lake experiences a chill that characterizes the heart of winter, with temperatures ranging from a brisk -29°C (-20°F) at their lowest to a mild 11°C (53°F) at times during the day. The average temperature hovers around a frosty -8°C (17°F), emphasizing the region's cold climate. Rain and snow dominate the January forecast, resulting in a precipitation total of 95 mm (3.7 in) spread across 14 days, making this month notably wet. With a staggering 93% humidity level, the air feels crisp and biting, presenting a quintessential winter wonderland perfect for those who appreciate the beauty of snowy landscapes.
In January, Saranac Lake experiences a striking winter chill, with average temperatures hovering around -8°C (17°F). This month represents the heart of the cold season, often plunging to minimums as low as -29°C (-20°F) and occasionally reaching a maximum of 11°C (53°F). The trend reveals a consistent frigid climate, setting a stark contrast to the mild March, where temperatures begin to gradually rise, peaking at -3°C (27°F) on average. The stark drop seen in temperature extremes during January, accompanied by the following months’ gentle thaw, exemplifies the region's dramatic seasonal shifts. As February rolls in, the thermometer maintains a similar cold pattern, with minimums around -23°C (-10°F). Overall, Saranac Lake’s January temperatures encapsulate its wintry essence, serving as an invitation for those who cherish the beauty of snow-laden landscapes and icy outdoor adventures.
In January, Saranac Lake experiences 95 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation, marked by an average of 14 rainy days. This trend is mirrored in February, maintaining the same precipitation level while slightly increasing the number of rainy days to 16. As winter transitions into spring, March sees a slight decrease in precipitation to 90 mm (3.5 in), yet retains the same number of rainy days. April then ushers in a notable rise, with precipitation surging to 122 mm (4.8 in) over 15 days—the highest amount so far. This pattern continues into the warmer months, where June's 95 mm gives way to July’s peak of 121 mm (4.8 in). What's compelling is the consistent precipitation across the months, suggesting a robust and evenly distributed climate, essential for fostering the vibrant ecosystems around Saranac Lake.
January in Saranac Lake is marked by a high humidity level of 93%, setting the tone for a winter that feels both crisp and damp. As winter transitions into spring, February sees only a slight dip to 92%, maintaining that prevalent chill in the air. However, as the season progresses into March and April, humidity begins to decline more noticeably, with March at 86% and April at 85%. This trend continues as the warmer months approach, with May dropping to 80% and June hitting 74%. The summer months see a slight uptick, with July and August hovering around 75%–76%, but the humidity remains significantly lower than in the depths of winter. As autumn arrives, humidity inches back up, culminating at 88% in November and 89% in December. Overall, Saranac Lake's humidity showcases a distinct seasonal rhythm, oscillating between the heavy moisture of winter and the relatively lighter air of summer.
In January, Saranac Lake enjoys a relatively low UV Index of 2, indicating minimal risk for sunburn, with a notable burn time of 45 minutes. As winter progresses into February, the UV Index climbs to 4, shifting to a moderate exposure category and reducing burn time to 30 minutes. This upward trend continues into March, where the Index reaches 6, categorized as high, further decreasing safe exposure to 25 minutes. The spring sun accelerates this increase, with April and May showcasing very high UV levels of 8 and 9 respectively, while burn times plummet to just 15 minutes. The summer months sustain this trend with June, July, and August all maintaining a UV Index of 9, emphasizing the need for diligent sun protection. As the year transitions into autumn, September sees a drop to 7, followed by October at 5, indicating a gradual decrease in sun intensity. By November and December, the UV Index low returns to 3 and 2, reminiscent of January’s levels, highlighting the cyclical nature of UV exposure throughout the year. For more detailed insights, check out the full Saranac Lake UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In January, Saranac Lake sees only 97 hours of sunshine, casting a chilly spell over the landscape as winter firmly takes hold. As the months progress, the sunshine gradually increases, with February welcoming 134 hours of brightening days. The ascent continues into the spring, with March and April basking in 213 and 211 hours respectively, a prelude to the vibrant greenery of summer. The peak arrives in July, where residents and visitors enjoy a generous 328 hours of sunshine, illuminating the breathtaking natural beauty of the region. As summer transitions into autumn, sunshine hours begin to wane, hitting 276 hours in September before dropping to 184 hours in October. By the time winter returns, November ushers in just 136 hours, signaling the end of the sun-kissed days. Thus, the seasonal dance of light in Saranac Lake reveals a clear trend: as the year progresses, the sunshine both brightens and deepens, shaping the rhythm of life in this picturesque locale.
In Saranac Lake, January tends to be one of the cloudier months, with a mere 19% chance of sunny weather. This low likelihood of sun mirrors the trend seen in February, which shares the same percentage. As winter transitions into spring, the chances of sunshine begin to climb significantly, reaching 42% in March and stabilizing around the 30-35% range in the early summer months. The sunny days peak in the vibrant heart of March, indicating a welcome shift as the region moves away from the long, gray winter. As the year progresses, the variability in sunshine suggests that while the start of the year may feel dismal, brighter days are just around the corner.
In Saranac Lake, January brings approximately 9 hours of daylight, a gradual shift into the longer days that await in the coming months. As winter recedes, the daylight duration steadily increases, reaching 10 hours in February and peaking at 15 hours in both June and July. This sunny crescendo reflects the transition from the cold embrace of winter to the warmth of summer, where days are lushly illuminated. However, as August rolls in, the daylight begins to wane, trailing back to 13 hours and continuing to decline through the fall months, ultimately returning to just 8 hours by December. This rhythmic cycle of daylight highlights the enchanting seasonal changes that define life in this picturesque corner of the United States.
In Saranac Lake, January ushers in a gentle breeze, with an average wind speed of 2.8 m/s (6 mph), making it one of the calmest months of the year. As winter progresses into February and March, the winds pick up slightly to 3.3 m/s (7 mph) and 4.0 m/s (9 mph), respectively, hinting at the changing seasons. This trend of increasing wind continues into the spring months, with April and May maintaining moderate speeds around 3.1 m/s (7 mph) and 3.0 m/s (7 mph). Interestingly, summer sees a dip in wind speed, possibly due to the lush foliage absorbing the breeze, falling to 2.5 m/s (6 mph) in both July and August. As autumn arrives, winds begin to rise again, averaging around 3.0-3.2 m/s (7 mph) during the fall months. This rhythmic pattern of wind variation reflects the cyclical nature of Saranac Lake's climate, emphasizing the tranquility of winter and the vibrancy of seasonal transitions.
The weather in Saranac Lake 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 Saranac Lake and find detailed weather information for every month.
In January, temperatures in Saranac Lake can plummet as low as -29°C (-20°F), with an average temperature around -8°C (17°F) and a maximum reaching 11°C (53°F). The month typically sees 95 mm of precipitation spread over 14 days, with humidity levels around 93%. In contrast, February experiences slightly milder conditions, with minimum temperatures of -23°C (-10°F) and an average temperature of -6°C (21°F). The maximum temperature can rise to 15°C (60°F), and precipitation remains consistent at 95 mm, occurring over 16 days, while humidity stays close at 92%. For more detailed information about Saranac Lake weather in February, you can visit Saranac Lake weather in February.
In comparing the weather of January and March, January experiences colder temperatures, with an average of -8°C (17°F), while March offers a milder average of -3°C (27°F). Despite both months having a similar number of precipitation days, January sees a slight increase in total precipitation at 95 mm (3.7 in) compared to March's 90 mm (3.5 in). Additionally, January's high humidity level of 93% contrasts with March's lower humidity of 86%, indicating a somewhat drier atmosphere as winter transitions into spring. For more details about March weather in Saranac Lake, check out Saranac Lake weather in March.
January and April exhibit stark contrasts in weather patterns. In January, temperatures can plunge as low as -29°C (-20°F) with an average of -8°C (17°F), showcasing the depths of winter. Meanwhile, April brings a significant warmth increase, with minimum temperatures around -13°C (8°F) and a pleasant average of 4°C (39°F), peaking at 23°C (74°F). Precipitation also varies, with January receiving 95 mm (3.7 in) over 14 days compared to April's 122 mm (4.8 in) over 15 days, indicating a slightly wetter spring. Humidity levels are high in January at 93%, but they decrease to 85% in April, reflecting the transition from the cold winter months to the milder spring weather. For a closer look at what to expect, check out Saranac Lake weather in April.
In January, temperatures in Saranac Lake can plunge to a chilling minimum of -29°C (-20°F), with average temperatures hovering around -8°C (17°F) and a maximum of 11°C (53°F). The month is characterized by significant humidity at 93% and 95 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation spread over 14 days. In stark contrast, May brings a noticeable warmth, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), and an average temperature of 11°C (52°F). While May sees a slight increase in precipitation to 106 mm (4.2 in) over 15 days, the lower humidity level of 80% makes the conditions feel much more pleasant. For a more detailed look at May weather, check out Saranac Lake weather in May.
January and June in Saranac Lake present stark contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures can plunge as low as -29°C (-20°F), with an average of -8°C (17°F) and a maximum of 11°C (53°F). The month experiences high humidity at 93% and sees precipitation spread across 14 days, culminating in a total of 95 mm (3.7 in). In sharp contrast, June warms up significantly, featuring a minimum temperature of 2°C (36°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F), reaching highs of 28°C (83°F). Humidity decreases to 74%, while the precipitation remains the same at 95 mm (3.7 in) over the same number of days. To learn more about the delightful weather conditions in June, check out Saranac Lake weather in June.
The weather in January and July drastically contrasts, reflecting the seasonal shifts experienced in Saranac Lake. In January, temperatures plunge with a minimum of -29°C (-20°F) and an average of -8°C (17°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. The high rarely exceeds 11°C (53°F), and with 95 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation over 14 days, the air is notably humid at 93%.
In comparison, July brings a welcome warmth, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 9°C (49°F) to a pleasant average of 19°C (67°F) and highs reaching 32°C (91°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 121 mm (4.8 in) across 15 days, but the humidity drops significantly to 76%. For a detailed look at what to expect, you can check out Saranac Lake weather in July.
In January, the weather in Saranac Lake is characterized by frigid temperatures, with an average of -8°C (17°F) and a stark minimum of -29°C (-20°F), bringing a sense of harshness to the winter landscape. Despite the cold, January sees a similar level of precipitation as August, with 95 mm (3.7 in) spread over 14 days, but the humidity is significantly higher at 93%, contributing to a damp chill. In contrast, August offers a much milder climate with minimum temperatures around 7°C (46°F) and comfortable max temperatures reaching 29°C (84°F). The average temperature of 18°C (65°F) coupled with a decrease in humidity to 75% creates a more enjoyable and inviting atmosphere for outdoor activities. For more details, check out Saranac Lake weather in August.
January and September present quite contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures plummet with a minimum of -29°C (-20°F) and an average of -8°C (17°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. In contrast, September experiences a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a pleasant maximum of 30°C (86°F) and an average of 14°C (58°F). Precipitation also differs, as January sees 95 mm (3.7 inches) over 14 days, while September has slightly less at 73 mm (2.9 inches) over 10 days. Moreover, January's humidity is significantly higher at 93%, compared to September’s 78%. For a detailed look at the weather specifics, you can check Saranac Lake weather in September.
January and October exhibit stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures plummet to a minimum of -29°C (-20°F), with an average of -8°C (17°F) and a maximum of 11°C (53°F). The month is marked by high humidity at 93% and significant snowfall, contributing to 95 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation over 14 days. In contrast, October enjoys milder temperatures, with lows around -6°C (22°F) and a comfortable average of 8°C (47°F), peaking at 22°C (73°F). This month also sees increased rainfall, totaling 153 mm (6.0 in) across 16 days, but maintains lower humidity levels at 86%. For a deeper insight into the October climate, feel free to check Saranac Lake weather in October.
In comparing the weather between January and November, January is notably colder, with average temperatures hovering around -8°C (17°F) compared to November's average of 0°C (32°F). While both months experience notable precipitation, November sees slightly more at 119 mm (4.7 in), over 17 days, in contrast to January's 95 mm (3.7 in) across 14 days. Humidity levels are relatively high in both months, with January being slightly more humid at 93%, versus November’s 88%. For more detailed information about November weather, you can check Saranac Lake weather in November.
In comparing the weather between January and December, January tends to be slightly milder with an average temperature of -8°C (17°F), while December has a colder average of -5°C (22°F). Both months experience similar maximum temperatures, with January peaking at 11°C (53°F) and December reaching 14°C (57°F). Precipitation levels are quite comparable as well, with January receiving approximately 95 mm (3.7 in) over 14 days and December reporting 96 mm (3.8 in) across 16 days. Humidity is higher in January at 93%, compared to December's 89%. For more detailed insights, you can refer to Saranac Lake weather in December.
January in Saranac Lake stands out as a month of remarkably cold temperatures and high humidity, creating a stark contrast to the milder weather of other months. With an average chill that often dips below freezing, it’s no surprise that this month experiences a notable amount of precipitation, primarily in the form of snow. The frequent snowfall accentuates the winter wonderland atmosphere, transforming the landscape into a picturesque scene. If you're looking to understand more about how January weather fits into the broader climate patterns of Saranac Lake, check out Saranac Lake Climate.