Last updated: February 24, 2025
January on Shelter Island presents a chilly experience as temperatures fluctuate between a minimum of -13°C (8°F) and a maximum of 13°C (56°F), settling at an average of 2°C (37°F). Visitors can expect a wet month, with precipitation totaling 89 mm (3.5 in) over 9 days, contributing to a humidity level of 84% that enhances the crisp coastal atmosphere. Whether you're seeking the tranquility of winter or the adventure of brisk walks along the beach, January offers a unique charm on this beautiful island.
In January, Shelter Island experiences a chilly climate, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -13°C (8°F) to a mild 13°C (56°F). The average temperature hovers around 2°C (37°F), marking the coldest month of the year. Following January, February shows a slight warming trend with minimums of -12°C (11°F) and maximums dipping to 12°C (53°F), as average temperatures inch up to 3°C (37°F). As spring approaches, March begins to break the winter chill, featuring milder temperatures that range from -7°C (20°F) to 15°C (59°F). This gradual warming trend continues into the subsequent months, with averages rising steadily, culminating in the July peak at a comfortable 22°C (72°F). Overall, the transition from January to March heralds the slow yet noticeable shift from winter to spring, setting the stage for the warm summer months ahead.
In January, Shelter Island experiences an average precipitation of 89 mm (3.5 in), spread over approximately 9 days, marking it as a relatively mild start to the year. This sets the stage for a gradual increase in both precipitation levels and rainy days in the subsequent months, with February and March showing a notable rise. Specifically, February sees a significant jump to 123 mm (4.8 in), which coincides with an increase in precipitation days to 11. The trend continues as April and October present the highest rainfall totals of 137 mm (5.4 in) and 160 mm (6.3 in), respectively, highlighting these months as particularly wet. Meanwhile, the summer months of June and August bring a welcome respite with lighter rainfall, rounding off the year with December soaking up to 147 mm (5.8 in). Overall, January serves as a precursor to a varied precipitation pattern, showcasing Shelter Island's shift from the drier winter months to the more temperate and saturated spring and fall seasons.
In January, Shelter Island experiences a humidity level of 84%, maintaining the highest moisture content of the year. This pattern persists into February, where the humidity remains steady at 84%. As spring approaches in March, a slight decrease to 82% is observed, signaling the gradual onset of drier conditions. By April, humidity dips further to 79%, and continues to decline through May at 75%, indicating a transition to more comfortable, less humid weather. The summer months of June to August bring relative stability, with humidity levels hovering around 76-78%. Entering fall, the trend shifts slightly upward again, with November and December both returning to 80%. Overall, Shelter Island's humidity fluctuates throughout the year, with the peak levels occurring at the start and tail end of the calendar year, suggesting a prevalent maritime influence on its climate.
In January, Shelter Island experiences a moderate UV Index of 3, allowing for approximately 30 minutes of safe sun exposure before one risks getting burned. As the month progresses into February, this value rises to a 5, maintaining the same burn time. The increase continues into March with a jump to a high UV Index of 6, where the burn time decreases to 25 minutes. This upward trend peaks in the summer months, particularly from June to August, when the UV Index reaches a striking 10, necessitating swift retreat from the sun after just 15 minutes. By September, conditions ease slightly, with a UV Index of 8, before tapering off into milder levels in the fall and winter months, dropping to 2 by December. These trends highlight the essential need for sun protection, especially during the latter part of spring and throughout the summer. For detailed insights, visit Shelter Island UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In January, Shelter Island may start off with a modest 153 hours of sunshine, but the days quickly brighten as winter begins to fade. By February, the sun graces the island with 185 hours, signaling the approach of spring. As March arrives, the sun shines even more, gifting the islanders with 261 hours of radiant light, leading into the generous warmth of April and May where sunny hours peak at 250 and 291 respectively. The trend continues as June and July bring the longest days, basking in 321 and an impressive 349 hours of sunshine. Although the count tapers slightly in late summer with August at 327 hours, it remains vibrant into autumn, wrapping up the year at 177 hours in December. Each month presents a gradual increase, reflecting the vibrant transition from winter's chill to summer's warmth, making Shelter Island a delightful destination for sun seekers.
In Shelter Island, January enjoys a 49% chance of sunny weather, placing it on par with April and September in terms of likelihood for clear skies. While kicking off the year, January's sunshine opportunities slightly outshine February's dip to 31%, suggesting a meaningful transition into sunnier conditions as spring approaches. Interestingly, the month shares its sunny potential with the warmer months of May and July, hinting at a balanced climate despite winter's grip. As the year progresses, March boasts a significant increase in sun chances to 59%, while June and August present a decline, emphasizing a dynamic weather pattern. Ultimately, January holds its ground amidst seasonal fluctuations, promising nearly half the month bathed in sunlight.
In Shelter Island, United States, January brings approximately 9 hours of daylight, marking the heart of winter when the days are shortest. As the calendar flips to February, daylight gradually increases to 10 hours, hinting at the approaching spring. March continues this upward trend, boasting 11 hours of sunlight, while April ushers in the warmth with a significant jump to 13 hours. The days grow longer still in May and June, reaching a peak of 15 hours, providing ample time for outdoor activities and enjoying the beauty of nature. However, as summer wanes, daylight begins its slow retreat; July sees a decline to 14 hours, followed by 13 hours in August. September brings a gentle decrease to 12 hours, paving the way for October, which offers 11 hours. Finally, both November and December revert back to 9 hours, closing the year in a full circle, reminding us of the ever-changing rhythms of nature.
In January, Shelter Island experiences an average wind speed of 7.3 m/s (16 mph), matching the following month of February. This consistency marks the year's peak wind activity before a gradual decline begins in March, where the wind slows slightly to 6.9 m/s (15 mph). As spring approaches, the winds continue to taper off, reaching their calmest in the summer months of July and August at around 4.8 m/s (11 mph). However, as autumn settles in, a steady resurgence occurs, with wind speeds climbing back up into the mid-range by September and remaining robust into October and November. Overall, January stands out with its enticing briskness, heralding a winter's vigor that gives way to the gentle whispers of summer breezes.
The weather in Shelter Island 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 Shelter Island and find detailed weather information for every month.
In January, temperatures on Shelter Island range from a minimum of -13°C (8°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F), with an average temperature of 2°C (37°F). Precipitation during this month amounts to 89 mm (3.5 in), occurring over 9 days, while humidity remains consistently high at 84%. In contrast, February sees slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of -12°C (11°F) and a maximum of 12°C (53°F), yielding an average of 3°C (37°F). However, February experiences more precipitation at 123 mm (4.8 in) over 11 days, also maintaining a humidity level of 84%. For a detailed overview of February's weather, check out Shelter Island weather in February.
Comparing the weather between January and March reveals some notable differences. January tends to be colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -13°C (8°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F), resulting in an average temperature of 2°C (37°F). In contrast, March experiences slightly milder conditions, with minimum temperatures around -7°C (20°F) and maximums reaching 15°C (59°F), bringing the average up to 4°C (39°F).
Precipitation also varies slightly, with January receiving 89 mm (3.5 in) over approximately 9 days, while March sees an increase to 113 mm (4.5 in) across 10 days. Interestingly, humidity remains relatively consistent, at 84% in January and 82% in March. For more detailed insights into March weather, you can visit Shelter Island weather in March.
In January, the weather is characterized by much colder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -13°C (8°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F), with an average around 2°C (37°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 89 mm (3.5 in) over about 9 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 84%. In contrast, April experiences a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 16°C (61°F), and an average of 8°C (47°F). Precipitation increases to 137 mm (5.4 in) over approximately 12 days, while humidity is slightly lower at 79%. For more detailed information, visit Shelter Island weather in April.
January and May present stark contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures can plunge as low as -13°C (8°F) with an average of 2°C (37°F) and a maximum of 13°C (56°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 84% and receives substantial precipitation, totaling 89 mm (3.5 in) over about 9 days. In contrast, May welcomes warmer temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a comfortable maximum of 20°C (69°F), with an average of 12°C (54°F). While May experiences a bit more precipitation—with 129 mm (5.1 in) over 13 days—the humidity drops to 75%, making it feel much more pleasant. For a closer look at the beautiful weather in May, check out Shelter Island weather in May.
In January, the weather is characterized by significantly colder temperatures, ranging from a chilly minimum of -13°C (8°F) to a more moderate maximum of 13°C (56°F), and an average temperature of around 2°C (37°F). The month sees considerable precipitation, with about 89 mm (3.5 in) over 9 days, along with a high humidity level of 84%. In contrast, June offers a much warmer climate, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 11°C (52°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F), and an average of 18°C (64°F). Precipitation is slightly lower at 72 mm (2.9 in) spread over 8 days, and humidity falls to 78%. For a more in-depth look at the June weather, check out Shelter Island weather in June.
In January, temperatures on Shelter Island can be quite chilly, with a minimum of -13°C (8°F) and an average of 2°C (37°F), reaching a maximum of 13°C (56°F). The month is also characterized by high humidity at 84% and a total precipitation of 89 mm (3.5 in) over approximately 9 days. In contrast, July brings much warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 16°C (61°F) to an average of 22°C (72°F) and a maximum of 28°C (82°F). Although July has slightly higher precipitation at 99 mm (3.9 in) over 10 days, the humidity drops to a more comfortable 76%. For more detailed information, you can visit Shelter Island weather in July.
January and August present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures are much colder, ranging from a minimum of -13°C (8°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F), with an average of 2°C (37°F). The month experiences significant precipitation of 89 mm (3.5 in) over 9 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 84%. In contrast, August boasts milder temperatures, with a minimum of 17°C (63°F) and a maximum of 27°C (80°F), averaging 23°C (73°F). Although August has slightly higher precipitation at 103 mm (4.0 in) over the same number of days, the humidity is lower at 76%. For those interested in detailed weather insights, you can explore more at Shelter Island weather in August.
In January, temperatures can plummet as low as -13°C (8°F), with an average of just 2°C (37°F) and a maximum of 13°C (56°F), making it a notably cold month. The high humidity level of 84% combined with 89 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation spread over 9 days gives January a damp chill. In contrast, September experiences much milder weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12°C (55°F) to a pleasant average of 20°C (69°F) and a maximum of 26°C (79°F). Although September sees slightly higher precipitation at 99 mm (3.9 in) and is marked by rain on 10 days, the overall humidity lowers to 75%, creating a more comfortable atmosphere. For more details on September weather, you can visit Shelter Island weather in September.
In January, temperatures are notably colder, with lows reaching down to -13°C (8°F) and an average temperature of around 2°C (37°F), compared to October, where temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a pleasant average of 16°C (61°F). January experiences lower humidity levels at 84%, while October has a more comfortable humidity of 75%. Additionally, October sees a significantly higher total precipitation of 160 mm (6.3 in) over 14 days, compared to January's 89 mm (3.5 in) across just 9 days. For more details, you can visit Shelter Island weather in October.
In comparing the weather of January and November, January tends to be much colder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -13°C (8°F) to a maximum of 13°C (56°F). In contrast, November experiences milder weather, with temperatures ranging from -5°C (24°F) at the lowest to a comfortable 19°C (67°F) at the highest. Precipitation is also notable in both months; however, November sees slightly more with 113 mm (4.4 in) compared to January’s 89 mm (3.5 in), spread over a similar number of rainy days. Humidity levels are also comparable, with January at 84% and November at 80%. For more detailed information about November weather patterns, you can visit Shelter Island weather in November.
When comparing the weather in January and December, January generally experiences colder temperatures, with an average of 2°C (37°F) compared to December's average of 5°C (42°F). The minimum temperature in January can drop to -13°C (8°F), making it noticeably chillier than December's minimum of -9°C (16°F). Additionally, January sees less precipitation, totaling 89 mm (3.5 in) over 9 days, while December records a higher precipitation level of 147 mm (5.8 in) across 12 days. Despite the slight difference in humidity—84% in January versus 80% in December—the winter feel is prevalent in both months. For a closer look at December weather specifics, you can visit Shelter Island weather in December.
As January settles over Shelter Island, the weather takes on a decidedly chillier character compared to other months. With temperatures dipping significantly and an average around freezing, the tranquility of winter envelops the island. The notable increase in humidity at 84% coupled with precipitation across nine days often means a mix of snow and rain, creating a picturesque, albeit brisk, winter landscape. Contrasting the mild summer temperatures, January's cold can be both stark and beautiful, inviting visitors to embrace the serene charm of this off-season. For a deeper understanding of the yearly patterns, check out Shelter Island Climate.