Last updated: February 24, 2025
January in Chapel Hill, United States, offers a chilly contrast to the warmer months, with average temperatures around 6°C (43°F) and a maximum reaching 25°C (77°F). However, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -15°C (6°F), so bundling up is essential. This month also sees 89 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation spread over 9 days, contributing to the 85% humidity that blankets the area. Residents and visitors alike can expect a mix of brisk winter days and occasional rain, providing a quintessential winter experience.
In January, Chapel Hill experiences a dynamic range of temperatures, making it a month of contrasts. The month kicks off with chilly minimums of -15°C (6°F), but by mid-January, the average settles around a more moderate 6°C (43°F). This brisk winter air paves the way for occasional warmer spells, peaking at a pleasant 25°C (77°F). As the cold grips the beginning of the month, residents might find themselves bundled up, yet as days progress, hints of warmer weather begin to emerge. This trend sets the stage for a gradual transition to spring, as temperatures steadily rise into February with milder lows and gradually increasing averages. Whether it's crisp morning walks or sunny afternoons, January in Chapel Hill offers a refreshing variety that beautifully encapsulates the essence of winter in the southeastern United States.
In January, Chapel Hill experiences an average precipitation of 89 mm (3.5 in) over approximately 9 rainy days, setting the stage for the wetter months that follow. As the year progresses into February, rainfall increases significantly to 117 mm (4.6 in), with an uptick to 11 rainy days, indicating a trend towards more moisture as winter transitions to spring. March sees a slight dip in precipitation, with 84 mm (3.3 in), but this is brief, as April and May consistently bring higher totals of 116 mm (4.6 in) and 118 mm (4.6 in), respectively, suggesting a trend of increasing rainfall as temperatures rise. By mid-year, June continues the upward trend at 121 mm (4.8 in), leading into the peak months of summer when rainfall reaches its highest during August and September, each recording 128 mm (5.1 in). Overall, January's precipitation marks the beginning of a gradual increase, reflecting the seasonal shift toward the warm, rainy spells characteristic of Chapel Hill's climate.
In Chapel Hill, United States, January ushers in a month of elevated humidity, with levels reaching an impressive 85%. This marks the peak of moisture in the air, contrasting sharply with the slightly lower percentages seen in the subsequent months. As winter transitions toward spring, February and March see minor decreases to 82% and 81%, respectively. Humidity continues to gradually decline through April and into the summer months, oscillating between 79% and 81%. However, as the year winds down, humidity levels creep back up, peaking once more in December at 86%. This cyclical trend highlights how Chapel Hill experiences a dynamic weather pattern, with mid-winter and late-year months delivering the most humidity.
In January, Chapel Hill experiences a moderate UV Index of 4, with a burn time of around 30 minutes. This sets the stage for a noticeable upward trend in UV exposure as the months progress, with February seeing an increase to a high Index of 6. By March, the UV Index jumps to 8, marking the start of very high levels, which continue through April and May. Notably, the extreme readings of 11 during the peak summer months of June, July, and August highlight the urgent need for sun protection. As fall approaches, the UV Index gradually declines, landing at 5 in November and 3 in December, when exposure levels return to moderate. For a detailed look at the UV Index throughout the year, visit Chapel Hill UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In Chapel Hill, the January sunshine sets the stage for a transformative year, beginning with 165 hours of daylight that gradually paves the way for milder spring months. As winter gives way to February's 183 hours and March's 256 hours, the sun begins to reclaim its prominence. By April, we embrace 284 hours, and the trend escalates through May and June, where the sun shines for an impressive 306 and 323 hours, respectively. The peak of the summer in July brings a radiant 352 hours, enticing residents outdoors. As the year progresses, sunshine remains abundant, with August still delivering 321 hours. However, a gradual decline starts in September at 289 hours, continuing through autumn with October's 270 hours and November's 234 hours, before finally tapering off to 203 hours in December. This pattern underscores the unique charm of Chapel Hill's climate—where every season has its own rhythm of sunlight, inviting community engagement and outdoor exploration throughout the year.
In January, Chapel Hill experiences a 48% chance of sunny weather, marking a midpoint in the year-long variability of sunshine. This proportion is notably higher than February's 36%, but lower than the upcoming spring months, where April peaks at a 60%, signaling a transition toward more favorable weather. As the year progresses, the likelihood of sunny days generally increases, peaking in November at 63% before settling back to 45% through December. The fluctuating trends reveal that while January may not boast the sunniest disposition, it serves as a precursor to the brighter days that lie ahead.
In Chapel Hill, January sees about 10 hours of daylight, mirroring February's similar light duration. As winter transitions into spring, daylight begins to increase, reaching 11 hours in March and rising significantly to 13 hours by April, signaling the arrival of longer days. May and June offer the peak of daylight, each basking in 14 hours, which provides ample time for outdoor activities. The summer months of July and August retain this generous daylight, but a gradual decrease starts in September, tapering down to 12 hours. As the days grow shorter, October brings us back to 11 hours, before January settles in once again, tightening the cycle with 10 hours of daylight in November, and down to 9 hours in December. This rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight underscores the beauty of seasonal change in Chapel Hill, enchanting residents and visitors alike.
In January, Chapel Hill experiences a gentle average wind speed of 2.7 m/s (6 mph), which sets the tone for a calm start to the year. As winter transitions to spring, the winds pick up slightly, with February maintaining a comparable 3.2 m/s (7 mph) and March holding steady at the same speed. This trend of consistent breezes continues into April, where wind speed reaches a peak of 3.3 m/s (7 mph), offering a refreshing feel as the weather warms. As temperatures rise through the late spring and summer months, wind speeds begin to taper off, notably dropping to 2.0 m/s (5 mph) in August. The cooling fall months see a gradual increase, with November and December returning to more robust averages of 3.0 m/s and 2.9 m/s (7 mph), respectively. Overall, the wind patterns in Chapel Hill create a rhythmic flow that mirrors the changing seasons, fostering an inviting atmosphere year-round.
The weather in Chapel Hill 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 Chapel Hill and find detailed weather information for every month.
January tends to be colder than February, with minimum temperatures dipping as low as -15°C (6°F) compared to February’s milder lowest temperature of -6°C (21°F). While the average temperature rises slightly in February to 9°C (48°F) from January’s average of 6°C (43°F), both months reach similar maximums, with February peaking at 27°C (81°F) and January at 25°C (77°F). Precipitation is notably higher in February, receiving 117 mm (4.6 in) over 11 days, compared to January's 89 mm (3.5 in) across 9 days, indicating that February is not only warmer but also wetter. For more information, you can check Chapel Hill weather in February.
January's weather in Chapel Hill features significantly colder temperatures, with a minimum of -15°C (6°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), while March sees a noticeable warming trend, with a minimum of -5°C (24°F) and an average of 11°C (53°F). The maximum temperatures in January can reach 25°C (77°F), compared to March's peak of 31°C (88°F), showcasing a shift towards milder conditions as spring approaches. Despite similar levels of precipitation, with January receiving 89 mm (3.5 in) over 9 days and March getting 84 mm (3.3 in) over 10 days, March has a slightly lower humidity level at 81%, providing a more comfortable feel as winter gives way to spring. For more details, check out Chapel Hill weather in March.
When comparing weather between January and April, it’s clear that April offers a significant transition towards milder temperatures and increased warmth. In January, the average temperature hovers around 6°C (43°F), with nighttime lows plummeting to -15°C (6°F) and occasional highs reaching 25°C (77°F). Conversely, April sees a marked rise in average temperatures to 16°C (62°F), with minimums warming to -1°C (31°F) and maximums climbing to a comfortable 31°C (88°F). While January experiences about 89 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation over 9 days, April is slightly wetter with 116 mm (4.6 in) across 10 days, though humidity levels drop slightly from 85% in January to 80% in April. For more details on the climate during this vibrant month, you can check out Chapel Hill weather in April.
In January, the weather can be quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -15°C (6°F) to a maximum of 25°C (77°F), averaging around 6°C (43°F). The month typically experiences about 89 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation over 9 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 85%. In contrast, May brings a more temperate climate, with minimum temperatures around 4°C (39°F) and a far warmer average of 21°C (70°F), peaking at 36°C (97°F). The precipitation increases slightly to 118 mm (4.6 in) over 11 days, while humidity remains relatively lower at 81%. For more detailed insights, check out Chapel Hill weather in May.
In January, the weather is notably cold, with temperatures ranging from a chilling -15°C (6°F) to a milder maximum of 25°C (77°F), averaging around 6°C (43°F). The month experiences significant humidity at 85% and sees about 89 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation over 9 days. In contrast, June brings a much warmer climate with minimum temperatures around 12°C (55°F) and an average high of 24°C (76°F), peaking at a scorching 36°C (97°F). This summer month has slightly higher precipitation at 121 mm (4.8 in) over 13 days, with humidity slightly lower at 81%. The shift from January's frigid conditions to June's warmth is a remarkable change in the seasons. For more detailed information, you can check Chapel Hill weather in June.
When comparing the weather in January and July, significant differences emerge. January features chilly temperatures, with a minimum of -15°C (6°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), while July boasts much warmer conditions, starting at a minimum of 16°C (61°F) and averaging 27°C (80°F). Precipitation is also notable, with January experiencing 89 mm (3.5 in) over approximately 9 days, compared to July's higher total of 114 mm (4.5 in) spread across 14 days. Additionally, January's humidity is at a notable 85%, while July maintains a slightly lower humidity level of 81%. For more detailed insights, check out Chapel Hill weather in July.
January and August present striking contrasts in weather patterns. In January, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -15°C (6°F), with an average of just 6°C (43°F) and soaring to a maximum of 25°C (77°F) during warmer spells. The month sees significant humidity levels at 85% and about 89 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation over 9 days. In contrast, August boasts a mild minimum temperature of 15°C (59°F), an average of 26°C (78°F), and can reach a scorching maximum of 36°C (97°F). While it experiences higher rainfall at 128 mm (5.1 in) over 15 days, the humidity remains slightly lower at 80%. For more details on the summer climate, check Chapel Hill weather in August.
January experiences a starkly colder climate compared to September, with temperatures ranging from a frigid minimum of -15°C (6°F) to a relatively mild maximum of 25°C (77°F). In contrast, September boasts much warmer temperatures, with an average of 23°C (74°F) and highs reaching up to 35°C (96°F). Precipitation levels are relatively similar, with January receiving 89 mm (3.5 in) over 9 days, while September sees a slightly higher total of 128 mm (5.1 in), also over 9 days. Additionally, the humidity in January is higher at 85%, compared to September's more comfortable 79%. For those looking to explore the nuances of September weather, more details can be found in this link: Chapel Hill weather in September.
January and October present contrasting weather patterns, reflecting the shift from winter to fall. In January, temperatures can drop as low as -15°C (6°F), with an average of 6°C (43°F) and highs reaching 25°C (77°F). The month sees about 89 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation over 9 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 85%. In stark contrast, October features milder conditions with minimum temperatures around 2°C (36°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F), with peaks at 36°C (98°F). Precipitation slightly increases to 97 mm (3.8 in) over the same number of rainy days, while humidity remains a bit lower at 80%. If you're interested in more detailed insights, check out the Chapel Hill weather in October for a comprehensive overview.
January and November present distinct weather patterns, with January experiencing colder temperatures that range from a minimum of -15°C (6°F) to a maximum of 25°C (77°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F). In contrast, November has milder conditions, featuring temperatures that vary from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), with an average temperature of 10°C (51°F). Both months share similar levels of humidity at 85%, although January sees slightly more precipitation, totaling 89 mm (3.5 in) over approximately 9 days, compared to November's 81 mm (3.2 in) over 7 days. For more detailed insights into the specific weather in November, you can explore this link: Chapel Hill weather in November.
When comparing the weather in January and December, January typically experiences colder temperatures, with an average of 6°C (43°F), while December averages slightly warmer at 8°C (46°F). The minimum temperature in January can drop to -15°C (6°F), compared to December's minimum of -7°C (19°F). Both months see a similar number of rainy days, around 9, but December has higher precipitation, averaging 107 mm (4.2 in) compared to January's 89 mm (3.5 in). Humidity levels remain quite close, with December at 86% and January at 85%. For more detailed information, you can check Chapel Hill weather in December.
As January unfolds in Chapel Hill, the weather presents a striking contrast to the milder months that precede and follow it. With a chill in the air, temperatures frequently dip to their coldest levels of the year, making the average feel much cooler compared to the balmy late spring and summer days. The city experiences an increase in precipitation, with about nine days of rain contributing to a damp atmosphere, while humidity levels peak at a notable 85%, adding to the wintry mood. This raw and brisk weather contrasts sharply with the warmer, sunnier months, inviting residents to cozy up indoors as they await the arrival of spring. For more detailed insights on seasonal weather patterns, visit Chapel Hill Climate.