January Weather in Columbus, United States

Last updated: June 24, 2025

In Columbus, United States, the average temperature during January hovers around 5°C (41°F), with extremes ranging from a chilly -13°C (8°F) to a warm 23°C (73°F). Visitors can expect 102 mm (4.0 in) of precipitation spread over approximately 8 days, contributing to a notably high average humidity of 86%.

January Temperature in Columbus

In January in Columbus, the average temperature is 5°C (41°F). The maximum can reach 23°C (73°F), while the minimum can drop as low as -13°C (8°F). 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 (41°F), with highs reaching up to 23°C (73°F) and lows dropping to around -13°C (8°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec414651596773777571624844
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 102 mm (4.0 in) over the course of 8 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 102 mm (4.0 inches) of precipitation spread over approximately 8 days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10212699133141899512414816289127
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 86%. With an average temperature of 5°C (41°F), this humidity feels like a heavy, damp blanket wrapping around you, making outdoor activities uncomfortable and travel quite challenging due to the chill combined with the stickiness in the 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 86%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec86%85%84%82%83%82%80%74%75%79%87%87%
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 reaches 4, which corresponds to a moderate Exposure Category. With a time to burn of 30 minutes, it’s important to take precautions to protect your skin. You can find more details in the Hourly UV Index in Columbus for better planning.

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 4, which falls under the moderate exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec47810111111109864
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 Weather5°C (41°F)102 mm (4.0 inches)86%moderate
February Weather8°C (47°F)126 mm (5.0 inches)85%high
March Weather11°C (51°F)99 mm (3.9 inches)84%very high
April Weather15°C (59°F)133 mm (5.2 inches)82%very high
May Weather20°C (67°F)140 mm (5.5 inches)83%extreme
June Weather23°C (73°F)89 mm (3.5 inches)82%extreme
July Weather25°C (77°F)95 mm (3.7 inches)80%extreme
August Weather24°C (75°F)124 mm (4.9 inches)74%very high
September Weather22°C (71°F)148 mm (5.8 inches)75%very high
October Weather17°C (62°F)162 mm (6.4 inches)79%very high
November Weather9°C (49°F)89 mm (3.5 inches)87%high
December Weather7°C (44°F)127 mm (5.0 inches)87%moderate

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