January Weather in Lancaster, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

January in Lancaster, United States, presents a chill that sets the tone for the winter season. With maximum temperatures reaching up to 19°C (66°F), the month offers occasional mild spells amidst an average of just 1°C (35°F). However, the cold can bite, plunging to a frigid minimum of -15°C (4°F). Rainfall adds to the winter atmosphere, with precipitation totaling 62 mm (2.4 in) over 8 days, contributing to the region's 84% humidity. Whether draped in snow or shrouded in cold rain, Lancaster’s January invites residents and visitors alike to embrace the beauty and challenges of winter.

January Temperature in Lancaster

January in Lancaster, United States, presents a notable winter chill, with temperatures ranging from a brisk -15°C (4°F) at night to a surprisingly mild 19°C (66°F) during the day. The average temperature hovers around 1°C (35°F), hinting at the transition from the depths of winter towards the more moderate conditions that February and March bring. Interestingly, February dips slightly lower, reaching a minimum of -16°C (3°F), but the maximum can soar to 27°C (80°F) as the region gradually warms. This upward trend continues into April and May, where the contrast between the cool nights and warmer daylight becomes even more pronounced, heralding spring's arrival. Overall, the temperature fluctuations in January set the stage for the seasonal changes to come, showcasing a landscape caught between the cold grip of winter and the promising warmth of spring.

January Weather in Lancaster: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Lancaster, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec343843546473787670604538
Data source: Temperature data for Lancaster generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

January Precipitation in Lancaster

In January, Lancaster experiences a moderate level of precipitation, with 62 mm (2.4 inches) falling over approximately 8 days. While this amount is relatively low compared to the heavier rains in the subsequent months, it sets the stage for a gradual increase as winter transitions into spring. February sees a significant uptick, with precipitation jumping to 103 mm (4.0 inches), and the trend continues as spring approaches—March and April both receive substantial rains of around 102 mm (4.0 inches) and 97 mm (3.8 inches), respectively. Interestingly, while January marks the start of the year with milder conditions, the pattern of increasing precipitation culminates in the warmer months, peaking in July and August, where Lancaster receives over 135 mm (5.3 inches). This rhythmic cycle of wetter months following a calmer January illustrates the region's seasonal climate dynamics, reflecting a steady build-up to the summer's lush and flourishing landscapes.

January Precipitation Trends in Lancaster

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Lancaster, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec6210310297128100135138106998997
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Lancaster

In January, Lancaster experiences its peak humidity at a chilly 84%, setting the tone for a month often characterized by damp and overcast days. This high level of humidity begins a gradual decline as winter gives way to spring, with February and March maintaining a similar 83% humidity level. As the season transitions into April, humidity dips slightly to 81%, leading to a more comfortable feel as May arrives with 78%. The warmer months see a further decrease, with July and August recording the lowest levels at 74% and 72%, respectively. However, as autumn approaches, humidity begins to rise again, spiking back to 85% in November before settling at 84% in December. Overall, the trend reveals a steady humidity cycle that mirrors the changing seasons, with January serving as a peak before the seasonal shift toward drier months.

January Average Humidity in Lancaster

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Lancaster, with January's data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, allowing you to see how January's humidity levels compare to other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec84%83%83%81%78%79%74%72%75%81%85%84%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Lancaster

In January, Lancaster experiences a moderate UV Index of 3, suggesting that while sun safety is important, the risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure remains relatively low. With a burn time of just 30 minutes, it's advisable to take basic precautions if you're outdoors. As winter transitions into spring, the UV Index begins to climb, reaching levels of 5 in February and 6 by March, indicating a shift toward increased sun exposure risks. This upward trend continues into the warmer months, peaking at very high levels of 9 to 10 from April through July, when protective measures become critical due to significantly reduced burn times of only 15 minutes. The UV Index gradually declines in August and September but remains high, suggesting that awareness and sun safety remain essential well into the fall. By December, the UV Index drops to a low of 2, providing a much-needed respite as the year comes to a close. For more details on UV safety and exposure levels, visit Lancaster UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Lancaster for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Lancaster 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec356910101098642
Data source: Lancaster 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.

January Sunshine in Lancaster

In Lancaster, United States, January marks the beginning of the year with a modest 134 hours of sunshine, setting a cool tone for the winter months. As February rolls in, the sun shines for 172 hours, hinting at the gradual transition toward spring. By March, the days brighten significantly, boasting 239 hours of sunlight, while April and May continue this upward trend, offering 241 and 264 hours respectively. The summer months bring the peak of sunshine, with June basking in a splendid 312 hours and July reaching an impressive 347 hours. This abundance of sunlight begins to recede in August, dropping to 307 hours, and continues to decline through the fall, with September recording 267 hours and October following with 222 hours. As the year draws to a close, November and December reflect a return to shorter days, providing 216 hours and 179 hours of sunshine respectively. This pattern illustrates a clear seasonal rhythm, where Lancaster experiences a vibrant crescendo of sunlight in the summer, balanced by a retreat into shorter, cooler days as winter approaches.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Lancaster: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Lancaster experiences direct sunlight during the month of January, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of January with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec134h172h239h241h264h312h347h307h267h222h216h179h
Data source: Lancaster January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Lancaster During January

In Lancaster, the likelihood of sunny weather in January stands at a modest 39%, hinting at a winter month where cloudy skies often dominate. As the year progresses, the chance of sunshine begins to display notable fluctuations. February dips to 27%, making it the gloomiest month, but by March, the sun makes a triumphant return with a significant 53% likelihood, heralding the arrival of spring. This trend of increased sunshine continues through the following months, with April at 42% and May maintaining a sunny disposition at 39%. While summer brings a slight uptick, peaking at 49% in July, the overall pattern suggests that while January may be gray, brighter days are just around the corner, especially as the year unfolds.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Lancaster

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Lancaster throughout the year, with January highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Lancaster experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec39%28%53%42%39%37%49%35%51%36%54%33%
Data source: Lancaster January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Lancaster in January

In Lancaster, United States, January ushers in a modest 9 hours of daylight, setting the stage for a gradual increase as winter begins to yield to spring. As February approaches, daylight extends to 10 hours, hinting at the longer days to come. The progression continues through March, reaching 11 hours, before blossoming into the vibrant 13 hours of daylight by April. May and June maintain this warmth with a peak of 14 hours, making these months the sunniest. However, as summer transitions to fall, daylight begins to wane, with August still offering 13 hours but descending to 12 hours in September. The decline accelerates in October and November, returning to 9 hours by December, completing the cycle. This rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight not only marks seasonal changes but also invites a deeper connection to nature's rhythm throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Lancaster for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Lancaster throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 41m10h 41m11h 58m13h 17m14h 23m14h 56m14h 38m13h 39m12h 24m11h 5m9h 57m9h 22m
Data source: Lancaster daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Lancaster

In January, Lancaster experiences a steady average wind speed of 3.3 m/s (7 mph), mirroring the same wind pace seen in February. As the seasons transition into March, a slight uptick to 3.6 m/s (8 mph) suggests the beginning of spring brings a gentle invigorating breeze. This increment is followed by a small decrease in April and May, indicating a relatively calm period. The summer months witness the lowest wind speeds, particularly in July and August with averages dropping to 2.3 m/s (5 mph) and 2.1 m/s (5 mph) respectively, reflecting the stillness often associated with warmer weather. As autumn approaches, September and October recover slightly, with a return to 2.9 m/s (6 mph). However, the wind tends to pick up once more in November and December, stabilizing around 3.1 m/s (7 mph) and 3.0 m/s (7 mph), offering a refreshing contrast to the winter chill. Overall, Lancaster's January winds are part of a broader trend of gentle breezes that ebb and flow with the changing seasons, creating a dynamic atmosphere throughout the year.

Average January Wind Speed in Lancaster

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Lancaster, with values for each month shown alongside January's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how January's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.3 m/s3.33.63.53.12.72.32.12.92.93.13.0
Data source: Lancaster January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Lancaster Compares to Other Months

The weather in Lancaster 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 Lancaster and find detailed weather information for every month.

January and February present contrasting weather patterns, with January experiencing slightly milder average temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -15°C (4°F) to a maximum of 19°C (66°F). Precipitation in January totals 62 mm (2.4 in) over about 8 days, along with a relatively high humidity level of 84%. In contrast, February sees a slight drop in minimum temperatures, reaching -16°C (3°F), but features a warmer maximum of 27°C (80°F) and an increased precipitation total of 103 mm (4.0 in) across 12 days. The humidity remains relatively stable at 83%. For more detailed information on February weather, visit Lancaster weather in February.

In comparing January and March weather, January typically features a minimum temperature of -15°C (4°F) and an average of 1°C (35°F), with a maximum reaching up to 19°C (66°F). The month experiences about 62 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over 8 days, accompanied by high humidity at 84%. In contrast, March shows a slight increase in overall temperatures, with a minimum of -16°C (3°F), an average of 6°C (43°F), and a maximum of 27°C (80°F). However, March also sees higher precipitation levels at 102 mm (4.0 in) and more wet days, totaling 10. Humidity remains relatively stable at 83%. For more detailed insights on March weather, you can visit Lancaster weather in March.

January and April exhibit a stark contrast in weather patterns. In January, temperatures typically range from a frigid minimum of -15°C (4°F) to a mild maximum of 19°C (66°F), with an average of only 1°C (35°F). This month sees around 62 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over 8 days and high humidity levels at 84%. In comparison, April enjoys much warmer conditions, with temperatures varying from a low of -2°C (28°F) to a high of 30°C (87°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F). Precipitation increases to 97 mm (3.8 in) across 11 days, while humidity remains slightly lower at 81%. For more details, check Lancaster weather in April.

When comparing the weather in January to that of May, there's a stark contrast in both temperature and precipitation. January typically boasts much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -15°C (4°F) and an average of just 1°C (35°F), while May sees a much milder average of 18°C (64°F), with maximum temperatures reaching up to 34°C (93°F). In terms of precipitation, January experiences about 62 mm (2.4 in) over 8 days, whereas May is wetter, with 128 mm (5.0 in) falling over 14 days. Humidity levels are also noteworthy, as January has a higher humidity of 84% compared to May’s 78%. For more details, you can check Lancaster weather in May.

January and June present a striking contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plunge as low as -15°C (4°F), with an average of just 1°C (35°F) and a maximum of 19°C (66°F). This winter month experiences 62 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over about 8 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 84%. In stark contrast, June sees a rise in temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (49°F), an average of 23°C (73°F), and highs reaching up to 35°C (95°F). The precipitation increases to 100 mm (3.9 in) over approximately 12 days, while humidity dips slightly to 79%. For more detailed insights into how the weather evolves from January to June, visit Lancaster weather in June.

When comparing January and July, the differences in temperature and precipitation are stark. January experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -15°C (4°F) and an average around 1°C (35°F), while July boasts much warmer conditions, with average temperatures soaring to 26°C (78°F) and maximums reaching up to 36°C (97°F). Precipitation is also more frequent in July, totaling 135 mm (5.3 in) over 13 days, compared to January's 62 mm (2.4 in) over just 8 days. Additionally, January's humidity stands at a higher 84%, while July's drops to a more comfortable 74%. For more specific details about July weather, you can check Lancaster weather in July.

The weather in January is characterized by much colder temperatures, with averages around 1°C (35°F) and nighttime lows plummeting to -15°C (4°F). In contrast, August brings significantly warmer conditions, featuring an average temperature of 24°C (76°F) and highs reaching up to 35°C (95°F). Additionally, January experiences more humidity at 84% and has some precipitation on about 8 days, while August sees lower humidity levels at 72% but more frequent rain, totaling 15 days of precipitation. For a detailed look at the climate during the summer months, check out Lancaster weather in August.

In January, temperatures can dip as low as -15°C (4°F), with an average around 1°C (35°F) and a maximum reaching 19°C (66°F). The month is characterized by higher humidity levels at 84% and relatively low precipitation, totaling 62 mm (2.4 in) over about 8 days. In contrast, September experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (42°F), an average of 21°C (70°F), and a high of 34°C (93°F). This month also sees increased precipitation, with 106 mm (4.2 in) over around 10 days, but slightly lower humidity at 75%. To learn more about September weather specifics, you can visit Lancaster weather in September.

In comparing January and October weather, January is characterized by much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -15°C (4°F) and an average around 1°C (35°F), while October enjoys milder conditions, featuring a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and an average of 15°C (60°F). The maximum temperatures in January reach only up to 19°C (66°F), whereas October sees a much warmer peak at 34°C (93°F). Precipitation also differs, with January receiving 62 mm (2.4 in) over 8 days compared to October's 99 mm (3.9 in) over 10 days. Additionally, January has a higher humidity level at 84%, while October's humidity sits slightly lower at 81%. For a more detailed look at October weather specifics, check out Lancaster weather in October.

In January, temperatures can be quite frigid, with a minimum of -15°C (4°F) and average highs reaching only 19°C (66°F), while November offers milder conditions, starting at a minimum of -7°C (20°F) and peaking at 24°C (75°F). Despite both months experiencing a fair amount of precipitation, November sees slightly more, with 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain over 7 days compared to January's 62 mm (2.4 in) over 8 days. Humidity remains relatively high in both months, with January at 84% and November slightly higher at 85%. For more detailed insights on weather patterns, you can explore Lancaster weather in November.

In comparing the weather between January and December, both months experience similar humidity levels at 84%. However, January tends to be slightly colder, with average temperatures around 1°C (35°F) compared to December's average of 3°C (39°F). The minimum temperatures also reflect this trend, with January dipping to -15°C (4°F) against December's -12°C (12°F). Precipitation is notably higher in December, totaling 96 mm (3.8 in) over about 10 days, while January sees 62 mm (2.4 in) across 8 days. For a closer look at December weather specifics, visit Lancaster weather in December.

Compare Lancaster's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Lancaster

As January wraps Lancaster in a chilly embrace, the weather starkly contrasts other months with its notable cold snaps and high humidity. The biting cold can dip to extreme lows, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland, while fleeting warm spells tease with milder days. Despite the occasional sunshine, precipitation is common, showcasing a mix of rain and snow that keeps the atmosphere crisp. For those wanting to delve deeper into the unique climate patterns of Lancaster, check out Lancaster Climate.