Last updated: February 24, 2025
In January, Pittsburgh experiences a chilly climate characterized by a maximum temperature of 21°C (70°F) and a biting minimum of -22°C (-8°F), resulting in an average of -1°C (31°F). The month also sees considerable precipitation, totaling 95 mm (3.7 in) spread over 12 days, contributing to the city's often overcast and damp atmosphere. Coupled with a high humidity level of 88%, January in Pittsburgh is a time for bundled layers and cozy indoor activities, as residents navigate the frosty landscape.
January in Pittsburgh presents a dramatic contrast in temperatures, showcasing a range from a chilling -22°C (-8°F) to a surprisingly mild 21°C (70°F). The month typically hovers around an average of -1°C (31°F), setting a frigid tone as winter takes hold. Despite these lows, January's capricious nature allows for occasional warm spells, hinting at a gradual transition towards spring. The prevalence of such variability from bitter cold to unexpected warmth lays the groundwork for the increase in temperatures observed in February and beyond, where the city's weather oscillates between extreme winter and the budding signs of rejuvenation. Understanding these trends provides insight into Pittsburgh's distinctive climate rhythm as it navigates the depths of winter.
In January, Pittsburgh experiences a moderate level of precipitation, averaging 95 mm (3.7 in) over approximately 12 days of rain. This rainfall sets the stage for a wetter February, which sees a significant increase to 125 mm (4.9 in). As winter progresses toward spring, the trend continues, with March and April also recording elevated precipitation levels of 109 mm (4.3 in) and 132 mm (5.2 in), respectively. This gradual rise highlights a typical pattern of increasing moisture as the season transitions. Interestingly, May marks the peak precipitation month at 150 mm (5.9 in), suggesting that while January is relatively mild in comparison, the region soon faces a deluge as the year unfolds. As summer approaches, July and August balance out the precipitation, with July closely mirroring June’s totals, both offering 154 mm (6.1 in). The precipitation then declines into the fall months, with September witnessing 128 mm (5.0 in) before tapering off in November and December, reinforcing a clear seasonal trend of variability as Pittsburgh navigates through its diverse climate.
In January, Pittsburgh experiences a notable humidity level of 88%, setting the tone for a typically damp winter. This trend persists into February, where the humidity remains unchanged, suggesting consistently gray and chilly days. As spring approaches, March and April see a slight dip to 87%, hinting at a subtle shift in the atmosphere. Interestingly, May marks a more significant drop to 81%, foreshadowing the warmer months ahead. The summer months of June and July maintain relatively comfortable humidity levels around 82-83%, while August offers some relief with a further decrease to 76%. However, as autumn unfolds, September and October bring the humidity levels back up to the low 80s%. November ushers in a moisture-laden air once again at 89%, while December closes the year at 86%, reinforcing Pittsburgh's reputation for a humid climate, especially during the colder months.
In January, Pittsburgh experiences a moderate UV Index of 3, indicating a burn time of approximately 30 minutes for those exposed to sunlight. As the year progresses into February, the UV Index rises to 5, maintaining the same level of exposure risk. March brings a shift, with the Index climbing to 6, marking the transition into a high exposure category and reducing safe outdoor time to 25 minutes. This upward trend continues dramatically into spring and early summer, peaking at 10 from May through July, where the burn time plummets to just 15 minutes in the very high exposure category. Notably, August sees a slight decrease to 9, before tapering off through the fall months, with November showing a moderate 4 and December dropping to a low 2. This cyclical variation in the UV Index emphasizes the importance of sun safety throughout the year. For more detailed climate insights, visit Pittsburgh UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In Pittsburgh, January brings a modest 104 hours of sunshine, a stark contrast to the brightening skies that follow. As winter gives way to spring, sunshine steadily increases, with February offering 135 hours, and by March, the city basks in 223 hours of golden rays. This upward trend accelerates into spring, peaking in June with a vibrant 301 hours of sunlight, showcasing the joy of a warm Pittsburgh summer. However, as the year progresses, a gradual decline in sunshine emerges; August still enjoys a healthy 316 hours, but by October, this decreases to 219 hours. The cycle continues as the city braces for winter once again, with November and December seeing 173 and 137 hours of light, respectively. This yearly rhythm illustrates Pittsburgh's journey from the cozy embrace of winter light to the full brightness of summer days, making every moment of sunshine in January a cherished reminder of the warmth to come.
In Pittsburgh, January marks the start of the year with a modest 22% chance of sunny weather, a figure that slightly improves into February at 20%. As winter gives way to spring, the likelihood of sunshine sees a significant increase, nearly doubling by March with 46% sunshine potential. This upward trend continues through April and May, where the chances hover around 38% and 35% respectively. The summer months bring more brightness, especially in July when sunny days peak at 44%, before gradually tapering off into the fall. Overall, while January can feel quite dreary, the emerging patterns of increasing sunshine provide a glimmer of hope for brighter days ahead as the season transitions.
In January, Pittsburgh experiences roughly 9 hours of daylight, marking the start of the year in the depths of winter. As the month progresses into February, the days begin to elongate, offering 10 hours of sunlight that heralds the approach of spring. The trend continues into March, with daylight increasing to 11 hours, and by April, the promise of warmer weather is underscored by 13 hours of sunshine. May reaches a peak of 14 hours, inviting residents outdoors to enjoy the blooming scenery. This bright spell persists into June with a maximum of 15 hours, defining the essence of summer. However, as July transitions into August, daylight begins to recede slightly to 14 and then 13 hours respectively, signaling the gradual progression towards autumn. September continues this decline with 12 hours, while October and November revert to 11 and 9 hours, respectively, echoing the rhythms of nature as daylight dwindles once more. The cycle culminates in December, where Pittsburgh returns to 9 hours of daylight, completing a full seasonal journey. This natural ebb and flow of daylight not only shapes the landscape but also influences the lifestyle of its residents throughout the year.
As January breezes into Pittsburgh, it brings an average wind speed of 3.0 m/s (7 mph), setting a tone for the winter months with a refreshing chill. Following January, February sees a slight uptick in wind velocity at 3.2 m/s, maintaining the brisk atmosphere. The winds gradually strengthen as March arrives, reaching 3.5 m/s (8 mph), hinting at the approach of spring. Interestingly, April experiences a dip in wind speed, dropping back to 3.2 m/s, but this fluctuation is merely a precursor to the calmer months ahead. From May through August, winds soften, with July showcasing the year's lowest average at 2.3 m/s (5 mph). This gentle caress of summer winds contrasts sharply with the return of stronger gusts in November, which jump to 3.1 m/s, and December, echoing January's briskness with 3.2 m/s. Overall, the winds in Pittsburgh tell a story of transition—from the invigorating chill of winter to the serene calm of summer and back again.
The weather in Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh and find detailed weather information for every month.
In January, the weather features a minimum temperature of -22°C (-8°F) and an average of -1°C (31°F), while reaching a maximum of 21°C (70°F). This month experiences about 95 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation over 12 days, with a humidity level consistently around 88%. In contrast, February shows a slightly milder trend, with minimum temperatures at -20°C (-3°F) and an average of 1°C (35°F), peaking at 25°C (77°F). Precipitation increases to 125 mm (4.9 in) over 15 days, maintaining the same high humidity of 88%. For a detailed look at the weather trends in February, check out Pittsburgh weather in February.
In January, temperatures in Pittsburgh can plunge to a minimum of -22°C (-8°F), with an average around -1°C (31°F) and occasionally reaching a maximum of 21°C (70°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 95 mm (3.7 in) over about 12 days, accompanied by high humidity at 88%. In contrast, March brings milder conditions with a minimum temperature of -17°C (1°F) and an average of 5°C (42°F), peaking at 25°C (78°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 109 mm (4.3 in) over 13 days, while humidity remains similar at 87%. For a more detailed look at Pittsburgh's weather in March, you can visit Pittsburgh weather in March.
In January, Pittsburgh experiences frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -22°C (-8°F) and an average of -1°C (31°F), while the maximum can reach a milder 21°C (70°F). The month sees a total precipitation of 95 mm (3.7 in) over about 12 days, with a high humidity level of 88%. In contrast, April brings a significant warming trend, with minimum temperatures rising to -5°C (24°F) and average temperatures climbing to 11°C (52°F), while the maximum can soar to 29°C (84°F). Precipitation increases to 132 mm (5.2 in) across approximately 16 days, accompanied by a slightly lower humidity of 87%. For more detailed climate insights, check out Pittsburgh weather in April.
January and May exhibit stark contrasts in weather patterns. In January, temperatures can plunge as low as -22°C (-8°F), with an average hovering around -1°C (31°F) and occasional peaks at 21°C (70°F). The month sees approximately 95 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation over 12 days, accompanied by high humidity at 88%. In contrast, May offers a much milder climate with minimum temperatures dropping to -2°C (29°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F). Maximum temperatures can reach up to 31°C (89°F), while total precipitation increases to 150 mm (5.9 in) across 17 days, with humidity slightly lower at 81%. For more detailed information, check out Pittsburgh weather in May.
January and June present starkly different weather experiences. In January, temperatures can plummet to a frigid minimum of -22°C (-8°F), averaging around -1°C (31°F) and reaching a maximum of 21°C (70°F). The month is characterized by significant humidity at 88% and a total precipitation of 95 mm (3.7 in) over 12 days. In contrast, June showcases a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures around 5°C (41°F) and averaging 21°C (70°F), peaking at a warm 33°C (92°F). While June sees a slight increase in precipitation to 155 mm (6.1 in) across 16 days, humidity levels drop to 83%, contributing to a more comfortable atmosphere. For more details, check out Pittsburgh weather in June.
In January, the weather presents a stark contrast to the warmth of July, with temperatures plummeting as low as -22°C (-8°F) and averaging around -1°C (31°F). Precipitation during this winter month totals 95 mm (3.7 inches) over approximately 12 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 88%. In contrast, July boasts significantly milder conditions, featuring a minimum temperature of 12°C (53°F) and an average of 24°C (75°F), occasionally reaching a maximum of 35°C (96°F). With higher precipitation at 154 mm (6.1 inches) over 15 days, July maintains a slightly lower humidity level of 82%. For more detailed information, you can check Pittsburgh weather in July.
January and August present stark contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures can plunge as low as -22°C (-8°F), with an average of -1°C (31°F) and a maximum of 21°C (70°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 88% and receives about 95 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation over approximately 12 days. In contrast, August brings much warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures around 11°C (52°F) and soaring to an average of 23°C (73°F) and a peak of 34°C (93°F). This month experiences slightly less precipitation, totaling 89 mm (3.5 in), spread over 16 days, and a lower humidity level of 76%. For a detailed look at weather conditions, you can visit Pittsburgh weather in August.
January and September showcase stark contrasts in weather patterns. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -22°C (-8°F) and hover around an average of -1°C (31°F), with the occasional max reaching 21°C (70°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation of 95 mm (3.7 in) over about 12 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 88%. In contrast, September brings milder conditions, with a minimum of 5°C (40°F), an average of 20°C (68°F), and a maximum soaring to 34°C (93°F). Although September has a higher precipitation total of 128 mm (5.0 in), it falls over fewer days (10 days) and features lower humidity at 77%. For more insights on September weather, you can refer to Pittsburgh weather in September.
January and October present starkly different weather characteristics. In January, temperatures can drop as low as -22°C (-8°F), with an average of -1°C (31°F) and a maximum of 21°C (70°F). The month is marked by high humidity at 88% and around 95 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation over 12 days. In contrast, October offers milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to an average of 14°C (57°F) and a maximum of 31°C (89°F). While precipitation increases slightly to 128 mm (5.0 in) over 14 days, humidity is lower at 82%. For more details, visit Pittsburgh weather in October.
When comparing the weather between January and November, there are notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. January experiences a broader range of temperatures, with a minimum of -22°C (-8°F) and an average of -1°C (31°F), while November is milder, with a minimum of -13°C (9°F) and an average of 5°C (42°F). Both months see similar precipitation levels, with January recording 95 mm (3.7 in) over 12 days and November slightly lower at 94 mm (3.7 in) over 11 days. Humidity remains high in both months, with January at 88% and November at 89%. For a detailed look at the November weather conditions, visit Pittsburgh weather in November.
In January, the weather experiences colder extremes with a minimum temperature of -22°C (-8°F) and an average temperature of -1°C (31°F), while December is slightly warmer, averaging at 2°C (36°F) with a minimum of -16°C (4°F). Both months see a comparable number of precipitation days, with January receiving 95 mm (3.7 in) and December slightly higher at 102 mm (4.0 in). Humidity levels remain similar, with January at 88% and December slightly lower at 86%. For more detailed information on December weather, you can visit Pittsburgh weather in December.
January in Pittsburgh stands out with its chilly temperatures and damp conditions, marking a stark contrast to the milder months that bookend it. With an average temperature hovering around a brisk -1°C, it is the coldest month of the year. The biting cold can occasionally plummet to -22°C, while sporadic warmer days remind residents of the city's potential for a brief thaw. Coupled with high humidity levels of 88% and considerable precipitation, January's weather presents a blend of wintry challenges and unique beauty not seen in the more temperate seasons. For a deeper dive into the city's climate and what to expect throughout the year, check out Pittsburgh Climate.