January Weather in Salt Lake City, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

In January, Salt Lake City experiences a chilly climate where temperatures fluctuate significantly, with maximums reaching 12°C (54°F) and plunging to a brisk -22°C (-6°F). The average temperature hovers around -1°C (30°F), setting the stage for a cold winter month. Residents and visitors can expect approximately 52 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 10 days, creating a damp atmosphere coupled with high humidity levels at 91%. This blend of cold temperatures and moisture ensures that January in Salt Lake City is marked by crisp air and a potentially picturesque wintry landscape.

January Temperature in Salt Lake City

In January, Salt Lake City experiences a chilly climate, characterized by an average temperature of -1°C (30°F). The month sees minimum temperatures plunging to a brisk -22°C (-6°F), while highs reach a more bearable 12°C (54°F). This pattern of cold winters is typical, as the city transitions to warmer conditions in the subsequent months. Notably, February begins to edge up slightly in temperature, with averages rising to 1°C (34°F), hinting at the gradual thaw of the frigid winter landscape. As the seasons progress towards spring, March showcases a marked warming trend, with average temperatures climbing to 6°C (43°F) and maximums peaking at 26°C (78°F). Overall, January sets the stage for a gradual yet noticeable shift from the biting cold to the beginnings of more temperate weather, signaling a slow but steady approach to springtime warmth.

January Weather in Salt Lake City: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Salt Lake City, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec303342495972807767504130
Data source: Temperature data for Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City

In January, Salt Lake City experiences a modest precipitation total of 52 mm (2.0 in) spread over approximately 10 days, setting the stage for a refreshed winter landscape. As the months progress into spring, precipitation gradually increases, with February and March bringing slightly higher levels at 60 mm (2.4 in) and 61 mm (2.4 in), respectively. This trend indicates a transitional period where the city receives consistent moisture, preparing for the burgeoning growth of April, which sees an even higher total of 65 mm (2.6 in). Notably, the winter months maintain a steady distribution of precipitation days, fostering a well-watered environment despite the chilly temperatures. The shift toward drier summer months becomes evident in June and July, where precipitation dramatically decreases, illustrating how Salt Lake City's climate shifts from the winter and spring moisture to sunnier, drier conditions typical of summer.

January Precipitation Trends in Salt Lake City

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Salt Lake City, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec526062655015101634413447
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Salt Lake City

In January, Salt Lake City experiences a remarkably high humidity level of 91%, setting the tone for a month characterized by moisture-laden air. This intensity of humidity slightly increases to 92% in February, hinting at the lingering winter chill. However, as the seasons transition, there’s a notable decline; by March, humidity drops to 84%, and continues to decline through the spring and summer months, reaching a comfortable low of 44% in July. This trend reveals a gradual shift towards drier conditions as the year progresses, with the humidity peaking again in the cooler months as autumn returns. By December, humidity rises back to 88%, mirroring the early winter environment. Overall, Salt Lake City’s humidity levels showcase a cyclical pattern, influenced by seasonal changes, where winter months are notably more humid compared to the hot and dry summer season.

January Average Humidity in Salt Lake City

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Salt Lake City, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec91%92%84%75%62%56%44%37%46%67%84%88%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Salt Lake City

In Salt Lake City, the January UV Index sits at a moderate level of 3, allowing for a burn time of just 30 minutes under direct sunlight. As the months progress, the UV Index steadily rises, peaking in June and July at an extreme level of 12 and 11, respectively, significantly reducing safe exposure time to just 10 minutes. This trend underscores the importance of being vigilant about sun protection, especially as spring transitions into summer. Conversely, the index tapers off in the fall and winter, returning to moderate levels of 3 by December. For more detailed insights on UV exposure in Salt Lake City throughout the year, check out the Salt Lake City UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Salt Lake City for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Salt Lake City 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3579101211109643
Data source: Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City

January in Salt Lake City sees 153 hours of sunshine, marking the start of a gradual ascent into brighter months. As winter transitions to spring, February shines a bit brighter with 200 hours, hinting at the longer days to come. This upward trend continues through March and April, where the sun graces the city with 260 and 294 hours respectively. By May, residents can bask in a delightful 360 hours of sunlight, peaking in July at 390 hours—the sunniest month of the year. As summer wanes into fall, there’s a slight decline, with hours dipping back to 313 in September and gradually tapering off to 198 hours in December. Overall, Salt Lake City showcases a vibrant cycle of sunshine, inviting locals and visitors alike to savor its luminous charm throughout the year.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Salt Lake City: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Salt Lake City 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec153h200h260h294h360h383h390h360h313h269h216h198h
Data source: Salt Lake City January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Salt Lake City During January

In Salt Lake City, January typically sees a 42% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the cloudier months of the year. This is slightly higher than February, which has a 41% likelihood of sunshine, but notably lower than the sunnier days that emerge in March at 50%. As winter transitions to spring, the chances of clear skies significantly improve, with April reaching 60% and May hovering around 59%. The trend clearly reveals a steady increase in sunny weather as the year progresses, peaking in the vibrant summer months of July and August, when residents can enjoy up to 62% and 78% of sunshine, respectively. So while January might not boast the brightest weather, sunnier days are just around the corner!

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Salt Lake City

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec42%41%50%60%59%69%62%78%77%44%48%41%
Data source: Salt Lake City January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Salt Lake City in January

In Salt Lake City, January ushers in 9 hours of daylight, marking the beginning of a gradual increase that continues through the winter months. As February rolls in, daylight extends to 10 hours, while March sees an even more noticeable leap to 11 hours. The arrival of spring in April brings a delightful surge to 13 hours, setting the stage for the summer months. In June, the city basks in 15 hours of daylight, the peak of the year, before transitioning to slightly shorter days in July and August, with 14 and 13 hours, respectively. As autumn arrives, daylight begins its descent, tapering down to 12 hours in September and further diminishing to 11 hours in October. By November and December, daylight dwindles back to 9 hours, completing the cycle and echoing the seasonal rhythms of this vibrant city. This progression highlights the ever-changing dance of light and dark that Salt Lake City experiences throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in Salt Lake City for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Salt Lake City throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 37m10h 39m11h 58m13h 19m14h 27m15h 1m14h 42m13h 41m12h 24m11h 3m9h 53m9h 18m
Data source: Salt Lake City daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Salt Lake City

In Salt Lake City, the January winds greet the New Year with a gentle average speed of 2.0 m/s (4 mph), marking the start of a month that remains relatively calm compared to the seasonal shifts ahead. As February rolls in, winds pick up slightly to 2.1 m/s, hinting at the gradual intensification that characterizes the transition into spring. This trend continues, peaking in June with the fastest gusts at 2.5 m/s (6 mph). However, by the time July arrives, there's a noticeable drop, returning to 2.1 m/s. As autumn approaches, September through November experience a gentle decline, ending the year with a notable drop to 1.8 m/s in November before December shifts back up to 2.5 m/s. This cyclical variation in wind speed reflects the dynamic climate of Salt Lake City, where each month brings its own breezy character.

Average January Wind Speed in Salt Lake City

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Salt Lake City, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.0 m/s2.12.32.22.42.52.12.32.32.31.82.5
Data source: Salt Lake City January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Salt Lake City Compares to Other Months

The weather in Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City and find detailed weather information for every month.

In January, the weather experiences much colder temperatures with a minimum of -22°C (-6°F) and an average of -1°C (30°F), while February sees a slight rise with minimums around -20°C (-4°F) and an average of 1°C (34°F). Additionally, February can occasionally bring milder maximums, reaching up to 18°C (65°F), compared to January's maximum of 12°C (54°F). Precipitation in February also increases to 60 mm (2.4 in), slightly higher than January's 52 mm (2.0 in), although both months typically experience about 10 days of precipitation. Humidity remains consistent, hovering around 91% in January and 92% in February. For a more detailed look at February weather patterns, you can visit Salt Lake City weather in February.

In comparing the weather of January and March, it's evident that March brings a notable increase in temperatures, with average highs reaching 6°C (43°F) compared to January's average of -1°C (30°F). While both months experience precipitation on about 10 days, March records slightly higher rainfall at 61 mm (2.4 in) compared to January's 52 mm (2.0 in). Additionally, humidity levels are slightly lower in March at 84%, down from January's 91%, creating a more comfortable atmosphere as winter transitions into spring. For more detailed insights, you can check out Salt Lake City weather in March.

January weather in Salt Lake City is characterized by frigid temperatures, with an average of -1°C (30°F) and lows reaching as low as -22°C (-6°F). The month sees about 52 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 10 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 91%. In contrast, April brings a much more moderate climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a pleasant average of 10°C (50°F) and highs peaking at 28°C (82°F). Although April experiences slightly higher precipitation at 65 mm (2.6 in) over 10 days, the overall humidity drops to a more comfortable 74%. For more details, visit Salt Lake City weather in April.

In January, the weather is characterized by cold temperatures, with a minimum of -22°C (-6°F) and an average of -1°C (30°F), reaching a maximum of 12°C (54°F). The month experiences 52 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over about 10 days, combined with high humidity levels of 91%. In contrast, May brings a significant warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a sizzling maximum of 35°C (95°F) and an average of 15°C (59°F). Precipitation decreases slightly to 50 mm (2.0 in), occurring over just 9 days, and humidity drops to a more comfortable 62%. For more details, you can check out Salt Lake City weather in May.

In January, weather conditions are marked by frigid temperatures, with minimum values plunging to -22°C (-6°F) and an average around -1°C (30°F), making it a bitterly cold month. In contrast, June experiences a significant warm-up, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a scorching maximum of 39°C (103°F) and an average of 22°C (72°F). January also sees higher humidity at 91% and more precipitation, averaging 52 mm (2.0 in) over 10 days, while June enjoys a much drier climate with only 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain over 2 days. For more detailed insights, check out Salt Lake City weather in June.

January and July showcase starkly contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures plummet, with a minimum of -22°C (-6°F) and an average around -1°C (30°F), peaking at only 12°C (54°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 91% and a noteworthy level of precipitation, totaling 52 mm (2.0 in) over about 10 days. In contrast, July experiences a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures of 10°C (50°F) and soaring averages of 27°C (81°F), reaching maximums up to 39°C (102°F). The summer month sees significantly less precipitation—only 10 mm (0.4 in) over just 3 days—along with a much lower humidity level of 44%. The differences in weather between these two months are striking, highlighting the seasonal variations that define the region. For more detailed information, check out Salt Lake City weather in July.

January and August present a stark contrast in weather patterns. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -22°C (-6°F), with an average of -1°C (30°F) and a maximum reaching 12°C (54°F). The month experiences considerable humidity at 91% and sees about 52 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days. In contrast, August boasts a significantly warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (51°F) to an average of 25°C (78°F) and peaking at a scorching 39°C (103°F). This summer month is much drier, receiving only 16 mm (0.6 in) of precipitation over just 2 days and featuring a much lower humidity of 37%. For more details, check out Salt Lake City weather in August.

January and September present strikingly contrasting weather patterns. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -22°C (-6°F), with an average temperature around -1°C (30°F) and a maximum of 12°C (54°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 91% and receives about 52 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days. In stark contrast, September boasts much milder temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (35°F), an average of 19°C (67°F), and a scorching maximum that can reach up to 36°C (98°F). Precipitation drops to 34 mm (1.3 in) over just 4 days, and humidity falls significantly to 46%. For more information, you can visit Salt Lake City weather in September.

In January, the weather is significantly colder, with temperatures ranging from a frigid minimum of -22°C (-6°F) to a maximum of 12°C (54°F), and an average of -1°C (30°F). The month sees around 52 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over approximately 10 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 91%. In contrast, October exhibits much milder conditions, with temperatures varying from a minimum of -14°C (7°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F), and an average temperature of 10°C (50°F). Precipitation decreases to 41 mm (1.6 in) over just 6 days, and humidity is lower at 67%. This transition from the icy depths of January to the more temperate days of October is quite striking. For more details, check out Salt Lake City weather in October.

January and November present distinctly different weather patterns. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -22°C (-6°F), with an average of -1°C (30°F) and a maximum of 12°C (54°F). This month typically experiences higher precipitation levels, averaging 52 mm (2.0 in) over approximately 10 days, along with a high humidity of 91%. In contrast, November boasts milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -12°C (10°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F) and an average of 5°C (41°F). The precipitation is lower at 34 mm (1.3 in), occurring over about 6 days, and humidity is also slightly lower at 84%. For more detailed insights on weather patterns, check out Salt Lake City weather in November.

In December, temperatures are generally milder compared to January, with minimums reaching -13°C (8°F) and maximums of 15°C (59°F). The average temperature remains stable at -1°C (30°F) for both months. Despite the slightly lower overall precipitation in December at 47 mm (1.8 in) compared to January's 52 mm (2.0 in), both months experience precipitation on about 10 days. Humidity is slightly lower in December at 88% compared to January's 91%. For more details, you can check Salt Lake City weather in December.

Compare Salt Lake City's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Salt Lake City

January in Salt Lake City stands out as a month of contrasts, with its chilly temperatures and high humidity setting it apart from the milder seasons that surround it. While the city typically enjoys a more temperate climate throughout the year, January brings a unique blend of frigid air, where the mercury can plummet to subzero levels. This cold snap is accompanied by substantial precipitation, making January one of the wetter months of the year, creating a stark difference from the drier summer months. The atmosphere is often enveloped in a moist chill, contributing to the feeling of winter's grip on the city. For those looking to understand the broader climate trends, check out Salt Lake City Climate for more insights.