January Weather in Charlottesville, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

January in Charlottesville, United States, showcases a dynamic winter climate that oscillates between mild and frigid temperatures. With a maximum of 21°C (70°F), the weather can feel surprisingly warm, especially when contrasted with the average low of -18°C (0°F). This month typically experiences 3°C (38°F) as the average temperature, revealing the chilly side of winter. Despite the cold, precipitation is moderate at 64 mm (2.5 in) over about seven days, often enveloping the city in a humid atmosphere with levels reaching 84%. Residents and visitors alike should prepare for a month of fluctuating weather patterns that reflect the beauty and unpredictability of winter in Charlottesville.

January Temperature in Charlottesville

In Charlottesville, January showcases the area's wintry temperament, with temperatures varying from a chilly -18°C (0°F) at their lowest, to a mild peak of 21°C (70°F). The average temperature settles around a brisk 3°C (38°F), allowing residents to experience the charm of winter without extreme severity. As the month progresses, the gradual transition to February hints at a rising warmth, where the minimum temperature increases slightly to -14°C (8°F). This upward trend in temperatures continues through the spring, setting the stage for the vibrant blooms and warmer days ahead. Overall, January serves as a stark reminder of the chilly depths of winter while foreshadowing the gradual embrace of spring.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Charlottesville, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec374248576774807771624741
Data source: Temperature data for Charlottesville 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 Charlottesville

January in Charlottesville sees moderate precipitation with an average of 64 mm (2.5 in), falling over approximately 7 days. This sets a trend for the start of the year, with rainfall gradually increasing in February and peaking in the spring months of April and May. Interestingly, January's precipitation is lower than that of February, which receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, suggesting a shift towards wetter conditions as winter transitions into spring. As we move through the year, Charlottesville experiences its highest rainfall in April and August, while January holds a relatively dry spell compared to the peak months. Overall, the data illustrates a gradual climb in precipitation through winter and into the lushness of spring, indicating a subtle but clear seasonal pattern.

January Precipitation Trends in Charlottesville

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Charlottesville, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec64946811911397611181021147692
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Charlottesville

In Charlottesville, January presents a humid start to the year, with levels at a substantial 84%. This consistent humidity carries through into February and March, creating a pattern of dampness that can make the early months feel particularly overcast. As the seasons shift into spring, humidity begins to decline slightly in April and May, before dipping noticeably during the summer months of July and August, where it reaches its lowest point at 77%. Interestingly, as autumn approaches, humidity levels see a increase again in November, peaking at 87%, before settling back down to a brisk 85% in December. This cyclical trend reveals how Charlottesville experiences a dance of moisture throughout the year, with a notable rise in winter and late fall, contrasted by a more comfortable summer.

January Average Humidity in Charlottesville

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Charlottesville, 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%84%84%82%83%83%79%77%75%81%87%85%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Charlottesville

In January, Charlottesville experiences a moderate UV Index of 3, allowing for a safer sun exposure time of about 30 minutes before risking sunburn. As the month progresses into February and March, the UV Index notably rises to 6 and 7, indicating a shift to high exposure, with burn time decreasing to 25 minutes. By April, sunlight becomes significantly more intense, reaching a very high UV Index of 9, with a mere 15 minutes before skin damage can occur. This trend of increasing intensity continues through the summer months, with UV levels peaking at 10, making sun safety critical from May through August. As autumn settles in, the UV Index begins to decline, dropping to 5 in November and returning to 3 in December, but caution remains important as the seasons transition. To stay informed about the UV Index trends and ensure safe sun practices, visit Charlottesville UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Charlottesville for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Charlottesville 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3679101010108753
Data source: Charlottesville 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 Charlottesville

January in Charlottesville ushers in 158 hours of sunshine, a gentle prelude to the brighter days ahead. As winter melts into spring, the sun's embrace gradually intensifies, with February seeing 190 hours and March further escalating to 260 hours. This upward trend continues into April and May, where days stretch longer, showcasing 271 hours and 289 hours of radiant sunshine respectively. The peak arrives in the heart of summer, with July basking in an impressive 357 hours of golden light, before beginning a gradual decline as August brings 317 hours. As the year winds down, the sun continues to play hide and seek, bathing Charlottesville in 273 hours in September and tapering off to 199 hours by December. This rhythm of light not only marks the changing seasons but also invites residents and visitors alike to savor the joys of each sunlit moment.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Charlottesville: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Charlottesville 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec158h190h260h271h289h319h357h317h273h253h231h199h
Data source: Charlottesville January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Charlottesville During January

In Charlottesville, January greets residents with a 52% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the more promising winter months. This likelihood is notably higher than February's 34%, yet just shy of the sunniest days to come in April, which boasts a 54% chance. Interestingly, January stands out in comparison to the summer months, where the chances dip to around 40-50%. As the year progresses, the likelihood of sunny weather takes a positive turn, peaking in September at 59% and November also enjoying a high 60%. This trend illustrates a beautiful transition from the winter chill to the radiant warmth of spring and fall, offering residents hope for sunlight amidst the snow.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Charlottesville

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Charlottesville 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 Charlottesville experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec52%34%49%54%42%40%50%42%59%44%60%45%
Data source: Charlottesville January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Charlottesville in January

In Charlottesville, the daylight duration experiences a notable transformation throughout the year, starting with a brief 9 hours in January. As winter gives way to spring, the days gradually lengthen, reaching 10 hours in February and 11 hours in March. This upward trend continues robustly into April, where daylight peaks at an inviting 13 hours. The longest days arrive in the summertime, with 14 hours of daylight stretching across June, July, and August, offering ample time for outdoor activities. However, as autumn sets in, daylight begins to retreat, gradually decreasing to 12 hours in September, and further down to 10 hours by November. The cycle completes itself as December returns to 9 hours, highlighting the rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight that characterizes this charming city throughout the seasons.

Average Daylight Hours in Charlottesville for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Charlottesville throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 51m10h 47m11h 58m13h 12m14h 14m14h 44m14h 28m13h 33m12h 22m11h 9m10h 5m9h 33m
Data source: Charlottesville daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Charlottesville

In Charlottesville, January winds whisk through the city at an average speed of 2.2 m/s (5 mph), setting the tone for the colder months. As winter transitions to spring, there's a noticeable uptick in wind speeds, climbing to 2.8 m/s (6 mph) by April. This gentle increase showcases the invigorating breezes that typically accompany the thawing season. However, as summer unfurls, wind speeds dip slightly, hitting a low of 1.6 m/s (4 mph) in August, only to rebound modestly in the subsequent months. By maintaining a steady rhythm of around 2.4 m/s (5 mph) from late fall through early winter, the winds of Charlottesville create a soothing backdrop throughout the year, inviting residents and visitors alike to revel in the city's charming outdoor ambiance.

Average January Wind Speed in Charlottesville

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Charlottesville, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.2 m/s2.62.72.82.42.32.11.62.22.42.42.4
Data source: Charlottesville January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Charlottesville Compares to Other Months

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

January and February present a notable contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures see a minimum of -18°C (0°F) and an average of 3°C (38°F), with maximums reaching 21°C (70°F). Precipitation is recorded at 64 mm (2.5 in) over 7 days, with humidity consistently at 84%. By February, the conditions begin to warm slightly, with minimum temperatures of -14°C (8°F), an average of 6°C (43°F), and maximums climbing to 26°C (79°F). However, February experiences increased precipitation of 94 mm (3.7 in) over 11 days, while maintaining the same humidity level of 84%. For more detailed insights on weather conditions during this month, visit Charlottesville weather in February.

In January, temperatures in Charlottesville tend to be quite cold, with a minimum of -18°C (0°F) and an average of 3°C (38°F), peaking at a maximum of 21°C (70°F). The month sees about 64 mm (2.5 inches) of precipitation over 7 days, and the humidity remains relatively high at 84%. In contrast, March brings a noticeable warming trend, with minimum temperatures rising to -7°C (20°F) and averages climbing to 9°C (48°F). The maximum temperature can reach 28°C (83°F), and precipitation increases slightly to 68 mm (2.7 inches) spread over 10 days, maintaining the same humidity level of 84%. For more details on the weather patterns in March, visit Charlottesville weather in March.

In January, the weather is quite chilly, with minimum temperatures dropping as low as -18°C (0°F) and an average of around 3°C (38°F). The month sees approximately 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over about 7 days, along with a high humidity level of 84%. In stark contrast, April brings a significant warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (28°F) to a comfortable average of 14°C (58°F), peaking at a maximum of 32°C (91°F). While April experiences more rainfall, totaling about 118 mm (4.7 in) over 10 days, the humidity remains slightly lower at 82%. For more details on the April weather in Charlottesville, you can check Charlottesville weather in April.

In January, temperatures in Charlottesville can be quite frigid, with lows dropping to -18°C (0°F) and averaging around 3°C (38°F), while the maximum temperature can reach up to 21°C (70°F). The winter month experiences around 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 7 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 84%. In contrast, May brings a significant warming trend, with minimum temperatures around 1°C (33°F) and average highs of 19°C (67°F) that can soar to 34°C (94°F). This month also sees increased rainfall at 113 mm (4.5 in) over 11 days, although the humidity is slightly lower at 82%. For a more detailed look at the May weather in Charlottesville, check out Charlottesville weather in May.

In January, the weather contrasts sharply with June, featuring much colder temperatures, ranging from a chilling minimum of -18°C (0°F) to a more moderate average of 3°C (38°F) and occasionally peaking at 21°C (70°F). The month receives about 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 7 days, paired with high humidity at 84%.

In stark contrast, June boasts significantly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 10°C (50°F) and an average of 23°C (74°F), reaching a high of 36°C (97°F). This month experiences increased precipitation of 97 mm (3.8 in) over 11 days, while humidity remains relatively stable at 83%.

For more details on June weather, you can visit Charlottesville weather in June.

In January, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -18°C (0°F), with an average of around 3°C (38°F) and a maximum reaching 21°C (70°F). The month experiences about 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 7 days, accompanied by high humidity at 84%. In contrast, July boasts a much milder climate, featuring minimum temperatures of 14°C (57°F) and soaring averages of 27°C (80°F), with maximums peaking at a sweltering 38°C (101°F). July sees slightly less precipitation at 61 mm (2.4 in), spread over 8 days, and lower humidity levels at 79%. For more detailed information, you can visit Charlottesville weather in July.

January and August present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plummet as low as -18°C (0°F) but typically hover around an average of 3°C (38°F), with a maximum of 21°C (70°F). The month sees about 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 7 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 84%. Conversely, August boasts much warmer temperatures, with minimums of 13°C (56°F), average highs of 25°C (77°F), and scorching peaks reaching 37°C (99°F). It also experiences more precipitation, totaling 118 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days, although humidity is slightly lower at 77%. For more details on weather conditions this month, check out Charlottesville weather in August.

When comparing the weather in January and September, there is a significant contrast in temperature and humidity. January experiences chilly conditions, with minimum temperatures dropping to -18°C (0°F) and an average of 3°C (38°F), while September boasts milder weather, with average temperatures around 22°C (72°F) and maximums reaching as high as 37°C (98°F). In terms of precipitation, September is wetter, with 102 mm (4.0 in) falling over about 10 days, compared to January’s 64 mm (2.5 in) over 7 days. Additionally, January's humidity is notably higher at 84%, while September’s humidity is lower at 75%. For more detailed information, you can visit Charlottesville weather in September.

January and October exhibit significantly different weather patterns, reflecting the transition from winter to fall. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -18°C (0°F) with an average of 3°C (38°F) and can peak at 21°C (70°F). The month experiences about 64 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over approximately 7 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 84%.

In contrast, October is milder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to an average of 16°C (62°F) and a maximum reaching 36°C (97°F). This month sees increased precipitation at 114 mm (4.5 in) spread over 10 days, though humidity is slightly lower at 81%. For more detailed insights, you can check out Charlottesville weather in October.

In comparing the weather of January and November, we observe notable differences in temperature and precipitation. January typically experiences a colder range, with minimum temperatures plummeting to -18°C (0°F) and average highs around 3°C (38°F). In contrast, November offers milder conditions, with minimums at -6°C (21°F) and average highs reaching 8°C (47°F), peaking at a warm 26°C (80°F). Precipitation levels are relatively close, with January receiving 64 mm (2.5 in) and November slightly higher at 76 mm (3.0 in), yet both months see precipitation on about 7 days, contributing to a similar humidity level of around 84% in January and 87% in November. For more details, you can visit Charlottesville weather in November.

In Charlottesville, January generally features lower temperatures compared to December, with a minimum of -18°C (0°F) and an average of 3°C (38°F), while December sees slightly warmer temps, ranging from a minimum of -12°C (10°F) and averaging around 5°C (41°F). Both months experience a similar maximum temperature, with January peaking at 21°C (70°F) and December at 22°C (72°F). However, January tends to have slightly less precipitation at 64 mm (2.5 in) over 7 days, compared to December's 91 mm (3.6 in) over 8 days, alongside a similar humidity level of around 84-85%. For a detailed look at December weather patterns, refer to Charlottesville weather in December.

Compare Charlottesville's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Charlottesville

January in Charlottesville presents a stark contrast to the milder months, showcasing a blend of cold temperatures and notable humidity. With maximum highs barely reaching the comfortable 21°C, and chilling lows dipping as low as -18°C, this month certainly brings the winter chill. The average temperature hovers around 3°C, and despite the relatively low total precipitation, rainy days are sparse, with just a week of wet weather. This unique winter climate, characterized by its refreshing crispness and frequent overcast skies, invites residents and visitors alike to embrace the cozy, quiet beauty of the season. For a deeper insight into what to expect throughout the year, explore the detailed Charlottesville Climate.