January Weather in Washington, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

January weather in Washington, United States showcases a striking range of temperatures, with maximums reaching 22°C (71°F) and minimums plunging to -15°C (5°F), averaging around 3°C (37°F). The month experiences significant humidity at 84%, creating a chilly atmosphere, while precipitation totals 61 mm (2.4 in) over approximately 8 days. This blend of cold air and moisture sets the stage for a classic winter landscape, making January a month of both beauty and brisk conditions in the Pacific Northwest.

January Temperature in Washington

In Washington, United States, January ushers in a stark winter chill, with temperatures dipping as low as -15°C (5°F). The month typically sees an average temperature of 3°C (37°F), making it a time for bundling up against the cold. However, January also hints at the variability of the season, with maximum temperatures soaring to 22°C (71°F), allowing for the rare balmy winter day. As the month transitions into February, the cold intensifies further, with even lower minimum temperatures recorded at -16°C (4°F), while the average rises only slightly to 5°C (41°F). Notably, the maximum temperature increases gradually, peaking at 28°C (82°F) by the end of February, suggesting a subtle shift towards warmer days. Overall, January's temperatures reflect a quintessential winter landscape, marked by brisk cold and surprising warmth, paving the way for the eventual thaw as spring approaches.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Washington, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec374146566675807772624740
Data source: Temperature data for Washington 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 Washington

In January, Washington experiences moderate precipitation, with an average of 61 mm (2.4 in) over approximately 8 days. This marks a notable start to the year, setting the stage for a wet winter season. As the months progress, February sees a significant increase, welcoming 98 mm (3.9 in) of rainfall, which hints at the arrival of heavier winter storms. Continuing into March and April, precipitation levels rise further, peaking in May and July, with 127 mm (5.0 in) and 157 mm (6.2 in) respectively, indicating a distinct trend towards wetter conditions in the late spring and summer. This increase in rainfall, especially during the warmer months, contrasts sharply with the drier spell found in fall, where November and December witness lower precipitation, averaging around 81 mm (3.2 in) and 93 mm (3.7 in). Such patterns not only highlight Washington's temperate climate but also underscore the significant variation in precipitation throughout the year, shaping the lush landscapes the state is renowned for.

January Precipitation Trends in Washington

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Washington, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec619887100127118157140951058193
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Washington

January brings a noteworthy humidity level of 84% to Washington, setting the tone for a winter characterized by consistent moisture. This month holds the highest humidity, closely followed by November and December, which both maintain a notable 84% to 85% humidity. As winter transitions to spring, a gradual decline is observed, with April dropping to 81% and May further decreasing to 78%. The summer months witness a continued decrease, with July reaching a low of 74% and August slightly lower at 72%. However, as autumn sets in, humidity levels gradually rise again, revealing the cyclical nature of Washington’s weather. This pattern showcases the city’s overall moist climate, where winter and late fall bring the highest humidity levels, while summer offers a brief respite.

January Average Humidity in Washington

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Washington, 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 Washington

In January, Washington experiences a moderate UV Index of 3, resulting in a burn time of approximately 30 minutes. As winter deepens, the UV levels remain relatively low, providing a buffer against sun damage. However, as the season shifts into February, the UV Index rises slightly to 5, maintaining the moderate category and consistent burn time. The trend becomes more pronounced in March with a jump to a high UV Index of 7, reducing the safe exposure time to 25 minutes. This pattern continues through the spring and summer months, peaking in May and June with a formidable UV Index of 10—the highest rating—where skin can burn in just 15 minutes of exposure. As the year progresses into August and September, the index eases slightly but remains very high, before dropping back to moderate levels in November and December. This annual fluctuation emphasizes the importance of sun protection year-round. For more specifics, explore the Washington UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Washington for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Washington 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec357910101098753
Data source: Washington 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 Washington

In January, Washington, United States, typically enjoys 150 hours of sunshine, a modest start to the year. As the days stretch into February, the sun makes a slightly stronger appearance with 180 hours. The real shift occurs in March and April, where the sunshine peaks at 259 hours, heralding the arrival of spring. May continues this upward trend with 281 hours, and by June and July, residents bask in the bright glow of 330 and 356 hours respectively. However, as summer gives way to autumn, a gradual decline begins; August sees 321 hours, followed by a steady drop to 277 hours in September and 246 hours in October. By November, the sunshine dwindles to 226 hours, and December wraps up the year with a crisp 191 hours. This seasonal pattern showcases Washington’s interplay of warmth and light, creating a rhythm of brightness that captivates its residents throughout the year.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Washington: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Washington 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec150h180h259h259h281h330h356h321h277h246h226h191h
Data source: Washington January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Washington During January

When considering the likelihood of sunny weather in January in Washington, United States, the forecast appears relatively promising with a 45% chance of sun. This figure stands in stark contrast to February's 28%, suggesting a notable dip in sunlight as the month progresses. Interestingly, January's sunny potential exceeds that of several summer months, such as June and August, which sit at 38% and 34% respectively. As spring approaches, the chances improve, peaking in March at 52% before tapering slightly in April. Overall, while January may not guarantee clear skies, it certainly holds an edge over many other winter and even some summer months, hinting at the hopeful signs of brighter days ahead.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Washington

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Washington 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 Washington experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec45%28%53%48%40%38%49%34%53%40%56%37%
Data source: Washington January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Washington in January

In Washington, United States, January ushers in a relatively short daylight duration of 9 hours, setting the stage for a gradual return of light as winter wanes. As the calendar flips to February, daylight extends to 10 hours, hinting at the approaching spring. This trend continues with a notable increase in March, reaching 11 hours, followed by April's more generous 13 hours and May's peak of 14 hours, where daylight begins to plateau during the summer months. Strikingly, June, July, and August maintain this 14-hour mark before beginning their gentle decline. As autumn settles in, daylight recedes to 12 hours in September and diminishes further through October and November, ultimately returning to 9 hours by December. This rhythmic cycle not only illustrates the seasonal shifts, but also highlights the anticipation of longer days as winter gives way to warmer months.

Average Daylight Hours in Washington for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Washington throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 46m10h 44m11h 58m13h 14m14h 18m14h 50m14h 32m13h 36m12h 23m11h 7m10h 1m9h 28m
Data source: Washington daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Washington

In January, Washington experiences an average wind speed of 3.0 m/s (7 mph), marking the transitional chill of winter that sets the tone for the month. As the year progresses, there is a noticeable gradual rise in wind speed, peaking at 3.3 m/s (7 mph) in both March and April, indicating the arrival of spring. However, the wind's vigor begins to wane as summer approaches, with speeds dropping to a gentle 2.2 m/s (5 mph) in July, reflecting the calmer, warmer months. This trend of diminishing wind continues into August and September, before slightly rebounding in the autumn months of October and November, where speeds hover around 2.8 to 2.9 m/s (6 mph). As winter returns in December, the wind speed stabilizes to 2.8 m/s (6 mph), completing a cycle where the winds mirror the rhythms of the seasons in Washington.

Average January Wind Speed in Washington

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Washington, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.0 m/s3.23.33.32.82.52.21.92.62.82.92.8
Data source: Washington January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Washington Compares to Other Months

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

January weather typically features a temperature range with a minimum of -15°C (5°F) and an average of 3°C (37°F), while February sees slightly cooler minimums at -16°C (4°F) but a higher average of 5°C (41°F). Notably, February also experiences warmer maximum temperatures, reaching up to 28°C (82°F), compared to January's peak of 22°C (71°F). Precipitation increases in February with 98 mm (3.9 in) over 11 days, in contrast to January's 61 mm (2.4 in) over 8 days. Humidity remains similar, with January at 84% and February slightly lower at 83%. For more detailed information, visit Washington weather in February.

In January, the weather is considerably colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -15°C (5°F) to a maximum of 22°C (71°F) and an average of 3°C (37°F). The month sees an average precipitation of 61 mm (2.4 in) over about 8 days, with humidity levels at 84%. In contrast, March experiences a milder climate, where temperatures fluctuate between a minimum of -7°C (20°F) and a maximum of 28°C (83°F), averaging at 8°C (46°F). Precipitation increases to 87 mm (3.4 in), occurring on about 10 days, while humidity drops slightly to 83%. For more detailed information, you can refer to Washington weather in March.

January and April showcase distinct contrasts in weather patterns. In January, temperatures can drop as low as -15°C (5°F), with an average temperature of around 3°C (37°F) and a maximum reaching 22°C (71°F). The month sees about 61 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over 8 days, coupled with relatively high humidity at 84%. In contrast, April brings milder conditions, with minimum temperatures of -2°C (28°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F), peaking at a warm 32°C (91°F). Precipitation increases to 100 mm (4.0 in) spread over 11 days, and humidity slightly decreases to 81%. For a detailed look at what to expect, check out Washington weather in April.

In January, temperatures can drop significantly, with a minimum of -15°C (5°F) and an average of 3°C (37°F), while the maximum reaches a mild 22°C (71°F). The month experiences 61 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over 8 days, contributing to a chilly and humid climate with 84% humidity. In contrast, May brings much warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to an average of 19°C (66°F), peaking at 34°C (94°F). The month sees increased precipitation at 127 mm (5.0 in), spread over 13 days, and slightly lower humidity at 78%. For more details about typical weather conditions, you can check Washington weather in May.

January and June present contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plunge as low as -15°C (5°F), with an average of 3°C (37°F) and a maximum of 22°C (71°F). The month experiences about 61 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over 8 days, accompanied by high humidity at 84%. In stark contrast, June features a much milder climate with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 9°C (48°F) to a maximum of 36°C (98°F) and an average temperature of 24°C (75°F). This month sees increased precipitation, totaling 118 mm (4.7 in) over 12 days, while humidity decreases slightly to 79%. For more detailed information, you can check Washington weather in June.

In January, temperatures in Washington range from a chilly minimum of -15°C (5°F) to a comfortable maximum of 22°C (71°F), with an average temperature of around 3°C (37°F). This month experiences about 61 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over 8 days, accompanied by high humidity at 84%. In contrast, July boasts significantly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 15°C (59°F) and an average temperature soaring to 27°C (81°F). The maximum can reach a sweltering 38°C (101°F), and precipitation increases to 157 mm (6.2 in) across 12 days, though humidity drops to a more comfortable 74%. For more insights into July weather, visit Washington weather in July.

January and August present starkly different weather experiences. In January, temperatures can plummet as low as -15°C (5°F), with average highs around 3°C (37°F) and an overall chilly atmosphere characterized by high humidity at 84%. This winter month also sees a modest degree of precipitation, averaging 61 mm (2.4 in) over about 8 days. In contrast, August brings warmth and humidity, with a minimum temperature of 14°C (58°F) and average highs reaching 25°C (77°F), peaking at a sweltering 37°C (99°F). August experiences more rain, totaling 140 mm (5.5 in) over approximately 15 days, but with a lower humidity level of 72%. For more detailed insights into August weather, check out Washington weather in August.

The weather in January and September presents stark contrasts. In January, temperatures can dip as low as -15°C (5°F), with an average of around 3°C (37°F) and a maximum of 22°C (71°F), accompanied by high humidity at 84%. Precipitation is moderate, with around 61 mm (2.4 in) spread over approximately 8 days. In contrast, September sees a significant uptick in warmth, with minimum temperatures around 5°C (42°F), an average high of 22°C (72°F), and peaks reaching up to 36°C (97°F). September also experiences increased precipitation at 95 mm (3.8 in) over 11 days, but the humidity decreases to 75%. This seasonal shift highlights the transition from the frigidness of winter to the warmth of late summer. For more detailed weather information, check out Washington weather in September.

January and October present stark contrasts in weather conditions. January features frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -15°C (5°F) and an average of just 3°C (37°F), while October enjoys milder weather, showcasing a minimum of 1°C (34°F) and an average of 17°C (62°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in October, totaling 104 mm (4.1 in) over 9 days compared to January's 61 mm (2.4 in) over 8 days. Additionally, humidity remains relatively high in both months, with January at 84% and October at 81%. To explore more about October weather specifically, check out Washington weather in October.

In comparison to January, November presents a significantly milder climate, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 25°C (78°F), compared to January's colder extremes between -15°C (5°F) and 22°C (71°F). While both months experience a similar number of rainy days—7 days in November and 8 days in January—November's precipitation is slightly higher, totaling 81 mm (3.2 in) compared to January's 61 mm (2.4 in). Additionally, humidity levels are comparable, with January at 84% and November slightly higher at 85%. For a closer look at the specifics of November weather, you can check out Washington weather in November.

January and December in Washington, D.C. exhibit notable similarities and differences in weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of -10°C (13°F) to a maximum of 20°C (69°F), with an average temperature of 5°C (41°F) and slightly higher precipitation at 93 mm (3.7 in) over 9 days. In contrast, January experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -15°C (5°F) and a maximum of 22°C (71°F), resulting in an average of 3°C (37°F). Precipitation in January is slightly lower at 61 mm (2.4 in) over 8 days. Interestingly, both months maintain a consistent humidity level of 84%. For more detailed information on December weather, you can visit Washington weather in December.

Compare Washington's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Washington

January in Washington offers a stark contrast to other months, with its chilly temperatures and heightened humidity creating a unique wintry atmosphere. While the city experiences occasional peaks of warmth, the average cold sets in, leading to an increased likelihood of precipitation and overcast days. With a combination of brisk winds and a notable 84% humidity, January is a time when residents feel the full force of winter. This month’s weather can serve as a reminder of the seasonal shifts that define Washington throughout the year, making it all the more memorable. For a comprehensive overview of Washington's diverse climate, be sure to check out Washington Climate.