January Weather in Forks, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

In January, Forks, Washington experiences a cool coastal climate characterized by moderate temperatures and notable precipitation. The maximum daily temperature reaches around 14°C (57°F), while the average lingers at a brisk 6°C (44°F), sometimes dipping to a chilly minimum of -2°C (28°F). This month sees an impressive total of 281 mm (11.1 in) of rainfall spread over 18 days, contributing to the region's lush, green landscape. Coupled with a high average humidity of 86%, January can feel particularly damp, offering a true taste of the Pacific Northwest's winter weather.

January Temperature in Forks

In January, Forks, United States experiences a chill as temperatures hover between -2°C (28°F) at night and rise to an average of 6°C (44°F) during the day, peaking at 14°C (57°F). This month marks the heart of winter, with temperatures just slightly warmer than December's lows. As winter progresses into February, the air remains crisp, with a slight dip in the average temperature to 5°C (41°F). However, the transition to March shows a promising increase, as temperatures rise, hinting at the approaching spring. Notably, January's weather pattern establishes a consistent cycle, where chilly nights and mild days dominate, paving the way for a gradual warming trend that can be felt as the months advance. This cycle not only shapes the local climate but also influences the everyday life of the residents, who bundle up to embrace the winter wonderland.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Forks, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec434144485256585957514743
Data source: Temperature data for Forks 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 Forks

January is typically the wettest month in Forks, United States, with an impressive 281 mm (11.1 in) of precipitation recorded over 18 rainy days. This marks a sharp contrast to the drier summer months, particularly July and August, where rainfall dramatically decreases to just 23 mm (0.9 in) and 25 mm (1.0 in), respectively. Following January, February also shows significant moisture at 189 mm (7.5 in), maintaining the winter's wet reputation, but as spring approaches, precipitation gradually declines, with March and April bringing 181 mm (7.1 in) and 153 mm (6.0 in), respectively. Notably, November emerges as another peak month with 336 mm (13.2 in), highlighting a seasonal pattern of increased rainfall during the fall and winter months, contrasting sharply with the drier summer season. This cyclical trend emphasizes Forks' characteristic climate, where moisture ebbs and flows, shaping the local landscape and ecosystem.

January Precipitation Trends in Forks

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Forks, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec28118918115368612325131219336293
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Forks

In Forks, United States, January witnesses a notably high humidity level of 86%, setting the tone for a month characterized by dampness and cool conditions. This trend of elevated humidity continues in the following months, with figures hovering around the mid-80s before gradually tapering off in the warmer summer months. July and August offer a respite, with humidity dipping to 82% and 73% respectively, providing a brief reprieve from the otherwise moist climate. However, as autumn approaches, humidity levels begin to rise again, culminating in December's peak at 87%. Overall, Forks experiences a fairly consistent pattern of high humidity, particularly in the winter and late fall, painting a picture of a lush, vibrant environment throughout the year.

January Average Humidity in Forks

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Forks, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec86%84%85%83%84%84%82%73%74%83%86%87%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Forks

In Forks, Washington, the January UV Index stands at 2, indicating a low exposure category, which means you can enjoy outdoor activities with minimal risk of sunburn—around 45 minutes of sun exposure is safe. As the months progress to February and March, the UV Index gradually rises to 3 and 5, respectively, shifting into the moderate exposure category, where burn times drop to 30 minutes.

The spring months of April and May usher in higher UV levels, peaking at 8 in May—characterized as very high with only 15 minutes before sunburn can occur. Onward into summer, the UV Index remains notably high at 9 for June and July, emphasizing the need for protective measures while enjoying the sunshine. As summer transitions into fall, the index begins to decline, with September marking a high level at 7 and then tapering back down to low levels by November and December, maintaining a consistent 2 throughout winter months. For detailed information on UV trends in your area, visit Forks UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Forks for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Forks 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec235689987522
Data source: Forks 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 Forks

In Forks, United States, January begins the year with a modest 76 hours of sunshine, a stark contrast to the vibrant months that follow. As winter gives way to spring, sunlight gradually increases, reaching 134 hours in February and 206 hours in March. By April, the days grow longer, accumulating 227 hours of sunlight, paving the way for a brilliant May that boasts 299 hours. The trend continues its ascent, peaking in July with an impressive 339 hours of sunshine, making it the sunniest month of the year. As summer wanes, sunlight begins to decrease, with August featuring 312 hours before gradually tapering off to 240 hours in September. The downward trend persists into the final months of the year, closing with a mere 98 hours in December. This annual cycle showcases a vibrant interplay between the seasons, bursting with sunlight in the summer and retreating into the cool embrace of winter.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Forks: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Forks 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec76h134h206h227h299h319h339h312h240h187h117h98h
Data source: Forks January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Forks During January

In January, Forks, Washington experiences a relatively low 17% chance of sunny weather, marking one of the cloudier months of the year. As winter transitions into spring, the likelihood of sunshine gradually increases, rising to 22% in February and reaching 28% in March. This upward trend continues into April, where residents can expect 45% sunny days, signaling a welcome shift towards brighter weather. However, May sees a decline, with sunny conditions dropping to 26%. The summer months show fluctuations as well, with July and August maintaining a 31% chance of sun. Ultimately, as autumn approaches, the likelihood of sunny days dips again, culminating in a mere 14% in November. Overall, while January isn't the sunniest month in Forks, it sets the stage for a gradual increase in sunshine as the year progresses.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Forks

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Forks 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 Forks experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec17%22%28%45%26%38%31%31%27%25%14%19%
Data source: Forks January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Forks in January

In Forks, United States, January greets residents with a limited 8 hours of daylight, a stark contrast to the longer days that follow. As winter fades into February, daylight stretches to 10 hours, hinting at the gradual transition to spring. By March, the days continue to lengthen, reaching 11 hours, providing a welcome increase in sunlight. The trend accelerates in April, where daylight reaches 13 hours, and peaks in the lush months of May through July, boasting a consistent 15 hours. As summer gives way to fall, daylight begins to recede, descending to 14 hours in August and gradually tapering off to 12 hours in September. By the year's end, daylight dwindles back to 10 hours in October, and then to 9 hours in November, before returning to the familiar 8 hours of January. This cyclical rhythm showcases the enchanting dance of seasons in Forks, where each month ebbs and flows with shifting light.

Average Daylight Hours in Forks for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Forks throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 52m10h 15m11h 57m13h 41m15h 11m15h 57m15h 31m14h 10m12h 30m10h 46m9h 13m8h 26m
Data source: Forks daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Forks

In Forks, Washington, the January winds blow steadily at an average speed of 4.8 m/s (or 11 mph), setting the tone for the month. As winter transitions into spring, wind speeds experience slight fluctuations, peaking in November at 5.3 m/s (12 mph) before tapering off in the summer months, where the winds calm to their lowest at 2.7 m/s (6 mph) in July. Notably, as the seasons shift from summer to fall, we see a gradual increase in wind speeds again, with October showing a brisk 4.6 m/s (10 mph). The trend reveals a dynamic interplay of seasonal winds, making January’s gusts a compelling prelude to the more blustery days ahead.

Average January Wind Speed in Forks

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Forks, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.8 m/s5.04.43.03.23.12.72.83.54.65.34.9
Data source: Forks January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Forks Compares to Other Months

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

In comparing the weather between January and February, we see a slight decline in temperatures. January experiences a minimum temperature of -2°C (28°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F), while February sees a minimal drop to -3°C (28°F) with an average temperature of 5°C (41°F). The maximum temperatures also decrease slightly, from 14°C (57°F) in January to 13°C (55°F) in February.

Precipitation in January is significantly higher at 281 mm (11.1 in) compared to February's 189 mm (7.5 in), although both months see rainfall on about 18 days. Humidity levels are fairly consistent, with January at 86% and February slightly lower at 84%. Overall, February tends to be somewhat cooler and drier than January. For more details, check Forks weather in February.

In January, the weather is cooler with temperatures ranging from a low of -2°C (28°F) to a high of 14°C (57°F), along with significant precipitation of 281 mm (11.1 in) over 18 days and high humidity at 86%. In contrast, March brings slightly milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from 0°C (32°F) to 20°C (69°F). Precipitation decreases to 181 mm (7.1 in) while maintaining the same number of rainy days, 18, and a slightly lower humidity level of 85%. For more details on the weather patterns during this time, you can check Forks weather in March.

In January, temperatures in Forks typically range from a chilly -2°C (28°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), with an average of 6°C (44°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, with 281 mm (11.1 in) falling over 18 days, and humidity levels peaking at 86%. In contrast, April brings milder weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (35°F) to a comfortable maximum of 22°C (72°F) and an average of 9°C (48°F). Precipitation decreases to 153 mm (6.0 in) across 16 days, and humidity slightly lowers to 83%. For a more detailed look at April's weather, check out Forks weather in April.

In January, the weather is quite cold, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -2°C (28°F) to a moderate 14°C (57°F), averaging around 6°C (44°F). This month is also characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 281 mm (11.1 in) over approximately 18 days, and the humidity remains high at 86%. In contrast, May brings a much milder climate, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 4°C (40°F) and reaching up to 24°C (76°F), averaging 11°C (52°F). Precipitation decreases significantly to 68 mm (2.7 in) across just 9 days, and humidity slightly drops to 84%. For more details on May weather, you can check out Forks weather in May.

In January, Forks experiences cold temperatures with a minimum of -2°C (28°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F), peaking at 14°C (57°F). This month is also characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 281 mm (11.1 in) over approximately 18 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 86%. In contrast, June brings much warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (44°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F) and an average of 13°C (56°F). Rainfall decreases significantly to 61 mm (2.4 in) over about 10 days, and humidity remains relatively low at 84%. For a detailed look at June weather patterns, visit Forks weather in June.

January and July present starkly contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures range from a chilly -2°C (28°F) to a mild 14°C (57°F), with an average of 6°C (44°F). This month is characterized by frequent precipitation, averaging 281 mm (11.1 in) over 18 days, and high humidity levels at 86%. In contrast, July offers a much warmer climate, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 9°C (48°F) and peaking at 24°C (76°F), averaging around 14°C (58°F). The summer month sees only a slight 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain over just 5 days, accompanied by a lower humidity of 82%. For more details on July weather specifics, visit Forks weather in July.

January and August present striking contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can dip as low as -2°C (28°F) and reach a maximum of 14°C (57°F), with an average of 6°C (44°F). This month also experiences significant precipitation, totaling 281 mm (11.1 in) over 18 days, combined with high humidity levels at 86%. In contrast, August showcases a much warmer climate, with minimum temperatures around 9°C (49°F) and highs soaring to 30°C (86°F), resulting in an average temperature of 15°C (59°F). Precipitation is markedly lower in August at just 25 mm (1.0 in) across only 4 days, with humidity decreasing to 73%. For more detailed insights into August weather, you can check Forks weather in August.

In January, the weather is characterized by chilly temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (28°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F), peaking at a mild 14°C (57°F). Additionally, the month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 281 mm (11.1 in) over 18 days, and high humidity at 86%. In contrast, September enjoys much warmer conditions, where temperatures range from a minimum of 6°C (43°F) to a comfortable average of 14°C (58°F), with maximums reaching up to 27°C (82°F). Precipitation in September is lighter, with 131 mm (5.1 in) falling over just 11 days, and humidity drops to 74%. For a closer look at the September forecast, check out Forks weather in September.

January and October in Forks showcase distinct differences in weather patterns. January typically experiences colder temperatures, with minimums dipping to -2°C (28°F) and an average of 6°C (44°F), while October's temperatures range from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to an average of 11°C (51°F). Precipitation is more prevalent in January, totalling 281 mm (11.1 in) over approximately 18 days, compared to October's 219 mm (8.6 in) across 15 days. Humidity levels are fairly consistent, with January sitting at 86% and October at 83%, but the overall climate in October feels milder and less severe. For more detailed information, check out the Forks weather in October.

When comparing the weather in January and November, notable differences emerge. January tends to be colder, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C (28°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F), whereas November sees milder temperatures, with averages between 1°C (33°F) and 16°C (60°F). Precipitation levels are also higher in November, totaling 336 mm (13.2 in) over 19 days, compared to January's 281 mm (11.1 in) over 18 days. Interestingly, both months share a high humidity level of 86%, which contributes to the overall dampness typical of this time of year. For more specific information, you can explore Forks weather in November.

In comparing the weather between January and December, both months exhibit similar average temperatures, with January showing a minimum of -2°C (28°F) and a maximum of 14°C (57°F), while December has a slightly cooler minimum of -4°C (24°F) and a maximum of 13°C (56°F). Precipitation levels are slightly higher in December, totaling 293 mm (11.5 in) over 20 days compared to January's 281 mm (11.1 in) over 18 days. Humidity levels are fairly consistent, with January at 86% and December slightly higher at 87%. For more detailed information about December weather, you can check Forks weather in December.

Compare Forks's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Forks

January in Forks brings a notable contrast to the milder months, characterized by its significantly cooler temperatures and frequent precipitation. With an average temperature hovering around 6°C (44°F) and a high of 14°C (57°F), residents and visitors often experience a raw chill. The month sees around 18 days of rain, contributing to a lush landscape, but also increasing the humidity to a muggy 86%, leaving the air feeling more saturated than during drier months. This combination of coolness and moisture makes January a unique time in Forks, setting the stage for the rich, vibrant greenery that followers the winter months. For more insight into how January compares to other seasons, check out our detailed analysis at Forks Climate.