January Weather in Port Townsend, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

January in Port Townsend brings a cool and crisp maritime climate, characterized by a maximum temperature of 13°C (55°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F). However, chilly nights can dip to a minimum of -4°C (26°F), reminding residents of winter's grip. This month sees about 160 mm (6.3 in) of precipitation over 17 days, contributing to the region's lush landscapes. With humidity hovering around 86%, the air often feels damp, making for an atmosphere rich in moisture. Whether you're exploring the charming streets or enjoying the scenic waterfront, January’s weather sets a serene backdrop for both locals and visitors.

January Temperature in Port Townsend

In January, Port Townsend experiences a chilly embrace, with temperatures ranging from a brisk -4°C (26°F) at night to a mild 13°C (55°F) during the day. The average temperature sits at around 6°C (43°F), suggesting that while the winter scene may be cold, it is not overly harsh. This trend of cool temperatures continues into February, where the minimum dips slightly to -6°C (22°F), but the daily highs remain steady at 13°C (55°F). As spring approaches, temperatures begin their gradual upward trajectory; by March, nighttime lows rise to 0°C (32°F) and daily averages reach 7°C (45°F). This pattern of warming continues through April and May, drawing the region into more comfortable temperatures, ultimately reaching max highs of 22°C (71°F) by late spring. The trend clearly reflects the transition from winter's chill into the blossoming warmth of early summer, creating an inviting atmosphere for visitors and residents alike.

January Weather in Port Townsend: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Port Townsend, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec434144485458626359524743
Data source: Temperature data for Port Townsend 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 Port Townsend

January in Port Townsend sees a significant average precipitation of 160 mm (6.3 in), marking it as one of the wetter months of the year. With 17 days of rainfall, this month sets the tone for a damp winter, closely following the trend established in November and December, which also experience heavy rainfall, each with 187 mm (7.4 in). While February is slightly drier with 157 mm (6.2 in), the overall precipitation gradually decreases as the seasons transition into spring, culminating in a notable drop by July and August when the totals plunge to 58 mm (2.3 in) and 51 mm (2.0 in), respectively. This cyclical pattern highlights Port Townsend’s characteristic maritime climate, where rainfall is abundant in the cooler months, providing a lush landscape that transforms into a drier summer that invites outdoor activities and exploration.

January Precipitation Trends in Port Townsend

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Port Townsend, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec160157131124911265851129155187187
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Port Townsend

In January, Port Townsend experiences its highest humidity levels of the year at 86%, reflecting the region's characteristic dampness during winter. As the months progress into February and March, humidity remains relatively stable, dipping slightly to 84% and 85%, respectively. By April, a modest decrease is noted, falling to 83%, and this lower trend continues until July, when humidity reaches its annual low of 82%. However, as summer wanes, the moisture content begins to rise again, with August and September showing moderate levels at 73% and 74%. The humidity climbs back up in the fall, peaking again by November at 86% and slightly higher in December at 87%. This pattern highlights a distinct seasonal cycle, where the winter and late fall months maintain a consistently high humidity, while summer offers a brief respite.

January Average Humidity in Port Townsend

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Port Townsend, 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 Port Townsend

In January, Port Townsend experiences a low UV Index of 2, allowing for a burn time of 45 minutes before sun protection is needed. As the months progress, the UV Index values begin to climb, reaching moderate levels by February and March, where the burn time decreases to just 30 minutes. April ushers in a shift to a high UV Index of 6 and a shorter burn time of 25 minutes. By May and June, the situation intensifies, with UV Index readings hitting 8 and 9—marked as very high—and burn times plunging to just 15 minutes. This trend continues through July and August, before tapering down in September to a high index of 7. As we enter the fall months, the UV Index dips back to moderate and further to low by November and December, once again allowing for longer exposure times. This seasonal pattern highlights the importance of adapting sun protection strategies throughout the year. For more details, visit Port Townsend UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Port Townsend for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Port Townsend 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: Port Townsend 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 Port Townsend

In Port Townsend, the sun gradually awakens from its winter slumber, shining for a modest 84 hours in January. As February rolls around, the days grow noticeably longer with 141 hours of sunshine, heralding the approach of spring. By March, the allure of brighter days takes hold, with 213 hours that gently coax residents outdoors. April brings even more warmth, totaling 243 hours of sunshine, while May peaks at 329 hours, a clear signal that summer is on the horizon. The trend continues, reaching the peak in July with an impressive 382 hours, before gradually tapering off into late summer and fall. By August, daylight starts to retreat with 344 hours, followed by a more significant decline in the months ahead, as September offers 262 hours. The year closes with October's 197 hours, leading into a quieter season of 126 hours in November and a mere 97 hours in December. This pattern illustrates a vibrant cycle, where daylight dances between the lengths of summer and the tranquility of winter, inviting residents to revel in the beauty of each season.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Port Townsend: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Port Townsend 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec84h141h213h243h329h339h382h344h262h197h126h97h
Data source: Port Townsend January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Port Townsend During January

In Port Townsend, January presents a challenging outlook for those hoping to bask in the sun, with a mere 15% chance of sunny weather. This figure underscores the trend of winter months yielding lower probabilities of clear skies, as daylight gradually increases from February's 22% towards the sunnier seasons. By the time spring rolls around in April, the likelihood of sunshine nearly doubles to 49%, revealing a clear upward trajectory. The trend continues into summer, where July boasts a 59% chance of sunny days, making it the peak of the year for those seeking warm, sunlit moments. Thus, if you're yearning for sunlight, it’s best to wait until the later months, when the weather shifts towards brighter and more inviting days.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Port Townsend

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Port Townsend 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 Port Townsend experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec15%22%31%49%40%51%59%47%36%25%16%14%
Data source: Port Townsend January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Port Townsend in January

In Port Townsend, United States, January ushers in a modest 8 hours of daylight, setting the tone for the gradual lengthening of days as winter melds into spring. By February, daylight extends to 10 hours, hinting at the rejuvenation of the season ahead. This upward trend continues, culminating in 13 hours by April and peaking at 15 hours during the summer months of May through July, offering ample sunlight for outdoor activities and natural beauty immersion. As summer wanes, daylight begins to recede, with 14 hours in August tapering off to 12 hours in September.** October** brings a further decline to 10 hours, while November and December close the year with 9 and 8 hours, respectively, as the cycle turns once again toward winter's embrace. This rhythm of daylight serves as a reminder of nature's cyclical dance, offering both a measure of time and a canvas for seasonal change.

Average Daylight Hours in Port Townsend for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Port Townsend 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 14m8h 26m
Data source: Port Townsend daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Port Townsend

In January, Port Townsend experiences an average wind speed of 4.0 m/s (9 mph), setting a brisk tone for the winter months. As the season transitions, February and March both see a slight drop in wind intensity to 3.3 m/s (7 mph), creating a more tranquil atmosphere. The trend continues into April and May, where winds calm further, averaging 2.4 m/s (5 mph) and 2.5 m/s (6 mph), respectively. This gentle breeze carries into the summer months, with the lowest speeds noted in July at 2.2 m/s (5 mph). However, as autumn approaches, October brings a resurgence in wind, reaching 3.8 m/s (8 mph), and November follows suit with an average of 4.3 m/s (10 mph), marking a return to the winter-like conditions felt in January. December closes the year back at 4.0 m/s (9 mph), illustrating a cyclical pattern where winter winds bookend the year with refreshing vigor, while spring and summer offer a more serene experience.

Average January Wind Speed in Port Townsend

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Port Townsend, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.0 m/s3.33.32.42.52.62.22.32.83.84.34.0
Data source: Port Townsend January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Port Townsend Compares to Other Months

The weather in Port Townsend 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 Port Townsend and find detailed weather information for every month.

January and February exhibit similar maximum temperatures, both reaching up to 13°C (55°F), but January tends to be slightly milder on average at 6°C (43°F) compared to February's average of 5°C (41°F). Both months see significant precipitation, with January receiving 160 mm (6.3 in) over 17 days, while February has a slightly lower total of 157 mm (6.2 in) across 21 days, indicating more frequent but perhaps lighter rain. Additionally, January holds higher humidity levels at 86%, compared to February's 84%. For more specific details about February weather in this region, check out Port Townsend weather in February.

January and March present distinctive weather patterns that reflect the transition from winter to spring. In January, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a comfortable maximum of 13°C (55°F), with an average of 6°C (43°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 160 mm (6.3 in) over 17 days, accompanied by high humidity at 86%. In contrast, March experiences slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and a maximum reaching up to 19°C (67°F), averaging 7°C (45°F). Precipitation decreases to 131 mm (5.1 in) over 18 days, while humidity remains comparable at 85%. For more detailed information, check out Port Townsend weather in March.

In January, the weather tends to be much colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 13°C (55°F), averaging around 6°C (43°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 160 mm (6.3 in) over approximately 17 days, combined with a high humidity level of 86%. In contrast, April brings a noticeable warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (37°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), averaging 9°C (49°F). While April has slightly less precipitation at 124 mm (4.9 in) over 16 days, the humidity decreases to 83%, contributing to a more pleasant spring atmosphere. For more details on the specific conditions, check out Port Townsend weather in April.

January and May present a striking contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can drop to a minimum of -4°C (26°F), with an average of 6°C (43°F) and a maximum of 13°C (55°F). This month is also characterized by significant rainfall, totaling 160 mm (6.3 in) over 17 days, paired with high humidity at 86%. In contrast, May enjoys milder temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (42°F), an average of 12°C (54°F), and a maximum of 22°C (71°F). Precipitation in May is notably lower, at 91 mm (3.6 in) over just 13 days, and humidity remains relatively high at 84%. For more insights into what to expect, you can visit Port Townsend weather in May.

January weather is characterized by colder temperatures with a minimum of -4°C (26°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), peaking at a maximum of 13°C (55°F). With 160 mm (6.3 in) of precipitation over 17 days and high humidity levels at 86%, January feels quite damp and chilly. In contrast, June offers a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), and an average of 15°C (58°F). Precipitation is lower at 125 mm (4.9 in) over 15 days, and humidity is slightly reduced at 84%, creating a more comfortable and pleasant atmosphere. For more information, check out Port Townsend weather in June.

January and July present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures range from a chilly -4°C (26°F) at night to a mild 13°C (55°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 6°C (43°F). This month sees significant precipitation, totaling 160 mm (6.3 in) over 17 days, and higher humidity levels at 86%. Conversely, July boasts warmer temperatures, with nighttime lows of 11°C (52°F) and daytime highs reaching 25°C (77°F), averaging around 17°C (62°F). The precipitation in July is notably lower at 58 mm (2.3 in) over just 10 days, accompanied by a slight decrease in humidity to 82%. For more detailed insights, you can check the Port Townsend weather in July.

In January, weather conditions are much colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 13°C (55°F) and an average of just 6°C (43°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 160 mm (6.3 in) over 17 days, and humidity levels remain high at 86%. In stark contrast, August experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (52°F), an average of 17°C (63°F), and a maximum reaching 27°C (81°F). Precipitation is considerably lower in August at 51 mm (2.0 in), occurring over just 8 days, and humidity levels are also reduced to 73%. For a more detailed look at August weather, you can visit Port Townsend weather in August.

In January, the weather is notably colder with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 13°C (55°F), while September enjoys a milder climate, featuring minimum temperatures of 9°C (48°F) and maximums reaching 24°C (76°F). January experiences higher precipitation levels, with about 160 mm (6.3 in) over 17 days, compared to September's 129 mm (5.1 in) spread over 15 days. Additionally, January's humidity sits at a brisk 86%, contrasting with the more comfortable 74% humidity in September. For more detailed insights, check out Port Townsend weather in September.

January and October present distinct differences in weather patterns. In January, temperatures can dip to a minimum of -4°C (26°F) and typically hover around an average of 6°C (43°F), with a maximum of only 13°C (55°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 160 mm (6.3 in) over approximately 17 days, along with high humidity levels at 86%. In contrast, October offers milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a comfortable maximum of 21°C (69°F) and an average of 11°C (52°F). Precipitation is slightly less at 155 mm (6.1 in), occurring over 18 days, with humidity slightly lower at 83%. For a more detailed look at weather patterns during this month, you can check Port Townsend weather in October.

When comparing the weather in January and November, January tends to be colder with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 13°C (55°F), while November experiences milder conditions with temperatures varying from a minimum of 1°C (35°F) to a maximum of 16°C (61°F). Precipitation levels are higher in November, with 187 mm (7.4 in) over 20 days compared to January's 160 mm (6.3 in) over 17 days. Interestingly, both months share a consistent humidity level of 86%, contributing to a damp and cool atmosphere. For more detailed insights, you can check Port Townsend weather in November.

In comparing the weather between January and December, we see some notable similarities and differences. Both months have an average temperature of 6°C (43°F) and maximum highs reaching 13°C (55°F). However, January tends to be slightly milder at its minimum temperature of -4°C (26°F) compared to December's -5°C (23°F). Precipitation levels are higher in December, with 187 mm (7.4 in) spread over 21 days, while January sees 160 mm (6.3 in) over 17 days. Both months experience high humidity, with December being marginally higher at 87% versus January's 86%. For more detailed weather information, you can check Port Townsend weather in December.

Compare Port Townsend's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Port Townsend

January in Port Townsend brings a distinct chill and a significant boost in precipitation compared to other months. With average temperatures hovering around 6°C (43°F), this time of year often feels brisk and damp, as the region experiences approximately 17 days of rain and high humidity levels of 86%. Unlike the milder and drier summer months, January requires a warmer wardrobe and an umbrella at the ready. If you're curious about how Port Townsend's climate shifts throughout the year, explore more here: Port Townsend Climate.