January Weather in Vermont, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

January in Vermont showcases a stark yet captivating winter landscape, where temperatures fluctuate dramatically from a maximum of 11°C (51°F) to a bone-chilling minimum of -32°C (-26°F). The average temperature hovers around -6°C (21°F), creating an environment perfect for frosty adventures. Residents and visitors alike can expect about 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over an average of 8 days, contributing to the state's picturesque snow-covered scenery. With humidity levels reaching 85%, January envelops Vermont in a crisp, refreshing atmosphere that embodies the essence of winter.

January Temperature in Vermont

In January, Vermont experiences its coldest temperatures, with averages hovering around -6°C (21°F), while nighttime lows can plummet to a frigid -32°C (-26°F). Despite the chill, warmer spells occasionally push daytime highs to 11°C (51°F), hinting at the promise of milder days to come. This trend of fluctuating temperatures continues into February, where milder highs of 20°C (69°F) present a stark contrast against the biting low of -33°C (-26°F). As the seasons transition, March signals a gentle warming with averages rising to 2°C (36°F) and maximums reaching 23°C (73°F), showcasing a clear trajectory towards spring. This noticeable shift indicates a gradual escape from the depths of winter, with each month in Vermont delighting residents and visitors with the dynamic dance of cold and warmth.

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

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Vermont, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec212236466071757165513629
Data source: Temperature data for Vermont 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 Vermont

In January, Vermont experiences a modest precipitation total of 50 mm (2.0 in) over approximately 8 days. This sets the stage for a gradual increase in wet weather as the year unfolds, with February following closely at 56 mm (2.2 in) and 9 days of precipitation. Notably, precipitation begins to peak in the spring months, particularly in April with 93 mm (3.7 in), as the landscape awakens from winter's grip. Interestingly, while precipitation increases, the number of rainy days remains relatively stable during these months, suggesting that January's snowfall is not just a precursor to melting but also an essential contributor to Vermont's overall hydrological cycle throughout the year. As the seasons progress, May emerges as the wettest month, highlighting a trend where spring transitions into summer with increasingly abundant moisture.

January Precipitation Trends in Vermont

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Vermont, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec50565893135123871131191174344
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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January Humidity in Vermont

In January, Vermont experiences a notably high humidity level of 85%, a trend that extends into February and March, maintaining a consistent moisture in the air. This sustained humidity creates a chilly, often damp atmosphere during the heart of winter, which gradually eases as spring approaches. By April, humidity remains at 85%, but as the warmer months draw near, it begins to taper off slightly, dipping to 78% in May and reaching a low of 76% in August. Interestingly, the humidity begins to climb again in the fall, peaking in November at 88%, before closing the year with a more moderate 81% in December. This cycle illustrates Vermont's humid climate, varying seasonally but presenting a particularly damp start to the year.

January Average Humidity in Vermont

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Vermont, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec85%85%85%85%78%80%78%76%79%83%88%82%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Vermont

In January, Vermont experiences a moderate UV Index of 3, which allows for a burn time of about 30 minutes with unprotected skin. As winter transitions into spring, this index rises incrementally, peaking in the warmer months. By March, it reaches a height of 5, indicating an increase in sun exposure as the snow begins to melt and days grow longer. The trend continues sharply, hitting 8 in April and soaring to a maximum of 10 in June and July, where the burn time decreases to a mere 15 minutes. After the summer months, the UV Index gradually declines, dropping back to 5 in October and ending the year with a low index of 2 in December. This seasonal fluctuation highlights the importance of sun protection throughout the year. To learn more about UV levels and how to stay safe, visit Vermont UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Vermont for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Vermont 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec34589101098532
Data source: Vermont 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 Vermont

In Vermont, January starts the year with 126 hours of sunshine, a stark contrast to the brighter months that follow. As winter yields to spring, the sun begins to make its presence felt, increasing to 194 hours in February and further climbing to 228 hours in March. This progressive rise continues into April, peaking at 237 hours, marking a rejuvenation of daylight as nature awakens. The warmth of May heralds 264 hours, leading into the sunniest months of summer, with July basking in an impressive 356 hours. Even as temperatures begin to cool in August, Vermont still enjoys an abundance of sunshine (330 hours), before gradually retreating to 262 hours in September. The descent continues into the fall and winter months, with November and December seeing 185 and 176 hours, respectively. This cycle paints a vivid picture of Vermont’s seasonal rhythm, where longer days of sunshine correlate with the warmth of spring and summer, creating a beautiful interplay between light and the changing landscape.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Vermont: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Vermont 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec126h194h228h237h264h324h356h330h262h203h185h176h
Data source: Vermont January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Vermont During January

In January, Vermont experiences a 25% chance of sunny weather, marking it as one of the cloudier months of the year. As the winter progresses into February, the likelihood of sunshine increases to 35%, hinting at slightly brighter days. The trend continues to rise through early spring, with March offering a 44% chance of sunshine, leading into the more temperate April and May, both maintaining a steady 35% likelihood. The warmth of summer brings a significant boost, peaking in August with a 57% chance of sunny days. Overall, as the calendar transitions from the depths of winter into the sunnier seasons, Vermonters can look forward to a gradual ascent in sunshine, making summer the high point for clear skies.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Vermont

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Vermont 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 Vermont experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec25%35%44%35%35%52%45%57%61%36%41%34%
Data source: Vermont January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Vermont in January

In January, Vermont experiences 9 hours of daylight, setting the stage for a gradual increase as winter transitions into spring. By February, the days grow marginally longer, reaching 10 hours. This upward trend continues into March, where the daylight extends to 11 hours, offering a taste of the longer days to come. April brings a notable leap to 13 hours, while May enjoys an impressive 14 hours of sunlight, fostering vibrant blooms and outdoor activities. As summer peaks in June with 15 hours of daylight, the days begin to gradually shorten again: July sees a slight decline to 14 hours, followed by 13 hours in August. The return of shorter days starts in September with 12 hours, leading to a descent back to 10 hours in October. November and December conclude the year with 9 hours of daylight, reminding us of the cyclical nature of Vermont's seasons. The progression from the depths of winter to the warmth of summer highlights the dynamic relationship between daylight duration and the changing seasons in this beautiful region.

Average Daylight Hours in Vermont for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Vermont throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 23m10h 31m11h 57m13h 26m14h 41m15h 18m14h 57m13h 51m12h 26m10h 58m9h 41m9h 2m
Data source: Vermont daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Vermont

In January, Vermont experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 3.2 m/s (7 mph), setting the stage for a calm winter landscape. As the month transitions into February, the winds pick up slightly to 3.4 m/s (8 mph), hinting at the onset of early spring. March brings a noticeable increase to 4.1 m/s (9 mph), making it the windiest month of the early year as nature prepares for a thaw. Following this peak, there is a small decline in April and May, settling back around 3.5 m/s (8 mph). The summer months see a drop in wind speed, with July and August averaging around 2.6 to 2.8 m/s (6 mph), providing a tranquil warmth. As autumn approaches, the winds reassert themselves with increases in November and December, reaching 4.0 m/s (9 mph) and 3.9 m/s (9 mph) respectively, adding a brisk note to the season's chill. This fluctuation in wind patterns illustrates how Vermont's climate breathes through the seasons, with gentle beginnings leading to lively gusts and back again.

Average January Wind Speed in Vermont

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Vermont, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.2 m/s3.44.13.73.53.02.82.63.33.34.03.9
Data source: Vermont January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Vermont Compares to Other Months

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

In January, temperatures can drop to a minimum of -32°C (-26°F), with an average of -6°C (21°F) and a maximum reaching 11°C (51°F). The month experiences about 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 8 days, with humidity consistently sitting at 85%. In comparison, February sees slightly colder minimum temperatures at -33°C (-26°F), although the average temperature is a touch warmer at -5°C (23°F). February also has a higher maximum temperature reaching up to 20°C (69°F) and slightly increased precipitation at 56 mm (2.2 in) across 9 days, while maintaining similar humidity levels. For more details about February weather, you can visit Vermont weather in February.

In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -32°C (-26°F), with an average temperature hovering around -6°C (21°F) and a maximum reaching up to 11°C (51°F). The month experiences around 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over eight days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 85%.

In contrast, March brings a noticeable shift in weather with minimum temperatures of -25°C (-12°F) and an average of 2°C (36°F), peaking at a maximum of 23°C (73°F). Precipitation slightly increases to 58 mm (2.3 in) but remains spread over the same eight days, with humidity levels still at a consistent 85%. This transition from January to March highlights a gradual warming trend, making March feel significantly milder despite similar humidity levels. For more detailed insights, check out Vermont weather in March.

In January, the weather is notably frigid with a minimum temperature plunging to -32°C (-26°F) and an average of -6°C (21°F), allowing for only a brief respite with a maximum of 11°C (51°F). The month experiences around 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 8 days, with the humidity remaining high at 85%. In contrast, April brings a significant warming trend, with minimum temperatures rising to -8°C (17°F) and an average temperature of 8°C (46°F), peaking at 27°C (80°F). While precipitation increases to 93 mm (3.7 in) over 12 days, the humidity remains constant at 85%, reflecting a shift towards a more dynamic springtime weather pattern. For more detailed insights, you can check out Vermont weather in April.

January and May present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures plummet to a chilling minimum of -32°C (-26°F), with an average of -6°C (21°F) and highs struggling to reach 11°C (51°F). The month experiences about 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 8 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 85%, creating a brisk and often harsh winter environment.

In contrast, May offers a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a pleasant average of 15°C (60°F) and reaching up to a warm 34°C (94°F). This month sees increased precipitation at 135 mm (5.3 in) over 14 days, while humidity is lower at 78%, contributing to a more comfortable and vibrant spring atmosphere. For those interested in the specifics of Vermont's climate during this month, you can find more details here: Vermont weather in May.

January and June present starkly contrasting weather patterns. In January, temperatures plunge as low as -32°C (-26°F) with an average of -6°C (21°F) and occasional highs reaching 11°C (51°F). The month sees relatively low precipitation at 50 mm (2.0 in) over 8 days, accompanied by high humidity at 85%. In contrast, June boasts a much milder climate with minimum temperatures around 8°C (47°F), averages peaking at 21°C (71°F), and maximums soaring up to 34°C (94°F). This summer month is wetter, experiencing 123 mm (4.9 in) of precipitation over 12 days but maintains slightly lower humidity at 80%. To learn more about specific weather conditions, you can visit Vermont weather in June.

In January, the weather is characterized by frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -32°C (-26°F), an average of -6°C (21°F), and a maximum reaching only 11°C (51°F). With approximately 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 8 days and high humidity at 85%, the cold weather creates a stark, icy landscape. In contrast, July brings a dramatic shift, showcasing much milder temperatures with a minimum of 13°C (55°F), an average of 24°C (75°F), and a peak of 35°C (96°F). The month sees 87 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation over 10 days, paired with lower humidity at 78%. This comparison highlights the stark seasonal contrast in Vermont's weather, where the warmth of summer is a welcome relief from the chilling depths of winter. For more details, check out Vermont weather in July.

January and August present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures plummet with a minimum of -32°C (-26°F) and an average of -6°C (21°F), occasionally reaching a maximum of 11°C (51°F). The month is marked by high humidity levels at 85% and light precipitation occurring on about 8 days, totaling 50 mm (2.0 in). In sharp contrast, August features a much milder climate with minimum temperatures around 10°C (50°F) and an average of 22°C (71°F), peaking at 32°C (91°F). Although the humidity is lower at 76%, the month sees increased precipitation, totaling 113 mm (4.4 in) over 11 days. For more detailed insights, check out Vermont weather in August.

January and September present starkly contrasting weather patterns. In January, temperatures can plunge as low as -32°C (-26°F), with an average of -6°C (21°F) and a maximum of only 11°C (51°F). The month sees about 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 8 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 85%. In contrast, September experiences a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) to a maximum of 33°C (91°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F). September is also wetter, with 119 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation over 10 days, yet the humidity is slightly lower at 79%. For more insights about September weather, you can explore Vermont weather in September.

In January, the weather is characterized by frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -32°C (-26°F) and an average of -6°C (21°F), making it one of the coldest months of the year. Precipitation is relatively low at 50 mm (2.0 in) over 8 days, but the high humidity at 85% can make the cold feel even more severe.

In contrast, October sees a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a maximum of 30°C (86°F), averaging around 11°C (51°F). Although it experiences more precipitation—117 mm (4.6 in) over 13 days—the humidity remains slightly lower at 83%. For a detailed look at how these conditions manifest, check out Vermont weather in October.

January and November present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can drop as low as -32°C (-26°F), with an average of -6°C (21°F) and occasional highs of up to 11°C (51°F). This month also sees higher humidity levels at 85% and slightly more precipitation, averaging 50 mm (2.0 in) over 8 days. In comparison, November experiences milder temperatures, with minimums of -16°C (4°F) and an average of 2°C (37°F), peaking at 22°C (72°F). Despite November's slightly lower precipitation of 43 mm (1.7 in) over the same number of days, the humidity remains high at 88%. For more detailed insights on November weather, visit Vermont weather in November.

In January, the weather is notably colder than in December, with minimum temperatures plummeting to -32°C (-26°F) compared to December's minimum of -23°C (-8°F). While January averages a chilling -6°C (21°F), December's average temperature is slightly milder at -2°C (29°F). The maximum temperature in January reaches only 11°C (51°F), while December can warm up to a more comfortable 19°C (66°F). Precipitation is relatively similar, with January receiving 50 mm (2.0 in) over 8 days, while December has 44 mm (1.7 in) over 6 days. Humidity is slightly higher in January at 85%, compared to December's 81%. For a detailed look at December conditions, check out this link: Vermont weather in December.

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Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Vermont

January in Vermont is a month of stark contrasts, marked by its cold temperatures and frequent precipitation. With an average temperature well below freezing, January stands out as one of the chilliest months of the year, compelling residents and visitors alike to bundle up against the bitter cold. Unlike other months, where milder temperatures might lead to more activity outdoors, January's heavy humidity can make the cold feel even sharper, resulting in a distinctive winter ambience. Despite the chill, this month adds a unique charm to the state, with snow-covered landscapes inviting winter sports enthusiasts. For those looking to understand more about the state’s weather patterns throughout the year, visit Vermont Climate for a comprehensive overview.