Cork
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Cork Weather in January

During January, Cork experiences low daytime temperatures of 10°C (50°F) and cooler nights around 5°C (41°F). Expect quite a bit of rainfall. Around 96 mm (3.8 in) is typical.

Rainfall in Cork in January

Climate statistics over the past 30 years suggest around 21 days of rain, with 96 mm (3.8 in) average for the month. Rain is frequent but mostly light this month, with brief showers more common than heavy downpours.

Temperature in Cork in January

January in Cork sees highs of 10°C (50°F) and lows of 5°C (41°F) overnight. Cold conditions persist throughout the day, so warm clothing is important from the moment you head outside. Nights drop to 5°C (41°F). Cold nights like these are actually great for sleeping well, as long as you have a warm enough duvet. Expect the coolest temperatures of the year during January.

Sunshine in Cork in January

With limited sunshine this month, there are about 57 hours of sun. It's ideal for those who prefer a cooler, cloudier climate.

Wind Speed in Cork in January

Wind speeds average 6 m/s (12 knots) during January. At this speed, expect strong winds that make large branches move and create some resistance when walking. Since this is an average, some days have fresh winds while others have strong breezes that can make umbrellas tricky to control.

Average water temperature in January

The water temperature is only 9°C (48°F) this month, cold enough that most people will want to stay out. Hardy swimmers may manage a quick dip, but it won't be comfortable.

If you prefer dry days with pleasant temperatures, January may not be the ideal month to visit Cork. Our weather planner can help you explore destinations with more pleasant weather conditions.

Cork Temperature in January

Min Temperature
5°C (41°F)
Max Temperature
10°C (50°F)
Water Temperature
9°C (48°F)
Chance of Rain
70%
Precipitation
96 mm (3.8 in)
Rainy days
21 days
Humidity
83%
Windspeed
6 m/s (12 knots)
Sunshine
57 hours
Percentage Sunshine
22%

Cork Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Cork - and find the best time to visit.

Daily Historical Temperatures

50-year average (1976-2026)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Cork typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 10°C (50°F). Nights are cold, with lows around 3°C (37°F).

Average temperatures in January

Daily Historical Precipitation

50-year average (1976-2026)

Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.

Average precipitation in January

Historical weather records for Cork in January

Browse day-by-day weather records for Cork spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.

Cork historical weather extremes in January

The extremes listed below come from historical weather data collected in Cork from 2000 through 2025.

  • The warmest day in January was on January 26, 2003, with a maximum of 16°C (61°F).
  • The coldest January day was on January 9, 2010, with a maximum of 0°C (32°F).
  • The lowest overnight temperature recorded in January was -5°C (23°F) (January 9, 2010).

Best Places in Ireland in January

Find out more about the weather in Ireland and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Ireland in January →

perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor

Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).

What to Wear in Cork in January

Cold weather calls for smart layering in January. A thermal base layer makes a huge difference in staying warm. Add a wool sweater or fleece, then a wind-resistant outer jacket. Prepare for significant rainfall with proper waterproof clothing and shoes. With water temperatures around 9°C (48°F), the water is quite cold for swimming. You can skip the swimwear unless you're particularly tough. You can probably leave your sunglasses at home, because sunny days are pretty rare this month.

What To Do in Cork in January

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

  • Swimming
    4/10
  • Cycling
    6/10
  • Walking
    6/10
  • Camping
    4/10
  • Outdoor sports
    6/10

Cork 3-Day Forecast

Popular in January

Where to go in January - average daytime high across popular destinations.

Bucket list

Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.